48 Hours Admiring White Plum Blossoms in Lao Cai

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48 Hours Admiring White Plum Blossoms in Lao Cai

Visiting blooming white plum gardens, paying homage to temples, and exploring local markets are must-try spring activities during a two-day trip to Lao Cai at the beginning of the year.

The 48-hour journey in Lao Cai was undertaken by Diep Tran and a group of travelers from Hanoi on the weekend of February 9, based on recommendations from the Hanoi-based travel company Vietnam Bike Adventure. All destinations included guided tours with detailed information.

Table of Contents

Day 1

Travel from Hanoi

At 5:00 AM, depart via the Noi Bai – Lao Cai Expressway (CT05). The total distance is about 230 km, with a travel time of 4 to 4.5 hours. Along the way, travelers can admire the majestic beauty of the Northwest mountains, where various flowers are in full bloom. During early-year weekends, traffic congestion is common due to increased travel demand.

First Stop: Bao Ha Temple

Bao Ha Temple. Photo: Bao Yen District Information Portal

The first destination is Bao Ha Temple, located in Bao Yen District. This temple is dedicated to Hoang Bay, a military commander who successfully defended Lao Cai’s border, earning the title of Guardian Deity. Built-in the late Le Dynasty (1740–1786), the temple played a crucial role in border defense, guarding the northwest Red River defense line against invasions from the north.

According to legend, after Hoang Bay was slain, strong winds arose, forming the shape of a divine horse. His glowing body ascended onto the horse and stopped at Mount Cam, the center of Bao Ha. Today, the temple enjoys a prime location, with the Red River on its left and towering mountains on its right.

Lunch Near the Temple

There are many restaurants near Bao Ha Temple catering to different tastes. Bao Duong is a recommended spot known for its delicious, affordable, and clean food, according to Diep.

Exploring Ta Van Chu Village

After lunch, travel to Ta Van Chu Village in Bac Ha District, a place that preserves the rich cultural heritage of the Mong ethnic people. Visitors can explore earthen-walled houses and experience the authentic lifestyle of the Mong community.

Close-up of blooming plum blossoms in Bac Ha. Photo: Diep Tran

Ta Van Chu sits between two mountain ranges along the Chay River: Nan Sin (Simacai District) and Cao Son (Muong Khuong District). Winding mountain paths reveal small villages where the Mong people reside.

Arriving in Bac Ha in early spring, visitors are greeted by hills and valleys blanketed in white plum and pear blossoms. Riding a motorbike through the plum orchards offers a deeper appreciation of their beauty.

Nicknamed the “White Plateau”, Bac Ha has become a unique flower-viewing destination. Unlike the crowded Moc Chau, Bac Ha remains tranquil, with additional landscapes filled with mustard flowers and persimmon orchards.

Overnight Stay at a Homestay in Bac Ha

Inside a homestay in Bac Ha. Photo: Diep Tran

Both the town center and surrounding areas offer a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays.

“For a more immersive experience, homestays are the best option,” Diep suggests. Though the weather is cold, homestays provide heating and hot water, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Most homestays offer local meals, including sturgeon hotpot, black chicken, black sticky rice cakes, and Thang Co (a traditional Mong dish). Fresh vegetables are sourced directly from homestay gardens, adding to the authentic experience.

Day 2

Breakfast and Bac Ha Sunday Market

Start the day with breakfast at the homestay, followed by a visit to the Bac Ha Sunday Market. Held every Sunday morning, this market is famous for preserving its authentic ethnic traditions, offering a unique glimpse into the culture of Vietnam’s highland communities.

Visit Hoang A Tuong Palace

Interaction between tourists and locals at Hoang A Tuong Palace. Photo: Diep Tran

Built-in the early 20th century, Hoang A Tuong Palace served as both the residence and administrative center of Hoang Yen Tchao and his son, Hoang A Tuong, before 1945. In Tay ethnic tradition, homes are named after the son who stays with his parents into adulthood, hence the name “Hoang A Tuong Palace”.

The palace underwent renovations in 2024 and reopened for visitors in October. Entrance fees:

Adults: 20,000 VND
Children: 10,000 VND

Temple Visits: Mau Temple & Thuong Temple

Thuong Temple (also known as Thanh Tran Tu) is located in Lao Cai City and was built during the Le Dynasty under the Chinh Hoa reign. It honors Tran Quoc Tuan (Hung Dao Dai Vuong), a revered national hero.
Mau Temple is situated near border marker 102, marking the Vietnam-China boundary, close to the Lao Cai border gate.

Alternative Options

For those staying longer in Bac Ha, consider:

Bac Ha Night Market & Pedestrian Street (if staying in town)
Bac Ha Fruit Farms
Lao Cai Agricultural Research Center (Coc Leu Ward, Lao Cai City), where plum blossoms are in full bloom.