Lo Lo Chai Village: Visit A Beautiful Northernmost Village In Ha Giang

Where Is Lo Lo Chai?

Lo Lo Chai is at the foothills of the famous Dragon Mountain (in Lung Cu, Dong Van, Ha Giang), approximately 1 km from the famous Flagpole. The village has become a top tourist destination in Ha Giang.

This village is the cultural heart of the Lo Lo and Hmong ethnic groups, with over 90% of the residents from the Lo Lo ethnic minority.

The inhabitants of this village have preserved their unique cultural heritage, including traditional values and customs.

Visiting it feels like stepping into a fairy tale world, with houses made of straw roofs, women weaving, and strong Lo Lo men carving wood.

In Lo lo chai

Best Time To Visit Lo Lo Chai

Well, winter is a popular choice because the cold weather adds a unique touch to the village atmosphere. It's nice to warm up with a pot of Thang Co stew and sip on some cor wine while enjoying the chilly winds.

However, Lo Lo Chai has its charms in all seasons. Even during the hot northern summers, the village remains relatively cool, so you can explore comfortably without worrying about the sun.

If you're interested in experiencing local traditions, visiting during Tet is a great idea. During Tet, the villagers come together for New Year's Eve when they make wishes for good luck. The village is filled with joy and warmth during this time.

Just choose the time that suits you best!

Best Things To Do When Visiting Lo Lo Chai

Best Things To Do When Visiting Lo Lo Chai

Lo Lo Chai is a special place that keeps alive the culture, traditions, and spirit of the people living in the highlands of Ha Giang. When visiting this village, these are the best things you can do:

Going Around The Village Admiring The Houses

The village is in a rough area with challenging roads. Walking around, you'll see houses that look different from what you might be used to. You'll notice how they blend in with the natural surroundings.

• What's unique about the houses here?

On my most recent visit to Lo Lo Chai, the village welcomed me with pale yellow sunlight on an autumn day. Stepping through the village gate, I seemed to be lost in another world with houses covered with dark brown yin-yang tiles.

In front of the house were gray stone fences stacked on each other, as high as a person's head. Interspersed, the green color of lush corn patches grew on rocky, barren lands. The walls, signs, and instructions were in English and Vietnamese.

I visited an old house here. It had the bold characteristics of the Lo Lo people. The house was built according to traditional architecture, a half-earth stilt house.

It had three rooms and no wings, and the ancestral altar was placed close to the wall and faced the main door. The 50 cm thick walls made of earth always keep the house warm.

Local Houses

• The surroundings are also worth capturing!

Walking through the village, you'll see narrow paths between the houses. You'll also see locals going about their daily lives, working in the fields or making handicrafts.

Another impressive thing about this village is its stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by tall cliffs and green hills, it offers breathtaking views wherever you look, from terraced fields to the clear streams running through the valley.

Winding its way through the valley is a network of crystal-clear streams and rivers, their waters glistening in the sunlight as they cascade down from the mountains. These waterways provide a source of irrigation for the fields and serve as a vital lifeline for the villagers.

Living In A Homestay

Living In A Homestay

Staying in a homestay is a way to experience the everyday life of this rural village. Spending a night here lets you soak up the simple pleasures of village life.

Picture waking up in the morning, sipping tea while watching the elderly do their daily chores, kids playing happily, and women working on crafts like dyeing fabrics or making traditional cakes.

• Homestays offer a cozy and unique experience.

Each homestay has a spacious garden to relax and enjoy the beautiful mountain views and peaceful village atmosphere. You can even see drifting clouds or watch the sunrise from your homestay.

The design of these homestays reflects the local style of the Meo Vac district, with earthy colors and beautiful architecture.

Inside, the rooms are arranged traditionally, with communal areas where you can socialize and unwind. You'll also find ancient artifacts from the Lo Lo people displayed in the rooms, adding to the charm and history.

During springtime, the surroundings of the homestays are beautiful, with blossoming flowers and lush greenery.

