Meo Vac Market

Chợ Mèo Vạc

One of the largest Sunday markets on the Ha Giang Loop. Hmong, Yao, Lolo, and other ethnic groups come leading cattle and horses, and the cattle market is especially spectacular.

Meo Vac lies east of Ma Pi Leng Pass and is one of the most remote districts in Ha Giang. Every Sunday morning, the market in the town center draws people from the surrounding mountain communities, including Hmong, Yao, Lolo, Bouyei, and Tay. Women wear brightly colored traditional clothing and carry bamboo baskets, often walking for several hours to reach the market. They buy and sell corn liquor, cured pork, vegetables, silver jewelry, handmade fabrics, and daily necessities. Beside the market is the cattle market, a major feature of Meo Vac, where hundreds of yellow cattle and horses are traded. It is considered one of the largest livestock markets in Southeast Asia. You can try the local dish “Thắng Cố” (horse meat offal soup) and corn liquor, but be aware that corn liquor is very strong. About 20 kilometers from Meo Vac, the village of Khau Vai holds its famous “Love Market” on the 26th and 27th days of the third lunar month each year. It is said to have originated from a legend about a couple who could not be together because of tribal conflict and who met here once a year. Getting there: The drive from Dong Van to Meo Vac via Ma Pi Leng Pass takes about 1 hour. The market usually opens at 6 a.m., and it is busiest before 9 a.m. When taking photos, respect local people and ask for permission first.

Meo Vac Market

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby