Phu Tho Travel Guide

Not only stopping at natural values, Phu Tho is also a place where unique cultural values ​​crystallize. You can easily encounter traditional festivals, folk songs imbued with the highlands, and a cultural space rich in identity. In particular, the friendliness and hospitality of the local people will make the journey of discovery more intimate and memorable than ever.

Besides, this land also brings peace in every moment. Where you can relax in the mountains and forests, enjoy delicious local specialties. Or enjoy a relaxing vacation in the fresh nature. All of these create a Phu Tho that is both familiar and special. Moreover, this is also an ideal destination for those who want to reconnect with their roots. And discover the most pristine beauty of Northern Vietnam. Let’s explore this special land with Origin Vietnam.

1. Where is Phu Tho?

Phu Tho is a mountainous and midland province in the North of Vietnam. With diverse and widespread terrain, from the high mountains in the Northwest region to the low mountains, midlands and plains in the Northeast region of Vietnam. It is about 90 km northwest of Hanoi. Geographical location:

• North borders Tuyen Quang province.
• East borders Thai Nguyen province and Ninh Binh province.
• South borders Thanh Hoa province.
• West borders Son La province and Lao Cai province.

2. How is Phu Tho unique?

Phu Tho is a sacred land, the birthplace of the Vietnamese people with thousands of years of history and culture. Not only famous for its spiritual relics and traditional festivals such as Hung Temple Festival, Au Co Temple Festival, or Xoan singing – an intangible cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO. Phu Tho also possesses a rich and unique folk cultural treasure.

The terrain here is very unique, located in the center of the transitional area between the mountainous region and the Northern Delta, the confluence of three major rivers: Thao River, Lo River, Da River. In addition, nature has endowed Phu Tho with a diverse ecosystem with outstanding landscapes. Such as: Ao Gioi – Suoi Tien, Ao Chau Dam, Thanh Thuy hot mineral spring, Xuan Son National Park, … It is very suitable for developing eco-tourism, resorts and exploration.

In addition, the wild and majestic beauty of mountain ranges such as Tam Dao and Ba Vi also contribute to the overall beauty of the area. Moreover, caves, waterfalls and primeval forests. Or the poetic scenery of mountains, forests, rivers and lakes also create a harmonious natural connection. In particular, this is also a place to preserve the unique cultural values ​​of ethnic groups such as Muong and Thai. It is expressed through customs, traditions, festivals and daily life. With the combination of majestic nature, rich traditional culture and hospitality. It has created a unique feature of Phu Tho land – an emotional and unforgettable destination in the hearts of tourists.

3. When is the best time to visit Phu Tho?

Phu Tho has a tropical monsoon climate, with distinct seasonal weather. It creates ideal conditions for you to visit at many times of the year.

• Spring (February – April) is a great time to admire the fresh natural scenery, the mist covering Lung Van. Or immerse yourself in the Hung Kings’ Commemoration Festival at Hung Temple, this is an important cultural event for the entire Vietnamese people. However, this is the peak tourist season, so you should book early to ensure accommodation.
• Summer (May – August) is suitable for vacation trips, exploring the green nature such as terraced fields in Lac village in Mai Chau. Lakes, lagoons and primeval forests in Xuan Son National Park or Tam Dao. The summer weather in these mountainous areas is always cool and pleasant. Therefore, it is an ideal place to “escape the sun” and enjoy the fresh air.
• Autumn (September – November) is the time when the weather is mild and fresh. In particular, the end of November – early December is the season when wild sunflowers bloom. It creates a brilliant and poetic scene, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
• Winter (late year to early next year) is the ideal time to relax at hot mineral springs such as Kim Boi or Thanh Thuy. When soaking in the warm water in the cold weather, it will bring a wonderful relaxing experience.

Depending on personal preferences: visiting festivals, relaxing, exploring nature or experiencing culture. You can choose the ideal time to travel to Phu Tho and its surrounding areas.

4. How to get to Phu Tho?

4.1 By personal vehicle

Phu Tho is quite large, so depending on the area you plan to go to, there will be different routes. With the Hung Temple site located near Viet Tri city, you can follow the Hanoi – Lao Cai highway. When exiting at Phu Ninh intersection (IC8), exiting this toll station, you will immediately reach the turn off to Hung Temple.

If you want to go to the Thanh Thuy hot spring area, you just need to follow Highway 32, cross Trung Ha bridge. Then, turn left on the dike road and go straight along the river to reach this hot spring area. If you go to Xuan Son National Park, don’t turn onto the dike road, just go straight to Trung Ha bridge following Highway 32 to Tan Son.

4.2 Public transport

4.2.1 Railway

Phu Tho is located on the Hanoi – Lao Cai railway route. This train stops at several stations in Phu Tho, but the two main stations are Viet Tri station and Phu Tho town.

If you go to Hung Temple, you have 2 options. Get off at Viet Tri station and walk to Hung Vuong street to catch bus number 19, this bus route will pass near Hung Temple. Get off at Tien Kien station in Lam Thao, then you can take a motorbike service or a taxi to Hung Temple (from here to Hung Temple is about 4km).

From Hanoi station, there are 2 trains that stop at Viet Tri station, train YB3 and train SP3. Train YB3 departs from Hanoi at 6:10 and arrives in Viet Tri at 8:20. Train SP3 departs from Hanoi at 22:00 and arrives in Viet Tri at 23:50. Only train YB3 stops at Tien Kien station at 8:55.

4.2.2 Road

From My Dinh bus station, there are many daily bus routes to communes in Phu Tho. You can freely choose a bus company that suits your schedule. If you want to go to Hung Temple by bus, you just need to choose a bus company that has a route to Phu Tho Town, these buses will pass through Hung Temple gate.

