Ha Giang has specific beauty and attractions in any seasons and any months of the year. If you are flower-lovers, the period from October to December will be the best choice because this is the time for blooming Tam Giac Mach flowers. The alluring and irresistible sight of purple pink petals will certainly make you fascinated.
Tam Giac Mach, or “Buckwheat” flower can be found in some northern mountainous provinces of Vietnam. However, it is considered the symbol of Ha Giang because nowhere else can you find such giant wonderful carpets of flowers as in Ha Giang. There are two types of buckwheat flowers: the white one is usually in several areas of Cao Bang. Meanwhile in Ha Giang, people often plant the purple buckwheat flower. The pinkish purple of buckwheat petals is harmonious with the blue color of autumn sky and the grey color of the mountains which altogether creates a magnificent picture.
The history of Tam Giac Mach flowers is quite long time ago. It is said that in ancient times, a famine devastated villages. Because the land was barren, local people had to wander in search of food. And fortunately, among the rocks, they discovered small white pink flowers whose nuts tasted as rice and corn. Since then, the Mong have used the buckwheat flowers’ nuts for their meals. They also make buckwheat cakes and wine.
Local women sell buckwheat cakes at the market
Nowadays, in order to promote the tourism potential of the province, Ha Giang authorities have increased the amount of buckwheat plantations to attract more visitors. There is also annual “Tam Giac Mach flower festival” around October and November, which features art performances and displays of buckwheat flower products. Joining the festival, you will not only have chance to admire the beauty of this flower but also know more about tradition and culture of local people in Ha Giang.
Children play in a flower field
There are a lot of places where tourists can enjoy the flowers. Along the “Happiness Road” from Quan Ba, Yen Minh To Dong Van, or some parts of Hoang Su Phi and Xin Man. You can choose anywhere as long as it is convenient for your trip.
The most famous stops are:
– Thach Son Than (Quyet Tien town, Quan Ba District)
– Lung Cam Cultural Village (Sung La-Dong Van Valley)
– The field under the Lung Cu Flagpole
– Pho Cao
– Ma Pi Leng Pass
Tam Giac Mach flowers have a wild beauty, but also full of charm. It symbolizes Ha Giang people: slender in shape but full of energy and beauty, always overcomes fierce challenges of nature. Standing at the rocky plateau, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the poetical beauty of Tam Giac Mach flowers will absolutely be a memorable experience of those who come to Ha Giang.