A Homestay

• The chance to experience genuine homestay living

Upon arrival, you'll be warmly welcomed by the villagers, who may offer you tea, traditional Lao tobacco, or a taste of their unique corn wine. You'll also get to try delicious specialties from Ha Giang.

But it's not just the food and drinks that make the experience memorable; it's the warmth and hospitality of the locals that leave a lasting impression.

Their kindness and sincerity will make you feel right at home and leave you with memories to treasure forever.

• Booking a homestay is easy!

You can easily reach out to local restaurants and homestays through social media platforms (Facebook or Instagram) or accommodation-booking websites (Booking or Mytour) to book a stay.

Prices range from 150,000 to 800,000 VND per night, depending on your room type. But no matter where you stay, you can expect clean and comfortable accommodations.

Some homestays to consider are Lolo Village Homestay, Lolo Ancient House, Homie Homestay, Lo Lo Eco House, Long Co Tran, etc.

Trying On Ethnic Costumes

Ethnic Costume

In this village, you can wear traditional outfits made by Lo Lo women. These clothes are colorful and intricate, showing the hard work and skill of the Lo Lo people.

On these traditional clothes, the triangle shapes on their clothes represent their ancient kingdom, passed down through generations. These triangles are arranged in harmonious patterns and come in many bright colors.

• Fun facts about Lo Lo traditional clothes

While all Lo Lo men wear simple black or blue clothes with a hat, Lo Lo women's clothes are more distinct. Interestingly, you can tell the difference between Lo Lo Hoa and Lo Lo Black women by looking at their clothes.

Lo Lo Hoa women wear blouses with square necklines. These blouses have patterns of birds, triangles, maize, and wheat.

The bottom of the blouse is wide and made of many colorful fabric strips. They pair these blouses with skirts and wrap the fabric around their legs.

Meanwhile, Lo Lo Black women don't wear blouses with skirts. Instead, they choose trousers with bright floral patterns.

Nowadays, Lo Lo people usually wear traditional clothes only during festivals or special occasions. For everyday wear, they prefer clothes similar to those of the Kinh group.

When wearing traditional clothes, Lo Lo people often wear silver or aluminum jewelry to complete their look. So, don't forget them when trying on these clothes.

• Where to rent these clothes?

When going into the village, you will easily find costume rental shops. You can also make reservations on social networking sites or websites. If you want, you can buy them as souvenirs or as gifts for your loved ones.

A Lo Lo Woman

Playing Local Musical Instrument

Visitors to Lo Lo Chai can have an experience trying out the village's traditional musical instruments. These include horns, drums commonly used in festivals, ceremonies, everyday life, and even old bronze drums.

• Playing horns and drums

Horns are a significant part of the Lo Lo musical heritage. Traditionally crafted from natural materials such as bamboo or animal horns, these instruments produce distinct tones that resonate throughout the village.

Playing the horn is a form of artistic expression and a means of communication and celebration among the Lo Lo people.

When visitors try their hand at playing the horn in Lo Lo Chai, they are greeted with the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the village.

Locals often gather around to watch and encourage visitors as they learn to produce sounds from the horn.

Similarly, drums are both musical instruments and ceremonial tools. Traditionally crafted from wood and animal skins, drums produce rhythmic beats accompanying traditional dances and rituals.

• Playing old bronze drums

This village is the only place in the world where these bronze drums are still used daily. A set of bronze drums consists of two drums: a larger one called Danh Mo and a smaller one called Danh Po.

For the Lo Lo people, bronze drums are vital. They see them as sacred objects that connect the living world with the world of spirits.

In the past, each Lo Lo family had their own set of drums, buried underground and only brought out for special occasions after performing rituals.

Even though they're not in perfect shape, these drums still carry a lot of cultural importance for the Lo Lo people.

You can try playing them, feeling the history behind each beat. It's a great way to experience the traditions of the Lo Lo community and learn about their culture.

