Hidden deeply in the northern mountains, the Ha Giang Loop Waterfalls are truly special places that no traveler can resist.
In the heart of the endless green forest, white streams fall down towering cliffs, creating a captivating contrast: majestic yet gentle, powerful yet serene. This beauty invites you to go deeper into the jungle, feel the cool water, and uncover the secrets behind the falls. That’s why travelers call them the “hidden gems” of Ha Giang.
In this guide, Lila Inn & Tour, a local tour operator with 8 years of experience, will take you through the 10+ most wonderful waterfalls in the Ha Giang Loop, each with its charm and story to tell.
Ban Gioc Waterfall – The largest natural waterfall in Southeast Asia
Ban Gioc Waterfall is situated in Dam Thuy Commune, Trung Khanh District, Cao Bang Province, one of the last stops of Lila’s 5-day and 7-day Ha Giang Loop tour. If you have time, we highly recommend this extended journey because Ban Gioc’s breathtaking beauty is truly beyond imagination.
Spanning more than 300 meters wide and rising over 60 meters high, Ban Gioc is recognized as the largest natural waterfall in Southeast Asia and the fourth-largest cross-border waterfall in the world.
Its multi-tiered waterfall forms a curtain of white water, while a small green island divides the flow into three streams, giving the falls a dramatic yet graceful look.
During the rainy season (June to September), the waterfall roars powerfully, while in the dry season (October to May), its waters flow gently and clear. For just 50,000 VND per person (around $2), you can hop on a bamboo raft and glide along the base of the falls for about 15 minutes.
Believe us, it is a perfect chance for you to hear the thunderous roar up close and truly feel the waterfall’s raw power and breathtaking beauty.
Du Gia Waterfall – A peaceful retreat deep in Yen Minh
Du Gia Waterfall sits quietly in Du Gia Commune, Yen Minh District, offering a peaceful but enchanting stop along the legendary Hà Giang Loop. It is located about 70 km from Hà Giang City, near Tien Village.
The water here falls from a six-meter-high cliff, surrounded by green forest and limestone rocks. Thanks to its steady flow year-round and its emerald green color in summer, it has earned the nickname “the natural swimming pool of the mountains.”
To reach the waterfall, you first head to Du Gia village and then take a short 2–3 km walk through forest paths. The trail is quite easy to moderate, and the reward is worth it. Here, you can swim in the cool water or simply relax in the shade, soaking in the peaceful, untouched scenery.
Nam Tau Waterfall – Falling Water as “Silken Flow”
Nam Tau Waterfall is a relatively new destination on Ha Giang’s travel map, which is located in Duc Xuan commune, Bac Quang district, about 50km east of Ha Giang city. Many may not know that it has been recognized as a national scenic site since 2017.
The waterfall lies more than 1,000 meters above sea level, in the middle of wild mountains and forests. It offers a majestic beauty with three layers of falling water. Each layer is around 15–20 meters high, turning the waterfall into a soft white ribbon that stands out against the green of the trees.
Besides the breathtaking scenery, the area around the waterfall also has flat rocks, natural stone ledges, and cool, clear pools. These are perfect spots for you to rest, take photos, or even camp overnight.
Right at the top of the waterfall lies “Fairy Lake”, a crystal clear pool 1 to10 meters deep that mirrors the sky like glass.
To reach the waterfall, you can drive from Duc Xuan commune along winding mountain roads before taking a short trek through the forest.
Khau Lan Waterfall – A hidden jungle gem in Yen Minh
Khau Lan Waterfall is hidden deep in Duong Thuong Commune, Yen Minh District, about 40 km from Ha Giang City. Unlike other famous waterfalls, Khau Lan remains relatively unknown.
To reach the falls, you’ll travel from the center of Duong Thuong, following small village paths before trekking about 1 km through the forest. Though the distance isn’t long, the trail is quite steep and slippery in places, requiring some caution and preparation.
But in return, you’ll have the chance to touch the rich vegetation of the jungle with old trees, moss-covered stones, and the sound of birds echoing.
As you hike, you can hear the sound of water growing louder and louder. It is because the waterfall cascades powerfully from a height of around 20 meters with a large water volume, creating a crystal-clear, emerald pool below. On both sides of the waterfall, dense vegetation thrives, creating a wild and poetic natural landscape.
One of the most unique features of Khau Lan is the giant tree trunk that stretches across the falls. Many adventurous visitors often climb it and leap into the refreshing water below. Such a moment of thrill in a peaceful setting.
And once you’re immersed in that refreshing water, all your worries seem to melt away. You may even find yourself wishing time would slow down, just to stay here a little longer.
