Are you a fan of wilderness and places off the beaten track? If you were disappointed by the excessive urbanization and noise in Sapa, we have an exciting alternative for your Northern Vietnam adventure: Pu Luong. Situated in Thanh Hoa, 175 km from Hanoi, Pu Luong offers a pristine environment encompassing mountains, hills, and picturesque rice terraces.

Pu Luong is a hidden gem, a nature reserve yet to be discovered by most travelers. It is the perfect destination for those yearning to immerse themselves in awe-inspiring mountain landscapes, vast Vietnamese rice terraces, and the vibrant daily lives of ethnic minorities. This comprehensive travel guide will equip you with all the necessary information and experiences to create cherished moments of relaxation with your loved ones.

1. General information about Pu Luong - Thanh Hoa
2. How to get to Pu Luong?
3. Best times to visit Pu Luong
4. What to do and visit in Pu Luong?
5. Where to sleep in Pu Luong?
- 5.1. Resorts and bungalows are well appreciated:
- 5.2. Homestays in Pu Luong
6. Pu Luong specialties
7. Tours in Pu Luong (Below are the routes that are related to Pu Luong)
8. Useful tips for your trip to Pu Luong:

1. General information about Pu Luong - Thanh Hoa

Pu Luong, a nature reserve situated in Ba Thuoc and Quan Hoa districts, approximately 130 km north of Thanh Hoa city. The name Pu Luong originates from the Thai language, which means "the highest mountain in the region ". With an area of 17,600 hectares and diverse flora, Pu Luong Vietnam is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers looking for new lands to explore.

From its pristine forests to its picturesque terraced rice fields, cascading waterfalls, and meandering rivers, Pu Luong is a true wonder of nature that will fascinate you with its breathtaking beauty. Visitors will be able to walk in the green nature, enjoy the fresh air and relax in the peaceful environment.

What makes Pu Luong even more enticing is its proximity to other popular tourist destinations. Just a stone's throw away, you'll find Mai Chau with its charming ethnic villages and Ninh Binh boasting the legendary Cam Luong " Legendary Fish" stream (Ca Than Cam Luong) and the renowned Cuc Phuong National Park. These destinations can be combined and form a travel itinerary for you, such as Hanoi - Pu Luong - Tam Coc (Ninh Binh) - Halong Bay - Hanoi or Hanoi - Mai Chau - Pu Luong - Tam Coc (Ninh Binh) - HaLong Bay - Hanoi.

In sum, Pu Luong Vietnam is a destination for travelers seeking tranquility, natural beauty and unforgettable experiences. Do not hesitate to immerse yourself in the fresh and charming atmosphere of this nature reserve and explore the surroundings for an exceptional travel experience.

2. How to get to Pu Luong?

Shuttle Bus Transportation:

Nowadays, there are convenient shuttle buses available for direct travel to Pu Luong. Departing every morning at around 7am from the Hanoi Opera House (1 Trang Tien Street, Hanoi), these buses will take you to Pu Luong by noon, pick up passengers, and return to Hanoi around 5 p.m.

Book a shuttle bus (best 24 hours in advance): Ms. Trang - Xe Bus Nhan Luc +84 976 308 083 or Autour Asia +84 971 337 708.

Private Transportation:

An alternative and potentially more preferable option is to rent a private vehicle for your journey from Hanoi or the surrounding northern areas to Pu Luong.

There are two main routes to reach Pu Luong:

+ Follow the path of the Ho Chi Minh trail, which can be found on Google Maps as QL21A. Then, choose QL217 and QL15C. This route is relatively easy and allows for a stop at Cuc Phuong National Park.

+ Take the highway that connects Lang to Hoa Lac via Hoa Binh and Mai Chau. From there, continue on QL15C to reach Pu Luong.

To book a private car, you can contact AutourAsia at +84 971 337 708.

3. Best times to visit Pu Luong

Best times to visit Pu Luong

In Pu Luong, there are 2 rice harvests per year, the first at the end of May, the 2ᵉ at the end of October. These two periods showcase the most stunning beauty of nature in the region. During the new rice harvest, which takes place between May and June, Pu Luong transforms into a serene landscape adorned with lush green terraced rice fields. Pu Luong is cool in summer because of its altitude, forests and limestone rock.