Chilling Out At The Cuc Bac Cafe

At The Cuc Bac Cafe

In the heart of the village, there's a popular spot called Cuc Bac Cafe, where many travelers like to hang out, enjoying a cup of coffee and soaking in the local culture. It's known for offering a place to chill for anyone passing through.

The cafe was set up by Mr. Ogura Yasushy, a Japanese man who lived in Vietnam for a long time and fell in love with Ha Giang. He spent his money on building this unique cafe and then handed it to a Lo Lo family.

• What makes this cafe worth visiting?

Surrounded by a stone fence, the cafe has a traditional Lo Lo feel with mud walls and a tiled roof. There are only a few small tables in the courtyard, near the bar, enough for about ten people.

The hostess, a Lo Lo woman who also makes the drinks, can speak English. She'll tell you about the cafe's specialties, like traditional Vietnamese drip coffee, Japanese matcha green tea, and the famous corn wine from Ha Giang.

This corn wine is a big deal! I love it for its rich flavor and lovely smell. It's made carefully from forest leaves and fresh spring water from the mountains.

First, they mix 36 kinds of leaves with yeast and corn flour and let it sit for two days. Then, they dry it in the sun to make high-quality yeast.

Next, they grind up corn, mix it with the yeast, and let it ferment for about five days before distilling it. The result is this special drink that tourists love.

Sitting in the cafe, sipping coffee or corn wine in the northernmost part of Vietnam, is the best experience for travelers. Outside, you can see the Flagpole with the Vietnamese flag waving in the wind.

• Don't forget the No.419 border milestone!

When you leave the cafe and ask the locals for directions, you can walk less than a kilometer to reach the No.419 border milestone; this marks the border between Vietnam and China.

When standing there, you might think you've crossed the border and feel like you're in two countries.

What To Eat In Lo lo chai Village?

Black Chicken Soup

In this village, there's a bunch of yummy food to try. The weather there is chilly, so it's perfect for gathering around a hot pot of black chicken soup and sipping corn wine with friends. It's cozy and makes you feel warm inside.

You can also try skewered meat, grilled Men Men, and fried Lanh leaves while you're there. These are all local dishes that give you a taste of the region's unique flavors.

What To Do & Not To Do (Taboos) You Need To Know When Visiting Lao Chai?

When visiting Lo Lo Chai, always respect the local customs and traditions. Here are some things to do and not to do:

To Do

• Respect the local culture: Take the time to learn about the customs and traditions of the Lo Lo people. Showing respect for their way of life goes a long way in building positive relationships with the locals.

• Ask for permission: If you want to take photos of people or their homes, always ask for permission first.

• Support the local economy: Purchase handmade crafts, souvenirs, and food from local vendors and artisans. Your support helps to sustain the community and its traditions.

• Dress modestly: When visiting villages or attending cultural events, dress modestly and appropriately.

• Be mindful of your actions: Avoid loud or disruptive behavior, especially during ceremonies or cultural events. Show appreciation for the peaceful atmosphere of the village.

Hmong People

Not To Do

• Avoid wasting food: In this village, wasting food is disrespectful. Eat what you can finish, and don’t leave food on your plate.

• Avoid pointing with your fingers: Pointing with your fingers is considered impolite in Lo Lo culture. Instead, use your open hand.

• Do not enter homes without permission: It's rude to enter someone's house without an invitation. Always wait to be invited inside.

• Do not litter: Keep the village clean by disposing of trash properly. Littering is disrespectful to the environment and the community.

• Avoid public displays of affection: Public displays of affection (kissing or hugging) are not common in Lo Lo culture. Show respect for local norms by refraining from such behavior in public.

How Can You Go To Lo Lo Chai?

How Can You Go To Lo Lo Chai?

To reach this village, you can travel by motorbike or take a passenger bus from Ha Giang. It's about 160 km away.

• For those who are hesitant about navigating the challenging roads of Ha Giang: Traveling by passenger bus is a viable option.

