However, it is the unique way of life among the local ethnic communities that truly makes this place special.

Starting from Ma Pi Leng Pass, our journey takes us along perilous roads clinging to cliffs, leading to the remote villages of the Mong ethnic people along the canyon sides in the highland communes of Meo Vac District.

Clay houses with stone fences in the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark have stood for centuries. From these villages, we gaze upon the Nho Que River, resembling a delicate green silk ribbon meandering across the plateau. The lives of the Mong ethnic people are intimately entwined with nature, as they cultivate corn, rice, and vegetables amidst the clouds and mountains.

The Nho Que River snakes through the colossal mountains
Perched precariously on high mountain slopes, the villages of the Mong ethnic people
Locals traverse rocky mountain pathways to reach their fields
The mountains where they reside are “greened” by their efforts
Stone fences, a hallmark of Mong ethnic homes
Mong ethnic women gather dried corn leaves for winter fuel
The uneven road winds through the clouds
Innocent ethnic children along the way
Verdant cornfields on the mountain slopes
A beautiful bamboo forest nestled in a valley
Corn and mustard greens blanket the mountainsides
At 1,600-1,800 meters above sea level, life here touches the clouds and sky
Majestic roads in Meo Vac District, Ha Giang Province


Source: Saigon Times