Explore the rich history of Lung Cu Flagpole in Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang! Discover costs, cultural tours, and Legend Travel Group’s sustainable adventures. Book now!
Lung Cu Flagpole, standing at 1,470m on Dragon Mount in Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang Province, is a historic landmark within the UNESCO Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, drawing over 250,000 visitors annually. Located 145 km northeast of Tuyen Quang City and 310 km from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, this northernmost point of Vietnam, in Lung Cu commune, symbolizes national pride with its 54m² flag representing 54 ethnic groups. Entry costs $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND), offering access to panoramic karst views and cultural experiences in a cool highland climate (dry season: November–April, 10–22°C or 50–71.6°F; rainy season: May–October, 18–28°C or 64.4–82.4°F).
Rooted in Ha Giang’s storied past, Lung Cu’s history spans centuries, from Ly Thuong Kiet’s 11th-century flag to its modern 33.15m flagpole. Surrounded by Hmong, Tay, Lo Lo, and Pu Peo villages, it blends eco-tourism with cultural immersion, featuring sustainable practices like solar-powered homestays and local-guided tours, aligning with Tuyen Quang’s “Green Highlands” initiative. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours guide you through this historic site, ensuring a green, meaningful journey. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring merged Ha Giang Province into Tuyen Quang Province, reclassifying Ha Giang and Dong Van as wards under Tuyen Quang. Lung Cu retains its fame under “Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang,” with updated maps simplifying navigation to this historic landmark.
Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering eco-friendly tours in Tuyen Quang tailored for history and culture enthusiasts. Our low-impact tours use electric vans or bicycles, led by English-speaking local guides sharing Lung Cu’s historical significance, Hmong traditions, and green practices. Supporting ethnic communities, we align with Tuyen Quang’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, planning is seamless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Lung Cu’s heritage responsibly!
Lung Cu Flagpole, in Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, stands as a testament to Vietnam’s sovereignty. Historical records trace its origins to the 11th century, when Ly Thuong Kiet planted a military flag on Dragon Mount, declaring it sacred land. In the Tay Son era, King Quang Trung placed a bronze drum here, struck thrice to assert dominance. The name “Lung Cu” reflects its Mongolian roots, meaning “Dragon’s Residence.” The current 33.15m flagpole, completed in 2010 after 200 days of construction, features an octagonal base with Dong Son bronze drum motifs and carvings of Vietnam’s historical periods and ethnic cultures. Its 54m² national flag, replaced every 45–60 days, is preserved as a sacred gift for distinguished visitors. Sustainable initiatives, like waste recycling and local Hmong guides, preserve this cultural and environmental treasure, making Lung Cu a profound destination 310 km from Hanoi.
These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$10, blend history and nature:
Climb the 389 steps to the flagpole, best at 9:00 AM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND), viewing Dong Son carvings and learning its historical significance.
Cost: $1–$2.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Follow marked paths; avoid littering.
Tip: Read interpretive signs; included in Legend Travel Group’s Lung Cu Cultural Tour ($60–$90).
Browse the souvenir shop at the flagpole’s base, best at 10:00 AM, free entry, showcasing Hmong and Lo Lo tools, costumes, and crafts ($3–$10 or 75,000–250,000 VND).
Cost: Free; crafts $3–$10.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support local artisans; use reusable bags.
Tip: Buy authentic textiles; included in Legend Travel Group’s Ha Giang Cultural Tour ($60–$90).
Capture the two sacred ponds near the flagpole, best at 7:00 AM, free, with guided photo tours at $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) for historical context.
Cost: Free; photo tours $3–$5.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Respect water sources; stay on paths.
Tip: Use a 50–200mm lens; included in Legend Travel Group’s Ha Giang Nature Tour ($70–$100).
Explore Hmong and Lo Lo villages, best at 10:00 AM, with guided tours at $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND), learning about their role in Lung Cu’s history.
Cost: Free; tours/food $1–$5.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support local vendors; avoid plastic.
Tip: Taste “rượu ngô” ($1–$2); included in Legend Travel Group’s Ha Giang Cultural Tour ($60–$90).
Overnight in a Hmong homestay, best booked for 5:00 PM, for $12–$20 (300,000–500,000 VND), hearing tales of Lung Cu’s past over “mèn mén” (cornmeal).
Cost: $12–$20.
Hours: Check-in 2:00 PM; check-out 11:00 AM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports Hmong families; uses solar energy.
Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group for cultural activities; included in Lung Cu Overnight Eco-Tour ($100–$150).
Visit from November to April for cool, dry weather (10–22°C or 50–71.6°F), ideal for climbing, photography, and village tours, especially November’s buckwheat blooms. The rainy season (May–October) offers lush scenery but slippery steps, requiring caution. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) see 200–500 visitors, while weekends peak at 1,000–2,000, particularly during festivals like Hmong New Year (December). Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) provide clear skies for flagpole views, while afternoons (2:00–5:00 PM) suit relaxed cultural exploration.
Lung Cu Flagpole, in Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, is 310 km from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, reachable in 6.5–7.5 hours:
By Private Car: Drive 6.5 hours via Highway 2, costing $85–$125 (2,125,000–3,125,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people. Book via Legend Travel Group.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly VinFast taxis, 6.5–7 hours, $75–$105 (1,875,000–2,625,000 VND) one-way; $150–$210 (3,750,000–5,250,000 VND) round-trip. Use Xanh SM app.
