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Tien Waterfall – Gio Pass: A Hidden Gem in Ha Giang

Tien Waterfall is located in Ha Giang Province, in the northernmost part of Vietnam. Specifically, it is situated within Quan Ba District, an area known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Let’s explore this unique place with MOTOGO Tour!

Tien Waterfall – Gio Pass offers stunning twin falls and breathtaking mountain views.
Tien Waterfall – Gio Pass offers stunning twin falls and breathtaking mountain views. (Source: Collected)

Where is Tien Waterfall – Gio Pass?

Locally called Thac Tien is Vang Tang Tinh. Its is among Ha Giang Province, Vietnam’s most breathtaking natural feature. Nestled at Ngam Lam Village, Nam Dan Commune, Xin Man District, this magnificent waterfall rises more than 1,315 meters above sea level.

Thac Tien in Ha Giang, Vietnam, is a stunning waterfall over 1,315m high. (Source: Collected)
Thac Tien in Ha Giang, Vietnam, is a stunning waterfall over 1,315m high. (Source: Collected)

The Ta Nan Stream feeds Tien waterfall from the limestone highlands of Ta Cu Ty Commune in Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province.Before joining the Chay River close to Coc Pai Town, the stream winds over 20 kilometres through several towns including Ngam Lam, Nam Chien, and Tan Son.

Surrounded in Gio Pass by a large, immaculate forest, Tien Waterfall falls elegantly from a 70-meter height. Tien Waterfall provides a soft, melodic sound as it rushes down the rocky cliffs, therefore creating a calm and pleasant environment for the surroundings unlike the thundering roars of many waterfalls.

Tien Waterfall's water comes from Ta Ngan Stream, originating in Bac Ha, Lao Cai.
Tien Waterfall’s water comes from Ta Ngan Stream, originating in Bac Ha, Lao Cai. ( Source: Collected)

For those looking for peace in the middle of nature, the mist from the waterfall produces a cool surroundings that makes this perfect location, inviting visitors to relax, unwind, and immerse themselves in the soothing sounds of nature while surrounded by lush greenery.

Exploring Tien Waterfall – Gio Pass

Ha Giang’s Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass present an amazing journey into one of Vietnam’s most unspoiled natural settings. Ha Giang guarantees an amazing experience whether your interests are in discovering the breathtaking rice terraces, hiking through verdant forests, or appreciating the waterfall.

Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass offer a stunning trek through Ha Giang's nature.
Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass offer a stunning trek through Ha Giang’s nature. ( Source: Collected)

The Name and Legend of Tien Waterfall

Apart from its unspoiled beauty, Tien Waterfall is had the magical stories of the Nung people. One of the most well-known legends is the love affair between a woodland god and a long-haired rural maiden.

A cursed girl’s hair formed Tien Waterfall, symbolizing eternal, tragic love. ( Source: Collected)
A cursed girl’s hair formed Tien Waterfall, symbolizing eternal, tragic love. ( Source: Collected)

The beautiful girl turned into the flowing water due to a curse from the water deity. Her long hair became the gentle, white cascade we know as Tien Waterfall in Gio Pass. This waterfall harmonizes exactly with the natural beauty of the area and not only fascinates with its breathtaking beauty but also reminds one of an endless and sad love.

Scenic Beauty of Tien Waterfall

One feels little among the great expanse of the ancient forest, where tall centuries-old trees hug the silvery water falling from Tien Waterfall. The stream runs consistently all year long, with a slow pace unaltered through the wet and dry seasons. The little lake at the base of the falls waves just gently, exposing a peaceful and pure surface.

Tien Waterfall is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility
Tien Waterfall is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility ( Source: Collected)

Visitors can enjoy wading in the cool stream during summer, a welcome diversion from the chilly winters when the stream is appreciated from above, maybe from the arched bridge elegantly across it.

Year-round, visitors of all ages find peace in nature’s purity at Tien Waterfall.
Year-round, visitors of all ages find peace in nature’s purity at Tien Waterfall. ( Source: Collected)

No matter the season, whether summer or winter, people of all ages come here to bask in the untouched majesty of nature, breathing in the pure air that seems to wash away all worries and sorrows.  Visitors can enjoy wading in the cool stream during summer or immerse yourself in a pure natural world with rare, pristine vegetation.

How to Get to Tien Waterfall – Gio Pass

There various ways to get from Hanoi to Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass. Usually, one rides a bus from My Dinh Bus Station to Ha Giang City. Usually the trip takes six to seven hours. Arriving in Ha Giang, you can rent a motorbike or join Ha Giang Motobike Tours to carry on your journey to Tien Waterfall.

