Ba Quang Cao Bang Voyage Tips and guide

Ba Quang Grass Hill (also called Vĩnh Quý Grass Hill) is a natural attraction in Vĩnh Quý Commune, Hạ Lang District, Cao Bang Province, 70–80 km east of Cao Bang City. The hill lies between Khum Din and Bắc Vọng hamlets and is known for its rolling grass slopes that change colour with the seasons—from lush green in summer to golden, orange, and deep russet in winter.

Set at a higher elevation, the hill enjoys cooler temperatures and clean air year-round. Still little known to most travellers, Ba Quang offers easy trekking, peaceful views, and a quiet atmosphere far from the crowds.

It is free to enter; locals may collect a small parking fee. Rules on camping and fires can vary—ask at nearby villages.

October – January: Dry season, cool (15–25 °C), best time for “burning grass” colours and camping.

May – September: Rainy season, lush green grass and dramatic clouds, but slippery roads.

Vietnamese is spoken by all locals. You may also hear Tày and Nùng languages in nearby villages. English is rarely used outside touristic hubs, so a translation app is useful.

From Hanoi

Sleeper buses run from Mỹ Đình station to Cao Bang (6–7 hr, 300,000–400,000 ₫). Driving via QL3 takes about 5–6 hr (Oct 2025). Limousines with more comfort cost around 500,000 dong and can be booked on apps like Vexere.

From Cao Bang

Rent a motorbike (≈200,000 dong/day) or hire a car/jeep with driver (≈1,000,000 dong round trip, Oct 2025).

Head east toward Thạnh Nhật, then turn right toward Khum Din village. The final stretch includes short dirt roads; a 4WD or experienced driver is recommended.

Final approach on foot

From the parking area, follow a 700 m footpath (15–20 min) up a gentle slope. Wear shoes with good grip and bring water. There are no facilities on the trail.

The area is small and best explored on foot. The ridge offers panoramic views and can be covered in about an hour at a relaxed pace.

• Seasonal colours – The grasses turn from green to gold, orange, and red between October and January, creating the “burning” effect in sunlight.
• Sea of clouds – Early mornings after cool nights sometimes reveal thick mist rising from the valleys, forming a “cloud ocean”.
• Panoramic ridge views – 360° scenery of rolling hills and distant karst mountains.

• Short hike – Easy 15– to 20-min walk from the base to the summit; good for beginners and families.
• Photography – Best light around sunrise (05:30–06:30) and sunset (15:30–17:30). Drone use is allowed if you respect local rules.
• Picnic – Bring your own food and water; carry all rubbish out.
• Camping & stargazing – Dry-season nights are clear with visible Milky Way. Nights drop to 10–15 °C, so pack warm layers.
• Cloud hunting – Stay overnight to catch the mist at dawn between 05:00–06:00.

There are no restaurants on the hill. A small local shop near the parking area sometimes sells instant noodles and drinks. Bring snacks or meals from Cao Bang or Thạnh Nhật.

Bring bottled water. Simple beverages may be available at the foot of the hill during weekends or holidays.

• Camping on the ridge – Free and scenic. Ask locals about fire safety and permission. Nights can be cold.
• Ba Quang Panorama Homestay – Small family-run stay near the top with basic rooms, tents, and home-cooked meals. Expect higher prices due to remote location.

Cao Bang – Offers full accommodation range, from budget hotels to comfortable stays.

Trails can be slippery after rain; wear sturdy shoes.

Do not make open fires unless allowed.

Avoid hiking after dark—roads lack lights.

Bring insect repellent and a flashlight.

Respect local property and avoid littering.

There are no medical facilities nearby. Bring personal medication and drink enough water. Nights can be cold even after hot days.

Keep noise low and avoid leaving trash. Ask before photographing locals. Support the community by buying snacks or renting local services when possible.

• Ban Gioc–Detian Falls – The largest waterfall in Vietnam, around 2 hr from Ba Quang.
• Phong Nam Valley – Quiet karst valley with rice fields and village life.
• Quảng Uyên – Known for blacksmith and traditional craft villages.
• Cao Bang – Base for transport, restaurants, and lodging.