4.3 Traveling in Phu Tho

To travel in Phu Tho when coming here by public transport, you can use buses, taxis or rent motorbikes. Depending on your travel needs, you can choose the appropriate option.

Although motorbike rental services in Phu Tho are not yet developed. But if you really need to rent, you can apply a few small tips to find places that rent motorbikes.

• Pawn shops: This is a warehouse of old motorbikes, with many types of motorbikes for you to choose from. You can rent by the hour, by the day and even by the month.
• Areas around universities and colleges: These locations often have motorbike rental shops that cater to the student population of these schools.

5. Sightseeings in Phu Tho

5.1 Hung Temple

Hung Temple is also known as Hung Temple Historical Relic Site. This is a complex of temples and pagodas worshiping the Hung Kings and the royal family on Nghia Linh Mountain. It is associated with the Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day – Hung Temple Festival held at that location every year on the 10th day of the third lunar month. Currently, according to published scientific documents, most agree that the Hung Temple’s architectural foundation began to be built during the reign of King Dinh Tien Hoang. By the Later Le Dynasty (15th century), it was completely built to its current scale.

5.2 Lac Long Quan Temple

Lac Long Quan Temple was built on Sim Hill, about 1 km from Nghia Linh Mountain. This place has a prime location, with the position of “mountains facing water”. Sim Hill has the shape of a large turtle, with Thanh Long and Bach Ho on both sides, Hoc Trai Lake in front and the Red River flowing to the sea. The temple is located on the back of a turtle, representing the sacred and mysterious.

In addition, the main temple has an area of ​​210m², traditional T-shaped architecture, and ironwood interiors. People painted it with gold, covered it with fish-tail tiles, paved the floor with Bat Trang bricks, and paved it with green stone. The back palace has a statue of the National Ancestor Lac Long Quan with a majestic appearance. The statue is cast in bronze, weighs 1.5 tons, and is 1.98m high in a sitting position on a throne. They placed the statue on a stone pedestal carved with patterns according to Dong Son culture motifs. On both sides are statues of Lac Hau and Lac Tuong in a standing position, 1.80m high, each weighing 0.5 tons.

5.3 Hung Vuong Museum

Located on Tran Phu Street, on the shore of Van Lang Park Lake – the center of Viet Tri City. Hung Vuong Museum is likened to a “history book in physical form”. It attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world to visit, learn and explore the unique historical and cultural values ​​of the land of their ancestors.

Moreover, the Hung Vuong Museum is located in the center of the ancient capital of Van Lang. Therefore, it carries within it a huge historical and cultural treasure with more than 12,000 original artifacts. Among them, the Museum selected 2,000 beautiful and unique artifacts with high historical, cultural and aesthetic values. Easy to display in its exhibition space with 3 main contents: permanent exhibition; thematic exhibition and outdoor exhibition.

5.4 Bach Hac – Ben Got Tourist Area

Today’s Ben Got belongs to the ancient Tam Doi prefecture, there are still many historical and cultural relics. Legends and stories about the process of building and defending the country of our ancestors such as: “Hoa Long Thien Tu” in the past at Thong river wharf, next to the pagoda there is a rock by the river, on the surface there is still a footprint.

In addition, there are many fascinating stories and unique traditional festivals on this land. Such as: Boat racing festival, Banh day pounding festival, … telling about the formation of village names, hamlet names, river names. Or the traditional cultural activities of the Vietnamese people associated with the Red River civilization and wet rice civilization.

5.5 Thien Co temple

Located in the territory of the ancient capital of Van Lang, Thien Co temple solemnly sits on a small hill in Huong Lan village, Trung Vuong commune, Viet Tri city, Phu Tho. This is the temple to worship the teacher couple Vu The Lang. They were the first teachers of the nation who taught the two princesses Tien Dung – Ngoc Hoa, the daughters of the 18th Hung King.

5.6 Tam Giang temple – Dai Bi pagoda

The national historical and cultural relic site of Tam Giang temple – Dai Bi pagoda is located in Bach Hac ward, Viet Tri city, Phu Tho. The temple is located on the left bank of the confluence of three rivers: the Red River, the Lo River, and the Da River, which people have long called the Hac junction. This is a beautiful landscape of the Ancestral Land, attracting many tourists to visit and worship.

5.7 Hung Lo Ancient Village

Hung Lo used to be a fertile land with a long history of development. Hung Lo Communal House is a complex of relics with outstanding cultural and historical values ​​in the Ancestral Land, dating back more than 300 years. Through many historical ups and downs, the communal house still preserves its architectural, cultural and historical values ​​intact.

5.8 Hung Lo Communal House

Hung Lo Communal House, located in Hung Lo Ancient Village, is located along the Lo River, about 10km east of Hung Temple. Hung Lo Communal House was recognized as a national historical relic in 1990. Legend has it that this is a sacred land where King Hung once rested during an excursion. Later, people built a temple to worship her, and during the reign of Le Hy Tong (1697), the communal house was built, facing Nghia Linh mountain,…

5.9 Cat Tuong Pagoda

Tien Cat Temple and Cat Tuong Pagoda are located on the bank of the Red River in Anh Dung quarter, Tien Cat ward, Viet Tri city. Tien Temple worships Mother Goddess Long Hong Dang Ngan, she was the Queen of Xich Quy country, wife of King Kinh Duong Vuong, mother of King Lac Long Quan. She fought side by side with her husband in the early days of founding the country, in educating the people. And she was given the title “Vi Cung Chinh Khon” by King Kinh Duong Vuong and awarded Tien Cat palace. When she died, this place was converted into the Tien Cat mausoleum, which has been looked after and preserved by the people for thousands of years.