Tien Waterfall – A Fairytale of twin streams in Xin Man
Fairy Waterfall (Tien waterfall) is also known as Wind Waterfall, Twin Waterfall, or Táng Tinh (a Nung word meaning “water flowing from a large cave”). It is nestled deep in the jungle of Wind Pass, Nam Dan Commune, Xin Man District, Ha Giang Province. In 2009, the waterfall was recognized as a national scenic site.
What makes this waterfall truly special is its twin streams. From a height of 70 meters, two side-by-side flows fall down the rough cliffs, making the place look both grand and poetic.
At an elevation of over 1,400 meters above sea level, the area enjoys a refreshingly cool and pleasant climate year-round. A lush, untouched forest filled with centuries-old trees, thick vines, wild orchids, herbs, and many rare woods surrounds the falls. Together, they create an enchanting green world.
According to legend, this waterfall is associated with a story of a beautiful Nung girl, whose skin was as white as bamboo shoots and hair as long and smooth as silk. She fell in love with the son of the Forest God, but their love was forbidden. The God then turned her body into stone, and her flowing hair became the white waterfall we see today. Since then, locals have called it “Fairy Waterfall.”
To reach Fairy Waterfall, start from Coc Pai town and head toward Nam Dan Commune. As you approach Wind Pass, the road becomes narrower, but motorbikes can reach a stopping point near the waterfall. From there, it’s just a short hike to reach the base of the falls. The journey is relatively easy for every traveller.
The Number 6 Waterfall (Thac So 6) – A peaceful hideaway near Ha Giang City
The Number 6 Waterfall is in Ha Thanh Village, Phuong Do Commune, only about 8 km from the center of Ha Giang City. However, it remains a hidden gem, often missed by popular tourist routes. To reach it more easily, you can follow the road toward the Thanh Thuy border gate, which will lead you closer to the falls.
Unlike the towering, dramatic waterfalls often found deep in the mountains, the Number 6 Waterfall has a gentle, graceful charm. The water flows smoothly over the rocks, weaving in soft curves that bring a peaceful atmosphere.
As one of the few beautiful waterfalls located near the city center, it has been drawing increasing attention from travelers seeking a quick nature escape without going too far.
A Boong Waterfall – A peaceful stop off the beaten track
A Boong Waterfall is located in Thuan Hoa, Vi Xuyên District. If you’re following the Ha Giang Loop, this waterfall sits along the route from Du Gia back to Ha Giang City, making it a perfect stop along the way.
A Boong may not be a large waterfall, but its charm lies in its purity. The water is crystal clear, flowing down from a high cliff and surrounded by dense forest. The scene here is both majestic and serene, far removed from the crowds often found at more popular waterfalls.
Reaching A Boong is a little adventure in itself. As you follow the Ha Giang Loop toward Du Gia and pass through Lung Ho, look for a small turning point off the main road. From there, it’s a short walk through the forest to reach this hidden gem.
The deeper you go into nature, the louder the waterfall roars, the fresher the scent of the forest becomes, and the feeling of leaving the noisy world behind makes every step feel truly worthy.
Phia Dau Waterfall (Thac May) – A vertical wonder beyond the loop
Tucked away in Yen Dinh commune, Bac Me district, about 20km from Ha Giang city, Phia Dau Waterfall, also known as Thac May or Cloud Waterfall, is the tallest in the province.
Its impressive height sends water thundering down with powerful force. From afar, you can already see its majestic power, but the closer you get, the more overwhelming its grandeur becomes.
Because it’s far from the main loop route and hard to reach, very few travelers know about it. Wrapped in dense, wild forest and rarely marked on tourist maps, it feels like a secret the mountains have kept for themselves. The journey may be tough, but for those who seek raw beauty and quiet wonder, Phia Dau offers an unforgettable reward.
Nai Waterfall – A hidden waterfall in the forest
Nai Waterfall sits in the peaceful valley of Nam Dam Village, Quan Ba Commune, about 50 km from Ha Giang City. It is a quiet nature escape for those seeking calm and a closer connection with the wild.
According to local tales, the name “Thac Nai” comes from a time when villagers were hunting and found the tracks of a wild deer. The deer ran to the waterfall, exhausted, and was eventually caught. The place has been called “Thac Nai” ever since.
Unlike powerful waterfalls, Thac Nai flows gently over rocks, surrounded by ancient trees. The soft sound of water and lush greenery make it feel like a world apart.
From Nam Dam Village, you can hike or ride a motorbike about 1 km through the forest to reach the falls. It is a perfect spot for a weekend picnic, to soak your feet in the clear stream, and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Phin Ty Waterfall – A wide treasure for adventurers
Phin Ty Waterfall, also known as Nam Lang Hydropower Waterfall, is located in Phin Ty village, Du Tien commune, Yen Minh District. Its name has not yet been officially announced, so explorers often name it after its location or the nearby hydropower project.
This spot remains largely unknown, even to many locals, which is exactly what makes it special. Untouched by crowds, the waterfall still keeps its wild, majestic beauty.
