Bac Son Valley Homestays
Village stays in the valley near the viewpoint; very quiet.
Lang Son
Lang Son is a northern border province of caves, markets and highland scenery, a few hours from Hanoi.
- Best time
- Oct – Nov
- Ideal stay
- 2 days 1 night
- Avg. cost
- $25 – $60/day
- Airport
- HAN · 3h
Lang Son Overview
Lang Son is an easy trip from Hanoi and is known for its caves and temples, the Mau Son highlands and Bac Son valley. It suits short breaks and road trippers heading to Cao Bang.
Highlights of Lang Son:
- Tam Thanh and Nhi Thanh Caves: Limestone caves with temples, near the To Thi rock.
- Mac Dynasty Citadel: A hilltop citadel with views over the city.
- Mau Son Mountain: A highland with cool air and views; popular at frost time.
- Bac Son Valley: A valley of fields ringed by limestone peaks.
Best Time to Visit: Oct – Nov has the fewest rainy days (about 8 – 12 a month) at 19.2 – 22.2°C. May – Sep is the wettest stretch, with 19 – 25 rainy days a month. Dec – Feb is cool, averaging 14.3 – 15.4°C.
Allow a night in town, and check mountain road conditions before heading to Mau Son.
Where to stay in Lang Son
Where to base yourself, by travel style.
Photographers First-timers Lang Son City Center
Hotels near the caves, the market and restaurants.
Quiet stay Mau Son Mountain Homestays
Homestays at altitude with cool air and views; reach it by car.
Things to do in Lang Son
Hand-picked things to do.
When to visit Lang Son
Temperature, rain and crowds by month.
January
14.3°C ~ 58°F
12 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
February
15.4°C ~ 60°F
11 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
March
19.4°C ~ 67°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
April
22.7°C ~ 73°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
May
25.2°C ~ 77°F
20 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
June
27.1°C ~ 81°F
22 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
July
27.2°C ~ 81°F
22 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
August
26.4°C ~ 80°F
25 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
September
25.5°C ~ 78°F
19 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
October
22.2°C ~ 72°F
12 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
November
19.2°C ~ 67°F
8 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
December
14.9°C ~ 59°F
7 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
What to eat in Lang Son
Local dishes worth trying.
Getting to Lang Son
Times, costs and booking links.
Step 1: Bus or train from Hanoi The main route
Lang Son is about 150 km from Hanoi by road, with regular buses and a train line.
- Bus or limousine: The most flexible option from Hanoi.
- Train: Slower; check the current timetable.
Step 2: Private car Best for the countryside
A car with a driver is easiest for Bac Son and Mau Son.
- Day trips: You can combine Lang Son with Cao Bang on a loop.
- Check road work: Mountain roads may be slow after rain.
Step 3: Explore Lang Son Taxi or scooter
The city sights are close together; Bac Son and Mau Son are further.
- Scooter: Flexible for the caves and citadel.
- Car with driver: Better for the highlands.
FAQs
How far is Lang Son from Hanoi?
About 150 km, around 3 hours by car or 4 – 5 hours by bus.
How many days do I need?
Two days is enough for the caves, citadel and Bac Son; add one for Mau Son.
Can I combine Lang Son with Cao Bang?
Yes, many road trips link the two; allow a full day for the drive.
When is the best time to visit Lang Son?
Oct – Nov has the fewest rainy days (about 8 – 12 a month) at 19.2 – 22.2°C. May – Sep is the wettest stretch, with 19 – 25 rainy days a month. Dec – Feb is cool, averaging 14.3 – 15.4°C.
What food is Lang Son known for?
Roast duck, steamed pork (khau nhuc) and sour pho.
