As spring unfolds its vibrant colors across the Bắc Hà highlands, the region has become a magnet for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With the arrival of white plum blossoms and the allure of historical sites, such as the mansion of King Mèo Hoàng A Tưởng, thousands of visitors have flocked to this picturesque destination in Lào Cai province. However, the surge in tourism has led to a unique challenge: accommodations are fully booked, leaving many eager explorers scrambling for a place to stay. In this article, we delve into the thriving tourism scene of Bắc Hà, highlighting the experiences that draw visitors in and the impact on local businesses.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Bắc Hà District, Lào Cai Province |
| Visitor Statistics | Nearly 150,000 tourists since the beginning of 2025 |
| Main Attractions | 1. White plum blossoms 2. Mansion of King Mèo Hoàng A Tưởng 3. Culture of Bắc Hà highlands |
| White Horse Rental | Cost: 30,000 VND per trip Provider: Vàng Văn Hùng Customers: About 50 per day on weekends Weekend earnings: Approximately 1.5 million VND |
| Accommodation Status | Fully booked for two weeks Local capacity: About 5,000 guests Alternatives: Local households for overnight stays |
| Challenges for Tourists | Many hotels and guesthouses have no vacancies Tourists looking for accommodations face difficulties |
| Local Tourism Association | President: Nguyễn Huy Trung Efforts to assist tourists in finding accommodations |
Bắc Hà: A Springtime Gem
Bắc Hà is a beautiful district located in Lào Cai province, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Every spring, thousands of visitors come to explore this highland paradise, especially to see the mesmerizing white plum blossoms. The vibrant flowers and the lush green hills create an amazing backdrop for photos, making it a favorite destination for families and photographers alike.
In addition to the breathtaking scenery, Bắc Hà offers unique cultural experiences that attract tourists. Visitors can learn about the local customs and traditions, and even enjoy exciting activities like horse riding. Renting a white horse for a photo session is a popular choice, allowing tourists to capture unforgettable memories against the stunning highland landscape.
A Surge in Tourist Numbers
This year, Bắc Hà has seen an incredible surge in tourist numbers, with nearly 150,000 visitors since January. The beautiful spring weather, combined with the blooming flowers, draws crowds from all over the country. Tourists come not just for the scenery but also to visit historical sites such as the mansion of King Mèo Hoàng A Tưởng, which adds to the area’s appeal.
Local residents, like Vàng Văn Hùng, have noticed the increase in visitors, especially on weekends. Many families and groups come to enjoy the beauty of Bắc Hà, which creates a lively atmosphere. Hùng’s white horse rental service is one of the many ways locals are benefiting from this tourism boom, earning significant income while sharing their culture with visitors.
Challenges with Accommodations
With the rising number of tourists, Bắc Hà is facing challenges regarding accommodations. Many hotels and guesthouses are fully booked, especially during the busy weekends. The owner of Square Hotel mentioned that they have been turning away guests for two weeks due to high demand, which highlights the need for more lodging options in the area.
Nguyễn Huy Trung, the President of the Bắc Hà Tourism Association, has acknowledged the accommodation crisis. He stated that local facilities can only handle about 5,000 guests at a time. To help visitors find places to stay, the association is working on connecting tourists with local households that offer overnight lodging, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their visit.
Exploring Local Culture
One of the best parts of visiting Bắc Hà is experiencing its unique local culture. Tourists have the chance to meet friendly locals who are eager to share their traditions and stories. Engaging with the community adds depth to the travel experience, making it more memorable and enriching.
Visitors can partake in traditional activities, such as local crafts or cooking classes, which offer insight into the daily lives of the people in the highlands. This cultural exchange is a highlight for many tourists, as it helps them appreciate the rich heritage of Bắc Hà while creating lasting connections with the local community.
Planning Your Visit to Bắc Hà
If you’re planning a trip to Bắc Hà, it’s essential to book your accommodations in advance. Due to the growing popularity of this destination, securing a room early can help you avoid disappointment. Many travelers recommend checking online platforms or contacting local hotels directly for the best options.
Additionally, consider visiting during weekdays if possible, as weekends tend to be the busiest times. By choosing an off-peak time, you can enjoy a more relaxed experience, explore the beautiful landscapes, and fully immerse yourself in the local culture without the crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are so many tourists visiting Bắc Hà in spring?
Bắc Hà attracts visitors in spring for its beautiful white plum blossoms, cultural sites, and the chance to experience the rich heritage of the Northwestern highlands.
What activities can visitors enjoy in Bắc Hà?
Visitors can take stunning photos of white plum blossoms, explore the mansion of King Mèo Hoàng A Tưởng, and rent white horses for memorable photo sessions.
How can I rent a horse in Bắc Hà?
You can rent white horses for photo sessions at a cost of 30,000 VND per trip from local providers like Vàng Văn Hùng.
What should I know about accommodations in Bắc Hà?
Accommodations in Bắc Hà are often fully booked, especially on weekends. It’s advisable to book in advance or consider local households for overnight stays.
How many tourists have visited Bắc Hà in 2025?
Since the start of 2025, nearly 150,000 tourists have visited Bắc Hà, showcasing its growing popularity as a travel destination.
What is the capacity of Bắc Hà’s accommodations?
Bắc Hà can accommodate about 5,000 guests, but during peak seasons, all facilities may be booked solid, so early reservations are crucial.
How does the local community support tourism in Bắc Hà?
The Bắc Hà Tourism Association helps connect tourists with local households for lodging and assists in enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Summary
Bắc Hà district in Lào Cai province is experiencing a surge in spring tourism, attracting nearly 150,000 visitors since the start of 2025. Tourists flock to the area to enjoy stunning white plum blossoms and explore cultural sites, like the mansion of King Mèo Hoàng A Tưởng. Many visitors rent white horses for memorable photo sessions. Local accommodations, however, are fully booked, with many hotels unable to accommodate the influx of guests. The Bắc Hà Tourism Association is actively helping tourists find alternative lodging options, as the demand continues to rise.
