A corner of the highland commune, Van Son, Tan Lac district from the height.
Visitors to the 3 highland communes are welcomed by breathtaking scenery and cool summer temperatures. In winter, it may be colder, but the sunny days create stunning cloud-covered mountain vistas. The area features the remarkable caves such as Nam Sơn Cave, a national heritage site and Nui Kien Cave, a provincial heritage site. Additionally, there are the other attractions including Lung Van summit, Lung Van terraced fields, Nam Sơn’s ancient oranges and Quyet Chien chayote valley.
Mr. Bui Minh Hong, Head of Tan Lạc’s Department of Culture, Science, and Information, says, "With the support from the working group implementing Resolution 13, the district has actively mobilized and guided the local people in the highland communes to engage in tourism. As a result, the public awareness has improved, and the residents are beginning to recognize the economic benefits of tourism. Two community-based tourism sites have been established, with two more under development, marking a promising start for Tan Lac’s tourism sector.”
One example is Dinh Thi Truong’s family in Chieng Hamlet, Van Son commune, who transformed their stilt house into Lung Van Homestay. With an investment of nearly VND 400 million (approx. USD 16,000), including the loans, the homestay now accommodates 15–20 guests with thư improved amenities. Ms. Truong has also taken part in tourism training classes organized by the local authorities so that she can clearly know about the tourists’ need and improve the family’s ecomony towards the sustainable tourism development. "Guests often request traditional Muong dishes and are very satisfied with our services,” she says.
The traditional culture, warm hospitality and authentic local experiences make Tan Lac an appealing destination for domestic and international travelers. Mr. Vu Van Hung, a tourist from Long Bien, Hanoi, says: "This is our second visit, and each time we feel different. We enjoy living alongside the local people, participating in the daily activities and learning about their culture and lifestyle. Thanks to this, everyboby has opportunities to explore and learn about the local traditional culrute. The climate is fresh, and the people, especially in Van Son and among Muong ethnic group, are genuine and welcoming”.
A must-visit attraction when arriving in the highland commune is Lung Van market, taking place every Tuesday and Sunday. The market features a wide variety of the local specialties, including Nam Son’s ancient oranges, chayote, forest mushrooms, and traditional herbal medicines...
Over the past year, in line with Resolution 13-NQ/TU on"Developing the highland communes of Tan Lac district into a provincial-level tourism area by 2030, with a vision to 2050"..., the local authorities have invested in infrastructure and ramped up efforts to promote the region’s tourism potential. In 2024, Tan Lac welcomed 294,500 turns of visitors, significantly contributing to the district's socioeconomic development.
Mr. Ha Van Ha, the Vice Chairman of Van Son Commune’s People’s Committee, notes, "Homestay models have helped attract tourists and promote the local agricultural products. Inthe cominh time, we plan to expand the homestay network to Hay Duoi Hamlet”.
With its natural advantages and strong cultural identity, the highland communes of Tan Lac are poised to become ideal destinations for eco-tourism, wellness retreats, and experiential travel, closely linked with the development of commercial services and clean agriculture. Currently, the local authorities and sectors are determined to leverage these strengths to develop attractive tourism products, draw more visitors, create livelihoods for residents, improve quality of life, and promote sustainable socio-economic development in the region.