In September and October, Pu Luong enters the season of ripe rice. The terraced rice fields of brilliant yellow color offer a landscape that is both magnificent and melancholy. This captivating sight attracts numerous visitors to Pu Luong, Vietnam. If you can't get to Pu Luong during these two times, you can also get there at any other time of the year to rest in the mountainous tranquility and enjoy its fresh, clean air.

4. What to do and visit in Pu Luong?

4.1. Hiking and bamboo rafting on Cham stream

During your hike in Pu Luong, you will have a remarkable opportunity to witness the fascinating water wheels in action as you cross a suspension bridge over the Cham River. As the terraced fields are situated at a higher elevation than the stream, the local residents employ these water wheels to transport water to the fields.

Approaching each water wheel, you can observe the system of transferring water from the river to the handcrafted bamboo aqueducts, ingeniously designed in various sizes. This experience offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the region's inhabitants and their resourcefulness in addressing the irrigation needs of their terraced crops.

Afterward, you can join the local team for an exhilarating bamboo rafting excursion along the river. This activity not only allows you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes but also offers a moment of relaxation while discovering the vibrant local culture.

4.2. Kho Muong village – bat Cave (Hang Doi)

When you visit Kho Muong Cave, you will be treated to a mesmerizing display of unique stalactites, stalagmites, and the fascinating colonies of bats that call the cave home. This extraordinary experience allows visitors to marvel at the wonders of nature and reinforces the significance of preserving natural habitats for wildlife.

In addition to exploring the cave, tourists can also hike in the surrounding forests and discover the hidden waterfalls, crystal clear rivers and green terraced fields. The hospitable residents of Kho Muong Village also offer cultural and handicraft activities, including traditional dances, the art of fabric-making and bamboo basket weaving, as well as crafting local musical instruments.

Community tourism in Kho Muong not only generates income for local residents, but also promotes the preservation of the local environment and culture. By visiting this village, tourists can have an authentic and enriching experience while making a positive impact on their lives.

4.3. Hieu waterfall

Hieu Waterfall, nestled within the captivating beauty of the Pu Luong region, is a true treasure of nature that promises an unparalleled experience for travelers. Surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery of terraced fields, lush forests, and majestic limestone mountains, the waterfalls and the stream create a picturesque setting. Exploring Hieu village itself is a treat, with its traditional houses and charming bamboo bridges connecting rooftops.

For hiking enthusiasts, a walking tour to the Hieu waterfall is an enticing option. The hiking trail is moderately difficult, but offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. The highlight awaits at the bottom of the waterfalls, where natural pools beckon for a refreshing and delightful bathing experience.

Visitors will also be able to meet the local people of Hieu village and learn about their traditional way of life and culture. The warm and welcoming locals are always eager to share their knowledge and expertise with visitors, creating an authentic and enriching encounter.

In summary, Hieu Waterfall is a must stop for those visiting Pu Luong. The waterfall offers a unique nature experience and an opportunity to experience the lives of local people.

4.4. Don village (Bản Đôn)

Don Village, nestled in the heart of Pu Luong, is an enchanting and captivating destination. Tourists can discover the traditional culture of the Thai ethnic group through various activities and experiences. One of the highlights of Don Village is the art of weaving, a cherished activity among local women. Witness their expertise as they skillfully create vibrant and unique fabrics using ancient techniques. For those eager to try their hand at weaving, expert locals are ready to guide you through the process, ensuring a memorable and educational experience.

As for food, the village of Don is known for its mountain specialties which are very popular with visitors. Bamboo shoots are a familiar food of Don village and are often used to cook soups and main dishes. Grass ducks, which feed on wild plants in local rivers and streams, have a distinctive flavor and are also popular. Wild pigs and hill chickens are tender, flavorful meats that are often grilled or cooked in casseroles.

