Spanning thousands of hectares and winding gracefully along mountain slopes, hillsides, and riverbanks, the terraced rice fields of Lac Son District present a stunning and captivating beauty. This region, renowned for its remarkable terraced landscapes, is also the centre of Hoa Binh Culture known for numerous archaeological sites.
Terraced fields in the ripen rice season in Mien Doi commune, Lac Son district, attract tourists to explore.
According to the "Terraced rice fields of the Muong people in Hoa Binh" heritage research project in 2021, the majority of the Muong's rice fields are located in Cao Phong, Tan Lac, and Lac Son districts. Among these, the terraced fields of Lac Son have been identified as the core area, featuring hundreds of plots of various sizes in an incredibly scenic landscape. Here, the practice of rice cultivation on terraced fields coexists with deeply rooted spiritual traditions passed down through generations, creating a rich material life and a sustainable ecosystem.
In comparison to other highland communes with preserved terraced fields, the mountainous area of Mien Doi boasts the most distinctive landscapes, covering approximately 800ha across several hamlets, including Thay Voi, Rom Bai, Renh, Than Tren, Than Duoi, Voi Thuong, and Voi Ha. Interspersed among these terraced fields are breathtaking waterfalls, which are some hundreds of meters high, along with small forests and traditional stilt houses, creating a harmonious scene where nature and humans coexist.
When talking about beautiful terraced fields, one cannot overlook those in the hamlets of Theu, Ve, Cu, Ngoc, Kem, Roi, and Doi Thung in Quy Hoa commune, which span around 300ha. These fields sit at elevations ranging from 300 to 750m, where the higher terrain features older natural forests, and the steeper fields blend seamlessly with the environment. In My Thanh commune, there are about 320 hectares divided into two main areas, namely the Co area and the hamlets of Pheo, Riec, Bo Ca, and Xi. Some plots run along the provincial road to Kim Boi, while others are nestled among villages, foothills and forested areas at elevations of 200 to 400m, creating a nice picture.
According to Nguyen The Hung, head of the Culture and Information Division of Lac Son district, the unique characteristics of the terraced field landscape in the Muong Vang region are the extensive and beautiful rice fields, interspersed with forests and the villages of the Muong people that have not been affected by urbanisation. The beauty of the terraced fields is complemented by the unspoiled nature surrounding them, featuring unique karst mountains, waterfalls, caves, grasslands, and hot springs. Additionally, the terraced fields are well-connected by inter-district transport routes, enhancing their accessibility for regional tourism.
The terraced rice fields are also an integral part of the cultural landscape, reflecting local customs, lifestyles, and the living spaces of the Muong community. The area is home to numerous archaeological sites that could serve as tourist attractions, such as the Trai hamlet cave in Tan Lap commune and rock carvings in the Grass hamlet of My Thanh commune. Currently, local authorities are actively promoting awareness among residents to protect and preserve these landscapes. They also focus on reviving and showcasing traditional festivals, particularly those related to rice cultivation, while promoting the tourism potential of these terraced fields. Attention is being paid to conservation and gradually develop tourism products.
With the terraced rice fields highlighting the stunning beauty of the mountainous region, Lac Son district is attracting tourists and various businesses interested in eco-tourism. Notably, the Sun Group has decided to invest in developing a high-end ecological resort at Doi Thung and Kha hot spring resort with a total investment of several trillion Vietnamese dong.
On the occasion of the Lunar New Year, visitors from near and far are eager to come to the mountainous district of Da Bac to have unique cultural experiences such as learning to wrap traditional cakes of ethnic minorities, practicing writing ancient Tay characters or immersing themselves in the Tay melodies.
Tan Lac has great potential for tourism development. In addition, the Provincial Party Committee issued Resolution No. 13-NQ/TU, dated October 17, 2022, on building the highland communes in Tan Lac district into provincial-level tourism areas by 2030, with a vision to 2050. However, according to the assessment, implementing the goals in the spirit of Resolution No. 13-NQ/TU has had limited results.
Recognising that tourism and agriculture are local strengths, Mai Chau district is committed to building a green economy through an action program with specific pathways, achieving notable results in line with the resolution of the 26th Party Congress of the district.
With its majestic natural landscapes, diverse ethnic cultures, and numerous unique festivals, Hoa Binh province is an attractive destination that entices travellers from far and wide to explore and experience during the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday.
Being held around the 30th of the 11th lunar month right after the harvest season ends, the traditional New Year of Mong ethnic group lasts until the last day of the 12th lunar month. On this occasion, the community tourism destinations of Pa Co and Hang Kia communes (Mai Chau) attract many visitors to experience and explore the unique customs of New Year.
Located just a 20-minute drive from Hoa Binh City, Ora Hill Farmstay & Glamping Hoa Binh is a captivating new destination nestled in Mo hamlet, Bình Thanh commune, Cao Phong district. Combining farming with leisure, this tranquil retreat is perfect for those seeking balance, joy, and an immersive experience in the expansive beauty of nature.
