Pu Luong Nature Reserve: Where Nature, Culture, and Adventure Collide

Pu Luong Nature Reserve, just a short drive from Hanoi, is the top wildlife destination in northern Vietnam. Known for its stunning natural beauty and the unique cultures of the White Thai, Muong, and Tay ethnic groups, it offers rich traditions in food, art, and crafts.

If you're unsure about where to go, what to see, or when to visit, this guide will be your go-to resource for planning the perfect trip. Let’s dive in!

Written by Nhu PHAM (local expert)Updated on 07-07-2025

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Where is it?

Located in Thanh Hoa Province, only 150 kilometers southwest of Hanoi, Pu Luong Nature Reserve is among the loveliest and most untouched natural treasures of Vietnam. Just a 4-hour drive from the capital, it is the largest and most essential nature reserve in northern Vietnam.

If you love nature, Pu Luong is a great choice. You’ll find fresh mountain air, peaceful hiking trails, and stunning views - from lush forests and bamboo groves to waterfalls, rice terraces, and quiet village life.

That beautiful tranquility has been secured through a balance between nature and humans, with many ethnic groups, but probably the most typical being the Thai, who take refuge in charming stilt houses with palm-leaf roofs, adding a striking cultural ambiance to the area.

>>> Worth knowing: 

In Thai, the language spoken by the Thai people, who are the majority ethnic group in this region, the name "Pu Luong" means "the highest peak in the village".

>>> After exploring these two regions, I would like to share with you my discovery:

I was pleasantly surprised to find that this northern region is home to magnificent landscapes. Often, when we talk about mountains and rice terraces, we immediately think of the North-West (Sapa, Mu Cang Chai,...), which is certainly more majestic, but also more remote and requiring more time.

If you have little time for an extended trip, but still want to “savour” the authenticity of the northern landscapes, with its mountains, rice terraces, ethnic communities and colorful local markets, then Pu Luong is the option that will suit you best! Of course, keep in mind that I'm speaking in the context of a trip where time is of the essence.

Things to do in Pu Luong

This is our experience, but you can take inspiration from it to create your own by following the places covered and the activities. At the end of this part, a link to Google Maps is included to allow you to view the locations more easily.

• Take a hike to join yourself

The road to Pu Luong passes through scenic rice paddies in radiant green and gold hues in November, as well as rolling mountains in the distance. Our driver brought us to the starting point of our trekking tour. Once we got off the bus, a local resident, who became our "guide" for this adventure, greeted us.

What I experienced that day is an exclusivity offered by Kampá Tour. Our itinerary was designed in collaboration with the local population, taking us through fields, forests, streams, and well-hidden paths: places inaccessible to traditional tourists and often even to Vietnamese.

We were the only ones on the trail during our hike, creating a peaceful atmosphere, with only the songs of birds and the soft breeze accompanying us. Our route took us through various villages in the Ba Thuoc district, including Ban Don, Uoi, Lan Trong, Lan Ngoai, and Bam Tren.

Surrounded by breathtaking rice terraces and with the mountains in the distance, the landscape was truly spectacular. If you're exploring on your own, simply look for these villages or ask the friendly locals for help.

• Cycling and visiting Thai minority villages in Pu Luong

After a first day of trekking, our team opted for two-wheelers to admire the superb landscapes from a different angle. We crossed the peaceful village of Co Lung, took wooden bridges over streams, and passed magnificent rice fields.

During our journey, we were pleased to see the traditional stilted houses of the various ethnic minorities, besides seeing glimpses of the peaceful daily life of the locals, sometimes as they waited for buffaloes to cross our path.

Hotels or homestays can help you find bikes. Do not hesitate to book in advance for greater guarantees. Our cycle tour finally took us to the colorful Pho Doan Market, a highland market with scenic views of the rugged mountains that form the backdrop.

Our cycling journey eventually took us to the colorful Pho Doan Market, a highland market with elegant views of the majestic mountains behind it.

• Explore a very colorful weekly market - Pho Doan Market

Pho Doan market is located in Lung Niem commune, Ba Thuoc district. This is a very famous periodic market of northern ethnic groups in Pu Luong. The market is open-air with stunning views of the mountains.

Writing this travelogue, I did some research about him. Interestingly, it has been there for a few centuries, originally as a market place in the time of French colonialism.

It's worth noting that this market has been standing for a few centuries, and it used to be a marketplace during the times of French colonization. It's a place of cultural richness, truly authentic, where you can really dive into the life of mountain dwellers.

Here, representatives of different ethnicities from Vietnam 👩‍🌾 sell their products; all of them are dressed in colored traditional costumes. You might walk through shops selling typical vegetables from northern mountains, animals, symbolic local dishes, and souvenirs.

>>> 🌾 Worth Knowing:

Pho Doan Market is open only on Thursdays and Saturdays, from early morning until around noon. To make the most of your visit, get up early and head there to experience the vibrant life of the mountain locals.

