Vung Vieng fishing village beckons tourists back to Halong Bay wild side

Indochina Junk - There are times of bad weather, however autumn in Halong Bay gives visitors a more nostalgic feeling because the clouds seem to be pushed up higher, the sky is clearer, the emerald sea water is also gentler. And this is also the beginning of the peak season for foreign visitors, especially European and American visitors, who come to avoid the cold winter of the cold climate and enjoy the warm air of the tropical sea during their trips...

The story in Vung Vieng

Following the canoe to the offshore sea on the VHL3, VHL4 journey of Halong Bay, in just a moment we had left the coastal landscape far behind, and there were no longer countless luxurious cruise ships "pleasing to the eye" in sight, but only the vast waves and majestic large and small rocky mountains of the sea. This desertedness, according to some tourism businesses, is on the contrary a plus point for many foreign tourists, especially high-class tourists.

We stopped by Vung Vieng Fishing Village - one of the poetic destinations on route number 4 in Halong Bay. The fishing village is nestled next to majestic rocky mountains in the middle of the sea, with a unique "village gate" made of natural stone. Through research, it is known that there are currently 4 businesses investing in a number of services to serve tourists, such as: Boat rowing and kayaking services to visit the fishing village; Halong sea wine; visiting the pearl processing and farming area and shopping for products, Halong Bay photo exhibition area.

Each point has its own unique features, such as the art gallery that provides visitors with new perspectives on the heritage; the display of fishermen's daily necessities shows the unique cultural features of fishermen who have lived on Halong Bay for many generations. In particular, the two sales areas and pearl farming experience areas here can make visitors marvel at thousands of precious and delicate jewelry products made from pearls cultured directly on Halong Bay.

Listening to the staff's stories, we understood that this area was not too crowded with groups of tourists and they were mostly foreign tourists staying overnight on cruise ships. Luckily, after waiting for a while, we met several groups of tourists coming one after another. It was easy to see that, unlike the area near the shore, the boats here did not have many passengers, some boats carried 2 passengers, many boats only had about 20 passengers. Guests could choose different experiences. Vung Vieng fishing village has a relatively large area, most guests choose to sit on a bamboo boat or kayak to enjoy the beauty of the heritage landscape, feel the freedom of the sea and the wild, peaceful nature. These are simple experiences that are very attractive to tourists.

Research shows that the Vung Vieng fishing village area mainly attracts foreign tourists, such as Chinese, Korean, Indian, and European tourists. However, after the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of visitors here has decreased significantly, especially Asian tourists. The number of visitors used to be around 17,000 to 22,000 per month, now only fluctuates from around 4,000 to 8,000 to 9,000 per month, only 1/3 compared to before.

Nguyen Ngoc Hieu, manager of Vung Vieng Fishing Village Tourism Joint Stock Company, said: After the epidemic, the economy has declined, affecting the travel needs of tourists. Second, the products on the route are still limited. Tourists are currently not allowed to swim in the sea in this area even though there are many beautiful sandy beaches. Foreign tourists once shared with me that they traveled a long way to get here but still have not been able to swim in the sea in Halong Bay. The main services here are rowing boats, kayaking, visitors here expressed their desire to play water sports, snorkeling to see corals, surfing, parasailing, high-speed canoeing... but they are not available here yet. The caves in this area are small but pristine and quite beautiful, but currently only Co Cave is open to visitors, I think it will also attract tourists if we exploit the caves here better.

The VHL3 itinerary includes attractions such as: Cua Van Floating Cultural Center, Bamboo Forest area, Tien Ong cave, Ang Du, Ba Ham lake, Ba Men temple. The VHL4 itinerary includes: Hang Co - Hang Thay - Hang Cap La - Vung Vieng - Tung Ang eco-tourism area - Cong Do island - Hon Xep park. The landscapes of the areas on these two sightseeing routes are wild, quiet, with diverse ecosystems and very special destinations in terms of cultural and historical values. However, the services are similar to the Vung Vieng fishing village area, not much. Many places on the route are not currently exploited, such as: Cua Van Floating Cultural Center has been degraded and devastated by storms, not yet restored; the Bamboo forest area, Hang Thay, Hang Cap La have not been exploited or the infrastructure is not guaranteed for tourists to visit.

Indochina Junk Cruise company has been specializing in exploiting the VHL4 route for the past 15 years. The company currently welcomes about 24 thousand guests annually, mainly European guests. When we arrived at the Co cave area on route 4, six of the company's cruise ships were taking guests to visit and experience the area.

Director of Indochina Junk Cruise analyzed: The European tourist groups that we are exploiting recently has even grown. We only focus on small and medium-sized tourists. But recently, most businesses have focused on building very large cruise ships, similar in design to those of European countries, with a room capacity of 20 rooms or more. Therefore, the European tourists, high-paying customers, and customers who need privacy when coming to Halong Bay will currently lack many product segments.

In addition, he also proposed to develop more diverse products on the route. He said: In all meetings, we expressed our views on how to open up and create new products on route 4 of Halong Bay. We also proposed services on the route such as exploiting small and medium-sized beaches so that tourists in high-end segments but traveling in groups of less than 40 people can visit, experience and bathe on the beaches, or organize small parties on the sandy beaches of Hon Co, for example. However, these proposals have not yet been resolved, we are still struggling with the issue of how to manage them.

The needs of tourists and businesses are very legitimate. Satisfactory resolution of these issues is also an opportunity to open up and continue to exploit the potential of Halong Bay. Concerned about this issue, policy solutions are the first priority.

The Halong Bay Management Board said that in the coming time, the unit will focus on accelerating the completion of the legal corridor to serve as a basis for implementing tourism infrastructure investment projects and developing tourism products aimed at the high-paying customer market on VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries. The products will be selectively developed, such as: Organizing art performances in caves and sandbanks combined with organizing light parties; organizing mountain climbing tours, exploring new caves in Halong Bay; organizing squid fishing and recreational fishing services; developing fashion shows; adding underwater entertainment products combined with fishing village culinary experiences...

In addition, to attract more visitors during the day, the unit plans to submit to the Provincial People's Committee for consideration the exploitation of high-speed boats to take visitors to offshore routes. Regarding infrastructure, speed up the completion of construction, repair and renovation of degraded infrastructure at the points currently welcoming visitors on the two itineraries VHL3 and VHL4. At the same time, review and deploy new investment in infrastructure at points that are included in the ticket structure of the two itineraries above but have not been invested in the past time, to ensure adequate conditions to welcome visitors, such as: Ba Ham Lake, Ba Men Temple, Du Cave, Truc Forest, Thay Cave, Cap La Cave, Pine Area - Cong Do Cave...

Source: https://indochinajunkcruises.com/travel-news/vung-vieng-fishing-village-in-bai-tu-long-bay.htm

Lao Cai diversifying tourism landscape for sustainable growth

Train Hanoi to Sapa - In recent years, Lao Cai tourism has developed strongly, gradually affirming its important position in the economic structure. Resort, ecological, cultural and spiritual tourism products are increasingly diverse, attracting tourists, contributing to improving people's lives.

In 2025, the province is expected to welcome over 10 million visitors, with revenue of more than VND 46,000 billion, 2.4 times higher than in 2020, contributing about 10% of the province's GRDP.

The province's key tourist destinations such as Sa Pa, Bac Ha, Y Ty, Mu Cang Chai, etc. have continuously become favorite destinations for tourists.

Tourism development has made an important and direct contribution to the provincial budget, and on the other hand, has gradually created a driving force to promote other service industries, contributing to promoting economic and labor restructuring and creating sustainable livelihoods for people.

Currently, the whole province has about 35,000 workers working in the tourism sector (over 14,500 direct workers, the rest are indirect workers). In particular, a part of ethnic minorities has participated more and more deeply in the tourism value chain.

The whole province has about 740 homestays, attracting over 2,700 direct workers, with an average income of 50 - 70 million VND/household/year, with some households earning from 150 - 200 million VND/year.

Mr. Giang A Sua in Mang Mu village, Mu Cang Chai commune said: The H'Mong people have the custom of hanging corn for preservation. I see that tourists are very interested in hanging corn.

In 2017, my father and I built a small house to hang corn. Later, I organized more experiential tours. Gradually, my house became a space for tourists to visit and learn, many photographers also came to the corn house to take many beautiful photos, the family's income also gradually improved.

When it comes to Lao Cai tourism, Sa Pa National Tourist Area is considered the driving force for tourism development in the region and the country.

Over the past years, all levels have focused on building a strategy to develop Sa Pa, aiming to turn this place into a national and international tourism center, creating unique products and brands, and at the same time spreading the cultural values and people of Lao Cai - Northwest Vietnam to foreign friends.

In the process of development, Sa Pa is also facing many challenges.

Firstly, the "hot" tourism development has led to the appearance of some tourist attractions lacking identity, fading the image of Sa Pa.

Second, urban infrastructure and tourism infrastructure have not kept up with the pace of development.

Third is the cultural influence from outside, threatening traditional customs and practices - which have been the "material" that has created the Sa Pa brand for over 120 years.

Sa Pa Ward People's Committee said: To overcome limitations and elevate Sa Pa to become an international destination, orienting tourism development towards green, sustainable and smart, the Government has approved the general planning of Sa Pa National Tourist Area.

On that basis, the locality is calling for investment in large-scale projects such as eco-resorts, Sa Pa cultural parks, etc. to supplement services and extend the length of stay of tourists. At the same time, it continues to focus on preserving natural landscapes, restoring customs and traditional culture, so that tourists can fully experience the unique identity that has made the Sa Pa brand over the past 120 years.

In the period 2025 - 2030, the province determines to build Lao Cai into a tourist center of the country with unique, high-quality tourism products.

The goal for the 2026 - 2030 term is to have 15 million tourists coming to Lao Cai per year; tourism revenue will reach over 70 trillion VND.

To achieve the set goals, the entire tourism industry has put forth long-term plans and strategies.

First of all, the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism is making efforts to advise the province to issue new tourism development and support policies based on selectively inheriting tourism development support policies issued by the two old provinces. Continuing to propose support policies related to community tourism products; promotion and advertising of tourism products...

Currently, the industry is advising the province to issue the Project on Tourism Development in Lao Cai Province for the period 2026 - 2030; the Framework for Tourism Development Strategy in Lao Cai Province to 2030, with a vision to 2050, with many important contents.

The most important of which is the orientation of tourism product development, with 3 investment directions to upgrade existing main and auxiliary tourism products (eco-tourism, resort; cultural, spiritual; community...); develop new tourism products and develop specific tourism products, associated with the province's outstanding tourism resources.

At the same time, strengthen the role of connection and domestic and international cooperation in developing tourism products...

The Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Lao Cai province affirmed: We are very confident and hopeful that with the strategic vision, along with the attention, drastic, close, focused direction of the Provincial Party Committee, People's Council, People's Committee of Lao Cai province; the coordination, support and assistance of all levels, sectors, localities and international partners; the attention and participation of the People and the business community, along with the proactive and active consultation of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Lao Cai tourism will achieve the results as expected, making Lao Cai tourism truly become a spearhead economic sector.

With the efforts of the entire industry, Lao Cai tourism is increasingly affirming its position in the province's general development strategy as well as on the regional tourism map.

Source: https://sapatrainticket.com/travel-news/lao-cai-launches-master-plan-to-elevate-sapa-to-international-destination/

Boosting tourism in Halong Bay by revitalizing cruise routes

Cruise on Halong Bay - Halong Bay is a tourist destination in Quang Ninh all year round. However, the attraction of each tourist route on the bay is also different, depending on the flow of tourists, the investment of the exploiting enterprise or the attractiveness of the landscape... In particular, offshore tourist routes with great potential such as VHL3, VHL4 have not yet recovered in terms of tourist numbers compared to the period before the Covid-19 pandemic. To have a comprehensive view of this issue, especially on solutions to increase tourist attraction in the coming time, the reporter had an interview with Mr. Vu Kien Cuong, Head of Halong Bay Management Board.

- Sir, reports say that the number of tourists coming to sightseeing tours in the Bay recently has been uneven, how specifically?

+ The Halong Bay World Heritage Site currently has 8 tour routes. The number of visitors to these routes is uneven. Tourists mainly focus on tours VHL1 and VHL2, which are close to the mainland with traditional tourism products (cave tours, swimming, kayaking, etc.). During holidays and Tet, these 2 tours often experience local overload at some points, such as Thien Cung Cave, Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Ti-Top Beach, etc., affecting the experience of tourists.

