Hill Tribe Markets in Vietnam: A Whole Guide
Do you know about these hill tribe markets in Vietnam? They are something uncommon and different from the regular markets that we often witness. So, if you are unaware of such things, these hill tribe markets in Vietnam are annual markets held by the ethnic minorities inhabiting the mountainous regions of Vietnam such as H’mong, Tay, Nung and many more. These Northern Vietnam hill tribe market are definitely one of the best places to visit in Vietnam, and you should not miss it to catch up on the culture of the place.
From handmade crafts to local food, the hill tribe markets are filled with unique items. You can find handwoven textiles, colorful blankets, and even handmade jewelry. Many people come to buy fresh produce, herbs, and spices grown in the surrounding mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some local dishes like thắng cố, a traditional soup, or pick up some exotic fruits that are hard to find elsewhere.
If you visit the Northern hill tribe market, you will definitely have the most authentic experience of the life of Vietnamese ethnic minorities. If you are lucky enough, you will to get to witness a hill tribe market just in time for the local festivals, in which people also participate in dancing, singing, and playing games of their ethnic groups. You need to have the best Vietnam tour packages for such fun to begin and explore such culture of the hill tribe markets in Vietnam.
Local Delicacies in Hill Tribe Markets in Vietnam
1. Thang Co
It is this “scary” dish, with horse mear and organs stewed with mountainous herbs and is served hot to the people. The organs and meat are chopped so well that you don’t know what exactly you have just put in the mouth. The dish has a rich, strong flavor and is typically served with corn wine. Thang Co is commonly found in the northern mountainous regions, especially in local markets, where it brings people together for a warm, communal meal.
2. Men Men
As we all know, rice is the most important food for people in Delta of Vietnam, corn does mountainous people. So, you can find number of dished made from corn in the market, and the most popular, corn wine! Even if you don’t drink it, just the scent of corn wine is enough to make you extremely happy!
3. Sour Pho
Sour Pho is a Vietnamese soup that has a tangy, sour flavor, different from the traditional pho. It usually contains ingredients like tamarind or lime to give it that sour taste. Along with rice noodles, you can find vegetables, herbs, and sometimes seafood or meat in the soup. It’s a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for those who like a little twist on classic pho.
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Popular Hill Tribe Markets in Vietnam
The hill tribe markets comes with a burst of colorful arena and human warmth by the local hill tribes in Vietnam. This is truly a different experience for the tourists who wish to experience more about tribe life and some historic activities.
1. Bac Ha Market
It is a rural district and a border with China, located about 76 Kilometer from Lao Cai City. If you aren’t aware, it is the home of the Flower H’Mong People and is famous for the morning Sunday market, which is popularly known as Bac Ha Market. It is one of the popular shopping places in Vietnam which people like to explore!
You will witness a lot of horses all around the market and a brisk trade for everything like cattle, horses, goats and dogs as well as the traditional goods. Not just this, you will also see some very beautiful traditional goods like hand-embroidered skirts, textiles, handbags and much more! These items are hard to resist and people shop a lot from here without any doubt.
Also, enjoy the best local food in these hill tribe markets which are a famous town talk! It is a place where different cultures meet and see something really different. And definitely, it is counted as one of the most-visited hill tribe markets in Vietnam that people can explore.
Timings: 7:30 AM – 9 PM
Duration: More than 3 hours
2. Muong Hum Market
Located 3 hours from Lao Cai Station, and opens every Sunday where you will see so many people gathered here. The culture here features a lot of things which people crave to see, like the enchanting festivals in Vietnam, different shops and much more.
It is one of those hill tribe markets in vietnam where young people meet and date, or even find new people with same interests. Tourists are also welcomed with a lot of warmth and even get invited to have a good meal and heart-warming wine.
People enjoy the food and spend a lot of time here, as it is definitely one of the best things to do in Vietnam.
Duration: 8 Hours
3. Coc Ly Market
It is kind of a small fair held every Tuesday! Talking about the best hill tribe markets in Vietnam, you cannot miss this one. This market is about 35 kilometers southwest of Bac Ha, and many ethnic traders from Bac Ha and other parts of Lao Cai come here in their authentic dresses to have a weekly cultural setup.
This market is more remorse than Sapa and the dress and the lifestyle of people are more traditional than in the large centres. You can have a good stroll in every corner of the market as you listen to unexpected conversations, witness antique items, and have a glimpse of local life.
Duration: 4 Hours
4. Cao Son Market
It is a comparatively small hill tribe market in Vietnam to explore if you are having some time. It takes place every Wednesday and takes nearly 3 hours to drive from Sapa. Early in the morning, people from different villages come to the market sequentially.
The market is especially known for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional clothing. Every week, people from nearby villages walk to the market to trade items like fruits, vegetables, fabrics, and livestock. It’s not just a place for shopping but also for socializing and learning about the local culture. Visitors to Cao Son Market can experience a unique and lively atmosphere.
Address: Cao Son, Muong Khuong, Lao Cai 19000 Vietnam
5. Lung Khau Nhin Market
It is one of the most popular hill tribe markets in Vietnam, and takes place every Thursday! Being a small, yet long-lasting market hiding among the mountains and forests in the north of Vietnam about 10 km from the border with China.
This is one of the best hill tribe markets in Vietnam, being the top tourist attraction as well. So, make sure you are going to such happy-go-to place whenever in Vietnam. Come and enjoy the Vietnamese food, different items and much more!
Duration: 8 hours
6. Can Cau Market
Can Cau Market is a vibrant and colorful market located in the northern mountains of Vietnam, near the border with China. It is held every Saturday and attracts people from different ethnic minority groups, such as the Hmong and the Dao, who come to trade goods and socialize.
The market is known for its beautiful traditional clothing, handmade crafts, fresh produce, and livestock like buffaloes. Visitors can experience local culture, taste regional foods, and see the unique way of life in this rural part of Vietnam. It’s a great spot for both locals and tourists to explore.
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Dos and Don’ts while Visitng the Hill Tribe Markets
The hill tribe markets in Vietnam are popular places to visit, but definitely you need to follow some ethics while coming here. So, here are some dos and don’ts and Vietnam travel tips which you should follow!
- Don’t come here in white clothes, because many of the ethnic minority groups consider white color for funerals and also a symbol of bad luck. So, it might disappoint any kind of group!
- Also, you should not whistle while being in these hill tribe markets because it is considered to be calling a devil.
- Do not rub children’s head, it might hurt their sould or make them weak and thin.
- You should not answer about your name and age to anyone, and refuse politely!
What tribes are in Sapa Hill?
Sapa, located in northern Vietnam, is home to several ethnic minority tribes. The main tribes in the Sapa hills are the Hmong, Dao (Yao), Tay, and Giay. Each tribe has its own unique culture, language, and traditional clothing. The Hmong people are the largest group, known for their colorful dresses and skilled handicrafts. The Dao are famous for their red headscarves and herbal medicines. The Tay and Giay tribes are known for farming and their close connection to the land. Visitors to Sapa often enjoy learning about these tribes and their traditions.
Are there markets in Vietnam?
Yes, these are popularly known as the hill tribe markets in Vietnam!
Who are the hill people in Vietnam?
The Hill People of Vietnam, also known as the Montagnards or Degar, are indigenous ethnic groups living in the mountainous regions of central and northern Vietnam. They consist of diverse communities, including the Jarai, Ede, Bahnar, and others, each with its own language, culture, and traditions. Traditionally, these groups have practiced subsistence farming, hunting, and gathering.