You can spot the waterfall from the road leading down to the Nam Lang hydropower plant (which is under construction), though it’s separated by a stream.
Reaching the waterfall’s base isn’t easy because the road is rough and slippery, especially during the rainy season. It requires about 2 hours of crossing a stream and climbing a challenging path. So, it’s best for those with solid driving skills and a thirst for adventure. We recommend that you go with a local guide.
Thi Waterfall – A watersilk beneath Tay Con Linh
At the foot of the majestic Tay Con Linh mountain range, Thi Waterfall, also known as the Four-Tier Waterfall, is one of the most stunning falls in Ha Giang.
This waterfall has been shaped over millions of years by the forces of nature and now flows gently over layers of rock. With its white and graceful streams, it is often called “the white silk strip” of Northeast Vietnam.
To visit Thi Waterfall, you’ll need to venture off the main Ha Giang Loop and head west toward Xin Man district. From the town of Hoang Su Phi or Coc Pai (Xin Man’s center), follow the winding road toward Na Chi commune. Once you reach Nam Dan village, leave your bike behind and walk about 10–15 minutes along a forest path. The trail is relatively easy, guiding you through lush greenery to one of Ha Giang’s most graceful hidden gems.
Practical tips to explore Ha Giang Loop waterfalls
As you may know, exploring the waterfalls along the Ha Giang Loop can be challenging because many of them are hidden deep in the forest. The routes can change depending on the weather, and it’s always safer to have a local guide with you.
That’s why Lila has put together a few simple tips below to help your waterfall adventure go smoothly:
1. Choose the right time
For the perfect blend of scenic beauty and road safety, we recommend visiting between September and April. While the waterfalls may be gentler during this time, they remain breathtaking. The pleasant weather, combined with improved road conditions, will make for a far more enjoyable journey.
Otherwise, waterfalls are at their most spectacular during the peak of the rainy season (July to August), when the water flow is at its peak: powerful, majestic, and full of life. However, rain also makes the mountain roads in Ha Giang loop slippery and more challenging to navigate.
2. Pack smart
Don’t overpack; focus on essentials that will make your waterfall experience comfortable. Be sure to bring with you:
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- A dry bag and waterproof phone case can also be handy.
- …
3. Local guide
As we mentioned earlier, many waterfalls are located deep within dense forests, and the trails can change quickly due to weather conditions. During the rainy season, heavy downpours can cause landslides, slippery mud, or fallen trees that block the way.
That’s why having a local guide who truly knows the paths well is a great advantage. They can keep you safe and make sure you reach the right spot.
4. Respect nature
Remember to leave no trace. Always take your trash with you, especially if you’re camping. Don’t throw food, drinks, or any waste into the streams, because it will pollute the clean water sources that local communities and ecosystems rely on.
Explore Ha Giang loop Waterfall with Lila Inn
By now, you’ve probably started to imagine the unmissable beauty of Ha Giang’s waterfalls. At Lila Inn & Tour, we’re proud to be a local tour operator with over 8 years of experience guiding +24,000 travelers across Ha Giang.
To ensure your adventure is as smooth, safe, and memorable as possible, we focus on three core values:
- Safety first: Ride with our Easy Riders, each with over 5 years of riding experience. They’re professionally trained and strictly follow safety protocols: no overtaking on bends, no side-by-side riding, and never exceeding the speed limit.
- Small group tours: We keep our groups under 10 travelers to ensure a more personal, attentive experience. You’ll enjoy more space, deeper connections, and personalized care throughout the journey.
- Off-the-beaten-path adventures: We take you beyond the tourist trails to discover lesser-known waterfalls that most travelers miss, including some hidden gems that only locals know about.
If you’re planning to conquer the Ha Giang Loop and want to uncover the waterfall wonders of the region, we’re here to make it happen with you.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has given you a glimpse into the breathtaking beauty of the waterfalls waiting for you in Ha Giang. Still, there’s one thing we can say for sure: no words or photos can truly capture their magic. You have to see them with your own eyes to feel their full power and beauty.
If you have any questions or need help planning your waterfall adventure in Ha Giang, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re always here to support your journey.
FAQs
- When is the best time to visit waterfalls in Ha Giang?
From September to April is ideal for better road conditions and easier travel, but from May to September is still an option for full, powerful flows. - Do I need a local guide to reach the waterfalls?
Highly recommended. Many waterfalls are hidden deep in the forest and hard to find without local knowledge. - Are the waterfalls suitable for swimming or just sightseeing?
Most waterfalls have calm pools perfect for swimming, but always ask your tour guide or local people first to make sure swimming is allowed and safe for you. - Is hiking to the waterfalls in Ha Giang difficult?
Some are easy to access, others require trekking through steep or slippery terrain. Good shoes and basic fitness help a lot.