In contrast, the number of visitors to the VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries is relatively low, mainly visitors staying overnight in Halong Bay. For example, Hang Co is the spot with the highest number of visitors in both itineraries, welcoming nearly 55,000 visitors in 2023, and over 74,000 visitors in 2024. Meanwhile, on the VHL1 itinerary, Thien Cung cave has welcomed over 670,000 and 710,000 visitors in the past 2 years, respectively; on the VHL2 itinerary, Sung Sot cave has welcomed over 1.56 million and over 1.85 million visitors in the past 2 years, respectively...

In terms of potential, the VHL3 and VHL4 journeys are located in an area with great opportunities to develop new tourism products with pristine landscapes, diverse ecosystems and very special destinations with cultural and historical values such as: Cua Van area, Tien Ong cave, Co cave, Vung Vieng fishing village, Cap La cave, Thay cave, Cong Do pine - ang eco-zone...

Furthermore, the daytime ticket price of the VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries is only 200,000 VND /person, lower than the daytime ticket price of the VHL1 and VHL2 itineraries which is 250,000 VND /person . However, due to the distance from shore and the long travel time by cruise ship (average 8-10 hours/trip), for many years, these itineraries have mainly been operated by ships that stay overnight in the bay, while the number of tourists visiting during the day is still very limited.

- So what solutions does the unit have to attract more tourists to offshore tours on Halong Bay in the coming time?

+ Attracting visitors and effectively exploiting the VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries not only creates new tourism products, attracting international visitors, but also creates a balance in preserving and promoting the values of the heritage sustainably, in accordance with UNESCO's recommendations. Therefore, the Halong Bay Management Board has proposed many solutions. First of all, speed up the progress of completing policy mechanisms (Planning for preservation, restoration and rehabilitation of Halong Bay scenic spots until 2035, vision to 2050; Plan for sustainable tourism development of Halong Bay World Heritage until 2035, vision to 2050; procedures for handing over sea areas, special-use forests...), to create a legal corridor for developing tourism products aimed at the market of high-paying visitors on the VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries.

Along with cruise ships, it is expected that speedboats will be the means of transport that can take visitors to VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries in the near future.

Second, actively coordinate with relevant departments, branches, localities and tourism businesses to strengthen surveys to build and develop unique and attractive tourism programs on these two itineraries. In particular, focus on developing high-end, selective and highly competitive tourism services, such as: Organizing art performances in caves and sandbanks combined with organizing light parties; organizing mountain climbing tours, exploring new caves in Halong Bay; organizing squid fishing and recreational fishing services; developing fashion shows; adding underwater entertainment products combined with culinary experiences in fishing villages...

At the same time, we plan to submit to the Provincial People's Committee for consideration the policy of exploiting VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries by speedboat. The goal of this proposal is to contribute to diversifying the experience of tourists visiting Halong Bay, shortening travel time, overcoming the current situation due to the long travel time by cruise ship, leading to fewer visitors taking day trips to offshore routes. Attracting visitors to these routes also reduces the load on traditional nearshore routes, contributing to environmental protection and rational use of tourism resources of the heritage, in line with UNESCO's sustainable development perspective.

Third, actively coordinate with relevant localities to expand tourism space, strengthen connections between VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries to sightseeing routes in Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, to promote development opportunities and attract visitors. Along with that, continue to focus on propaganda, promotion and advertising of products and services of the two VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries on mass media, social networking platforms, etc.

The road leading to Hang Co is currently quite small and rudimentary, and is expected to be invested in and renovated in the near future.

- The VHL3 and VHL4 sightseeing routes have many beautiful sights but also many limitations. So what is the unit's policy and roadmap for investing in infrastructure and service products to attract tourists?

+ Adhering closely to the province's policies and orientations on developing new, unique, and highly competitive tourism products in Halong Bay, in the coming time, we will focus on accelerating the completion of the legal corridor to serve as a basis for implementing tourism infrastructure investment projects in the VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries as mentioned above.

In addition, speed up the completion of construction, repair and renovation of degraded infrastructure at tourist attractions on these two itineraries, to ensure convenience, safety and aesthetics in welcoming and serving tourists.

In particular, focusing on renovating and repairing the Cua Van and Vung Vieng Floating Cultural Center areas; renovating the system of wharves, toilets, waiting rooms, lighting systems, and access roads at Tien Ong cave and Co cave. Maintaining and upgrading the infrastructure of the mooring buoy system, signal buoys at the routes, sightseeing and accommodation points, and the signaling system connecting sightseeing and overnight accommodation points with the inland waterways on the VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries; expanding the overnight accommodation area at Cong Do accommodation point...

