Brocade market in the mountainous province of Lao Cai has attracted many visitors thanks to its colorful products.
Bac Ha District Market was introduced by Serendis Magazine of Sri Lanka to international readers as one of the 10 most interesting markets in Southeast Asia. Tourists are attracted by the community activities of the Northwest mountainous ethnic minorities and the unique traditional features.
Bac Ha market opens every Sunday, so many visitors, especially Mong Hoa women or H’mong Hoa. Both goods for local women to wear on special occasions and products and souvenirs for tourists on display at the market.
There are both handmade and mass-produced products on the market at a variety of prices. A traditional hand-made Mong Hoa dress costs about 2 million dong ($ 86) while mass-produced is usually half cheaper. Depending on the tourist’s budget, they can buy a brocade blanket for 500,000 VND to 800,000 VND or 30,000-50,000 VND for a stuffed animal.
Visitors to Bac Ha District can also enjoy the nearby horse market and songbird market. According to tour agents, many visitors to Sa Pa often choose to add a trip to Bac Ha.
Women in Bac Ha district often dress nicely when shopping because that’s how they hang out and meet friends.
Other popular markets in the mountainous region of Lao Cai are Y Ty market with a variety of local produce and Coc Ly market due to its remote location.
Some pictures of the market:
