Tuyen Quang Travel Guide: Where History and Nature Embrace in Northern Vietnam

Nestled in Vietnam’s northeast, Tuyen Quang is a province where revolutionary history, cultural diversity, and natural charm converge. Though lesser-known compared to other northern destinations, Tuyen Quang boasts verdant forests, ethnic communities, and a deep-rooted role in Vietnam’s struggle for independence.
 

As your virtual guide, I invite you to explore this hidden treasure, where limestone caves, spiritual pagodas, and authentic local life make every step a memorable discovery.

📍 Where is Tuyen Quang?

Region: Northeast Vietnam

Neighboring Provinces: Ha Giang, Bac Kan, Yen Bai, Phu Tho, Thai Nguyen

Capital: Tuyen Quang City

Distance from Hanoi: ~165 km (~3.5 to 4 hours by car)

Despite its proximity to the capital, Tuyen Quang remains peaceful, ideal for those seeking serenity and authenticity.

🌟 Why Visit Tuyen Quang?

✅ Rich revolutionary history – cradle of Vietnam’s resistance
✅ Spectacular natural beauty – caves, rivers, forests
✅ Diverse ethnic cultures – Tay, Dao, Hmong, and more
✅ Festivals like Mid-Autumn Lantern Festival – unique and vibrant
✅ Unspoiled and off-the-beaten-track – perfect for exploration

✈️ How to Get to Tuyen Quang

🚗 By Private Car

From Hanoi, travel north via National Highway 2

Scenic 3.5–4 hour drive

🚌 By Bus

Buses depart from Hanoi (My Dinh Station)

Frequent services to Tuyen Quang City and surrounding districts

🏞️ Top Attractions in Tuyen Quang

Let’s dive into the landmarks and natural sites that define this historically rich province.

1. Tan Trao Historical Site – The Birthplace of Revolution

This is Vietnam’s revolutionary capital, where Ho Chi Minh and other leaders planned the August Revolution of 1945.

Highlights:

Tan Trao Banyan Tree – where independence was declared

Tan Trao Communal House – historical meeting point

Na Lua Shack – where Uncle Ho lived and worked

Revolutionary relics and museums

For history enthusiasts, this site is sacred ground—offering a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s fight for freedom.

2. Na Hang Ecotourism Area – Natural Wonder of the North

A combination of Na Hang and Lam Binh districts, this area is famous for lush mountains, rivers, and cultural villages.

Must-Sees:

Na Hang Hydropower Lake – cruise through emerald waters

Pac Ban Waterfall – a misty, multi-tiered cascade

Khuoi Nhi Waterfall – ideal for photos and picnics

Fairy Mountain (Núi Cọc Vài) – folklore and panoramic views

Ethnic homestays in Dao and Tay villages

It’s a nature-lover’s paradise and a perfect place for kayaking, eco-tours, and village life.

3. Mo Waterfall (Thac Mo)

Located in Chiem Hoa district, this poetic waterfall flows year-round and is best seen during the rainy season (May–September).

Surrounded by lush greenery

Easily accessible by local motorbike routes

Combine with village visits for a full-day excursion

4. Tat Ke – Ban Bung Nature Reserve

A well-preserved nature reserve rich in biodiversity.

Located near Na Hang

Dense forests and rare plant species

A great spot for eco-research, birdwatching, and hiking

Home to Black Gibbons, Clouded Leopards, and more

Travelers seeking raw nature and conservation experiences will find this reserve unmatched.

5. Thac Ba Lake (shared with Yen Bai)

Part of the lake lies within Tuyen Quang’s borders and offers peaceful boat trips, floating fishing villages, and island hopping.

6. My Lam Mineral Hot Springs

A relaxing retreat just 13 km from Tuyen Quang City.

Natural mineral springs

Public and private bathhouses

Spa services and accommodations

Great for health, skin, and joint therapy

Perfect for a rest day after outdoor exploration.

7. Religious & Cultural Sites

Thuong Temple (Đền Thượng)

Dedicated to General Tran Nhat Duat

Located in Tuyen Quang City

Bustling during festivals

Ha Temple (Đền Hạ)

Worships Princess Ngoc Lan

Near Lo River, tranquil surroundings

Both temples reflect the region’s spiritual life and host vibrant festivals each year.

🏘️ Ethnic Culture in Tuyen Quang

Tuyen Quang is home to over 20 ethnic groups, including:

Tay (majority in Na Hang, Lam Binh)

Dao (colorful costumes, herbal knowledge)

Hmong, Nung, San Diu, and Pa Then

Cultural Experiences:

Homestays in stilt houses

Participate in herbal baths, local weaving, and music

Traditional festivals like Fire Dancing Festival of the Pa Then

Try local dress or learn traditional songs

🏨 Where to Stay in Tuyen Quang

In Tuyen Quang City:

Royal Palace Hotel – modern, convenient

Muong Thanh Grand Tuyen Quang – business-class with good amenities

Thanh Trung Hotel – budget-friendly

In Na Hang or Lam Binh:

Eco Homestay Na Hang – traditional Tay-style lodging

Lâm Bình Homestays – communal stilt houses, local meals

A Lien Homestay – clean, hosted by friendly Dao family

🍜 What to Eat in Tuyen Quang

Must-Try Local Dishes:

Banh Cuon Phu Lam – thin steamed rice rolls with pork

Thịt lợn cắp nách – mountain pig grilled with herbs

Rêu đá – moss cooked with garlic and pork (Dao specialty)

Cơm lam – sticky rice in bamboo

Lá ngón soup – herbal soup from Dao community

Black chicken stew (gà ác) – medicinal and tasty

Don't miss locally brewed corn wine, often shared with guests in village homestays!

📅 Best Time to Visit Tuyen Quang

🏮 Special Festivals in Tuyen Quang

1. Tuyen Quang Mid-Autumn Festival (Lễ hội Thành Tuyên)

Held annually in September

Features giant lantern parades, folk performances

Children dress up in costumes

Streets filled with food, music, and color

Recognized as one of Vietnam’s largest Mid-Autumn events

2. Tan Trao Festival

Celebrates Vietnam’s revolutionary history

Held every August

Folk games, processions, traditional dance

🗓️ Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi → Tuyen Quang → Tan Trao Historical Site → City temple tour
Day 2: Na Hang boat tour → Pac Ban Waterfall → Ethnic village homestay
Day 3: Khuoi Nhi Waterfall → My Lam Hot Springs → Return to Hanoi

🧠 Fun Facts About Tuyen Quang

Known as the "Capital of the Liberation Zone" during the revolution

The Lo River inspired many Vietnamese poems and songs

Home to some of the largest Mid-Autumn lanterns in Vietnam

A peaceful place with no traffic lights in some towns!

📸 Top Instagram Spots

Sunset over Na Hang Lake

Lantern parade during Mid-Autumn Festival

Misty mountain views in Lam Binh

Ancient trees in Tan Trao

Ethnic kids in traditional clothing

🧭 Travel Tips

Bring cash for rural areas

Respect local customs, especially in villages

Learn basic phrases in Tay or Dao for deeper connections

Travel with a local guide for nature or cultural trips

Be cautious on wet, winding mountain roads

🏁 Final Thoughts

Tuyen Quang is more than a place on the map—it’s a living archive of Vietnamese resilience, culture, and natural peace. Whether you’re tracing the paths of revolutionaries or drifting through emerald waters surrounded by mountains, this province offers unfiltered beauty and hospitality.

Come explore Tuyen Quang—where Vietnam’s heart beats quietly but proudly.