Review and deploy new investment in infrastructure ( bridges, toilets, waiting rooms, road systems, etc.) at points that are included in the ticket structure of VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries but have not yet been invested in, to ensure adequate conditions for welcoming guests, to meet the needs and ensure the rights of tourists, including: Ba Ham Lake , Ba Men Temple, Du Cave, Truc Forest (VHL3 itinerary ); Thay Cave, Cap La Cave, pine forest - Cong Do Village (VHL4 itinerary) .

At the same time , infrastructure investment in some areas is expected to develop underwater entertainment services, contributing to improving the experience of tourists. Review investment in infrastructure and traffic routes to ensure smooth routes, connecting VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries with tourist destinations in Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay (Cat Ba archipelago, Hai Phong).

Coordinate with relevant departments, branches and units to speed up the installation of Internet coverage stations in Halong Bay, especially at tourist attractions on the VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries to strengthen the monitoring and supervision of heritage conservation status; manage, supervise and regulate vehicles and tourists, and at the same time serve disaster prevention, search and rescue, and develop tourism here.

With the orientation of synchronous implementation of solutions, we believe that the VHL3 and VHL4 itineraries will become attractive highlights, not only attracting staying guests but also day-trip visitors, contributing to reducing the load on central areas, while enhancing the value of the World Natural Heritage Halong Bay in the eyes of domestic and international tourists.

- Thank you for the conversation!

Source: https://cruise-halong-bay.com/news/balance-in-sustainable-exploitation-of-halong-bay.asp

Cat Tien National Park proves shining example of sustainable ecotourism

Budget Vietnam tours - Cat Tien National Park has just been awarded 4 prestigious awards by the Asian Ecotourism Network within the framework of AEN-IEA 2025; leaving a strong mark of Vietnam on the international ecotourism map.

On the evening of October 12, representatives of the Department of Forestry and Forest Protection said that Cat Tien National Park had just been awarded four prestigious awards by the Asia Ecotourism Network (AEN) within the framework of the AEN International Ecotourism Awards 2025 (AEN-IEA 2025) - one of the most prestigious awards in the region to honor sustainable ecotourism destinations.

Accordingly, Cat Tien National Park was honored in the Winner - Biodiversity Conservation Category. The highest award for the continuous efforts in biodiversity conservation, protecting typical tropical forest ecosystems, home to hundreds of forest ecosystems.

Next up is the Finalist - Ecotourism Promotion Category. The award recognizes how Cat Tien promotes the image of responsible, friendly and nature-respecting ecotourism - a place where visitors not only come to explore, but also to understand and love the value of the forest.

Finalist Award - Destination Governance Category, honors a sustainable destination governance model, with harmonious coordination between management agencies, communities and stakeholders in the conservation and development of ecotourism.

The fourth is the Finalist Award - Community Champion Category, recognizing the active participation of the local community, working together to preserve and spread the spirit of living in harmony with nature.

According to the forestry management agency, the above awards are not only the pride of Cat Tien National Park, but also Vietnam's mark on the international ecotourism map - proof of the commitment to developing tourism associated with nature conservation, for a green and sustainable future.

Cat Tien National Park is considered to have high biodiversity. It records 1,729 animals and 1,655 higher plants, of which more than 100 animals and plants are listed in the Vietnam Red Book and need to be preserved.

The park was recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve in 2001 and 2011; and a special national monument in 2012.

In 2024 Cat Tien National Park was officially recognized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) with the title "Green List", becoming the 72nd unit in the world and the first national park in Vietnam to be recognized with this title.

Every year, Cat Tien National Park welcomes tens of thousands of visitors to visit, research and study, including thousands of international visitors.

With an area of nearly 82,000 hectares, Cat Tien National Park is home to the highest and richest biodiversity in Vietnam, known as the "home of animals" with many rare species listed in the Red Book.

Studies have recorded that the Park has 113 species of animals, belonging to 38 families and 12 orders, of which 43 species are threatened with extinction domestically and globally, with 38 species listed in the Vietnam Red Book.

In addition, there are 18 species and subspecies of mammals endemic to the Indochina biogeographic sub-region, in particular, 3 species and subspecies are endemic to Vietnam including the black-shanked douc langur, the Vietnamese one-horned rhinoceros (extinct) and the Southern muntjac.

