Discover the hidden charm of Pho Bang, a tranquil town near the Vietnam-China border in Ha Giang Province, with Lily’s Travel. Known for its rich history and serene landscapes, Pho Bang offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the Hmong and Chinese communities. Journey through scenic routes, experience the vibrant local culture, and immerse yourself in the nostalgic beauty of this lesser-known destination.
General Introduction to Pho Bang – Ha Giang
Pho Bang is a town located near the Vietnam-China border, in Dong Van District, Ha Giang Province, approximately 110km from Ha Giang City. This relatively unknown place is home to the Hmong and Chinese communities. Historically, Pho Bang was a bustling trading area in Dong Van District. However, after 1979, when the administrative center of Dong Van District was moved to Dong Van Town, Pho Bang gradually lost its vibrancy. As a result, even today, Pho Bang retains its ancient, pristine, and tranquil beauty, characteristic of a highland town.
Nestled deep within a valley of cat-ear-shaped rocky outcrops, Pho Bang is primarily inhabited by the Hmong and Chinese people. Despite being only about 5km away from the familiar Yen Minh – Dong Van route, it remains a lesser-known destination. Perhaps due to this, Pho Bang continues to be a peaceful mountain town, devoid of tourists, and retains its full charm. Observing the daily life of the locals here feels like stepping into a distant village from the past.
Discover the Ancient Beauty of Pho Bang Town, Ha Giang
Scenic and Peaceful Landscape
The road to Pho Bang is quite challenging, primarily consisting of rocky paths that can become muddy and unstable if it rains. However, once you navigate through, you will find a small town hidden deep within a highland valley, surrounded by lush green mountains.
Arriving in Pho Bang, the first thing you will feel is the sense that everything here is steeped in the passage of time. Old doors, tiled roofs, and walls covered in green moss create the impression of stepping back 50 years. The walls made from earth and the unique hues of the houses, sometimes brown mixed with red or a soft yellow, add to the nostalgic ambiance. In front of each house, a few couplets are hung, further enhancing Pho Bang’s ancient and distinctive charm.
Moreover, in Pho Bang, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of countless flowers and the majestic beauty of the northeastern mountains and forests. The valley is dyed yellow by mustard flowers, the red of blooming roses, the pink of peach blossoms in spring, or the white of plum blossoms. In this remote town, just blending with the magnificent nature will bring you joy. Wandering through Pho Bang with a camera, you are sure to capture many beautiful moments for yourself.
The Tranquil Beauty of Daily Life in Pho Bang
Pho Bang exudes a strange sense of peace. The population here is not dense, nor as bustling as Dong Van Old Quarter. Pho Bang breathes the simple life of highland ethnic groups.
Perhaps because of the simple and rustic scenery, the people here also seem more straightforward, honest, and carefree. The lives of the locals are closely tied to farming, corn, potatoes, and some small chores on the fields. Although life is difficult, it does not take away the locals’ inherent nature; they live leisurely, slowly, and diligently every day. You will see elderly people chewing betel nuts by their doorways, young men carrying baskets to the fields, or women washing clothes by the river. Occasionally, you will catch sight of children in ragged clothes playing happily, their faces always lit up with bright smiles.
Additionally, you can explore the Lùi Market, held once every six days in Ha Giang. On these market days, the entire town of Pho Bang wakes up and becomes lively and vibrant. Locals typically go to the market once a week to buy supplies for the entire week. The market opens early, making the town noisier and more bustling than ever. The market only lasts until noon, after which Pho Bang returns to its usual peaceful and quiet rhythm.
How to Travel to Pho Bang, Ha Giang
To reach Pho Bang town from Hanoi, the journey can be divided into two segments: traveling from Hanoi to Ha Giang City and then from Ha Giang City to Pho Bang. Overall, the combined route is over 400km, with significant stretches of mountainous roads.
The distance from Hanoi to Ha Giang City is 300km. Many transportation services offer travel options such as buses, VIP 12-seat limousines, and 22-cabin sleeper buses. These vehicles are well-equipped to provide the most comfortable experience for passengers.
Different bus companies have various departure times, generally operating from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Ticket prices range from 200,000 VND to 350,000 VND per person. For the luxurious cabin service, the price is 550,000 VND for 2 people per cabin. These prices remain stable throughout the year, even during holidays and peak travel seasons.
Additionally, travelers can choose to drive their own car or motorcycle. However, this method is not highly recommended, especially for those planning a motorbike trip to Ha Giang. The route from Hanoi to Ha Giang is quite far, with unfamiliar roads featuring many steep passes, requiring strong driving skills and good health.