By Private Motorcycle: Ride via Highway 2C, 6.5–7.5 hours, $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) fuel; rental $8–$15/day (200,000–375,000 VND). Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).
By Public Bus: Bus from My Dinh to Tuyen Quang City (3 hours, $5 or 125,000 VND), then Ha Giang to Lung Cu (3.5–4 hours, $8–$10 or 200,000–250,000 VND), totaling $26–$30 (650,000–750,000 VND) round-trip.
By Private Tour Bus (Legend Travel Group): Group bus from Hanoi, 6.5 hours, $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND)/person for 15+ people, including guide.
From Noi Bai Airport: Private car ($100–$140 or 2,500,000–3,500,000 VND, 7.5–8 hours, 330 km); Xanh SM taxi ($90–$120 or 2,250,000–3,000,000 VND); or Airport Bus No. 86 to Hanoi ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min) + private car ($80–$100 or 2,000,000–2,500,000 VND). Navigation Tip: Save “Lung Cu Flagpole, Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs from Dong Van (30 km). Parking: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis or group buses reduce emissions; avoid off-road biking.
Safety: Wear helmets on motorcycles; secure valuables. Confirm fares for taxis/buses.
Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:
Clothing: Warm layers, sturdy trekking shoes; waterproof jacket ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND) for rainy season; scarf for highland winds.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Cultural Gear: Small backpack, camera for flagpole shots, notebook for historical notes.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for souvenir buys ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.
Extras: Snacks for treks; cash for small vendors.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for entry ($1–$2), tours ($3–$5), or crafts ($3–$10); secure valuables during visits.
Entry and Activity Fees
Entry: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) adult; $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) child under 1.2m.
Guided Village/Photo Tours: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).
Homestay: $12–$20/night (300,000–500,000 VND).
Local Snacks (e.g., Corn Cakes): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Drinks (Water, Corn Wine): $0.30–$2 (7,000–50,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., Hmong Textiles): $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).
Guided Eco-Tour: $20–$40 (500,000–1,000,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hanoi)
Private Car: $85–$125 (2,125,000–3,125,000 VND).
Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $150–$210 (3,750,000–5,250,000 VND).
Private Motorcycle: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) fuel; rental $8–$15/day.
Public Bus: $26–$30 (650,000–750,000 VND).
Private Tour Bus: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND)/person.
Airport to Lung Cu: $100–$140 (2,500,000–3,500,000 VND).
Parking: $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $15–$25 (bus, entry, snacks).
Mid-range: $40–$70 (private car, tours, homestay).
Luxury: $100–$150 (Xanh SM taxi, guided tour, homestay).
Tip: Budget for entry ($1–$2), activities ($1–$10), and transport ($20–$210); carry cash for tickets and vendors (no cards accepted).
Timing: Visit at 6:00–9:00 AM for clear views; November–April for dry conditions. Weekdays for fewer crowds (200–500 vs. 1,000–2,000 on weekends). Avoid Tet for quieter visits.
Booking: Buy flagpole tickets on-site (QR code e-tickets); reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided visits or homestays. Book activities in Dong Van.
Sustainability: Stay on trails to protect geopark ecology; bring reusable bottles. Support Hmong vendors for snacks ($0.50–$2) or crafts ($3–$10).
Navigation: Save “Lung Cu Flagpole, Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang” in offline maps; ask locals in Dong Van (30 km) for directions. Avoid night rides due to mountain roads.
Safety: Wear sturdy shoes on steps; secure valuables. Confirm fares for taxis/buses; carry a flashlight for dusk visits.
Weather: Dry season for safe climbing; rainy season needs rain gear ($3–$7) and waterproof bags ($3–$7). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly in villages (cover shoulders/knees); say “xin chào” to locals. Respect sacred sites; avoid loud talking at the flagpole.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase Lung Cu’s history and Ha Giang’s cultural wonders:
Lung Cu Cultural Tour ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Private car to Lung Cu Flagpole, Hmong village visit, and cultural shop tour, with local lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Ha Giang Historical Adventure ($80–$120/person, 2 days): Lung Cu, Ma Pi Leng Pass, Hmong homestay ($12–$20/night). Includes meals, guide.
Tuyen Quang & Sapa Immersion ($300–$450/person, 4 days): Lung Cu, Sapa’s Fansipan, ethnic homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Lung Cu Flagpole in Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang – Ha Giang Province, a historic UNESCO Geopark landmark, enchants over 250,000 visitors yearly with entry at $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND), located 310 km from Hanoi. Perched atop Dragon Mountain in Dong Van district, its origins trace back to the 11th century under Emperor Ly Thuong Kiet, with its modern Dong Son-inspired design symbolizing Vietnam’s sovereignty and unity of 54 ethnic groups. Legend Travel Group’s Tuyen Quang Tours guide you through this cultural beacon, ensuring a sustainable Tuyen Quang Travelexperience with local-guided tours and visits to Hmong villages. Whether climbing its 283 stone steps for panoramic views or exploring the Dong Van Karst Plateau, Lung Cu promises an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly journey today!
Ready to uncover the history of Lung Cu Flagpole in Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang – Ha Giang Province? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural adventure
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources:
Lung Cu Flagpole Information: vietnamtourism.org.vn, originvietnam.com, vinwonders.com, izitour.com, idctravel.com
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