The park also has 351 bird species belonging to 64 families of 18 orders, including 17 rare bird species discovered and listed in the Vietnam Red Book.

Source: https://budgetvietnamtours.com/news/cat-tien-national-park-wins-prestigious-awards.asp

Exploring the abandoned tunnel of in Bac Kan

Northwest Vietnam travel - This route was built by the French from 1909-1914, originally it was a 35km long railway transporting ore from Ban Thi (Cho Don - Bac Can) to Dam Hong (Chiem Hoa - Tuyen Quang).

The remaining vestiges in Ban Loan (Cho Don - Bac Kan) are tunnels through the mountains, the railway bed was replaced with concrete to form the road into the village as we see today.

This section is beautiful in a mysterious and emotional way, the road through the mountain has a stalactite cave and on one side is a green stream with the sound of a waterfall, looking up under the canopy of the old forest with lush green trees, before there were monkeys jumping and climbing here... It must be much more beautiful than the mountain roads we have seen!

Xuyen Son Thuy Lo in Loan village, a place worth visiting in the journey to explore Bac Kan!

How to get there

- This tunnel can be used by 2.5 ton truck. So if you ask, 4-7 seater cars are just fine. Don't take 5-ton truck and 29 seater bus!

- The route according to Google map: Yen Thinh commune - Cho Don - Bac Kan will be about 200-210km with more than 4 hours driving. When you reach Yen Thinh commune center, ask for directions to Loan village and you will arrive.

In addition, you can go from Bac Kan city or go from Chiem Hoa - Tuyen Quang (this route becomes a loop that does not repeat)

Things to visit: French tunnel, Loan village and stream after the village, Phja Khao mountain (about 18km away), ATK Cho Don market, Na Pau - Ban Thit tourist area, Ba Be lake about 40km away and Cho Don tourist area...

Camp sites around the French tunnel in Loan village: with quite favorable natural terrain, the streams in Cho Don district have very shallow clear water, beautiful pebble beach, few large rocks, not too fast currents, the beach on the stream bank is quite flat and has many trees, suitable for camping with cars and motorbikes. In Loan village, there are 3 places where you can camp:

1: the grass field in front of the first cave, 3-4 cars

2: after the last cave, the field is a bit small, 1-2 cars

3: go deep into the village, the concrete road ends, 4wd vehicles can cross the stream, there is a pretty nice camping ground.

That's it for now, hopefully Cho Don - Bac Kan will be known by more visitors!

Source: https://northwestvietnamtours.com/blog/xuyen-son-thuy-lo-a-journey-through-time.php

Ninh Binh cultural treasures: Tam Chuc and Co Le pagodas honoured national relics

Ninh Binh day trips - The scenic and archaeological site of Tam Chuc complex and the historical and architectural relic of Co Le pagoda in Ninh Binh have just been recognized as special national relics.

Located in Tam Chuc ward, Ninh Binh province, Tam Chuc scenic and archaeological site is considered as "Ha Long Bay on land", with immense lake landscape, majestic limestone mountains and diverse ecosystem. This is not only the largest cultural and spiritual work in the country but also contains many archaeological values, reflecting traces of human habitation and activities in the past. The discovery of relics and archaeological traces here further clarifies the rich cultural history of Ha Nam land, which is the intersection of many civilizations in the delta plain.

Tam Chuc Pagoda Complex with a large scale of over 5,000 hectares, including outstanding works such as Tam The Palace, Phap Chu Palace, Quan Am Palace, Ngoc Tower, is not only a destination for domestic Buddhists but also reaches international level when it hosted the United Nations Vesak Festival in 2019. The massive architecture combined with the vast natural landscape has made Tam Chuc a major spiritual and ecological tourism center in the North.

At the Tam Chuc scenic complex, archaeologists have discovered many important traces, including human remains and three burials (including double burials and reburials) dating back about 10,000 years - clear evidence of early human habitation. In addition, many cultural artifacts were found such as Dong Son-era pottery pieces, small stone tools of the Hoa Binh culture, and sea mollusk shells and stream snails - showing that this area was once a place where ancient residents lived, exploited and used natural resources.

Being ranked as a special national monument further affirms that Tam Chuc is not only a present-day pagoda but also a "cultural-archaeological treasure", preserving long-lasting historical evidence.