Tourists often take a 6-7 hour bus ride from Hanoi to Ha Giang, then rent a motorbike to Thac Tien.
Tourists often take a 6-7 hour bus ride from Hanoi to Ha Giang, then rent a motorbike to Thac Tien. ( Source: Collected)

There three paths to get Tien Waterfall once in Ha Giang City:

  • First Route: Starting along National Highway 2 and Route 279 via Provincial Route 178, first route is about 120km. Comprising roughly 3.5 hours, this path is the shortest.
  • Second Route: About 140km using Provincial Highway 177 and National Highway 2, with a five-hour journey duration.
  • Third Route: About 130 km along Provincial Road 177 and Route 197C. Because of its many curves and uneven road conditions, this path is lengthier and more difficult than the other two paths.

Best Time to Visit Tien Water – Gio Pass

September, October, March, and April are the best months to hike to Tien Waterfall. In Ha Giang, September and October are especially lovely since the golden rice terraces are ready for harvest. The trip to Tien Waterfall is even more picturesque given the breathtaking mix of hues in the terrain.

The best months to hike Tien Waterfall are September, October, March, and April.
The best months to hike Tien Waterfall are September, October, March, and April. ( Source: Collected)

March and April bring spring, when blossoms abound across the mountains and valleys. These are also the two most beautiful months of the year for Thac Tien. Because at this time, not only is the weather cool, but the lush green forest vegetation on both sides of the stream creates a beautiful landscape picture.

Activities Around Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass

Apart from enjoying the peace of Tien Waterfall and immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Gio Pass. Everyone can participate in trekking the path through the old forest. This activity can satisfy all tourist preferences. Whether your hobbies are in trekking, photography, or engaging with the different people…

Trekking in the Area

Trekking to Tien Waterfall in Ha Giang offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The path to the waterfall takes you through the stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam, with its steep mountains, deep valleys, and lush forests.

Trekking to Tien Waterfall is challenging but suitable for both beginners and experts.
Trekking to Tien Waterfall is challenging but suitable for both beginners and experts. (Source: Collected)

Trekking Tien Waster Gio Pass is really easy. First-time climbers can also easily overcome it. As you go across the clean woodlands, you will be enveloped in peace where the lyrical songs of birds and the soft rustle of leaves create a symphony of nature. As the new, revitalizing air scents of wildflowers.

The trail leads to Nam Dan’s ancient stone site, home to a 2,000-year legacy.
The trail leads to Nam Dan’s ancient stone site, home to a 2,000-year legacy. ( Source: Collected)

About 6 kilometers down hillside, the route leads to the ancient stone site of Nam Dan, where prehistoric Vietnamese people once thrived more than 2,000 years ago. Archaeologists still find remnants of a matriarchal society that fascinate them and create questions.

Ancient symbols from a matriarchal society still intrigue and attract explorers.
Ancient symbols from a matriarchal society still intrigue and attract explorers. ( Source: Collected)

Or those seeking more adventure, you can trek up to the summit of Gio Pass, where a fascinating trout farm awaits. This unique location is one of the few in the country successfully cultivating the freshwater rainbow trout, originally from the Pacific Ocean, thriving in the North American and Asian regions.

2. Hiring a Local Guide

Although the Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass trekking route is somewhat straightforward to follow, it is rather desirable to have a local guide—especially for foreign guests. First of all, local guides guarantee a safe trip by means of their great knowledge of the region.

A local guide ensures safety and enriches the experience for foreign visitors.
A local guide ensures safety and enriches the experience for foreign visitors. ( Source: Collected)

Secondly, they can provide valuable insights into the area’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance, enriching your experience with fascinating stories and facts that you might miss otherwise.

A local guide enriches your trip with expertise and ensures safe navigation.
A local guide enriches your trip with expertise and ensures safe navigation. ( Source: Collected)

Lastly, a guide can assist in bridging any language barriers, allowing for smoother communication and a more immersive experience in the local culture.  Specially, the price of a tour guide in Ha Giang is not too high.

Pictures at Tien Waterfall.

Capturing the enchanting beauty of Tien Waterfall offers an unforgettable photography experience that delights every traveler. Imagine standing by the waterfall at sunrise, as the shimmering water dances under the soft morning light, creating a magical atmosphere that awakens your senses. Later, as the sun begins to set, the cascading waters glisten beneath the fiery hues of the evening sky.

Photographing Tien Waterfall at sunrise or sunset offers a magical experience
Photographing Tien Waterfall at sunrise or sunset offers a magical experience. ( Source: Collected)

Be sure not to miss the magnificent ancient Sến tree, with its impressive trunk measuring over two meters in diameter and boasting nearly 500 years of history. Standing next to this majestic giant offers a sense of timelessness, adding a unique touch to your collection of memories.

Tien Waterfall Gio Pass is beautiful and poetic to the heart ( Source: Collected)
Tien Waterfall Gio Pass is beautiful and poetic to the heart ( Source: Collected)

If you lucky, when you wander through the forest, you might spot Bay Squirrel or Wild Chicken,… Because the waterfall possesses a diverse system of natural flora and fauna, creating a rich ecological environment for the Tien Deo Gio Thac area. This has contributed to giving Tien Deo Gio Waterfall a pristine and poetically beautiful landscape.

