POTENTIAL TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN DIEN BIEN - TUA CHUA TOWN

Tua Chua - Pristine and Majestic Natural Lanscape (130 km from Dien Bien Phu city)

Tua Chua is a mountainous district in the northeastern part of Dien Bien Province, Vietnam. Renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and diverse ethnic communities—most notably the Mong people, who make up 73% of the population—Tua Chua offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in both its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

Tua Chua is home to several breathtaking natural sites that are perfect for exploration:

• Ta Phin Ancient Stone Plateau: This natural plateau features unique stretches of limestone formations resembling cat ears, making it an excellent destination for hiking and photography. The landscape is particularly captivating during the dry season when the contrast between the gray rocks and the lush farmland is striking. However, the beauty is even more pronounced if tourists visit after the harvest season.

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  Kho Chua La Cave: is complete without experiencing the unique pristine beauty of Kho Chua La Cave in Pang De A1 Village, Tua Chua District. Designated as a National Scenic Monument, this cave is renowned for its impressive stalactites formed over millions of years. Located about 15 km from the district center, it offers an adventurous experience for visitors interested in geology and cave exploration.

  

As you ventured deeper into the cave, we were increasingly captivated by the enchanting beauty of the stalactites. The cave's ceiling features stalactites shaped like animals such as elephants, deer, dragons, phoenixes, turtles, and birds nestled among the vegetation. The temperature inside the cave remains a steady 20 to 21 degrees Celsius, allowing visitors to feel the refreshing coolness of the air on their skin.

• Po Chua Lu Pine Forest: Nestled along the Nam Muc River, this ancient pine forest spans 47 hectares and offers picturesque views that are perfect for hiking, camping, and enjoying the tranquility of nature. Located at an altitude of 1,400 meters above sea level, Trung Thu Commune boasts a cool, fresh climate, making it an ideal weekend getaway. It serves as a popular meeting place for tourists who appreciate the romance of windy pine hills. The tall, lush pines, combined with the morning mist that envelops the area, create a landscape often likened to the dreamy vistas of Da Lat.

• Scenic Viewing Spots: Locations offer stunning panoramic views, making them ideal for relaxation and photography, especially during sunrise or sunset. Additional attractions include terraced rice fields located among local villages or at the foot of mountains. Here and there, you can see small trails running through the hillsides, creating a beautiful view of nature in this remote mountainous area.

• Ancient Shan Tuyet Forest: The ancient Shan Tuyet tea forest, located at an altitude of over 1,800 meters above sea level in Tua Chua District, Dien Bien Province, has been recognized by the Vietnam Association for the Conservation of Nature and Environment as a Vietnam Heritage Tree. Each Shan Tuyet tea tree reaches heights of 8 to 10 meters, with trunks measuring up to two meters in diameter.

During the winter, the tea trees on these high mountains are often covered in frost and ice, appearing unable to survive the frigid conditions. However, come spring, the tea trees sprout and bud, providing locals with a bountiful harvest. The buds and young leaves are covered in a fine layer of snowy hair, earning this tea the name “Tra Shan Tuyet,” or Snowy Shan Tea. This brand is well-known among both domestic and international consumers and has been exported to various markets, including Europe, Asia, and America.
Tourists visiting this village can take photos and stroll along the village paths to interact with friendly locals and witness the tea-making process.

Pa Phong Bridge in Huoi So Commune is the most beautiful landmark in Tua Chua.

The suspension bridge stretches across the emerald green reservoir, creating a picturesque scene in this remote area. Located about 160 kilometers from the center of Dien Bien Phu City and approximately 50 kilometers from Tua Chua Town, the Pa Phong suspension bridge (in Huoi So Commune, Tua Chua District, Dien Bien Province) has recently become a popular spot for tourists to check in when visiting the area.

In the past, this location was a valley with a small stream flowing into the Da River. Since the completion of the Son La Hydropower Plant, the low-lying areas of Huoi So, Sin Chai, and Tua Thang communes have been submerged under the waters of the Da River. Now, the Pa Phong suspension bridge—named after the village—spans the bay of the reservoir, offering a poetic view amid the clear, deep waters that reflect the blue sky.
 
“If I hadn't come here, I might have thought this place wasn't in Vietnam. Although this is just a small stream flowing into the Da River, I still find it beautiful and majestic. The emerald green water is stunning, resembling the Nho Que River in Ha Giang,” one tourist remarked.
After immersing themselves in the beautiful scenery, visitors can continue walking to the Dao ethnic minority village to observe the customs and farming practices of the local people. They will also have the opportunity to visit families who weave fabric or craft traditional wooden boats for navigating the reservoir.
 
Then visitors can enjoy boat rides on the Da River to appreciate its serene beauty while surrounded by majestic limestone mountains. For a more immersive experience, you can spend the night in a homestay by the reservoir bank, savoring a cup of coffee while taking in the breathtaking views of the bay.

Engaging with local culture is a significant aspect of visiting Tua Chua:

Visit Nearby Villages: There are numerous trekking routes available that allow visitors to explore the terraced rice fields in Xa Nhe and Ta Phin communes, all while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Tourists can interact with locals who share their stories about life in this remote area while enjoying their traditional meals together.

• Explore Local Markets: The Ta Sin Thang Market and Xa Nhe Market are colorful and vibrant hubs where visitors can experience local trading and cultural exchange. These markets showcase agricultural products, handicrafts, and traditional foods from various ethnic groups. Additionally, the Tua Chua Night Market operates on Saturday nights, offering a unique atmosphere filled with local delicacies, such as Thang Co (a dish made with horse intestines) paired with Mong Pe wine—a famous moonshine made from corn by the Mong villagers.

Tasting local cuisine is an essential part of any visit to Tua Chua:

• Sample Local Speciallites: Dishes such as rocky mountain goat meat, Da River fish, black-boned chicken, and Shan Tuyet tea are must-tries when visiting Tua Chua. Each dish reflects the region's unique flavors, influenced by its diverse ethnic cultures.

• Mong Pe Wine: This traditional corn wine, brewed by the Mong people, boasts a distinct flavor profile due to its fermentation process, which involves wild herbs. It’s often served during special occasions or family gatherings.
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  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!
  
  Do Ngoc Hoan - Hoang Nam International Travel Company
  (Photos from internet and Colleagues)