The people of Ban Don are also very welcoming and warm to visitors. Travelers can stay with locals (homestays) to have an authentic life experience and to learn more about the local culture. There are also local guides, who will help visitors explore the surroundings and better understand the daily life of the locals.

In summary, Don Village stands as a premier destination for travelers seeking an authentic encounter with traditional Thai ethnic culture, an opportunity to indulge in local delicacies, and a chance to forge connections with the friendly locals.

4.5. Pu Luong peak (1,700 meters above sea level)

The landscapes of Pu Luong Mountain, shrouded in clouds throughout the year, are a mesmerizing sight that rivals even the most heavenly vistas. To catch a glimpse of this ethereal beauty, wake up early in the morning and peer through your window, where you can see the clouds floating over the top of Pu Luong. Occasionally, these clouds gracefully lift and glide across the mountain's face, unveiling a breathtaking spectacle that will leave you in awe.

For those who crave adventure and relish challenges, climbing the 1,700-meter high peak of Pu Luong is the most rewarding experience. It takes approximately 6-8 hours to reach the summit in clear weather. Upon reaching the pinnacle, a panorama of awe-inspiring mountains, expansive fields, and scattered stilt-roofed houses in the valley below awaits, casting a spell of enchantment upon you. Standing atop Pu Luong, you will feel an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment. If you desire an immersive experience, you can even set up camp at the top to eat and sleep there before embarking on your descent the next day.

In summary, Pu Luong Mountain offers unique and mysterious landscapes hidden in the clouds all year round. For nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike, ascending to the pinnacle of this majestic peak promises an unforgettable journey, etching everlasting memories in your heart and soul.

4.6. Pho Doan Market

Pho Doan Market is a vibrant hub showcasing the traditional clothing of the region's diverse ethnic groups. Women wear colorful brocade skirts and matching blouses, while men sport black jackets and trousers. The market also offers enchanting performances of Thai and Muong music and dance.

More than just a trading center, Pho Doan Market serves as a gathering spot for locals to socialize, exchange news, and make friends. Visitors are welcomed warmly and may be invited to eat or drink with the locals.

In brief, Pho Doan Market is a must place to visit if you are interested in the traditional culture of the PuLuong region and want to meet friendly and welcoming local people.

4.7. Son-Ba-Muoi villages

Nestled within Lung Cao - Cao Son commune, Son, Ba, and Muoi villages lie just 24 kilometers away from Don village. Blessed with a temperate and refreshing climate year-round, this region has often been likened to a miniature version of Sapa, with average temperatures ranging between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius . The high mountain area experiences cold winters with occasional snow and temperatures dropping to 1 or 2 degrees Celsius. The days are pleasant, but the nights get considerably colder.

This captivating region not only provides an enchanting vantage point to admire the celestial dance of Pu Luong's clouds but is also home to the most delectable mandarin gardens in northern Vietnam. However, reaching these villages presents a challenge due to their elevated location. Son-Ba-Muoi remains secluded from the villages nestled below the mountain, offering an untouched landscape that attracts travelers in search of adventure. This place has remained traditional, with houses on stilts and ancient customs.

Son-Ba-Muoi villages

4.8. Muon waterfall (Dien Quang Commune, Ba Thuoc District)

Muon waterfall (Dream waterfall) is a must-see site in Pu Luong, located about 27 km from the center. It stands at an altitude of 500m and is fed by rocky streams from the mountain. The waterfall cascades down in multiple stages, creating a breathtaking landscape. Nature lovers and photographers will be amazed by its beauty.

5. Where to sleep in Pu Luong?

Pu Luong now has plenty of homestays for travelers looking for an authentic experience. The traditional houses on stilts belonging to the Thai ethnic group, mainly found in the villages of Don (commune of Thanh Lam), Bam, Bang (commune of Thanh Son), Hieu (commune of Lung Cao) and Hang ( Thanh Son commune). The accommodations in Pu Luong provide everything guests need for a comfortable stay, including blankets, sheets, pillows, mattresses, shampoos, shower gels, and free Wi-Fi.

The price of these homestays ranges from 100,000 - 250,000 VND/person/night (about 5 - 10 USD), depending on the type of mattress.

For travelers seeking more luxurious options, there are also many hotels, resorts, and bungalows. These establishments provide premium services to create an unforgettable experience during your stay. Room rates typically range from 1 million to 3 million VND per night (about 45 to 150 USD).

To book, contact us via phone or WhatsApp at +84971337708.

5.1. Resorts and bungalows are well appreciated:

Hotels, resorts and bungalows in Pu Luong

a. Pu Luong Retreat is a resort located at the end of Don village, in the center of Pu Luong. It offers a peaceful setting amid lush green nature, providing an escape from the stress of city life. The rooms are thoughtfully designed for ultimate comfort, featuring modern amenities and elegant decor.

The resort also has an outdoor infinity pool, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the mountains and rice fields.

Guests can also indulge in delectable local and international cuisine at the on-site restaurant and unwind in the lush garden while taking in the magnificent view.

With its stunning natural setting, Pu Luong Retreat is the perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort has different prices based on room size and the time of your visit.

Tel contact: 024 3823 9988

Website: http://www.puluongretreat.com/

Avantages:

+ Close to Route 15C, convenient parking.

+ Spacious and airy space

+ Large room, superior quality

+ Architecture closer to nature, ideal for French visitors.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Reception service

+ Food quality

+ Pool cleaning

$Price: 90 usd/ double room including breakfast.

b. Pu Luong Natura Bungalow: It is in the middle of Don village, and is perfect for guests. The total area extends over more than 5,000 m2, with the 2 unique infinity pools in Vietnam and the bungalows overlooking the terraced rice fields.

Phone contact: 0971 336 650

Website: https://naturabungalow.com/

Avantages:

+ Ideal location surrounded by rice terraces.

+ The most magnificent view of all the resorts in Pu Luong

+ Proximity to the houses of the inhabitants.

+ Architecture in harmony with nature, ideal for French visitors.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Reception service

+ Meals are not varied

+ Pool cleaning

+ Difficult access path, far from main roads.

$Price: 82 usd/ double room including breakfast.

c. Pu Luong Luna: Located in the middle of Leo village (near the center of Pu Luong), this hotel has a swimming pool and bungalows overlooking the terraced rice fields.

Phone contact: 090 458 00 39

Website: https://puluonglunaresort.com/

Avantages:

+ Location bordered by rice terraces.

+ Near a major road, it's easy to get there.

+ Architecture closer to nature, ideal for French visitors.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Reception service

+ Pool cleaning

$Price: 80 usd/ double room including breakfast

d. Pu Luong Ebino Resort is located near Don village, it has a swimming pool and luxury rooms.

Phone contact: 086 990 1036

Website: https://ebinopuluongresort.com/

Avantages:

+ New, clean and modern room.

+ Modern architecture, designed to meet the needs of American and Vietnamese customers.

+ Solid and durable construction

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Reception service

+ Meals are not varied

+ Restricted space.

+ Building materials are not environmentally friendly.

$Price: 95 usd/ double room including breakfast.

Hotels, resorts and bungalows in Pu Luong

e. Pu Luong Casa Resort is located in Bang Village, Thanh Son, and has a swimming pool and modern rooms.

Avantages:

+ New, clean and modern room.

+ The architecture is modern, ideal for American and Vietnamese customers.

+ Solid and durable construction

+ Near a main road.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Reception service

+ Food quality

+ Building materials are not environmentally friendly.

+ Away from the center of the village of Don.

$Price: 80 usd/ double room including breakfast.

f. Pu Luong Eco Garden is located in Bang village (Thanh Son commune), it is equipped with a swimming pool and the rooms are spacious.

Avantages:

+ Local architecture, adapted to the needs of Vietnamese customers.

+ Delicious food

+ Near a major road.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Reception service

+ Garden cleanliness.

+ View of the road, the electrical wires and the parking.

+ Away from the center of the village of Don.

$Price: 90 usd/ double room including breakfast.

g. Pu Luong Bocbandi Resort is located in Báng village (Thanh Son commune), it has a swimming pool and its rooms are spacious.