5.10 Barringtonia acutangula Complex

The Barringtonia acutangula complex is recognized as a heritage tree located at Go Tho, Chuong Xa commune. From afar, the Barringtonia acutangula complex looks like a giant bonsai pot or a dense forest. This Loc Vung population has more than 80 trees, located on a mound only about 500 m2 wide. It belongs to Lang Chuong lagoon, also known as Vinh go. Very few documents record the exact age of this Loc Vung population, but many people estimate it to be more than 1,000 years old.

5.11 Ao Chau lagoon

Located in the area of ​​Am Thuong town, Yen Son commune. Ao Chau lagoon has a water surface area of ​​over 300 hectares emerging in the middle of a midland hill area, creating 99 channels deep into a large hilly area with an area of ​​over 1,000 hectares. Moreover, the water in the lagoon is always clear and clean, the average depth of the water is from 8 to 10m, the deepest point is 15m.

In addition, the hills of dirt emerging in the middle of the immense lagoon are planted with native plants such as tea and palm trees. Especially the hills of lychee ripening red lychee in the summer every year create a beautiful landscape painting. The mountains and hills around the lake are lush green forests creating a very poetic landscape.

Ao Chau lagoon has been planned to be built into an eco-tourism area. With a system of luxury hotels, resorts with entertainment such as boating, boat racing on the lagoon surface.

5.12 Temple of the National Mother Au Co

The temple is located in the middle of a rice field by the Thao River in Hien Luong commune, Ha Hoa. Legend has it that among the 50 children who followed mother Au Co up the mountain, the eldest son stopped in Phong Chau to build the capital Van Lang and ruled the country for 18 generations, called the Hung Kings. The remaining forty-nine children followed their mother upstream of the Thao River. When they arrived at the Hien Luong area, they saw beautiful mountains and rivers, and fertile land. They set up camps to reclaim land and establish villages, teaching the villagers how to grow rice, raise silkworms, etc.

The main ceremony at the Au Co Temple is on January 7, lasting for three days. After the female sacrifice, the Mother Temple ceremony is held to offer incense and prayers. On this occasion, in front of the temple yard and at the village communal house, there are many local folk games such as: capturing the flag, playing phet, singing teasing, singing xoan, etc. In particular, there is also the custom of making lime cakes from sticky rice flour and sugarcane juice, a famous delicacy of the Ha Hoa region.

5.13 Ao Gioi – Suoi Tien

Ao Gioi – Suoi Tien is located in Ha Hoa, Phu Tho. On both sides of the road to Ao Gioi – Suoi Tien, there are hundreds of large and small mountain peaks with an average height of 500 – 600m above sea level. With a peak of 1,200m, Na Mountain stands tall and majestic, looking like a fulcrum of the vast midland region. Moreover, it is also covered in a dense green color of tropical trees, crowded together in layers and layers. With many rare species of trees such as ironwood, lim, mahogany, yellow heart,… In addition, in the forest there are also herds of monkeys, deer, roe deer, wild boars, civets,…

5.14 Van Hoi Lagoon

Van Hoi Lagoon has an area of ​​over 200 hectares, the water depth is from 7m to 8m, the deepest point reaches 20 m. The Lagoon has an open water supply and drainage system, so the water level is always stable, the difference between the rainy season and the dry season is only about 1.3 m. Moreover, the water in the Lagoon is very clear and clean. In addition, around the Lagoon is a system of mountains, hills and forests of surrounding communes, creating a poetic landscape. In particular, there are about 40 islands on the surface of the lagoon, the largest island has an area of ​​10 hectares, the rest are small islands from 0.5 to 1 hectare with trees such as: Palm, tea, acacia … creating a charming landscape.

5.15 Xuan Son National Park

Xuan Son National Park is more than 15,000 hectares wide, ranking 12th out of 15 largest national parks in Vietnam. The park is considered a “green lung”, an attractive tourist destination located in the Northwest of Phu Tho. In addition, with a forest cover of up to 84%, the quality of forest ecosystems is stable and well protected. Therefore, the park is considered a place with clean, cool air and water environments, with an average annual temperature of 22-23 degrees Celsius.

Moreover, on a day in Xuan Son, the weather has the characteristics of 4 seasons. The cool mornings of spring, the warm noons of summer, the cool afternoons of autumn, and the chilly evenings of winter. This is the advantage of the park in developing ecotourism and resort tourism.

In particular, there are currently 365 species of animals, of which 46 are listed in the Vietnam Red Book and 18 are listed in the World Red Book. Species typical of the Northwest fauna include gray langurs, dog-billed gibbons, silver-cheeked civets, white-tailed red-bellied squirrels, bears, leopards, etc. As for birds, there are pheasants, money chickens, ground eagles, etc. In particular, mountain goats are the most numerous in Vietnam.

In addition, the park also has 726 species of higher plants, of which 52 belong to the phylum Dendrobium and Gymnosperm. Located in the interface area of ​​two Malay and South China flora streams. The flora in Xuan Son is dominated by re, chestnut, oak and magnolia species.

5.16 Coi village

This is the oldest village of the Dao Tien people, the last village of Xuan Son National Park. Because of the nine-spurred chicken, a species that seems to only exist in the legend of Son Tinh Thuy Tinh, Coi village is now known to many people. From a remote residential area deep in the core area of ​​Xuan Son National Park. Today, Ban Coi has become a place that attracts many tourists as well as traders to buy this type of chicken for consumption.

5.17 Long Coc Tea Hill

Phu Tho has long been famous for its tea growing land, with a tea growing area of ​​over 12 thousand hectares and a huge output of fresh tea buds. Anyone who has been to the midland hills of Phu Tho in the Tan Son and Thanh Son areas will never forget the lush green tea hills. They look like layers upon layers of raspberries, creating a fascinating natural landscape. Long Coc Tea Hill in Tan Son is ranked as one of the most beautiful tea hills in Vietnam.