From Ha Giang City, you can catch a bus to Dong Van. Then, you'll need to wait for a Linh Lam bus that will take you directly to the entrance of the village. However, traveling by bus can be inconvenient and time-consuming.

• For those confident in their driving skills: Traveling by motorbike is an excellent choice.

Follow the road towards the Flagpole. When you're near the Flagpole, turn onto a smaller road and keep going straight for another kilometer until you reach the village.

This path has twists and turns, and it can be challenging. But along the way, you'll see the beautiful scenery of Ha Giang.

The road winds around the mountains, with cliffs on one side and deep valleys on the other. Depending on the season, you might also see hills covered in colorful flowers.

The road to this village is long, so I recommend traveling with others to ensure safety. You can also stop by famous landmarks such as Sung La and Dinh Ho Vuong along the way.

Check your bike before setting off, wear appropriate safety gear, and bring essentials such as water, snacks, and a map or GPS device.

Where To Stay When Visiting Lo Lo Chai?

Where To Stay?

This village does not have luxury hotels or motels, only rustic homestays. As I have shared, coming here without experiencing a homestay is a mistake. Consider the following homestays:

• Lolo Village Homestay

It's in the middle of the village, so you get a great view of everything around you, like the village and the Flagpole.

The rooms are comfy, and there are seven of them, all with bathrooms. They're designed uniquely, blending in with the natural surroundings. Plus, they do a tea ceremony in the afternoon, which lets you experience local culture.

• Lolo Ancient House

This homestay is also in the village center and gives you a taste of traditional village life. They've got eight rooms, including some VIP ones and even dormitories.

Everything's in a traditional style with natural materials. You can enjoy the view from the courtyard, and they also organize cultural activities to try out.

• Homie Homestay

This one's been around since 2017 and has a traditional vibe. It has ten rooms, some doubles, and some dorms, all with a cozy and simple design.

There's lots of space outside for chilling and taking photos, and they also have fun activities and serve tasty local food.

• Lo Lo Eco House

This homestay is tucked away in greenery and offers 24 rooms with amazing views of the mountains and fields. You can learn about local life and join in cultural activities here.

• Long Co Tran

Right in the heart of Dong Van, this homestay has a mix of traditional charm and modern comfort. There are cozy rooms, and they serve a buffet breakfast and tea. They also organize activities to keep you entertained during your stay.

Tips For Traveling To Lo Lo Chai

Traveling Tips

• Research the area

Before you go, take the time to learn about this village, its culture, customs, and local attractions; this will help you better appreciate your surroundings and make informed decisions during your visit.

• Pack appropriately

The weather can be unpredictable since this village is in a mountainous area.

Be sure to pack layers of clothing, including warm jackets and rain gear, regardless of the season. Don't forget comfortable hiking shoes, insect repellent, and sunscreen.

• Plan your transportation

Decide how you will get here, whether by motorcycle or bus from Ha Giang. If you're driving, be prepared for a narrow, winding road, especially on the way to the village. I recommend hiring a guide for a more seamless trip.

• Stay with local families

Consider staying in a homestay with a local family to immerse yourself in the culture and lifestyle here. Not only will you have a unique and authentic experience, but you'll also be supporting the local community.

• Explore the surroundings

Take the time to explore the natural beauty of the village and its surroundings. Go for hikes, visit nearby villages, and enjoy the stunning mountain views.

• Be flexible

Note that things may not always go according to plan when traveling to this remote village. Be flexible and open-minded, and embrace the unexpected adventures that come your way.

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Wrap Up

Lo Lo Chai Village has truly captured my heart with its stunning landscapes and the genuine warmth of its people. And I guarantee you'll feel the same as I do!

Lo Lo Chai isn't just a place on the map but a living, breathing village to the resilience and traditions of the Lo Lo ethnic minority.

So, pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and get ready to experience the magic of this gem in Vietnam's northern highlands!

If you don't know where to start, we have unique Vietnam tours packages with experienced guides ready to assist you. Contact us now!