Pu Luong

Pu Luong is a tourist destination located in Thanh Hoa province, Vietnam, renowned for its majestic natural beauty, terraced fields, and cool mountainous forests. With a predominantly Thai population, Pu Luong offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors often come here to participate in agricultural activities, trek through fields and villages,h and enjoy the serene atmosphere close to nature. The area is preserved and developed sustainably, focusing on conserving natural landscapes and local culture. Pu Luong is an ideal destination for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Beautiful scenery of Pu Luong

Some information about Pu Luong

Pu Luong is situated in the northwest of Thanh Hoa province and falls within the administrative boundaries of two districts: Ba Toc and Quan Hoa. With its mountainous terrain, Pu Luong is a natural reserve covering approximately 17,600 hectares, characterized by dense vegetation.

Moreover, Pu Luong is blessed with diverse ecosystems, featuring lush primary tropical forests that change with the seasons, as well as stunning terraced rice fields. Despite being around 130 km away from Thanh Hoa city, Pu Luong remains an attractive and popular tourist destination, drawing visitors with its natural beauty and vibrant landscapes year after year.

The terraced fields of Pu Luong in the new cropping season display a refreshing green color

The weather in Pu Luong is mild and pleasant throughout the year, making it a suitable destination for travelers at any time. However, for a more complete experience, you may consider visiting during the following periods:

• Late May - early June: During this time, the terraced fields in Pu Luong enter a new growing season, and the entire area is covered with a gentle, fresh green color of the new rice crops.
• September or October: This is the harvest season when all the fields and terraced rice paddies are adorned with a brilliant golden hue. Visiting during this time allows you to witness the stunning natural landscape of Pu Luong at its best.

Things to do and see in Pu Luong

Son Ba Muoi

Located along the route from Mai Chau to Pu Luong, Son Ba Muoi is a cluster of three highland villages in Lung Cao commune, Ba Thuoc district. The area boasts a mild climate with temperatures ranging from 18 to 22 degrees Celsius. Son Ba Muoi is known for its isolation, preserving many ancient Thai customs and traditional stilt houses that reflect the unique characteristics of the local people.

Son Ba Muoi village is a must-visit destination when exploring Pu Luong

Standing apart from the outside world, Son Ba Muoi maintains various cultural practices of the ancient Thai community. The traditional stilt houses are distinctive architectural features that have endured over time. Surrounded by high slopes and winding paths, travelers stopping at Son Ba Muoi will experience a tranquil life amidst the majestic natural scenery, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Hieu Waterfall

Hieu waterfall is located in Hieu Village, Co Lung Commune, Ba Thuoc District, and is part of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Originating from a majestic limestone cave in the Pu Luong - Cuc Phuong limestone scenic area, Hieu waterfall is a perennial waterfall that never runs dry.

The water here is extremely clear and refreshing

If you travel here by motorbike, you will have the opportunity to admire the beautiful scenery from Canh Nang town to Hieu Village. Along the way, there are terraced fields on both sides of the stream.

Kho Muong Village

Located deep in the core area of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve, Kho Muong Village possesses a pristine and picturesque beauty. Kho Muong is one of the most challenging villages in Ba Thuoc district, yet it holds great tourism potential.

Kho Muong village is a fantastic photography spot

Home to 60 Thai households and 230 residents, Kho Muong offers visitors the opportunity to explore the unique cultural identity of the highland ethnic group. Standing in Kho Muong, one can overlook the terraced rice fields and cornfields nestled at the foot of the hills.

Kho Muong Cave

Walking from the beginning of Kho Muong village across the rice fields towards the end of the trail leads to the vicinity of either Kho Muong cave. This cave is formed by limestone formations dating back approximately 250 million years. It serves as habitats for numerous bat species. As one ventures deeper into the cave, a spacious area surrounded by peculiarly shaped limestone formations comes into view.

Kho Muong Cave is home to numerous gigantic and uniquely shaped limestone formations

Pu Luong Peak

Pu Luong peak, standing at approximately 1,700 meters, is a favored trekking destination for enthusiasts due to its steep and challenging ascent, featuring rugged and winding paths. It takes about 6 hours, under favorable weather conditions, to trek to the summit of Pu Luong. From the peak, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the poetic landscape encompassing mountains, fields, and valleys below.

From the summit of Pu Luong, visitors will have a panoramic view of the mountains, fields, and valleys below

Trekkers have the option to camp on the summit for an overnight stay, bringing their own food or opting for a packed lunch, and returning to rest in the evening at the Don village. When embarking on the mountain climb, it's advisable to wear long trousers, a hat, hiking boots, insect repellent, bring water, and carry snacks to stave off hunger.

Don Village

Don village is a locality known for its high concentration of the Thai ethnic group. In the past 2-3 years, there has been a notable increase in both domestic and international tourists visiting Don village. The village offers a tranquil atmosphere, untouched natural landscapes, and a variety of enticing local specialties.

The stilt houses in the tranquil setting of Don village

Pho Doan Market

The Pho Doan market takes place every Thursday and Sunday weekly. When you come here, you not only experience the highland market but also shop for souvenirs, local products, and enjoy specialty foods.

Visitors can find handmade items at Pho Doan market

In conclusion, Pu Luong is an inviting destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Here, amidst the beautiful terraced fields and pristine landscapes, time seems to slow down. Whether you visit during the lush greenery of early summer or the golden harvest of autumn, Pu Luong showcases its beauty year-round. It promises an unforgettable experience for those looking for solace in the embrace of nature and culture.