5.18 Khe Pass

Khe Pass is the natural border between Phu Tho and Lao Cai provinces. From Hanoi, go straight through Thu Cuc commune to reach Khe Pass. After passing Khe Pass, you will reach Van Chan, Yen Bai province. Previously, Khe Pass was a “fear” for drivers and night travelers. After being repaired, the nearly 30km long pass road not only facilitates traffic but also becomes a familiar destination for backpackers.

5.19 Thanh Thuy Hot Spring

Thanh Thuy Hot Spring Resort is located in La Phu and Bao Yen communes, Phu Tho province. It is more than 40km from Viet Tri city, bordering Hanoi, on the left side of the Da River, opposite Ba Vi mountain. Thanh Thuy Hot Spring Resort is a prime location with hot mineral water resources. Along with the beautiful landscapes, Thanh Thuy is considered a priceless natural resource given to Thanh Thuy to develop resort tourism.

Through scientific research documents, it is shown that Thanh Thuy mineral water has a temperature ranging from 37ºC – 54ºC and is a warm – hot mineral water. Mineral water contains many trace elements such as: Sodium, Calcium, Magnesium. In particular, it has a moderate Radon content to create a rare type of water that is very suitable for bathing, health recovery and treatment.

5.20 Thuong Long Lake

After being dammed, Thuong Long Lake, also known as Ly Lake, became one of the 10 lakes with the largest water reserves in Phu Tho. The lake is capable of irrigating over 500 hectares of rice and providing domestic water for thousands of people in Thuong Long, Nga Hoang, Hung Long, Phuc Khanh, Dong Thinh communes and Yen Lap town. The dam has created a green lake like a gem in the middle of the mountains and forests.

5.21 May Waterfall

On the top of Hem Mountain, there is a small lake, from which water flows down the mountainside. It forms Hem Stream and many successive waterfalls, called May Waterfall. May Waterfall consists of 13 large and small waterfalls, of which the highest is Thuong Waterfall with many columns of white foam.

On clear days, blending with the green of the mountains and forests and the blue of the sky are waterfalls like soft silk in the sky. When coming here, the air is cool, different from the air outside. You can immerse yourself in the cool stream after exploring the beautiful natural picture.

5.22 Mo Waterfall

Mo Waterfall is located in Cu Thang Commune, 15km from the central area. Previously, the waterfall had another name, Van Mo Waterfall, but gradually people called it Mo Waterfall. The name of the waterfall itself gives visitors an idea of ​​a rustic, yet poetic scene. The road to the waterfall is surrounded by the green of the mountains and forests, with wild flowers on both sides of the road. It contributes to the wild beauty of the landscape here.

5.23 Tam Dao

Tam Dao is a land that is considered as a “miniature Da Lat” in Phu Tho. It creates a highlight with mountains hidden in the mist and ancient French architectural works. You can visit the stone church, the national park, the television tower, worship the Ba Chua Thuong Ngan temple, Duc Thanh Tran temple. Or conquer the top of Rung Rinh to see the whole town blurred in the clouds.

5.24 Binh Son Tower

Located in the Vinh Khanh pagoda, Binh Son Tower is a unique architectural work from the Ly – Tran dynasties. People built it entirely of terracotta, the tower still retains its majesty over time. And now, this is the tallest terracotta tower that still exists today.

5.25 Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery

Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery is located on a high mountainside, among deep green pine forests and floating white clouds. It creates a majestic and peaceful scene. Moreover, this is also one of the three largest Zen monasteries in Vietnam. It not only possesses a majestic architecture but also brings a quiet space, helping visitors find peace in the midst of majestic nature.

Besides pilgrimage and worship activities, you can also immerse yourself in the vast mountain scenery, enjoying the fresh air. Nearby is Truc Lam An Tam Zen Monastery, a place for nuns to practice, adding to the tranquility. And it has become a meaningful stop for those who want to calm their souls.

5.26 Xa Huong Lake

Xa Huong Lake is hidden in the valley at the foot of Con Trau Mountain, in Minh Quang Commune. Although it is an artificial lake, this place still retains its wild beauty with large passages through the deep forest. The lake was built in 1984, the lake is more than 80 hectares wide, containing over 12 million liters of water. It possesses a strangely peaceful scene in the midst of majestic nature.

5.27 Dai Lai Lake

Dai Lai Lake is more than 40km from Hanoi, lying peacefully at the foot of Tam Dao Mountain. It looks like a green gem in the middle of the undulating mountains and forests. Among the hills and forests is a vast blue lake, reflecting the mountains and clouds all year round. When you come here, you can stroll, go boating, swim in the lake, fish, climb mountains or enjoy special ethnic dishes.

5.28 Huong Canh Pottery Village

Huong Canh is a Pottery Village with more than 300 years of history is famous for its durable ceramic pottery, emitting a metallic sound. Despite facing many challenges, the artisans here are still diligently preserving and creating, bringing Huong Canh pottery into modern life. This is an ideal stop for those who want to explore the beauty of traditional craft villages.

5.29 Ha Tien Pagoda

Ha Tien Pagoda was built in 1703, it is not only a sacred place of worship but also a destination with deep cultural values. In addition, the ancient Ngoc well, a source of water that never runs dry, is a highlight. Ha Tien Pagoda attracts visitors to pray for good luck during the Tet holiday. With a peaceful and quiet space, this is an ideal destination for those seeking peace of mind.

5.30 Ban Long Lake

Ban Long Lake in the south is like a dragon curling up to hug the foot of the mountain. And stretching its head towards Ban Long waterfall, splashing white foam in the middle of the forest. With a large area, the clear blue water is surrounded by steep mountains and rich forests. This will be an attractive destination for those who love nature and seek peace in the middle of the lush green forest.