Co Le Pagoda - a mark of nearly 1,000 years of Vietnamese Buddhism

If Tam Chuc impresses with its scale and modern beauty, the historical relic and architectural art of Co Le Pagoda, Co Le Commune, Ninh Binh Province is a vivid proof of the long-standing Buddhist tradition of the nation. Co Le Pagoda, named "Than Quang Tu", is a Buddhist cultural and architectural work built in the 12th century, during the reign of King Ly Than Ton, to worship Buddha and Saint Nguyen Minh Khong.

The highlight of Co Le Pagoda is the 32-meter-high Nine-Piece Lotus Tower, a rare architectural symbol in Vietnam, demonstrating the harmony between traditional construction art and Buddhist philosophy. Not only is it a place of religious pilgrimage, the pagoda is also associated with the Co Le festival held in the 9th lunar month every year, attracting tens of thousands of visitors from all over the world. The festival with its Buddha procession rituals, peace-praying ceremonies, and folk cultural activities has become an indispensable part of the spiritual life of the people of Ninh Binh and the Northern Delta region.

The recognition of Tam Chuc and Co Le as special national monuments is a worthy recognition of two typical works of Vietnamese Buddhism. One side is a spiritual and archaeological complex of international stature, the other side is an ancient pagoda that has existed for centuries. Both together create a multifaceted picture of Vietnamese culture: both modern and integrated, and ancient and profound.

The title of special national relic not only honors the value of the past but also sets the responsibility for localities and communities in preserving, conserving and promoting heritage. This is also an opportunity for Ninh Binh to promote cultural and spiritual tourism, linking heritage with socio -economic development, and at the same time promoting the image of Vietnam to the world. The two heritages honored today will continue to spread their values, contributing to strengthening the national cultural identity in the integration period.

Source: https://ninhbinhtraveltour.com/travel-news/new-era-for-ninh-binh-tourism-as-two-sites-recognized-special-national-relics.asp

Hanoi Nam Cua O train - A journey through history and culture

Hanoi travel - After nearly one month of commercial operation, the "Hanoi Nam Cua O" train attracted a large number of passengers and received many positive feedbacks about the service, space and cultural values.

The Hanoi Nam Cua O (Hanoi 5 Gates) train is currently serving passengers on the route from Hanoi Station through Long Bien, Yen Vien stations to Tu Son (Bac Ninh). The double-decker carriages are inspired by the 5 famous Gates of the Capital: Quan Chuong Gate, Dong Mac Gate, Cho Dua Gate, Cau Giay Gate, bringing passengers many interesting experiences. After more than a week of commercial operation, the train has received many positive reviews about the service.

Nguyen Thi Lan from Hanoi said: "The train space is cool, the attendants are enthusiastic, and support taking check-in photos, very suitable for people who like to experience like us".

Nguyen Thi Gai from Yen Hoa Ward said: "It has been a long time since I took the train. This train brings a feeling of comfort, attentive service, and brings back many childhood memories".

Tran Van Hai, a tour guide in Hanoi, commented: "The train is designed for tourists, with spacious compartments and many options. However, the information for passengers is not complete, so it was quite confusing at first."

The round-trip ticket price is flexibly designed for each carriage: O Cau Den, O Quan Chuong, O Cau Giay, O Dong Mac cost 550,000 VND (1st floor) and 650,000 VND (2nd floor); the VIP carriage O Cho Dua costs 750,000 VND. Although some people think the price is high, many passengers consider the experience worth it.

Nguyen Thi Minh Trang from Dong Anh commune said: "I find this price reasonable because there is also a bus from Tu Son station to Den Do. The experience of combining culture, space and intangible art is very interesting, not only attracting domestic but also international visitors."

Tran Van Hai added: "With the price of 550,000 - 750,000 VND/ticket, each person will have a suitable choice. Compared to similar services elsewhere, this price is not high. I bought a lower ticket but the service is still good."

Throughout the journey, passengers can also enjoy folk art performances such as Quan Ho, Ca Tru, Cheo, Hat Xam... making the trip more lively and rich in identity. This is a way to make the railway a means to contribute to promoting tourism and spreading traditional national values.

