Lao Cai: Tourists flock to Bac Ha

Bac Ha district in the northern mountainous province of Lao Cai experienced a 200 percent surge year on year in number of tourists in the first five months of the year, according to Ta Cong Huy, Chairman of the local People’s Committee.

Bac Ha is a “paradise” of various types of flowers due to its temperate climate which is similar to the resort town of Sa Pa. Every spring, white plum, apricot and pear flowers bloom across the land. Tam Hoa plum is a well-known specialty of the district.

Local ethnic groups have preserved their unique culture through generations, with hearty dishes, exciting sport games such as horse races, and colourful markets.

The locality is carrying out plans on tourism development through building cultural villages associated with community tourism, launching new tours and strengthening cooperation with neighbouring Si Ma Cai and Xin Man districts of Ha Giang province.

Recently, the local People’s Committee has recognised three tourist attractions, namely Bac Ha Market, Hoang A Tuong Palace and a community tourism complex in Trung Do hamlet, Bao Nhai commune.

The number of tourists to Bac Ha is expected to continue rising as the plum season has begun and the popular local horse racing festival will take place from June 3-4, said Ta Cong Huy.