Bac Ha market

Some 100km from Sapa, this is the most famous market in the region and more along the lines of what Sapa was once like. It is a trading centre and meeting place for couples, friends, and relatives, and it is a typical weekly activity for the H'Mong and other minority groups living in the locality. Here, various hilltribes converge every Sunday morning to conduct commerce. Local products for sale or barter are carried on horseback, you will be able to find, buffaloes, horses, blacksmiths, saddlers, traditional medicine doctors, clothing and local artifacts. At the fair, adventurous gastronomes can try "thang co" blood porridge, a popular dish of the H'Mong and other local people. As a visitor, you're part of the trade here because folks are keen to sell you their wares, but this market isn't as much about the tourist buck (yet) as it is about small-time business and fellowship. Frequented by H'mong, Dzao, Tay, Nung and Phu La. Be sure to arrive by 9am as the market finished around lunchtime.

RELATED INFORMATION

• Bac Ha travel guide 

  • Bac Ha

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