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Embark on a journey to Lai Chau and delve into a realm adorned with stunning caves, treacherous mountain passes, hidden waterfalls veiled within forests, and sacred landmarks of our homeland.
Discover the allure of Lai Chau as you brave through 9 enchanting yet perilous spots.
1. Lai Chau Hydroelectric Plant
The Lai Chau Hydroelectric Plant, a national key project, commenced construction on January 5, 2011, in Nam Hang commune, Muong Te district, Lai Chau province. Situated at the uppermost tier of the main stream of the Da River in Vietnam, it stands above the ongoing construction of the Son La Hydroelectric Plant. This hydroelectric project not only plays a pivotal role in electricity generation and water supply for the Red River Delta during dry seasons but also fosters socio-economic development in the provinces of Lai Chau and Dien Bien, ensuring regional security and defense.
2. Mường Than Plain
Immerse yourself in the rustic indigenous life of Than Uyen, where every step resonates with the weaving rhythm of traditional crafts. The scenery and delectable cuisine keep distant travelers captivated. Lose yourself in the fields of Muong Than amidst the vibrant tapestry of laborious yet enchanting livelihoods, feeling as if you've wandered into a vast fairytale meadow. Occasionally, the wind rushes through the valley, creating a peculiar microclimate on this stunning third-ranked field in the Northwest region.
3. Tinh Waterfall
Tinh Waterfall, also known as Tac Tinh or Tac Tinh Waterfall, stands as one of the most alluring tourist destinations, drawing a multitude of visitors from both within and outside the province to admire its splendor. Situated in Binh Lu commune, Tam Duong district, Tinh Waterfall lies amidst a picturesque landscape of towering mountains, resembling a delicate silk ribbon gracefully cascading amidst the vast expanse of majestic forests. The local Dao people and residents have long established a deep connection with Tinh Waterfall, as its refreshing waters flow tirelessly day and night, serving as a vital source for agricultural production and daily life in the area.
4. Fairy Mountain Cave
Fairy Mountain Cave, located alongside National Highway 4D in Binh Lu commune, Tam Duong district, Lai Chau province, is also known by various names such as Dan Don Cave, Po Ngai Tung, White Stone Cave, and Binh Lu Cave. The cave comprises 49 interconnected chambers stretching between two mountain slopes, with larger chambers deeper within. Venturing into the depths of the cave, one encounters mesmerizing formations of stalactites and stalagmites, resembling scenes from a celestial paradise. The cave also features underground streams, trickling through crevices in the rocks, producing delightful echoing sounds.
5. Pu Sam Cap Cave
Just 6 kilometers west from the center of Lai Chau town lies the Pu Sam Cap Cave complex. This harmoniously arranged complex consists of three large caves: Thien Mon, Thien Duong, and Thuy Tinh. Its pristine beauty leaves many in awe. The rugged path leading to the caves, twisting and turning, ignites the curiosity of travelers. Along the way, one may encounter ancient towering trees, some toppled by the wind, moss-covered and enveloped in mystery. Pu Sam Cap holds the promise of becoming a beacon for eco-tourism and exploration, offering various forms of tourism such as village tours, festivals, and more.
6. O Quy Ho Pass
O Quy Ho Pass, also known as Hoang Lien Son Pass, stands as one of the longest, most treacherous, and majestic mountain passes in the Northwest. Situated on National Highway 4D traversing Hoang Lien Son Range, the pass connects Lao Cai and Lai Chau provinces, with its summit serving as the boundary between the two provinces. O Quy Ho Pass is also known as Cloud Pass due to its perennially mist-covered peak. It holds almost a record for length in the Northwest mountainous region, stretching nearly 50 kilometers. Its altitude, perilousness, and length have earned O Quy Ho the unofficial title of the “king of passes in the Northwest.”
7. Ma Lu Thang Border Gate
In December 2005, Ma Lu Thang Border Gate was inaugurated along with a 43-hectare economic zone offering various services including trade (comprising a commercial center, warehouses, docks, and yards), tourism (restaurants, hotels, ethnic cultural villages), and entertainment areas. This border gate serves as the gateway connecting Huoi Luong open economic zone, Muong So economic-trade-tourism zone, Pa So industrial zone, and the agricultural-forestry combined with eco-tourism area in Phong Tho district. Thus, the economic zone and Ma Lu Thang Border Gate are regarded as spearheads for economic development in the country's poorest province and a gateway for economic and cultural exchange between Lai Chau and China.
8. Milestone 17
Every path leading to the upstream of rivers is rugged and arduous. It's not an exaggeration to say that the 60-kilometer stretch from Muong Te - Pac Ma - Nam Lan junction - Keng Mo border station to milestone 17 - where the Da River enters Vietnam is the most treacherous. Along the beautiful 'cloud-wrapped high pass' route, long-distance travelers need to be extremely cautious as one side is towering cliffs while the other side plunges into deep abysses with the roaring Da River below, where some sections of the riverbanks have been eroded smooth, forming incredibly fascinating shapes.
9. Pu Ta Leng Peak
Pu Ta Leng, a mountain peak in Lai Chau, ranks among the wildest and most challenging in Vietnam, often dubbed the 'second roof of Indochina.' Compared to Fansipan, which many consider an unforgettable destination, this mountain peak is desolate, perilous, and has long been untouched by human footprints. It was opened for exploration by a group in 2012, and since then, several expeditions have continued to conquer this highly challenging peak.
According to Nhu Y (compiled)
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Reference: Mytour Travel Handbook
MytourJuly 29, 2016