• Ride on a bamboo raft or boat ride

In Pu Luong, there are many small river piers that offer exciting chances for raft rides. When on the typical bamboo raft of the region, one can be slowly carried by the crystal waters amongst lush green bamboo forests lining both sides.

To improve the experience, one might think about taking a boat tour on the Ma River. This item of the tour, interwoven with the historical narratives of Vietnam since the war, offers a panorama of the river when the day is clear, with a fresh breeze and mountainous landscapes in view.

While on board, authentically rural scenes unfold before one's eyes that allow for a deeper understanding of daily life among local inhabitants in the area.

•  Swimming in the Hieu waterfall

If you like swimming, Hieu Waterfall, located in Co Lung commune, is an excellent destination. Around this waterfall extends a network of limestone mountains hidden in the heart of old preserved forests, interspersed with ethnic villages and peaceful terraced fields.

The flow of the waterfall varies according to the seasons. During heavy summer rains it is more dynamic, while the rest of the year the water remains but flows less quickly. This shallow waterfall is perfect for swimming, providing a safe experience.

•  Stay with Pu Luong locals

A stay at the home of locals in Pu Luong adds a touch of authenticity during your trip to Vietnam. There's nothing like spending a night with an ethnic family to discover the real Vietnam and its culture.

You will be staying with a white Thai family in a traditional, rustic and comfortable bungalow or house on stilts. They will share a meal, one or more drinks with you and may teach you how to cook a Vietnamese dish like a chef. 

🌾 Learn more about staying with locals here. 🌾

• Surroundings of Pu Luong

Right next to the Pu Luong Nature Reserve is the beautiful Mai Chau Valley. Green and tranquil, it is the perfect destination for the urban Vietnamese or the traveler in search of serene nature. On foot or by bike, you will see beautiful and peaceful rice paddies with the possibility of meeting Vietnamese farmers and ethnic groups at work.

You'll also see amazing fish farms and pass through traditional ethnic villages, and you'll be able to, like Pu Luong, stay with the local people of Mai Chau.

Less than two hours from Pu Luong Nature Reserve is a must-see destination in northern Vietnam - Ninh Binh and Tam Coc. This region, listed in 2014 as a UNESCO heritage site, is known for its remarkable natural landscapes: sugar loaves, rivers, green rice fields, small mysterious caves...

You will also be able to discover Hoa Lu, an ancient imperial city of Vietnam and the Bai Dinh Pagodas, including the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia.

>>> Looking for a peaceful highland getaway in Vietnam? Let’s compare Sapa or Pu Luong. 🌿🛤️

>>> The map of places to visit in Pu Luong

Please click on the "[ ]" at the top right for better visibility.

When are the best times to go there?

The best time to visit Pu Luong depends on what you want to experience, as there are three distinct seasons:

1. November to February: The weather is cool, and mornings can be misty, especially in January and February, which can reduce visibility.
2. March to June: Days are bright and sunny, but the heat starts to pick up in May and June. It’s perfect for sightseeing and longer hikes, but make sure to bring a hat and sunscreen.
3. July to October: This is the rainy season, with cooler temperatures. However, the roads can get slippery, so it’s a good idea to pack waterproof gear.

If you love rice terraces, there are two seasons to consider:

• Planting season: In March, April, and July/August, the fields turn green as they’re prepared for cultivation. It’s a great time to see the rice terraces in their early growth.
• Harvest season: From late May to early June, the terraces turn golden, you'll have chance to see stunning views. The second harvest happens in October, just before the land rests from November to January.

Get to know about The Brilliant Golden Rice Season of Pu Luong 🌾✨

How many days should you spend exploring Pu Luong?

If you're short on time, one day and one night is enough to explore Pu Luong. Leave Hanoi at 6 am, and you'll be in Pu Luong by 10 am after about a 4-hour drive. You can hike the rice terraces, visit villages, or cycle around, then spend the night at a homestay or hotel. The next morning, enjoy the fresh air before heading to your next stop.

For those with more time, a 3-day, 2-night stay is perfect to really enjoy Pu Luong. You'll have time to hike, raft, swim in waterfalls, visit local markets, and even try rice planting if you're visiting during the season. It's a great way to experience the full beauty of the area.

How to get there?

1. Public Transportation

There are only a few buses to Pu Luong, so getting there by public transport is possible but requires some effort and transfers.

From Hanoi, you can take a regular or sleeper bus toward Pu Luong, usually stopping in Canh Nang town. From there, it’s best to take a motorbike taxi to your accommodation.

2. Private Transportation

The most convenient way to reach Pu Luong is by private vehicle, especially if you're coming from Hanoi or nearby provinces.

