Meo Vac Market – A Cultural Beauty of the Highlands of Ha Giang

Meo Vac Market – A Cultural Beauty of the Highlands of Ha Giang

The Meo Vac market is not only a place for trade but also a lively depiction of the life and culture of the ethnic people in the highlands of Ha Giang. If you want to explore interesting things and experience a unique cultural space, join Valor Ha Giang Loop to learn about the Meo Vac market through the following article.

Ha Giang Food

Where is the Meo Vac market held?

Meo Vac market is located right in the center of Meo Vac town, Meo Vac district, Ha Giang province. This is one of the largest and most famous markets in Ha Giang, attracting many local people and tourists from all places. When you attend the market, you will hear the sounds of passing vehicles, cheerful conversations, and the clanging of bells, creating a bustling and lively atmosphere.

The special thing about the Meo Vac market is that it not only hosts people from the district but also from neighboring communes such as Sung Mang, Xin Cai, Khau Vai, and even people from across the border. Therefore, the Meo Vac market showcases the diverse culture of the highland ethnic groups like the Mong, Dao, Giay, and Tay.

Dao People

When did the Meo Vac market start?

Meo Vac market has a long-standing history, formed from the traditional goods exchange of the highland people. The market only takes place on Sundays each week, unlike the daily markets in the lowlands. Meo Vac market usually starts very early, from around 4-5 AM until early afternoon. It is not only a place for buying and selling but also an opportunity for people to meet, interact, and share life stories.

Unlike modern markets, the Meo Vac market still retains its traditional features with direct trading and buying without intermediaries. This is a must-visit destination when traveling to Ha Giang, offering you the most authentic experience of local people’s lives.

How to get to Meo Vac market

From the center of Ha Giang city, you can choose one of the following three routes to reach Meo Vac market:

1. Route 1: Drive along QL34 and QL4C to Mèo Vạc town, then travel about 400 meters to reach the market. Travel time is about 4 hours 35 minutes.
2. Route 2: Follow QL4C through TL182, TL176, and DT182 to Meo Vac town, then continue 400 meters to reach the market. Travel time is 4 hours 45 minutes.
3. Route 3: Drive along QL34 through TL176 and DT182 to the Meo Vac town health station, then turn right and go about 850 meters to the market. Travel time is 5 hours 10 minutes.

You can travel by motorbike or car. However, if you want to fully experience the beauty of Ha Giang and explore the challenging mountain passes, a motorbike is the most ideal choice.

What’s Interesting at Meo Vac Market?

Meo Vac market is not just a place for trading goods but also a unique cultural space for the highland people. Let’s explore the interesting aspects of this market!

A Bustling Space Full of Cultural Colors

From early morning, Meo Vac market is bustling with laughter, the sound of bells from cattle, and the voices of buyers and sellers. Women in colorful traditional brocade clothing, and local men holding traditional bamboo pipes while chatting by the wine stalls, create a very lively scene.

A Unique Culinary World

Meo Vac market offers many highland specialties, the most notable being:

• Grilled Corn Cakes – A traditional dish of the Mong ethnic group, delicious and attractive.
• Corn Wine – Handcrafted with a distinctive aroma, you can taste it before buying.
• Thang Co – A famous dish made from horse and cow innards, with a unique flavor only found in the highlands.
• Ha Giang Pho – Although it’s Pho, it has a unique recipe that creates a special taste only found in Ha Giang.

Livestock and Poultry Trading Area

Meo Vac market is also famous for its livestock trading area, especially buffaloes and cows. The animals are adorned with bells around their necks, standing right in the market for traders and buyers to easily observe and choose.

Moreover, dogs, pigs, and chickens are not confined in cages but are carried or led around the market by people, creating a very interesting sight.

Vibrant Brocade Stalls

The market also showcases various colorful brocade fabrics, handcrafted by the Mong and Dao people. It’s a great opportunity to buy unique fabrics or traditional costumes as souvenirs.

Tips for Visiting Meo Vac Market

To have the best experience when visiting Meo Vac market, you should keep the following tips in mind:

• Visiting early: The market starts very early, around 4-5 AM, so if you want to fully experience the bustling atmosphere, wake up early to join in.
• Prepare small change: People at the market mainly use cash and might not have change for large bills.
• Buy souvenirs: Don’t forget to buy some specialties like corn wine, smoked buffalo meat, or brocade fabric as gifts.
• Be cautious when trying wine: Corn wine here is quite strong, so drinking too much can get you drunk.
• Respect local culture: When taking photos of locals, you should ask for permission first to avoid being disrespectful.

Conclusion

Meo Vac market is a must-visit destination when traveling to Ha Giang. It is not only a place for trading but also a unique cultural space where you can understand more about the life and people of the highlands. Plan your trip now to explore the place and enjoy wonderful experiences in Ha Giang!