5.31 Tich Son Pagoda

Tich Son Pagoda is an ancient sacred pagoda of Phu Tho. This is a spiritual destination that attracts visitors from all over. Based on the architecture, researchers believe that the pagoda was built at the end of the Later Le Dynasty and the beginning of the Nguyen Dynasty. After many restorations, the pagoda still retains its ancient beauty through many generations. 5.32 Dong Dau Archaeological Site

Dong Dau Archaeological Site is an attractive destination for those who love history. Through many excavations, this place has revealed thousands of ancient artifacts, recreating the lives of residents during the Hung King period. When you come here, you will discover traces of ancient civilizations and the development journey of Vietnamese culture.

5.33 Tam Dao Stone Church

Tam Dao Stone Church was built with the main material of stone along with an ancient architectural style. Moreover, the church is located in the middle of a majestic but extremely poetic mountain sky. The climate all year round at the church is always cool, fresh with light clouds covering the surroundings.

5.34 Dam Vac

Dam Vac has an area of ​​nearly 500 hectares with 23 main branches spreading throughout the city. With fresh air, poetic landscapes and a harmonious combination with modern works. It has created an attractive destination for visitors from near and far.

5.35 Tam Dao National Park

Tam Dao National Park is a high mountain area located entirely within the Tam Dao mountain range. This is a mountain range with over 20 peaks from 1,000m above sea level, the highest being Tam Dao Nord peak at 1,597m. Moreover, the terrain here is characterized by sharp peaks, very steep slopes, deep and thick divisions by many secondary storms almost perpendicular to the main storm. In addition, Tam Dao National Park is 34,995 ha wide. Of which, there are 26,163 ha of forest, mainly natural evergreen rainforest with a coverage of 70% of the total area of ​​the park.

In particular, Tam Dao National Park has 1,282 plant species belonging to 660 genera of 179 families of vascular plants. Among them are species typical for the subtropical region. And there are also 163 animal species belonging to 158 families of 39 orders.

5.36 Da Bac Cave

Da Bac Cave is one of the most interesting tourist destinations in Phu Tho. From Hoa Binh city, you need to travel about 50 km more to reach this location.

Da Bac Cave is also known as “Fairy Cave”. The cave has a total length of more than 70 m with a height of 2 m, so you can easily see the scenery inside the cave from the door. Inside the cave, lights are arranged, highlighting the beauty of the rocks and stalactites with different unique shapes.

5.37 Thang Thien Waterfall

If you are looking for a selfie location in Phu Tho with majestic natural scenery, Thang Thien waterfall is the most suitable destination.

The waterfall is surrounded by green forest with rich vegetation. The highlight of the waterfall is the cool, turquoise water that makes visitors fascinated every time they arrive in the area of ​​the waterfall. Not only that, the air around the stream also gives us a pleasant and refreshing feeling, dispelling everyday worries.

5.38 Hoa Binh hydroelectric reservoir

Hoa Binh hydroelectric lake is known as the largest artificial lake in Southeast Asia with a length of up to 70 km, spanning more than 17 communes in Phu tho. The Lake has a huge capacity and possesses 47 large and small islands.

The scenery inside the lake looks like an oil painting with many mysterious colors. The pristine but extremely poetic beauty of the hydroelectric lake makes this place attract many tourists to choose as their favorite destination every time they arrive in Phu Tho.

Currently, there are many islands in the lake area that have been invested in, renovated and developed into high-class ecological areas. Such as Green Island, Coconut Island or Coi Xay Gio Guest House.

5.39 Tien Phi Cave

Located on Thung Phi hill, Gai hamlet of Hoa Binh City, Tien Phi Cave possesses a strip of stalactites that look like the silhouette of a Fairy in a flying posture, very beautiful. Thanks to that magical beauty, this place was named Tien Phi cave.

On the journey to the cave, you will see the intertwined foliage of Poinciana trees, eucalyptus trees or green bamboo foliage. When entering the cave, you will immediately see the dark yellow ground, high rocky arches with colorful stalactites.

After a series of surprises at the beauty of the cave, you will see a large, semi-circular shaped fairy well with clear water. The beauty at Tien Phi Cave is like a masterpiece that makes many tourists captivated and linger forever.

5.40 Kim Boi Mineral Spring Tourist Area

Many tourists love this Phu Tho tourist destination for its clear, natural mineral water source. The temperature at this mineral spring usually stays between 34 and 36 degrees Celsius. Soak in the hot water when you come here, because the mineral water will help you treat arthritis, intestinal, stomach, and blood pressure diseases. …

Not only attractive with its unique underground mineral stream, this Phu Tho tourist destination also has a mineral mud bath service that is extremely good for your health, fun activities, entertainment and many attractive dishes waiting for you.

5.41 Dong Thech ancient tomb site

Located about 24 km from Hoa Binh city center, it will take you about 30 minutes to 45 minutes to get to Dong Thech ancient tomb site. You can save time and be more proactive in traveling by renting a motorbike.

Dong Thech ancient tomb is the resting place of the Dinh family for many generations. Surrounding the grave site are small hills. The most prominent feature of this Phu Tho tourist destination is the tomb of Chieu Dong – a general who helped King Le Trung Hung fight the enemy in the past.

5.42 Thung Khe Pass

Do you want to see the whole scenery of Mai Chau? Don’t forget to visit Phu Tho tourist destination – Thung Khe pass. This is a favorite place for tour groups.

When you walk on this road, you will satisfy your passion for backpacking with winding curves that challenge the driver. Because the mountainous terrain is characterized by relatively steep slopes, remember to drive at a moderate speed and pay attention to safety.

When stopping at the pass, you think you are lost in Europe’s scenery. You can freely see the green of the rice fields far away. This feeling of peace and freshness is hard to find anywhere else.

5.43 Ban Lac tourist area

Fall is a great time for tourists to set foot in the Ban Lac tourist area and immerse themselves in the poetic beauty of the Northwest mountains. Clouds are floating across the horizon or watching flowers bloom in the sky creating many interesting colors.