Source: https://hanoitraveltour.com/news/experience-the-best-of-hanoi-on-the-nam-cua-o-train.htm

Dong Van's sacred well - Where legend meets science

Ha Giang Travel - Dong Van stone plateau in Ha Giang, where the climate is harsh and water is scarce all year round, has a crystal clear underground water source that never runs dry. People call it the holy well (central area of Dong Van commune) - a treasure bestowed by heaven, which not only nourishes the village but also preserves sacred legends for many generations.

Legend has it that the Dong Van land was always full of life, with lush green grass and trees, and birds singing merrily every spring. However, since people came to reclaim the land and cultivate, the trees gradually withered and died. Every year, when the rains passed, the water ran out, the land cracked, the trees died, and life became increasingly difficult.

One day, a shaman passed by and saw the shape of the mountain and the land and saw that this was a "hidden dragon" area but was blocked by water source. He advised everyone to find the blocked water source and if it could be cleared, the whole area would be prosperous and peaceful again.

After many days of searching, the villagers discovered a small stream flowing from a high rocky mountain range, blocking the northwest of the valley. After examining it, the shaman confirmed that this was the residence of the Water God, not knowing why he did not give water to the valley and the people in the area. Everyone discussed and agreed to hold a ceremony to ask the God to give water to the villagers to serve their daily lives, to irrigate the dry valley.

After the ceremony, from the rock crevice, water began to increase and flow out in a clear stream. Everyone tried to drink the water and found it very sweet and cool. The water flowed throughout the valley, the withered trees gradually turned green again, and people also had a source of water for daily use, without having to go to the other side of the mountain to fetch water. From then on, the villagers built a temple right here to worship the Water God.

Dong Van plateau has karst geological features, limestone occupies most of the area, thin soil, and scarce surface water. Every year when the dry season comes, many villages lack water for daily use, people have to carry cans far away to get water; everyone shares each ladle of water for daily activities and raising livestock. In that context, the holy well becomes a lifeline, a stable, cool water source all year round, helping the village overcome harsh times. People here still pass on the saying: "With a well, the village will never die of thirst". This is a precious water source, a gift from heaven, thanks to the holy well, people can rest assured to plant and raise livestock, without worrying about thirst.

Through research, geologists have confirmed that the holy well is the outlet of an ancient underground river formed through millions of years of limestone weathering. Thanks to the vast underground cave system, the water source remains stable and flows steadily all year round. The combination of folk legends and scientific explanations further enhances the unique value of the Dong Van holy well.

For the people, the holy well is not only a source of water for daily life, but also a center of community cohesion. At the well, children chatter with their cans, women chat on the stone steps, and men discuss the crops. The people also make rules to protect the well: no washing or dumping of waste at the mouth of the well; dividing the area for domestic water and water for livestock; regular cleaning and dredging... Everyone considers the well the heart of the village and is responsible for preserving it.

Every year, people here choose New Year's Eve to hold a ceremony to ask the gods for new water, pray for health for themselves and their families, pray for favorable weather, good crops, and a happy and prosperous family. On the first and fifteenth day of every month, people often come to burn incense and pray to the Water God for peace, luck, prosperity, and smooth travel.

In recent years, the local government has paid attention to investing and renovating the holy well with a system of stone embankments, washing steps, and stone-paved grounds, creating a harmonious landscape. This place is not only a place to supply water, but also gradually becoming a tourist, cultural and spiritual destination.

Tourists coming to Dong Van, in addition to admiring the majestic mountains and forests, the quiet old town, the sound of H'Mong flutes by the stone fence, also come to the holy well to drink the cool water, listen to ancient legends and feel the strong bond between people and nature.

In addition to renovating the landscape around the holy well, the local government also built a Quay Tau and a H'Mong panpipe - a symbol of the H'Mong ethnic group on the stone plateau. This cluster of tourism products has created a highlight to attract tourists to visit and learn about the wonderful creation of the universe that only Dong Van has.

However, for the holy well to truly become a sustainable tourist attraction, experts say it needs to be done more systematically: protecting the water environment, building bilingual boards introducing geological and cultural values, organizing reasonable experiential activities, and avoiding excessive commercialization.

The holy well today is not only a legend of the past, but also a source of life for the present and the future. It is a treasure bestowed by heaven and earth, a testament to the enduring vitality and steadfast faith of the people on the stone plateau of Dong Van.

Source: https://hagiangtraveltour.com/blog/uncovering-the-secrets-of-the-holy-well-in-dong-van.asp