Pu Luong is a mountainous region between the Ma River and the Buoi River, northwest of Thanh Hoa Province. From the cities of Hoa Binh, Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, visitors can easily reach Pu Luong via a network of provincial and national roads. Although the roads are winding, they are always smooth and well-maintained (approximately 130km, taking about 3 hours by car). Pu Luong is well known for its terraced fields and the villages of the Thai ethnic minority.
The terraced fields in Pu Luong may not be as grand, towering, and expansive as those in Mu Cang Chai. Still, they possess a harmonious beauty, intertwined with the meandering streams and lush greenery of Pu Luong Nature Reserve. These fields are interspersed among the small villages of the Thai ethnic minority, creating a peaceful atmosphere. There are two growing seasons in a year: the spring crop (from February to June) and the summer – autumn crop (from July to October). The rice harvest in June and October is the most beautiful time of the year when the entire mountainous region and valleys are bathed in golden hues from the ripening rice fields. The harvest season in Pu Luong is about two weeks later than in other places, occurring in the first week of October.
Under pressure from the explosion of resorts and homestays, the Thai villages have been gradually transforming. Traditional wooden stilt houses are being expanded and even converted into concrete structures to accommodate tourists. The everyday attire of Thai women, featuring colorful blouses and traditional headscarves, is becoming increasingly rare. Fortunately, the warm hospitality, friendly smiles, and distinctive Thai cuisine are still preserved. The government and local authorities have enacted numerous regulations for planning to protect the environment, promote sustainable tourism, and ensure economic benefits for the local community. However, the authentic charm of the architectural landscape of the villages has faded, leaving many tourists with a sense of regret. Some of the famous villages in Pu Luong include:
- Ban Don: This village is centrally located, providing easy transportation connections to surrounding areas, and a 29-seat mini-bus can reach this village. There are many accommodation options available here, and the terraced fields are stunning.
- Ban Kho Muong: This village is situated in a narrow and secluded karst valley, surrounded by high mountains with a difficult access road. Foreign visitors often walk along a 1km long concrete path that is narrow and steep, although it can also be navigated by motorbike. Kho Muong is famous for its Bat cave – a magnificent dry cave – while the water cave serves as an unexplored outlet for the Kho Muong stream, holding many mysteries even for the villagers.
- Ban Lan is a Thai village that still preserves the tradition of weaving brocade. There are about 100 households here that have managed to maintain this traditional craft. Additionally, the ancient water spring of Mo Nuoc is a highlight of Ban Lan. The spring has crystal-clear water flowing from the mountains, serving as a bathing spot for the community.
- Ban Son – Ba – Muoi: This is a cluster of three villages located deep within Pu Luong, in Lung Cao commune. Situated at an altitude of over 1,000 meters above sea level, this cluster of villages is often referred to as “mini Sa Pa” due to its cool climate year-round. The residents here are primarily the Muong people, living simple lives closely connected to the mountains and forests. Visitors can reach this area by trekking a 4 km route from Ban Kho Muong.
Visitors can attend the Pho Doan Fair, which is held on Thursdays and Sundays each week. Although very few Thai people come to the market in traditional attire, tourists are still drawn to the lively atmosphere of community gatherings and bustling commerce. The sounds of vendors calling out, laughter, and natural sounds create an engaging experience. The market offers a variety of fresh agricultural products such as vegetables, fruits, herbs, and handicrafts, including items that cannot be found elsewhere, such as silkworms, wood grubs, and mountain snails, etc.
Pu Luong may eventually be trivialized by numerous negative impacts from tourism activities, such as environmental pollution, changes in community culture, and alterations to the natural landscape. The knockout punch for a dreamlike Pu Luong could be the cable car system connecting the administrative center to the peak of Pu Luong (1,667 m), linking to the Cao Son tourism area (in the Son – Ba – Muoi villages), which the authorities are currently seeking investment for.
Pu Luong is truly an ideal space for organizing team building programs that connect with nature and provide cultural experiences. From trekking, cycling, and forest exploration to group games, Pu Luong offers a variety of exciting activities to develop teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. Participants can engage in cultural activities such as learning traditional brocade weaving and cooking with local ingredients. Exotic Vietnam is a trusted partner for creative ideas that respect the natural environment and cultural heritage for your company’s upcoming team building event. Choose your event venue to Pu Luong now, or you’ll be the one arriving late. Contact us at www.exotic.vn.