Local Ethnic Group Cultural Experiences

For millennia, various ethnic minority groups including the Hmong, Tay, and Dao people, have called Ha Giang home. Seeing Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass gives an opportunity to learn about their rich customs and culture. Many trips feature visits to nearby towns where you may learn dance, music, and handicaps. This is a great approach to get closer to the neighbourhood and develop more respect of Ha Giang’s cultural legacy.

Visiting Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass offers insight into Ha Giang's diverse cultures
Visiting Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass offers insight into Ha Giang’s diverse cultures. ( Source: Collected)

Picking.

Bring a packed lunch or some snacks to enjoy a picnic beside the waterfall. The peace of the surroundings provide the perfect place for you to unwind and enjoy your food among nature. Just keep in mind to help to maintain the area’s beauty by cleaning up later.

Picnicking at Tien Waterfall offers a peaceful escape, blending with nature.
Picnicking at Tien Waterfall offers a peaceful escape, blending with nature. ( Source: Collected)

Travel Advice for Seeing Gio Pass and Tien Waterfall

Making plans for your vacation to Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass calls for more than simply knowing when would be best. Being well-prepared, pick appropriate lodging, and enjoy the special local cuisine can help you to maximise your trip. Here are some basic travel advice meant to improve your trip.

What to Prepare and Bring?

Packing the right gear is essential for a fun and safe trip to Tien Waterfall and Gio Pass. Here’s a concise list of items to consider:

Visitors should prepare things that are compact, light, and easy to carry.
Visitors should prepare things that are compact, light, and easy to carry. ( Source: Collected)
  • Hiking Boots: Comfortable, sturdy boots with good grip are essential for navigating rocky terrain.
  • Clothing: Clothing: Dress in layers, as mornings and evenings can be chilly in Ha Giang.
  • Water and Snacks: Bring enough water and high-energy snacks, like almonds or protein bars.
  • Camera/Smartphone: Capture the stunning scenery with a camera or smartphone. Don’t forget to bring a backup charger.
  • Trekking Poles: While optional, trekking poles can enhance stability on slippery or steep sections of the path.
  • First Aid Kit: Carry a basic first aid kit for minor cuts or blisters.
  • Sunscreen and Hat: Protect yourself from the strong mountain sun with sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.

Where One Should Stay

Staying in a homestay is a great way to experience the local way of life if that is what you wish. Local villages around Tien Waterfall have real homestays where you may stay in traditional homes, eat food prepared locally and meet local folks. These homestays help you to grasp the way of life and customs in Ha Giang.

Staying at a homestay near Tien Waterfall offers local culture and cuisine.
Staying at a homestay near Tien Waterfall offers local culture and cuisine. ( Source: Collected)

Hotels in Quan Ba District are located just a short distance from Tien Waterfall and offer a comfortable stay for visitors. These hotels provide modern amenities such as hot water, WiFi, and cozy beds, making them perfect for relaxing after a long day of trekking.

Hotels near Tien Waterfall offer comfort with hot water, WiFi, and cozy beds.
Hotels near Tien Waterfall offer comfort with hot water, WiFi, and cozy beds. ( Source: Collected)

Ha Giang’s eco-lodges are something you might want to check out if you are ecologically sensitive. With ecological methods including solar power and waste recycling, these lodges are made to have as little effect on the surroundings.

Local cuisine to sample

Without dining on Ha Giang’s distinctive and delicious native cuisine, no journey is complete. The region is known for its fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods, giving you a taste of authentic Northern Vietnamese dishes. These are some must-try foods:

Ha Giang captivates with stunning landscapes and a rich culinary culture. ( Source: Collected)
Ha Giang captivates with stunning landscapes and a rich culinary culture. ( Source: Collected)
  • Thang co: Made with horse flesh and organs, thang co is a classic Hmong meal slow-cooked with different herbs and spices. Though it’s an acquired taste, many marketplaces have a local speciality.
  • Banh Cuon Trung: This is a type of steamed rice roll filled with eggs, mushrooms, and minced pork, often served with a side of dipping sauce.
  • Thit Trau Gac Bep: (Smoked Buffalo Meat): This smoked buffalo meat is dried over a fire, giving it a rich, smoky flavor. Usually it’s presented alongside rice wine.
  • Xoi Ngu Sac (Five-Colored Sticky Rice): This beautiful and colorful dish is made with naturally dyed sticky rice and is often eaten during festivals or special occasions.
  • Ruou Ngo ( Corn Wine): A traditional drink in Ha Giang made from fermented corn, this potent liquor is a favorite among locals, especially in highland villages. Get ready; it’s rather strong!

Tien Waterfall offers a serene escape into nature, where the beauty of the cascading water and lush surroundings captivate every visitor. Whether you’re trekking, taking photos, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, Tien Waterfall promises an unforgettable experience.

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