The roads around the village have been rebuilt to be extremely clean and spacious. Surrounding the village is the peaceful beauty of the village’s bamboo ramparts and 2m high stilt houses, typical of the Thai ethnic people.

The most wonderful activity is the feeling of cycling around the village, looking at the green rice fields, listening to the clearest sound of the gurgling stream. Rent yourself a traditional Thai outfit and take beautiful photos to mark this trip.

5.44 Thung Nai

Possessing a unique terrain located in the middle of Hoa Binh Lake, Thung Nai is considered “Ha Long Bay on the mountain”. With a charming landscape, clear blue water reflects the clouds and interesting scattered limestone mountains.

If you have the opportunity to return to Thung Nai during your travel route, do not miss the opportunity to sit on a bamboo boat weaving through the rocky islands in the middle of the lake. The moment of sitting on a boat floating in the middle of the waves, listening to the swaying wind, rustling leaves and facing the majestic natural scenery will definitely be a medicine to help you recharge your energy.

5.45 Mo Luong Cave

About 60 km from the center of Hoa Binh city, your journey to explore Muong will become more interesting when visiting Mo Luong cave for an excursion. This is the cave associated with the Thai people’s legend of snakes turning into dragons.

Mo Luong Cave is a complex of four caves with each cave possessing its own unique beauty. Coming to Mo Luong cave during your Phu Tho travel route, you will admire the shimmering and mysterious beauty that Mother Nature bestows on this cave complex.

5.46 Mai Chau Valley

Located in the heart of the valley, Mai Chau is considered a gift of nature to this land. With a picture of peace and rolling mountains, the house weaves its way between green upland fields fragrant with the smell of new rice.

During your Phu Tho travel itinerary, if you have the opportunity to go to Mai Chau valley in the fall days, you will see the space here as bright with attractive golden rice fields. On the contrary, in the last days of winter and early spring, the space in Mai Chau seems to be full of life with forests of peach blossoms, banyan flowers, and plum blossoms blooming, welcoming a new year.

When coming to Mai Chau valley, you will admire the stilt houses of highland ethnic people scattered throughout the valley. Among them, Pom Coong village and Nhot village with typical cultural beauty of the Thai people will definitely help you discover many interesting things in Mai Chau here.

5.47 Thac Bo Cave

It belongs to the Thac Bo Lord relic complex, an ideal stopping place on a Phu Tho tour that is known to many people. Thac Bo Cave attracts the attention of many tourists thanks to its beautiful natural landscape.

During the journey to visit the famous Thac Bo Temple, visitors will be able to explore the beautiful Thac Bo located cave right in the middle of charming mountain scenery. Surely this will be an extremely attractive tourist destination that you definitely should not miss.

5.48 Lung Van

Lung Van is always mentioned as the beautiful and vast “roof of the Muong land”. It’s located only about 40 km from the center of Hoa Binh city, is an extremely prominent tourist destination with majestic and beautiful natural scenery that fascinates many people.

Although still quite sparse, with little human presence, the natural scenery here does not become desolate. On the contrary, if you have the opportunity to visit Lung Van, you will feel extremely peaceful and comfortable, admiring the beautiful natural scenery that will make you love this small land even more.

5.49 Muong Cultural Space Museum

Muong Cultural Space Museum is a typical artistic work of Phu Tho. This work originates from the inspiration of an extremely talented young artist. With his strong desire, he recreated the living space of the Muong people extremely realistically.

The Muong Cultural Space Museum is only 2 hectares. But it really makes tourists traveling to Phu Tho overwhelmed by its impressive architecture and diverse scenery. This museum has most completely recreated the typical customs and cultural features of the Muong people living here. And if you have the opportunity to travel to Phu Tho, try once to visit this extremely hot tourist destination.

5.50 Pom Coong village

Considered one of the beautiful Phu Tho tourist destinations that attracts the attention of many tourists, Pom Coong village immerses visitors in its beautiful natural scenery and introduces them to the unique culture of the local people. The unique stilt houses that make Pom Coong village unique will immediately attract you.

6. Specialties when traveling to Phu tho

When traveling to Hoa Binh, visitors will not only admire the majestic and poetic natural scenery, but you will also have the opportunity to enjoy the specialties in Vietnam coming from this beautiful land.

6.1. Specialties

6.1.1 Grilled fish

Fish as small as 2 fingers are caught in the Da River. After cleaning, grill the bamboo sticks, sprinkle with salt, wrap in banana leaves and grill again.

6.1.2 Local Pig

Pigs are raised on the hills so they have a naturally sweet and fragrant taste. After processing, the pork is presented on a leafy tray with all sorts of delicious dishes and wild vegetables that look extremely eye-catching.

6.1.3 Thung Nai Chicken

Soft and fragrant chicken, best grilled over charcoal with golden skin.

6.1.4 Lam rice, colorful sticky rice

Made from upland sticky rice with eye-catching colors from the colors of forest leaves. Sticky sticky rice eaten with sesame salt or peanut salt is irresistibly delicious.

6.1.5 Mixed wild vegetables

Steaming and dipping vegetable dishes, wild leaves, and medicinal herbs such as banana flowers, stinging nettle, spotted vegetables, in fish broth creates a unique and delicious flavor that is hard to describe.

6.1.6 Bitter bamboo shoots

When you come here, remember to enjoy the bitter bamboo shoots that people take from the forest. You can buy fresh bamboo shoots to stir-fry, sour bamboo shoots, or dried bamboo shoots, all of which are quite delicious.

6.1.7 Buffalo meat cooked in Lom leaves

This is a popular dish of the Muong ethnic people. The tender buffalo meat is soaked in spices and the sourness of the Lom leaves. Anyone who eats it once is guaranteed to be immediately fascinated.

