Mong homes in a quiet forest

23/12/2025

Story & Photos: Minh Anh Nguyễn

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Story: Minh Quang
Photos: Chu Viet Bac

Experience life in a peaceful Mong village on Khun Ha Mountain.

At nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, Khun Ha commune in Lai Chau is home to Lao Chai 1 Village, a picturesque Mong settlement of about 50 households perched on Khun Ha Mountain.

Houses nestle among lush green trees shrouded in swirling mist — Lao Chai 1 Village from above

From every direction, the village offers sweeping views of green tea hills and terraced fields curving like silk ribbons against the mountains. Thanks to local initiative and government support, Lao Chai 1 has built a thriving community-based ecotourism model.

Children in traditional clothing walk toward a thatched archway with mountains visible — Cong Da Bridge, a symbol of the village

Thatched roof homes line a path through lush green forest vegetation — A peaceful corner in the village

Many families now run homestays that offer travelers an authentic taste of Mong culture. Guests stay in well-kept wooden houses with flower-filled gardens.

A person walks a stone path between traditional wooden houses — Villagers run homestays that offer travelers an authentic taste of Mong culture

Three children walk toward a traditional wooden house with unique architecture — Each homestay features its own uniquely designed gate

A wooden horse stands beside a path leading to rustic open buildings — A charming trash can made of natural materials

Traditional tools such as rice pounders, maize baskets, sickles, hunting rifles, and Mong flutes are neatly displayed. Natural ornaments like pinecones, forest seeds, and bamboo tubes lend rustic charm, while vivid brocade textiles bring warmth and color to every corner.

Two young women in colorful clothing process grain with a stone mill outdoors — Mong women processing corn kernels

Visitors can try their hands at local crafts and tasks such as weaving, indigo-dyeing, and embroidery, learn to cook local dishes, or even help the villagers fish, catch crabs or harvest rice. Both Vietnamese and international tourists are impressed by the community’s efforts to make tourism sustainable – reducing plastic waste, protecting the environment, and ensuring that economic growth goes hand in hand with preserving local heritage and culture.

Two men forge metal outdoors wearing traditional clothing and red sashes — Traditional blacksmithing still has a vibrant life of its own

Come springtime, when plum, pear, and peach blossoms burst into bloom, Khun Ha is especially idyllic, welcoming guests to experience the hospitality and peaceful lifestyle of the Mong people. Once visited, this village will forever linger in your heart.