POTENTIAL TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN DIEN BIEN - MUONG LAY TOWN

The Stunning Muong Lay Town (100 km from Dien Bien Phu city)

Muong Lay town in Dien Bien province holds a unique position compared to other localities in Vietnam, as it is situated on the banks of the Son La Hydropower Reservoir at the confluence of the Da River, the Nam Na River, and Nam Lay Stream. Muong Lay has long been dubbed a “jewel” in the northwest skies due to its breathtaking scenery that captivates visitors.

Considered to be the smallest town in Vietnam, with a population of around 12,000 inhabitants, Muong Lay is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to explore stunning landscapes and offers various activities for visitors. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do when visiting this area.

• Explore The Natural Beauty: Boat Trips on Son La Hydropower Reservoir

One of the most popular activities in Muong Lay is taking a boat trip on the reservoir. This majestic river has transformed from its once turbulent state into a gentle waterway that provides life to the surrounding communities. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of lush mountains and valleys while experiencing the tranquility of this serene waterway.

Additionally, there are opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the peaceful environment. The picturesque landscape surrounding the river makes it an ideal spot for photography and relaxation.

​Cultural Experiences

Learn About White Thai Culture
Muong Lay is known as the capital of the White Thai people in Dien Bien Province. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture by visiting traditional villages where they can observe stilt houses and participate in cultural activities such as traditional dance performances like Xoe Thai. Engaging with local artisans who create handicrafts adds to this cultural experience.

Attend Local Festivals 
If you visit during specific times of the year, you may have the chance to attend local festivals such as Kin Pang Then, which celebrates traditional customs through music and dance. Another exciting event is the Swallow Tail Boat Racing Festival, held annually in spring, which attracts both locals and tourists alike. Additionally, for adventure enthusiasts, there are opportunities for paragliding, offering a unique perspective of the stunning landscapes.
 

Historical Attractions:

Deo Van Long Mansion
Another notable site is Deo Van Long Mansion, which showcases unique architectural styles influenced by both Western and Eastern designs. This mansion provides insight into local history and culture, making it an interesting stop for those interested in architecture. However, the mansion now lies in ruin, with only the vestiges of destruction visible along the reservoir bank after years of neglect.

Note: Deo Van Long gained recognition from the French colonial authorities in the region, establishing himself as a leader among the Thai people, known as the "Thai King." He played a crucial role in generating revenue for the Thai Federation through his involvement in the opium trade. Acting as an intermediary between the Thai Federation and French authorities, he compelled local Hmong communities to sell opium at below-market prices. This practice not only enriched him but also strained his relationships with the Hmong minority.
 

His leadership style was marked by brutality; he used force to suppress Hmong resistance against his rule. This approach diminished his popularity among those communities and contributed to growing tensions in the region.
During that time, in the mansion, he lived a lavish lifestyle among the most beautiful girls captured from all areas of Northwest Vietnam. They were supposed to serve him with dancing and in daily life activities.
When the area was attacked by the Viet Minh and fell, he escaped with the French Army to Dien Bien Phu by helicopter and later settled in France, where he passed away at the age of 88.

Lai Chau Prison Relic
For history enthusiasts, visiting the Lai Chau prison relics offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s colonial past. Constructed by French colonists, this site has historical significance related to Vietnam’s struggle for independence.

Culinary Delights: Taste Local Specialties

When in Muong Lay, don’t miss out on trying local dishes such as Lam rice, grilled river fish, or Khau Xen cake, which are specialties made from fresh ingredients sourced from local farms. Dining at local eateries allows visitors to savor authentic flavors while interacting with friendly locals.

Khau Xen cake, with its traditional flavor, have gradually become a culinary specialty of the White Thai people in Muong Lay town. In recent years, the traditional craft of making these cakes among the White Thai people in a tiny town - Muong Lay has not only been a beautiful cultural heritage but also become a profession that provides stable income for the local people.
(Photo below is Ms. Lo Chuc Chi - Head of the White Ban Flower Cooperative.)

The introduction above was created by Hoang Nam International Travel Company to offer insights into the tourism potential of Dien Bien Province. We hope this information helps travelers plan their trips effectively while gaining valuable knowledge and enjoyment for their meaningful experiences.

We truly appreciate our readers' interest. If you need help with tours or any services and facilities for your trip, please don’t hesitate to to contact us.
We wish you amazing exploration journeys in Dien Bien Province!

Written by Do Ngoc Hoan (Photos from Internet and Colleagues)