Dong Van Karst Plateau is a special limestone area in Vietnam containing the indelible imprint on the development of the earth’s crust. Paying a visit to Dong Van Karsk Plateau opens up an opportunity to challenge your courage because you have to pass through towering mountains and abyss. Nevertheless, you will have beautiful days to indulge yourself with the majestic nature in return.
About 132 kilometers from Ha Giang Town, Dong Van Karst Plateau is a rugged and rocky mountainous area in the North Pole. The plateau is located at an average altitude of 1,000 – 1,600 meters. It covers an area of nearly 2,356 square kilometers and spreads through four districts of Ha Giang Province including Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Meo Vac, and Dong Van. According to the survey of Vietnamese scientists, Dong Van Karst Plateau undergone all stages in the developments of the earth’s crust, from the Paleozoic, the Mesozoic, to the Cenozoic with 13 divided geological formations. Thanks to the significant values in terms of the geology, Dong Van Karst Plateau was recognized as the first Global Geopark in Vietnam and the second one in South East Asia by UNESCO in October 2010.

Dong Van Karst Plateau is the convergence of picturesque and diverse natural landscapes. Coming to this place, visitors can witness the majestic scenery of jagged and rocky mountains, deep and narrow gorges, steep and towering cliffs, stunning cave system, and irresistible rock garden. Besides, not only having immense values regarding to the geology, the plateau also preserves unique culture of the ethnic communities including H’Mong, Dao, Lo Lo, Pu Peo, and so on.
Once visiting Dong Van Karst Plateau, tourists should not miss The Edifice of Vuong Family, Dong Van Old Town, and Lung Cu Flag Tower:
– The Edifice of Vuong Family is an impressive building constructed in the early 20th century. The building was modeled on Chinese traditional architecture with exquisite carvings. This is not only an imposing mansion but also a great fortress in the historical period. With the total space of over 1,000 meters, the Edifice of Vuong Family was recognized as the national architectural monument. It was restored and has become a unique landmark in Dong Van Plateau.
– Dong Van Old Town was formed nearly a century ago. The most highlighted feature of the Old Town is the old market. Stretching nearly one kilometer, Dong Van Old Town has more than 40 ancient houses dating back 100 – 300 years ago. On full moon nights, the Old Town is shimmering in the light of red lantern. Taking a stroll around the town at this time, travelers can savor different local delicacies and attend in a variety of activities.
– Lung Cu Flag Tower: Lung Cu Flag Tower is a historical tourist attraction. The flagpole has the average altitude of 1,600 meters with Then Van Valley on the left side and Nho Que River on the right side. Standing atop Lung Cu, tourists can enjoy a panoramic view of majestic landscape from the high altitude.

Other attractions in Northeast Vietnam: Ba Be National Park; Ban Gioc Waterfall; Hoang Su Phi; Lung Cu Flag Tower; Ma Pi Leng Pass; Meo Vac Town