Upon reaching Ha Giang City, travelers can rent motorcycles or cars to explore the Dong Van Karst Plateau. Numerous rental services are available near the Ha Giang City bus station. Motorcycle rental prices start from 180,000 VND per day. When renting a vehicle, travelers are provided with two helmets, raincoats, and a Ha Giang travel map.
The second segment from Ha Giang City to Pho Bang follows the scenic Dong Van Karst Plateau route along National Highway 4C (the Happiness Road). This path passes through Quan Ba and Yen Minh. Just before reaching Sung La, take a left turn towards Pho Bang town. The road from the city to the town is relatively easy to navigate as it follows the main highway with few turns.
However, the closer you get to Pho Bang, the more challenging the road becomes. This less-known route features sections of rough, rocky terrain, particularly difficult during rainy days when the path becomes slippery and muddy, making travel challenging and dangerous.
For exploring the Dong Van Karst Plateau and Pho Bang in particular, traveling by motorcycle is recommended. It allows for flexibility, easy navigation through village paths and alleys, and provides the opportunity to fully appreciate the majestic natural landscapes of the rugged mountains.
When is the Best Time to Visit Pho Bang?
Pho Bang town offers different scenery each season, maintaining its characteristic quiet and nostalgic beauty throughout the year. Visitors can come to Pho Bang anytime based on their preferences, but certain times of the year highlight the town’s unique charm.
Spring, especially during the Lunar New Year, is an ideal time to visit Pho Bang. The town blooms with vibrant flowers, including pink peach blossoms, white plum blossoms, apricot flowers, and late-season mustard flowers. Walking along the small paths leading into the village, visitors will feel like they are stepping into a tranquil, flower-filled paradise.
During this time, occasional light drizzles bring a chill to the air. Visitors can gather around a small fire to warm up, roast sweet potatoes, chat with the locals, or quietly watch the rain from old, moss-covered houses.
In autumn, Pho Bang captivates visitors with its simple and gentle beauty. The weather is cool and dry, with a clear blue sky and fluffy clouds drifting over the year-round gray rocky mountains. The mornings are slightly chilly with lingering fog, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Late autumn is also the season for Ha Giang’s buckwheat flowers, symbolizing the vitality of the northeastern mountains. From October to November, these flowers bloom with pure white and soft pink hues, adding a fresh vibrancy to the rugged Dong Van Karst Plateau.
This time of year rejuvenates Pho Bang town, as the old charm is complemented by the lively colors of the buckwheat flowers. These flowers grow wild along village paths, with children weaving them into wreaths or filling their baskets as they walk through the village, creating a beautiful and peaceful scene.
Wandering through Pho Bang during this season, visitors will fall in love with the serene and gentle atmosphere. Ha Giang’s buckwheat flowers bloom abundantly, with patches of orange chrysanthemums adding to the vibrant scene. Children wearing traditional, colorful clothing enhance the town’s charm. It is highly recommended to bring a film camera to capture the rustic yet unforgettable beauty of this “sleeping town.”
Readmore: Dong Van Town: Discover the hidden gem of northern Vietnam
Some Tips When Visiting Pho Bang
- The journey to Pho Bang is relatively difficult, so be cautious while driving. Make sure to thoroughly check your vehicle and fuel before setting off.
- You can combine a visit to Pho Bang town with your exploration of Ha Giang, as it is on the route to Dong Van.
- On the way from Ha Giang to Pho Bang, you can stop by the Sung La Valley. This place is quite famous for the ‘House of Pao’ – a house that charms everyone who visits.
- Pho Bang does not have developed tourism services, and there are only one or two places available for accommodation. Therefore, if you plan to stay overnight in Pho Bang and cannot find a place to stay, you can ask to stay with a local family. This is also an opportunity for you to learn more about the customs, traditions, and daily life of the town’s residents.
- Pho Bang is a highland town, so the weather can be quite harsh. If you visit in winter, make sure to dress warmly and keep an eye on the weather forecast.
- If possible, bring some old clothes, books, or sweets to give as gifts to the children in the highlands.
Pho Bang is a gem waiting to be explored, offering a blend of ancient charm and natural beauty. With Lily’s Travel, you can navigate the challenging yet rewarding journey, experience vibrant local markets, and enjoy the serene landscapes. Whether you’re wandering through flower-filled valleys in spring or capturing the rustic beauty of buckwheat blossoms in autumn, Pho Bang invites you to step back in time and embrace the tranquility of this “sleeping town.” Let Lily’s Travel guide your adventure, ensuring a well-prepared and authentic experience in Pho Bang. Plan your visit today and uncover the secrets of this enchanting destination with us.
Read more: Discover the Unique Charm of Dong Van Market