6.1.8 Grilled Vegetables

Rau Dau is a medicinal herb that is difficult to grow and hard to find, so this is a rare cool and nutritious dish of the Muong people that not everyone gets to enjoy.

6.1.9 Uoi cake

This is an indispensable cake in the Tet feast of the Muong people, expressing love and solidarity.

6.1.10 Kien dot beef

Kien dot beef is a unique dish made by placing fresh beef in an ant nest on a tree. They let the ants crawl on it before grilling it over hot coals. The beef is soft and fragrant after being cooked, and when dipped with salt, pepper, lemon or ginger sauce, it becomes even more flavorful. In particular, the flavor of the ant-bitten beef will depend on the type of ant that bit the meat. If it is bitten by red ants, the meat will have a fragrant smell and a sour taste. If it is bitten by ants, the flavor will be characteristically spicy and sweet.

6.1.11 Lap Thach fish sauce

Traveling to Phu Tho without enjoying Lap Thach fish sauce is a real pity. The dish is made from snakehead fish, silver carp or grass carp fermented with corn bran, roasted beans and guava leaves. Through the natural fermentation process, the fish has a light acidity, firm flesh, and a rich aroma. When fried or grilled, the crust is crispy, the inside is rich, creating an unforgettable flavor.

6.1.12 Tam Dao chayote

Thanks to the cool climate all year round, Tam Dao chayote is young, naturally crispy and sweet. Moreover, boiled chayote shoots, stir-fried with garlic or stir-fried with beef all retain their characteristic refreshing taste. When steamed or cooked in soup, chayote has a soft, chewy texture, and can be eaten forever without getting bored. This is also a simple hometown gift but is loved by many tourists.

6.1.13 Hill pork

Pigs are raised naturally on the hills, eat vegetables and fruits and run around a lot, so the meat is firm, delicious, low in fat and is 100% clean food. Dishes made from Vinh Phuc hill pigs such as steamed, grilled, stir-fried or fake dog meat, … are all “top notch”.

6.1.14 Hill chicken

The chickens are raised on open hillsides, the meat is firm, sweet, not tough but not mushy. Tam Dao hill chickens are processed into steamed, boiled, grilled, fried dishes, … all of which are attractive. You can buy whole chickens or chickens wrapped in clay to invite your relatives to enjoy.

6.1.15 Bamboo rice of Muong people

This is a traditional dish of the Muong ethnic group. The rice used is the number 1 delicious sticky rice, cooked in long bamboo tubes from 20-30cm with a secret recipe to bring an extremely delicious flavor.

6.1.16 Phu Tho ear cake

The cake is quite simple to prepare with many ingredients such as pork, rice and spices. After being marinated, the pork will be wrapped in the rice mixture and then steamed. Ear cake is sold quite a lot on many streets and markets in Phu Tho.

6.1.17 Sour Meat

This dish uses pork belly and lean meat, then ferments according to special recipes of the Muong people. Sour meat is often eaten with many types of vegetables such as ginseng and fig leaves, bringing an unforgettable flavor.

6.1.18 Rock moss

This type of moss is grown in many river and stream areas. The best rock moss is grilled rock moss, with this dish, the moss will be mixed with many spices, then rolled in papaya leaves and grilled, when cooked, it will bring a very fragrant, nutty flavor.

6.2. Specialties as gifts

6.2.1 Can wine

Wine made from famous leaf yeast of the Muong people is a famous specialty that you should buy as a gift. Can wine and friends gather together to enjoy the smooth, sweet and ecstatic sweetness.

6.2.2 Ky Son red kumquat

Going along Highway 6 from Dan Hoa commune to Dan Ha commune in July, there will be countless shops. The kumquats here are thick, sweet and fragrant, so anyone who buys them to eat and give as gifts will be delighted.

6.2.3 Cao Phong orange

A famous specialty that everyone knows. Oranges that are round, sweet and of guaranteed quality are most often bought as gifts by tourists when coming to Phu Tho.

6.2.4 Tan Lac red grapefruit

Round fruit, yellow skin, bright red segments. When eaten, it has a characteristic sweet taste and is quite succulent.

6.2.5 Lac Son honey

Mixed honey with a characteristic yellow color. Natural forest honey should ensure quality and can be preserved for a long time.

6.2.6 Shan Tuyet Pa Co tea

Tea is harvested from hundreds of years old trees naturally, without chemicals. The brewed tea has a very beautiful color and is mildly acrid, so connoisseurs can smell the quality just by smelling it.

6.2.7 Tam Dao chayote

This is a vegetable grown a lot in Tam Dao. People often use it to boil, stir-fry garlic or stir-fry beef. This is also a rustic gift that tourists choose to buy as gifts for family and friends.

6.2.8 Lung Ngoa cake

Ngoa cake is a long-standing specialty of Lung Ngoa villagers, often appearing on holidays, Tet or important events. The cake has the chewy taste of sticky rice, the sweet taste of molasses, the rich taste of green beans and peanuts.

6.2.9 Tay Dinh gio cake

Gio cake, also known as sunny cake, when peeled off has a transparent color like honey, dipping it with a little honey is the best.

6.2.10 Lap Thach roasted rice cake

Rice cake is one of the famous dishes in Lap Thach with a mild sweet taste, not harsh, crispy. This specialty is rustic but makes Vinh Phuc people far from home miss their homeland deeply.

6.2.11 Doan Hung grapefruit

Doan Hung grapefruit is a famous grapefruit variety in Phu Tho and throughout the North. This special fruit is grown in Doan Hung land, formerly known as “Phu Doan grapefruit”. This culinary dish of the ancestral land is also valuable in that it can be preserved for several months to half a year, even when the skin is dry, when cut open to eat, it is still sweet, fragrant, and retains its original flavor.

