Originating at Nghiem Son Mountain in China, Nho Que River flows for 192 km/119 miles down into Vietnam. After entering the country, the river travels through Seo Lung Village, Long Cu Commune, Dong Van District, Ha Giang, Ma Pi Leng and empties into Cao Bang Province.

As it winds its way through the picturesque Ma Pi Leng Pass, the river cuts through the mountains and adds to the famously gorgeous scenery that attracts visitors every year. The ribbon shape of the Nho Que River adds to the dimension of the natural vistas it passes through.

The best time of year to visit the Nho Que River is in the fall, around September to November, or in the springtime near March. While there is something to see in each calendar month, these have more in bloom during their seasons.

Activities by Song Nho Que

Nho Que River
Nho Que River. Photo: do hoang phuc

A river in a stunning natural environment is good for some fun in the fresh air; Nho Que River’s region is no different.

Kayaking

Kayaking on the Nho Que is a popular activity, and the boats are easy to rent and use at a self-guided pace. There are two boat stations that users can choose to depart from and travel from one to another.

Photography

Ha Giang is considered one of Vietnam’s most stunning provinces, making much of the area a great place to snap some photos, especially along the river.

Trying Local Flavors

Buckwheat is a major crop in Ha Giang, so no trip to the area is complete without trying buckwheat cake found in local restaurants. Au Tau porridge is another dish to sample when in the region, as it’s made with Aconitum fortunei roots that are considered a delicacy in the H’mong ethnic group.

Tours

Nho Que River
Nho Que River. Photo: anh nguyen

Outdoors enthusiasts will be glad to know that there are a few great organized tours for exploring the river area.

Camping & Paddle Tour

This two-day trip is the perfect way to enjoy the Nho Que River for a short camping experience. Visitors leave from the Dong Van Old Quarter and take a ride to the Mo Village, where they then paddle up the river to the campsite, taking in and sleeping by breathtaking views of the Ma Pi Leng Mountains and the river.

Vietnam Trek & Paddle Tour

This one-day tour takes about nine hours to complete. Visitors get a chance to paddleboard up the Nho Que River with sweeping sights of the mountains and water while getting some exercise. The second part of the tour explores the gorgeous Tu San Gorge and sees the highest ravine in this part of Asia.

Vietnam Special Expedition Tour

Get an up-close look at Ha Giang’s rocky region by hiking out to the Nho Que River from Dong Van, spending the night among the mountains, and then paddling back to the starting point on the river. This two-day adventure offers some unique and rugged views of Vietnam’s beautiful northernmost parts.

Details

Address: Northern Vietnam (near the China border) | Cao Bang Province

Season: Year-round, but fall and spring months are recommended.

Hours: 24 hours