THE 5 BEST HIDDEN GEM DESTINATIONS IN VIETNAM FOR 2024 - FOR TOURISTS WHO YEARN FOR A LESS CROWED HOLIDAYS

THE 5 BEST HIDDEN GEM DESTINATIONS IN VIETNAM  

            As you may have known, Vietnam is a country known for its rich history, captivating stories and breathtaking scenery, attracting visitors to iconic destinations like Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City every year. However, beyond these well-known destinations lie some hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are five of the most remarkable but often overlooked destinations in Vietnam that will leave you breathless and amazed by its beauty.

            From the serene landscape to the unique and diverse cultural marvels, the allure of Vietnam's hidden gems awaits those searching for off-the-beaten-track adventures and authentic local experiences.
1. Ha Giang

            Ha Giang is an adventurous destination, located in the northernmost part of Vietnam, bordering China. Ha Giang offers a dramatic landscape of rugged peaks, deep valleys and sinuous mountainous terrain but it is also a home to some of the most breathtaking and treacherous passes in the entire country. Additionally, this area is quite renowned as an ideal route for motorbike trips which can be very dangerous and may not be suitable for everyone who visit the place, but can provide a truly unforgettable experience, which is one of the reasons why it is consider a hidden gem. Another reason is because of the region pleasant weather and vibrant flora displaying a range of colors, as well as the soothing sounds of waterfalls and forests create a unique and invaluable allure for tourists.  

            Visiting Ha Giang allows you to immerse yourself in remote villages and encounter many ethnic minority groups who have preserved their traditional lifestyles and customs. The bustling flea markets, such as Dong Van and Quyet Tien, showcase the vibrant culture of these people and offer a sight unlike any other.

            Ha Giang is a place that defies description—it must be seen and experienced firsthand to truly grasp its mythical beauty.

2. Pu Luong Nature Reserve:

            Pu Luong Nature Reserve is located in Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam, it stays in a much more remote and harder to reach area compared to others destinations, so tourism here has developed rather slowly, giving it the title of hidden gem. It spans an area of about 17,600 hectares and is known for its stunning natural beauty, lush landscapes, and rich biodiversity. The reserve is situated between two parallel mountain ranges, the central valley features incredible rice terraces and small villages belonging to families from the Thai and H’Mong ethnic minority communities.

            One of the main attractions of Pu Luong Nature Reserve is its pristine wilderness. The area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. The dense forests are teeming with wildlife, such as langurs, civets, and various species of birds.

            Pu Luong Nature Reserve is the perfect destination for trekking, mountain biking and homestays. There are numerous scenic trails that lead you through the reserve, passing by traditional villages, cascading waterfalls, including the impressive Thac Hieu waterfall and trekking to the top of Mount Pu Luong for a view of the valley is a highlight. The local ethnic Thai and H’Mong communities add to the charm of the region, offering visitors the opportunity to experience their unique culture, traditions, and warm hospitality.

            Pu Luong also offers a range of eco-friendly accommodations. You can stay in traditional stilt houses, homestays, or ecolodges, immersing yourself in the local way of life and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.

            Whether you're trekking, cycling, or simply relaxing amidst nature, Pu Luong Nature Reserve provides an experience away from the crowds. It offers a glimpse into the authentic rural life of Vietnam and allows you to connect with nature in a truly breathtaking setting.

3. Quy Nhon:

            Quy Nhon is a small coastal city in Central/South Vietnam often overlooked by travelers or overshadowed by other costal destinations. However, Quy Nhon’s area has numerous ancient Cham temples, unspoiled beaches and historical sites such as the Thap Doi Towers which makes it one of Vietnam’s hidden gems, where it is highly worth staying for a few nights.

            One of the main attractions in Quy Nhon is its beautiful coastline. The city is blessed with long stretches of sandy beaches, including Bai Xep, Bai Dai, and Quy Hoa. These beaches are often less crowded than those in other coastal cities, allowing visitors to relax, swim, and enjoy the tranquility of the ocean. The city beach of Quy Nhon is also worth visiting, as it’s spotlessly clean and shielded from currents by a nearby peninsula.

            Besides the beaches, Quy Nhon offers a chance to see the ancient Champa civilization ruins, including temple ruins and remains of the ancient citadel of its one-time capital, such as several ancient Cham towers namely Banh It and Duong Long. These towers showcase intricate architectural designs and provide a glimpse into the area's past. Meanwhile, the city is blissfully not touristy, allowing the curious traveler to visit authentic local markets and restaurants.

            While it’s off the beaten track, the city of Quy Nhon and several nearby beaches have a good range of accommodations, including small-scale guesthouses/hotels and several backpacker hostels.

4. Tam Coc – Ninh Binh:

            While some tourists visit Ninh Binh as a day trip from Hanoi, very few spend enough time in Ninh Binh to truly appreciating the marvelousness of the area. Located in South region of Ha Noi and is often referred to as "Ha Long Bay on land" due to its limestone karst formations surrounded by rice paddies and winding rivers.

            At Ninh Binh, one of the best things to do is to take a rowboat ride on the river in Tam Coc. You’ll pass amongst the towering limestone cliffs and follow the river underground through caves to secret lagoons. And you’ll find that many locals who operate the tour boats row with their feet – which looks incredibly challenging.

            Other things to do around Tam Coc are to climb the 500 steps to the massive dragon statue at the top of Mua Caves and visit the serene Bich Dong Pagoda. Or rent a motorbike and cruise the winding dirt roads of Ninh Binh – getting lost among the vibrant rice paddies. You’ll only have to share the route with a few other bikes and friendly water buffaloes.

            You’ll find plenty to do in Ninh Binh to keep you busy for at least three days. You may find yourself staying quite a bit longer once you have settled into the slow, relaxed pace of Vietnamese life in the countryside.

5. Mekong Delta:

            The Mekong Delta, often referred to as the "Rice Bowl" of Vietnam, is a vast and fertile region located in the southwestern part of the country. It is formed by the Mekong River and its tributaries, creating a unique and complex network of waterways, canals, and lush green landscapes. The Mekong Delta presents an idyllic escape for nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of local life. You can indulge in local delights and delicious tropical fruits, take a cycle tour through the craft villages, or witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset over the delta. Even more, the cultural diversity of different minorities here will leave you in awe of their distinctive architecture and traditions. 

            The Mekong Delta is known for its agricultural productivity, with rice paddies, fruit orchards, and fish farms dominating the scenery. The region is responsible for a significant portion of Vietnam's rice production, making it an essential agricultural hub. Visitors to the Mekong Delta can witness the traditional farming practices and observe farmers tending to their crops.

            Exploring the Mekong Delta offers a chance to experience the local way of life. The delta is home to numerous small towns and villages, where people live in stilt houses and rely on the river for transportation and livelihoods. Floating markets, such as Cai Rang and Cai Be, are popular attractions that showcase the vibrant and bustling trading activities of the region. Here, you can witness boats loaded with fresh produce and goods, creating a lively and colorful spectacle.

            Boat tours are a popular way to navigate the Mekong Delta's intricate waterways. You can cruise along the canals and visit various islands, such as Unicorn Island and Turtle Island, where you can taste tropical fruits, sample local delicacies, and learn about cottage industries like coconut candy making and rice paper production.

            Cultural and historical sites can be found throughout the Mekong Delta as well. Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho, for example, is a Buddhist temple known for its intricate architecture and beautiful gardens. The region also has a significant Khmer minority population, and you can visit Khmer temples and learn about their distinct culture and traditions.