6.2.12 Hong Gia Thanh

Hong Gia Thanh originated in Tien Cat, Viet Tri city, Phu Tho. It was transplanted by people to grow in family gardens in Gia Thanh commune, Phu Ninh district for at least 50 – 70 years, some trees are nearly 70 years old. Currently, in Phu Ninh area, there are about 50 hectares of Hong growing area, bringing income to the people.

6.2.13 Phu Tho Tea

Each land with different soil conditions has brought Phu Tho tea products many unique flavors. Up to now, Phu Tho tea products have been exported to many countries around the world and are widely known by domestic consumers.

6.2.14 Duc My Soy Sauce

The attractive aroma, rich, sweet, fatty taste and golden yellow color of Duc My Soy Sauce. It makes those who have enjoyed it will never forget the special flavor of the country’s soy sauce here

The ingredients to make Duc My Soy Sauce are sticky rice, soybeans, salt and water. Although the process of making soy sauce here is no different from the traditional process: drying, molding, fermenting, … But perhaps it is the fresh water source taken from a depth of hundreds of meters under a thick layer of laterite that creates the special flavor of this type of soy sauce.

7. Accommodation when traveling to Phu Tho

Besides choosing the above places to visit and have fun, choosing a hotel in Phu Tho that suits your needs and budget will also make an important contribution to making your trip to Phu Tho complete. more complete.

Visitors can refer to some accommodation facilities below:

7.1 High-class resort

If you want a complete vacation, choose high-end resorts for a true wellness retreat. The beautiful resorts in Hoa Binh are world-class, modern, comfortable and combined with bold indigenous architecture for an impressive vacation.

• Mai Chau Ecolodge. Address: Na Thia village, Na Phon, Mai Chau, Phu Tho.
• Serena Resort Kim Boi. Address: Khai Doi hamlet, Sao Bay commune, Kim Boi, Phu Tho.
• Flamingo Dai Lai Resort. Address: Dai Quang Village, Ngoc Thanh, Phuc Yen, Phu Tho.
• FLC Vinh Phuc. Address: Trung Area, Highway 13, Vinh Thinh, Vinh Tuong, Phu Tho.

7.2. Hotels and motels:

• Sakura Hotel Hoa Binh. Address: 4, Le Thanh Tong Street, Tan Thinh, Phu Tho.
• Venus Tam Dao Hotel. Address: Tam Dao, Phu Tho.
• Muong Thanh Luxury Phu Tho. Address: Lot CC17, Hung Vuong Square, Phu Tho.
• SOJO Hotel Viet Tri. Address: 938 Hung Vuong Street, Tho Son Ward, Viet Tri, Phu Tho.

7.3. Homestay:

If you are a person who loves to explore, choosing local Homestays will give you the opportunity to learn more deeply about Muong culture.

• Hiep Huan Stilt House. Address: Chieng Chau commune, Mai Chau, Phu Tho.
• Muong Retreat. Address: 202 Tay Tien, Thai Binh, Phu Tho.
• Mai Chau Countryside Homestay. Address: No. 30 Pom Coong, Mai Chau Town, Phu Tho.
• Mai Chau Green Ecohouse. Address: 185 Ban Lac, Mai Chau, Phu Tho. • Linh Soi Homestay. Address: Lac village, Chieng Chau commune, Mai Chau Phu Tho.

8. Some important notes when traveling to Phu Tho

To have a complete trip to Phu Tho, you should note some important things below:

• Prepare suitable luggage: The terrain is mainly mountainous and has many steep sections, you should bring sneakers or flat sandals for easy movement. Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with poor grip because they can easily cause slipping, especially when trekking or hiking.
• Dress neatly and politely: When visiting sacred places such as Hung Temple, choose polite and discreet clothes. If participating in outdoor activities or ecotourism (such as at Xuan Son National Park or Tam Dao mountain area). You should bring comfortable clothes, hats, light windbreakers and drinking water to keep your energy.
• Pay attention to the weather: The mountainous area has a rapidly changing climate, especially at night it is often cold. Check the weather forecast before going to prepare clothes and a reasonable schedule.
• Book rooms and services in advance: During the Hung Kings’ Commemoration Festival (10/3 Lunar calendar) or weekends, the number of visitors to Phu Tho is very large. You should book rooms at least a week in advance to avoid room shortages. At the same time, you need to carefully check the prices of services and means of transportation to avoid being “ripped off”.
• Safety when participating in outdoor activities: If you go trekking, mountain climbing or kayaking, you must always follow the instructions of the guide. Do not separate from the group or go alone in the mountains. Always wear a life jacket when participating in water activities.

It is worthy visiting Phu Tho

• Prepare necessary personal items: Bring identification documents, cash (in case of losing phone signal affecting online payment), basic medicine and insect repellent products such as mosquito repellent.
• Rent a car and move around: If you rent a motorbike in areas like Tam Dao, ask for the price carefully. And you also make sure to fill up the gas before moving to places far from the center.
• Light luggage: Prioritize small suitcases or backpacks that are easy to carry, convenient for continuous movement between many locations.
• Preserving the landscape and environment: Be conscious of preserving the landscape and environment of the destination to always be green, clean and beautiful. Do not litter.

Careful preparation and proactiveness with the above notes will help you have a safe, comfortable trip and many memorable experiences when exploring Phu Tho and the surrounding attractive destinations.

The mountainous region of Phu Tho still hides many wild beauties, which can make tourists who are passionate about exploring captivated at first sight. With a complete set of Phu Tho travel experiences from Origin Vietnam, why do you hesitate to make plans to explore this beautiful land?

Plan your Vietnam tour to Phu Tho? contact Origin Vietnam immediately – a professional tour operator in Vietnam. Our team of experienced, dedicated, and thoroughly knowledgeable consultants and local guides will take you on a journey to discover Phu Tho, providing exciting experiences and creating unforgettable memories.