Ba Quang Burnt Grass Hill – Golden-Orange Grassland in the Mountains of Vinh Quy
In late autumn, as the northeast monsoon arrives, the hillsides of Vinh Quy begin to change color. The lush green grass gradually turns yellow, then orange, then reddish brown, spreading across the vast landscape among the rugged mountains. Locals call it “burnt grass,” and Ba Quang Hill is where Cao Bang’s hills wear these colors most beautifully—like a scene from a classic film.
Where is Ba Quang Hill?
Ba Quang Hill, also known as Vinh Quy Grass Hill, lies between Khum Din Hamlet and Bac Vong Hamlet in Vinh Quy Commune (formerly Ha Lang District), about 70 km east of Cao Bang City center.
Getting there:
- Travel from Cao Bang City to the center of Thanh Nhat (formerly in Ha Lang District).
- From Thanh Nhat, follow the concrete road for about 6–7 km to the hills. The route is accessible by motorbike and car.
- At the Khum Din Hamlet junction, about 3 km from the Vinh Quy Commune People’s Committee, turn right onto the narrow concrete road and continue for just over 3 km.
- Park at the foot of the hill, then walk about 700 m (10–15 minutes) to reach the grassland.
Why is it called “Ba Quang”?
According to local residents, the hill was originally called Po Nha Quang, meaning “wide grass hill.” Over time, the name evolved into Ba Quang. The name alone captures the character of this place: broad, open, and covered in sweeping grassland.
Burnt grass season
“Burnt grass” is the local term for the vivid golden color the grass takes on in the cold season. From late autumn to late spring, as temperatures drop, the grass fades to a dreamy, burnished gold.
However, according to past visitors, burnt grass season at Ba Quang is not fixed and depends on the weather and temperatures each year. Before you go, ask local residents or Cao Bang travel groups for the latest updates.
Outside burnt grass season, the hill has a different beauty in every season. In spring and summer, lush green grass stretches across the slopes, making it a refreshing escape.
What to do at Ba Quang?
Watch the sunset
Many visitors say the best time to take in the scenery at Ba Quang is at sunset. As the evening light falls across the grass-covered slopes, golden-orange hues seem to glow while the surrounding mountains fade into shades of purple, creating a dreamy scene.
Take photos
Ba Quang is a favorite with photographers and couples taking wedding photos. The burnt grass slopes stretching among the rugged mountains make a natural backdrop no studio can match.
Photo tips:
- Wear white, red, or blue to stand out against the golden-orange grass.
- Shoot in the late afternoon for warm light.
- Try a wide-angle shot to capture the hills rolling toward the horizon.
Camp and picnic
The spacious, open setting makes the grass hill an ideal spot for camping and picnics. Spending a night on the hill beneath the stars and waking up to the sunrise is an experience to remember. There is currently a rest stop in the area where visitors can relax, have lunch, or take a break.
Ba Quang Burnt Grass Hill Festival
To promote the destination, local authorities held the first Ba Quang Burnt Grass Hill Festival on December 16, 2023, attracting thousands of visitors. The festival featured live performances and cultural activities. If you visit in December, check whether the festival is taking place that year.
Combine it with other stops
- Khau Lua Pine Hill (Vinh Quy): a nearby pine-covered hill, ideal for camping and picnics.
- Luoc Dac Plateau: a stretch of grassy highlands across Vinh Quy, Co Ngan and Be Van Dan, with Luoc Dac as its highest hill.
- Wild Sunflower Hill (Thai Duc) and Poinsettia Hill (Quang Long): popular photo spots in the Ha Lang area towards the end of the year.
- Be Van Dan Martyrs’ Memorial: a historic landmark on the route from National Highway 4A into the Ha Lang area.
Tips for Visiting Ba Quang
- Avoid the rainy season: the road up the hill is steep and can become slippery in wet weather.
- Wear walking shoes for the 700-meter hike up the hill.
- Bring water, snacks and warm clothing: there are few facilities on the hill, and it gets chilly in the evening.
- Never light fires carelessly: during the burnt-grass season, the grass is extremely dry and can easily start a hillside fire. If you camp, only light a fire in a designated area and make sure it is completely extinguished.
- Do not smoke on the grass-covered hill during the dry season.
- Take all your rubbish with you and help keep the hill pristine.
Final Thoughts
“Burnt grass” may sound stark, but standing on Ba Quang Hill at sunset, you’ll see one of the most romantic scenes in Cao Bang. There are no fancy facilities—just grass, wind, mountains and the evening light. It’s enough to make you want to stay a little longer.