Avantages:

+ New, clean and modern room.

+ The architecture is modern, ideal for American and Vietnamese customers.

+ Solid and durable construction

+ Near a major road.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantage (things to improve):

+ Reception service

+ View of the road, the electrical wires and the parking.

+ Away from the center of the village of Don.

Price: 88 usd/ double room including breakfast.

5.2. Homestays in Pu Luong

Homestays in Pu Luong

IN THANH LAM COMMUNE:

a. Huy Thuc homestay (Tel:+84 973 779 588): Located in the center of Don - Pu Luong village.

Avantages:

+ Very welcoming

+ Clean

+ Delicious food

+ Central location

+ Hot water

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

+ Small garden

b. Valley Home Puluong (Hong Ly homestay): Located in the village of Don, in the center of Pu Luong.

Tel: 096 844 7786

Avantages:

+ Very welcoming.

+ Clean

+ The view of the rice terraces is magnificent.

+ Swimming pool is available.

+ Hot water

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

+ Small garden

c. Hoanh Homestay Pu Luong (Hoanh Thắng): Located in the center of Don Village, Pu Luong.

Tel: 096 417 1124

Avantages:

+ Friendly

+ Delicious food

+ Hot water

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

- Quality of the mattresses

- Small garden

- Cleanliness is average

d. Pu Luong Happy Home is located in Bam, a village near Don.

Tel 036 722 3587

Avantages:

+ Very welcoming.

+ Delicious food

+ Hot water

+ Near main road

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

- Quality of the mattresses

- Small garden

IN THANH SON COMMUNE :

a. Homestay Mạnh Cường is located in Bang, a bit far from the center of Don village.

Tel: 097 758 1264

Avantages:

+ Very welcoming.

+ View of the rice terraces.

+ Hot water

+ Near main road

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+Quality of the mattresses

b. Nguyen Lan Homestay: Located in the village of Bang, a little away from the center of the village of Don.

Tel: 097 7596 869

Avantages:

+ Very welcoming.

+ View of the rice terraces.

+ Hot water

+ Near main road.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

c. Kho Muong Homestay (Mr. Nech homestay Kho Muong village) is located in Bang village, a little away from the center of Don village.

Tel: 0945801124

Avantages:

+ Friendly

+ Surrounded by the residences of the inhabitants.

+ Hot water

+ Close to Kho Muong cave.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+Quality of the mattresses

d. Pu Luong May Home & Cafe, located in the village of Bang, a little far from the center of the Don village.

Tel: 0942044868

Avantages:

+ Very welcoming.

+ Magnificent view of the rice terraces.

+ Hot water

+ Close to Kho Muong cave.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+Quality of the mattresses

IN HANG VILLAGE

a. Hieu Yen Homestay: Located in Hang village - away from the center of Don village.

Tel: 0382045782

Avantages:

+ Very welcoming.

+ Tranquil

+ Hot water

+ Delicious food

+ Free Wi-Fi

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

b. Thuy Lan Homestay: Located in Hang village - away from the center of Don village.

Te:l 0343736999

Avantages:

+ Very welcoming.

+ Tranquil

+ Hot water

+ Fairly good food.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

c. Thiep Xuong Homestay is located in Hang village, some distance from Don village center.

Tel: 036 728 6072

Avantages:

+ Very welcoming.

+ Tranquil

+ Hot water

+ Fairly good food.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantage (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

IN HIEU VILLAGE ( LUNG CAO COMMUNE)

a. Les Bains de Hieu Ecolodge : Located in the village of Hieu, near the Hieu waterfall.

Tel: 034 549 1009

Avantages:

+ Near the waterfall

+ Hot water

+ Food is quite good.

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

+The noise is annoying during the day.

b. Pu Luong Mountain View Homestay: Located in Hieu Village, near Hieu Waterfall.

Tel: 098 981 3974

Avantages:

+ Near the waterfall

+ Hot water

+ Good food

+ Tranquil

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

c. Pu Luong Riverside Lodge: Located at Hieu village - near Hieu waterfall.

