North Vietnam
NASA image of Haiphong
North Vietnam
Ideal duration: 4-5 days
North Vietnam Tourism
Imagine lush green valleys, myriad of terrace farmings and coffee plantations wherever you look, silt and straw houses in rural villages, hidden trails in the hills and breathtaking views of the clouds meeting lofty moutains. Welcome to North Vietnam. The least treaded, untouristed, uncommercialised but most beautiful region of Vietnam lies nowhere else, but in the very North! The untouched trails through the vibrant minorities form the best offbeaten paths. Wear your expediter hats and cowboy boots and explore the coverted culture and beautiful nature of North Vietnam.
Top Places In North Vietnam
North Vietnam Photos
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Holidify's Opinion
What's Great?
The best thing about Northern Vietnam is the authenticity of the region. It renders you the original smell and taste of beauty and culture of Vietnam. Mystefying landscapes, culinary culture and fresh weather makes it one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia.
What's Not So Great?
If you're looking for an economically developed region and thrilling night life or luxury stays, this isn't the best destination for you.
For Whom?
Nature lovers and culture enthusiasts
Top Stories about North Vietnam Tourism
Details of North Vietnam
Halong Bay's seascape is a treat to sore eyes!
Halong Bay is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the Quang Ninh Province of Vietnam. There are thousands of limestone karsts and isles scattered in different shapes and sizes. In an area of about 1500 sq kms, around 1600 islets lie, most of which are limestones. The place is diverse in terms of flora and fauna and is indeed a blessing to Vietnam. Go on a full day cruise or two days adventure and explore the grottoes, secluded hidden gems and much more.
Most of the ethnic population lives in the mountains.
Ethnic minorities like Kinh, Thai, Muong, Khmer and Nung reside in the mountains of North Vietnam. Their colourful and vibrant cultures can be witnessed while trekking on the hidden trails of northern hills. They are simple people with simple lifestyle. It's noteworthy though that they pamper their tradition and ethnology till today.
Nature has been extra generous over this Southeast Asian country!
North Vietnam is indeed a little paradise for nature lovers. The overwhelming plethora of greenery and offbeaten paths with many rivers makes it a perfect destination for those who are seeking peace and solitude for a few days. There are rice terraces, there are mountain ridges and valleys. And most importantly it is like the least crowded place on the planet!
Natural treasures disguised as National Parks
There are around 10 major National Parks in Northern Vietnam! And to less surprise, there is a huge wealth of flora and fauna, most of which is unknown. Some of the major Natonal Parks in this region are Hoang Lien Son national park in the north between the provinces of Lao Cai and Lai Chau and Dong Van Karst Global Geopark in Ha Giang province. As far as biodiversity and natural wealth is concerned, Vietnam scores full points.
About places in North Vietnam
North Vietnam covers all of northwestern and northeastern cities like Dien Bien Phu, Lao Cai, Sapa, Mai Chai and Son La in the west and Ha Giang and Dong Van in the east. The common feature between these towns is the rural development with lush green backdrop. From Sapa to Lai Chau to Son La, the stretches loop along the Red and Black rivers forming a perfect road trip destination. Dien Bien Phu is the historical site which was a battleground of the great Vietnam war. There are many museums and cemeterys to commemorate the valiant heroes of the country. Stretches from Ha Giong to Lang Son are the highlights of the northeastern parts and are filled with rural landscapes and ethnic minorities.
Food in North Vietnam
Same as Northwest Subregion
Culture, Religion & Language of North Vietnam
Same as Northwest Subregion
History of North Vietnam
After the second world war, Japan had conquered Vietnam. French colonial rule had also existed in Vietnam since 19th century. To fight against Japan and French rule, Ho Chi Minh formed the Viet Minh. Japan withdrew its forces in 1945 and French emperor Bao Dai was in control of independent Vietnam. He formed South Vietnam state with Saigon as capital. Then in 1954, the decisive battle was fought and Viet Minh defeated the French administration. Dien Bien Phu in Northwest Vietnam was the major battle field for the great war of Vietnam against the French.