Where is Don Village?
Don Village is located in Pu Luong Nature Reserve, Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam. Surrounded by lush green mountains and terraced rice fields, this village is an ideal spot for eco-tourism. The best time to visit is during the harvest season (May – June, and September – October) when the rice fields turn golden, creating a mesmerizing view.Read More: Why Trekking Mai Chau Pu Luong Should Be on Your Bucket List
The beauty of Don Village, Pu Luong is that the village is renowned for its unspoiled landscapes, rolling hills, and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy fresh mountain air, cascading waterfalls, and vast rice terraces stretching as far as the eye can see. The simplicity and charm of the village make it a great place to relax and reconnect with nature.Top Things to Do in Don Village:
1. Trekking Experience
One of the top activities in Don Village is trekking. The village is surrounded by rugged terrain, making it a perfect spot for hiking. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or just looking for a leisurely walk, the trails here offer a variety of routes. As you trek through the forest and rice terraces, you’ll encounter breathtaking views and learn about the local flora and fauna.2. Visiting the Local Villages
Don Village is part of a larger network of ethnic minority communities. A visit to neighboring villages like Kho Muong and Hieu will give you a deeper understanding of the area’s culture. These villages are home to the Thai people, who have maintained their traditional way of life. Visitors can interact with locals, experience their hospitality, and even try their hand at weaving or rice farming.To understand more about Vietnam Ethnic Groups, you can check out our blog here!
3. Trying local dishes
Enjoy authentic Thai ethnic dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Some must-try foods include bamboo-tube rice, grilled fish, and mountain vegetables.Local Cuisine in Don Village
Food lovers will discover the rich traditional flavors of Vietnam in every meal. The local specialty Com Lam features fragrant sticky rice slowly steamed inside bamboo tubes, infusing it with a subtle woody aroma. Another highlight is the grilled stream fish, caught fresh from mountain waters and delicately seasoned with local herbs before being cooked to perfection over charcoal. The wild vegetable soup exemplifies the region’s connection to nature, combining hand-foraged forest greens into a nourishing and flavorful broth.How to Get to Don Village?
Don Village lies approximately 160 kilometers from Hanoi, offering several convenient travel options for visitors. The most comfortable and efficient way to reach the village is by private car, which gives you the flexibility to stop and enjoy scenic views along the journey. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for a bus ride to Pu Luong followed by a motorbike rental, allowing for independent exploration of the village and surrounding areas. For those preferring a structured experience, numerous travel agencies in Hanoi provide comprehensive tour packages to Pu Luong that include visits to Don Village, taking care of all transportation and accommodation details. Where To Stay In Don Village?
1. Local Homestays
One of the best ways to experience Don Village is by staying in a traditional homestay. These homestays allow you to live with local families and immerse yourself in the daily routines of rural Vietnamese life. You’ll get to experience home-cooked meals, learn about local customs, and even have a chance to help with farming activities.2. Guesthouses and Resorts
For those looking for more comfort, Don Village offers a selection of guesthouses and small resorts. These accommodations provide modern amenities while still giving you access to the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Many resorts in the area offer guided tours, cooking classes, and other activities for guests.Nearby Tourist Spots In Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Hieu Waterfall
A visit to Don Village isn’t complete without exploring the nearby Pu Luong Waterfalls. These cascading falls are located a short hike away from the village and are perfect for swimming or simply relaxing in nature. The cool, clearwater and surrounding greenery create a peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for unwinding. Bat Cave (Kho Muong)
The journey to Bat Cave is an adventure in itself, requiring travelers to navigate challenging terrain that’s accessible only by motorbike. While the narrow, winding roads might deter some, they serve as a gateway to one of nature’s most remarkable spectacles. The path, though demanding, offers breathtaking mountain panoramas that make every twist and turn worthwhile.