9:00 AM: Depart from TVPalm Ecolodge and head towards Bac Sum Slope. Heaven's Gate in Quan Ba is perched at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level, located 46 kilometers north of Ha Giang city and about 3 kilometers from Tam Son town. It serves as the first gateway on the adventure to conquer the Dong Van stone plateau. This is likely why travelers venturing to Ha Giang often include this scenic spot in their itinerary. Known as a gateway to the heavens, Heaven's Gate in Quan Ba is rich in historical significance related to migration and holds sacred importance for the H'mong community. With its elevation exceeding 1,000 meters, this area enjoys a refreshing climate throughout the year. The natural beauty here is both breathtaking and captivating. It’s a perfect location to take a break, enjoy the stunning views, sip on a cup of coffee, and capture beautiful moments with your travel partner.

This tranquil little town serves as a perfect stop for guests to enjoy lunch before heading off to their afternoon destinations.

Dong Van is a well-known destination for travelers from around the globe. The Dong Van Stone Plateau, recognized as a Global Geopark, is an unmissable stop on any journey to explore northeastern Vietnam. Visitors will have the opportunity to ride along with our drivers for an entire afternoon, discovering this fascinating region that features highlights such as the Tham Ma Pass—historically used by the H'mong people to test their horses' endurance—and the winding 9-turn pass, which poses a true challenge for any driver. Pao's House, a famous filming location that captures the struggles and resilience of the local H'mong community, showcasing their rich cultural heritage and epic lifestyle. H'mong King's Palace, guests can step back into a poignant yet heroic past of those who lived on rocky terrain and faced harsh conditions. This community relied heavily on opium cultivation, supplying it to other regions while also engaging in trade with the French in earlier times.

Embarking on a journey through the stunning Dong Van Stone Plateau involves navigating the winding roads characteristic of Ha Giang, including the Tham Ma Pass and the Chín Khoanh Pass. Each stop along the way offers breathtaking views that are sure to amaze you. The vibrant outfits worn by H'mong women will captivate your heart. The filming location for a well-known movie in Vietnam during the 2000s portrays the life of the H'Mong people in the mountainous region of Ha Giang, highlighting the harsh realities they face, particularly the struggles of women. Pao, a young H'Mong girl, embarks on a journey to find her mother Sim after her mother Kía tragically takes her own life. This quest leads to a series of significant events. Through Pao's reflections presented in the film, viewers gradually uncover the intricate secrets of love and the interpersonal relationships that exist among people in the remote forests of Northwest Vietnam.

The H'mong King's mansion in Dong Van stands as a testament to a rich history filled with both heroic moments and significant challenges. This place reflects the lives of resilient individuals who found themselves caught in the tumultuous currents of history. The H'mong people are known for their bravery, yet they also embody a wild spirit, adhering solely to their own customs rather than any external laws. Historically, they cultivated opium poppies and engaged in trade with the French, exchanging goods for weapons. They established their own kingdom, complete with a king, creating a realm that was deemed inviolable. Today, descendants of these H'mong kings continue to reside in Dong Van. While the past is now behind them, they have embraced their identity as citizens of Vietnam.

The sacred land at the northernmost point of Vietnam holds great significance for the nation. It marks the clear boundary between Vietnam and China, and it has witnessed countless generations of our ancestors who have tirelessly worked and fought to protect every inch of this territory. They stood resolutely, armed and ready to defend the sacred sovereignty of our homeland. Visiting this place at least once is essential, as it embodies a sense of reverence in the hearts of all Vietnamese people.

The ancient town of Dong Van evokes memories of a prosperous past when it served as a bustling trade center for the H'mong people and neighboring ethnic groups. Today, its charming antiquity is showcased through moss-covered streets and winding pathways, captivating visitors from around the globe. As night falls, the area is illuminated by soft glimmers of light that dance across the enchanting highlands. The distinctive rooftops, influenced by various northern architectural styles, are nestled within a narrow valley perched on steep mountainsides. These features are emblematic of this unique region. We will be spending the night in this serene little town.