Route 1: Fastest and easiest

• Take Highway 6 to Xuan Mai, then turn onto Ho Chi Minh Road.
• Pass Cuc Phuong and reach Cam Thuy Town. After crossing the bridge, turn right toward Na Meo.
• Continue to Canh Nang Town, then turn right at La Han Bridge. From there, it’s 17 km to Ban Don, the main area with good homestays and resorts.

Route 2: Via Mai Chau (scenic loop)

• From Hanoi, head toward Hoa Binh on Highway 6.
• You can go through Lung Van or Ban Lac (Mai Chau), then continue to Pu Luong.
• This route is ideal if you want to take a different way back.

Route 3: Most scenic, but more difficult

• The road through Lung Van is steep and winding, similar to the terrain in the northwest.
• It takes about 4 to 5 hours to cover 200 km. The views are stunning with foggy valleys and mountain landscapes.

Many travelers prefer motorbikes for the flexibility and the experience of riding through mountain roads.

On the other hand, Kampá Tour is a local agency specialized in routes through Pu Luong. Contacting a local travel agency that already has experience organizing this type of trip is the easiest way. You won't have to spend a lot of time researching, local advisors will surely arrange everything properly so that you have the trip of your dreams.

Where to stay for a perfect trip?

• Homestay Experience

Living with the indigenous people in Pu Luong is an authentic travel experience. Three years ago, Kampá Tour discovered a local home, an authentic stilt house in the middle of Pu Luong belonging to Mr. Ty. To access this house, you have to cross a wooden bridge over a stream surrounded by rice paddies, forests, and mountains.

Kampá Tour financed the building of a new traditional house with three private rooms and exterior bathrooms. As well as the 3 private rooms, this home includes shared areas between family and travellers.

I appreciate the most is the environment around the house. Disappointment is not likely for those who are looking for an authentic experience. Three generations live together in this house, and the guests will have the insight to see Vietnamese family traditions in which familial bonds are very significant.

You get to join Mr. Ty in his daily life - cooking over a wood fire and eating vegetables just picked from the forest. The old-style kitchen, with no electric stove in sight, felt rare and real. It’s something I won’t forget.

>>> Explore The 9 Best Places to Go Cycling in Vietnam 🌱

The place is extremely peaceful. Let's watch this video to find out more!

If you would like to stay with a local, contact us to organize your trip to Pu Luong and live unforgettable experiences in the heart of nature.

Other hotel suggestions in Pu Luong 

During our scouting, we also checked other hotels so that our valued travelers have a variety of good accommodation choices. Here are some suggestions in addition to the homestay:

• Pu Luong Home 

Pu Luong Home is nestled in the heart of lush nature. From here, a panoramic view of magnificent rice terraces awaits you, providing a natural experience without traveling long distances. The harvest season is intoxicating, with the captivating aroma of ripe rice. Pu Luong Home's swimming pool also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rice fields. 

>>> Read more: Top 10 Vietnam Ecolodges to Savor Nature’s Magic

• Pu Luong retreat

Pu Luong Retreat, perched with panoramic views, brings together the charm of northern Vietnam: mountains, rice fields, waterfalls, breathtaking passes and isolated traditional villages. Offering cozy bungalows and a traditional stilt house, with open-air restaurant, infinity pool, spa and rock garden, every detail is carefully considered for an authentic experience.

FAQs

What is more special about Pu Luong than Sapa?

• Pu Luong offers a quieter and less touristy experience compared to Sapa. Its rice terraces are softer and less steep, making trekking easier. In addition, Pu Luong is not as crowded as Sapa, allowing for a quieter environment.

What do I need to prepare for trekking in Pu Luong?

For a successful trekking in Pu Luong, it is important to prepare the following:

• Suitable footwear: Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support.
• Appropriate clothing: Lightweight, quick-drying clothing, as well as layers to adapt to temperature changes.
• First aid kit: Includes basic medications, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
• Hydration: It has enough water and an easy-to-use hydration system.
• Food: Energy snacks and non-perishable food for the road.

Which place is reasonable to combine with Pu Luong?

A reasonable match with Pu Luong is Mai Chau. This area is located relatively close and offers an interesting contrast to the wilderness of Pu Luong. At Mai Chau, you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere with beautiful scenery, cultural activities, and the opportunity to experience rural Vietnamese life. In addition, you can take short bike tours or gentle hikes to explore the surroundings before or after your adventure in Pu Luong.

Our last words,

I hope this sharing helps you in planning your trip. Pu Luong is ideal for hikers and nature lovers looking for an authentic experience, far from mass tourism. Dense forests, waterfalls, hiking trails and traditional villages of the Muong and Thai ethnic groups make Pu Luong a true paradise in the heart of the North. If you are looking for a natural getaway, plan your stay in Pu Luong now and discover the splendor of this unique nature reserve in Vietnam!

✈️Other Must-Visit Places in Northern Vietnam👇

And you - what do you think? Do you have any thoughts or experiences you'd like to share with Kampá Tour? We'd love to hear your ideas and stories!