Nestled in a secluded corner of the Mai Chau Valley, Ban Lac (Lac village) is a hidden gem surrounded by majestic mountains, tranquil streams, and lush green paddy fields, creating an idyllic rustic backdrop. This serene location is a haven for nature lovers seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
 |
| Ban Lac, nestled within the Mai Chau Valley, is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Photo: Luu Trong Dat |
Lac Village is home to five distinct Thai ethnic groups: Ha, Lo, Mac, and Loc. According to Ha Cong Tim, the village head, Lac village boasts a rich history dating back over 700 years. Traditionally, the locals relied on rice planting and brocade weaving for their livelihood. However, with time, the hidden charm of Lac village has been discovered by tourists, transforming it into a popular destination.
Currently, Lac Village is home to 125 households, 73 of which offer homestay services. The village has seen a recent influx of domestic tourists, infusing a vibrant atmosphere and contributing to the local economy. The stunning sunset view, captured by Luu Trong Dat, showcases the beauty of this tranquil paradise.
 |
| A breathtaking sunset view in Lac Village. Photo: Luu Trong Dat |
The Thai ethnic community in Lac Village proudly preserves their cultural heritage. They speak their native language, don traditional costumes, and reside in stilt houses. Their daily lives revolve around rice cultivation and livestock rearing. The Thai people are renowned throughout Vietnam for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. They eagerly welcome visitors to their village, sharing their unique brocade weaving techniques and offering a glimpse into their rich cultural heritage.
Lac village presents a harmonious fusion of natural beauty, with clouds floating above the forests that envelop clusters of small villages. The distinctive Thai stilt houses stand tall amidst vast rice fields, creating a picturesque scene. Visitors to Lac Village are invited to immerse themselves in this tranquil setting, staying in stilt houses and savoring ethnic specialties like sticky rice cooked in bamboo cylinders, bitter bamboo shoots, and the famous Can wine.
 |
| Lac village offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Photo: Luu Trong Dat |
A trip to Lac village promises an immersive experience in scenic mountainscapes and authentic rural life. The hamlet, nestled amidst breathtaking mountains and paddy fields, provides a peaceful escape from urban life. Homestaying with the local Thai community and partaking in their culinary delights offer a unique insight into their daily routines and cultural traditions, enriching the travel experience.
During their stay, visitors can engage in outdoor activities such as hiking with local guides or exploring the village and its surroundings by bike. Nearby neighborhoods like Van, Pom Coong, and Mai Hich villages offer pristine landscapes and a glimpse into non-touristic villages, adding to the adventure.
Lac village has evolved into a tourist destination, with the ground floors of houses displaying and selling souvenirs and local agricultural products. Brocade weaving looms are a common sight, as the women of the village have expanded their craft beyond traditional scarves and shirts to include a variety of souvenirs made from brocade fabrics. These range from towels and decorative wall hangings to wristbands, bags, and stuffed animals, offering a diverse range of memorable mementos.
 |
| The road leading into Lac Village, surrounded by natural beauty. Photo: Luu Trong Dat |
The Thai stilt houses are constructed 1.5 meters above the ground, featuring bamboo floors and roofs made from Goi or May leaves. Each house has a two-story structure, with the first floor dedicated to livestock and the second floor serving as the living space for the family.
Mai Chau, nestled in an enchanting valley, offers a mesmerizing landscape, a rich ethnic culture, unique culinary delights, and a plethora of outdoor adventures. It is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, providing a serene escape into nature.
Located in Hoa Binh province, Mai Chau is a convenient four-hour drive from the center of Hanoi. With a distance of approximately 150 kilometers, it is an ideal choice for a day trip or a relaxing weekend retreat, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city life.
 |
| The Thai ethnic community in Mai Chau proudly preserves their traditional way of life. Photo: Luu Trong Dat |
Mai Chau is renowned for its captivating landscapes and vibrant culture. The region seamlessly blends rolling hills, lush rice paddies, and charming ethnic villages, creating a serene haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The diverse ethnic minority groups, including the Thai, Muong, and Hmong communities, contribute to a rich cultural tapestry with their unique traditions, handicrafts, and way of life.
The call from Nam Giang
Tung tung da da – the Co Tu people’s “dance for the Gods”, brings tourists to explore the cultural life of the people living in the midst of the majestic Truong Son mountain range.
Reviving Tourism in Lac Village
After weeks of avoiding travelling due to fears of COVID-19, many people have started travelling again thanks to improvements in epidemic prevention in Vietnam. Story from Lac village in Hoa Binh province.
Vivid jade Hoa Binh Lake from lakeside views
NDO – Let’s join a boat tour along more than 200km long inside Hoa Binh Lake, visitors can be conquered by the beauty of a popular tourist destination dubbed the “Ha Long Bay on land.”
Cham ethnic villages shine with impressive cultural characteristics
The mosques with their ancient and impressive architecture are where Cham men practice five religious services a day. Cham women are busy at the loom every day.
Xoe dance dossier for UNESCO recognition prepared
NDO/VNA—The Ministry of Culture, Sport and Tourism and the People’s Committee of Yen Bai Province jointly held a conference on October 26 to develop a national dossier on the xoe dance of Vietnam’s Thai minority people to submit for UNESCO recognition as a part of the intangible heritage of humanity.