Tel: 035 700 4668

Avantages:

+ Near the waterfall

+ Hot water

+ Good food

+ Tranquil

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

d. Homestay Dũng Xuân: Located near Hieu waterfall.

Tel: 0397676603

Avantages:

+ Near the waterfall

+ Hot water

+ Delicious food.

+ Tranquil

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

e. Mr. Ba's Homestay: Located at the top of Hieu village.

Tel: 037 978 1988

Avantages:

+ In the middle of the Hieu village.

+ Hot water

+ Food is quite good

+ Tranquil

+ Free Wi-Fi

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

f. Pu luong Nature Lodge: Located at the top of Hieu village.

Tel: 086 922 0874

Avantages:

+ Situated in the middle of the Hieu village.

+ Hot water

+ Delicious food

+ Tranquil

+ Free Wi-Fi

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

g. Tai Dam homestay (Nhà Tùng):Located at the top of Hieu village.

Tel 0869608088

Avantages:

+ Situated in the middle of the Hieu village.

+ Hot water

+ Good food

+ Tranquil

+ Free Wi-Fi.

Disadvantages (things to improve):

+ Quality of the mattresses

6. Pu Luong specialties

6.1. Co Lung duck (Vịt Cổ Lũng)

If you love duck cuisine, you will be delighted to discover the variety of dishes offered in Pu Luong Thanh Hoa. The region is known for its delicious duck dishes, prepared in various ways to suit everyone's palate.

Some popular dishes include grilled duck, steamed duck, duck fondue, braised duck alligator, roast duck, and duck cooked with bamboo shoots.

For a unique dining experience, don't miss the Co Lung duck, raised freely in the local streams. The meat of these ducks is renowned for its savory flavor, tender texture, and small bones.

Among the most popular Co Lung duck dishes, the crispy grilled duck is a must. The duck's reddish-brown skin is crispy, the meat tender and juicy, with a mild taste and pleasant smell that will delight your taste buds. This is a dish you won't soon forget!

6.2. Crispy fried stream fish (Cá suối chiên giòn)

Freshly caught wild fish from the stream is seasoned with local spices, including dried herbs, seeds, chili, and lemongrass. These spices are mixed with salt to enhance the flavor. When enjoying grilled fish with salt and pepper, served with five-color sticky rice and drinking sticky rice wine, you will not forget this rustic dish.

6.3. Fish Doc (Cá Dốc Pù Luông)

Doc fish can be processed into many different dishes such as bamboo tube fish (fish grilled in bamboo tubes), steamed fish, grilled fish, and fish hot pot.

Ca Doc is a species of fish in the Carp family, originating in Ba Thuoc district, Thanh Hoa. Doc fish eat only plants and live in pure streams. Fish usually takes 4 years to weigh 1kg, so the fish meat is very firm and fragrant. Doc fish is a very healthy dish.

6.4. Hill pork (Thịt lợn bản Pu Luong)

There is a list of delicious pork dishes: grilled pork, steamed pork, fish sauce glazed pork belly and coconut pork stew (Thịt kho nước dừa).

Hill pigs, typically weighing around 50 kg. Raised freely in the hills and nourished with grass, their meat is exceptionally tender and flavorful. These pigs are characterized by their thick black skin, thin layer of fat, and delectable meat.

6.5. Hill chicken

Hill chicken

These are delicious chicken dishes: grilled chicken, steamed chicken, fried chicken with ginger (gà rang gừng), fried chicken with onions and mushrooms, chicken hot pot (lẩu gà).

The chickens in Pu Luong are free-range and fed with rice, resulting in delicious and tender meat. The grilled chicken, marinated with traditional Thai flavors, is especially memorable for its irresistible taste.

6.6. Mountain snail

Mountain snails can be processed into dishes such as boiled snails, steamed snails with ginger, fried snails with garlic and chili, mixed salad...Mountain snail (rock snail) is a very rare type of snail, living mainly in caves and rock crevices in the jungle. This snail eats only herbs and medicinal plants. Mountain snail meat is usually very fragrant, nutritious and good for health.

6.7. Bitter soup

Bitter soup is a culinary specialty made from bitter leaves and other medicinal plants growing in the mountains of Pu Luong. This dish can be eaten with pork and chicken intestines and a little pig's blood. When you first eat, you will feel the bitter taste spreading but then you will feel the sweetness, mixed with the aroma of spices, the spiciness of chilli, the sour taste of Lam rice.

6.8. Lam rice (sticky rice in bamboo tube)

This rice is often present in the meals of the inhabitants of the Northwest mountains. Farmers use rice grown on terraced fields, the seeds are white and fragrant. Therefore, Pu Luong lam rice is both delicious and an idyllic dish of the mountainous region.

To make Lam rice, they first fill the bamboo tube with rice and water. Then, people seal the mouth of the tube and heat it on a wood fire until it boils.

The aroma of sticky rice and the smell of bamboo blend together to create an attractive aftertaste of Pu Luong lam rice.

6.9. Buffalo meat upstairs kitchen (Thịt trâu gác bếp)

Buffalo meat upstairs kitchen, also known as smoked buffalo meat, is made from fresh buffalo meat marinated with local spices. After that, people put the meat on the kitchen floor and then heat it on a wood fire from 4 days to 1 week to cook.

Before, when there was no refrigerator, people had to dry meat to preserve it longer.

6.10. Cần wine

This is a wine brewed in ceramic jars, with natural ingredients such as fermented glutinous rice, cinnamon leaves, lemongrass, ginger or honey and herbs to create a unique flavor. People often drink alcohol with a long bamboo straw. If you come to Pu Luong, don't forget to try can wine with the locals.

7. Tours in Pu Luong (Below are the routes that are related to Pu Luong)

Trip to Pu Luong in 2 days 1 night

- Day 1: Hanoi – Pu Luong: walk through the villages and bamboo rafting on Cham River.

- Day 2: Pu Luong - Mai Chau - Hanoi: Hike in the village of Kho Muong and the Bat Cave to discover the cultural life of the Thais and take beautiful photos. Continue towards Mai Chau, a valley of stilt houses. Then come back to Hanoi.

Trip to Pu Luong in 3 days 2 nights

- Day 1: Hanoi – PuLuong: walk through the villages and bamboo rafting on Cham River.

- Day 2: Hike from your accommodation to Ươi, Lặn villages, continue to Hieu waterfall, visit Hieu village. Return to your accommodation.

- Day 3: Pu Luong - Mai Chau - Hanoi: Hike in the village of Kho Muong and the Bat Cave to discover the cultural life of the Thais and take beautiful photos. Continue your journey towards Mai Chau, a valley made up of houses built on stilts. Then, return to Hanoi.

Trip to Pu Luong - Mai Chau - Ninh Binh in 3 days 2 nights

- Day 1: Hanoi – Mai Chau – PuLuong: visit Mai Chau on the road, stop to discover the village of Kho Muong and the bat cave.

- Day 2: Hike from your accommodation to the villages of Ươi, Lặn, continue to the Hieu waterfall, visit the village of Hieu. Return to your accommodation.

- Day 3: Pu Luong - Ninh Binh (Tam Coc): Departure for Ninh Binh, stop for bamboo rafting on the Cham River. Then go to Ninh Binh.

8. Useful tips for your trip to Pu Luong:

It is advisable to make advance reservations for accommodation, especially if you are traveling alone. Before your trip, it's recommended to consult with Autour Asia travel agency regarding travel routes. Accommodation tends to fill up quickly in May and October, which are the peak tourist seasons due to the breathtaking terraced fields.

Meals at your accommodation are often more delicious than those at outdoor restaurants.
Comfortable and absorbent footwear is essential for walking, engaging in sports activities, or climbing.
You should bring spare clothes if you want to swim at Thac Hieu.
When trekking through the forest, it is important to carry medication, sunscreen, insect repellent, and mosquito repellent.

Pu Luong is a beautiful and ideal destination for those who love nature and want an authentic experience. This will definitely be a place not to be missed when tourists come to Vietnam. Autour Asia hopes this article has provided you with the necessary information to plan your perfect trip to Pu Luong!

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