Perfect Excursions to Stunning Pu Luong Tour from Hanoi
Embark on the Perfect Excursions to Stunning Pu Luong Tour from Hanoi! Located in the heart of Thanh Hoa Province, Pu Luong Nature Reserve is a hidden gem renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse ecosystems. Just a short drive from the bustling city of Hanoi, our excursions to this stunning region offer a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Experience the awe-inspiring terraced rice fields, lush valleys, and towering limestone peaks as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Pu Luong. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, these excursions promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of Vietnam.
Detailed Itinerary: Excursions to Stunning Pu Luong from Hanoi
Come to Ban Don Pu Luong
Day 1: Journey from Hanoi to Pu Luong
06:00 AM: Departure from Hanoi
Good morning, adventurers! Our exciting journey begins bright and early at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, located at 1 Nguyen Van Huyen, Cau Giay, Hanoi. As we set off on our Perfect Excursions to Stunning Pu Luong Tour from Hanoi, prepare to be captivated by the scenic beauty that unfolds before your eyes. We’ll travel through the Thang Long Highway, Quoc Oai, Xuan Mai, and Ho Chi Minh Road, each segment offering its unique vistas of the Vietnamese countryside.
11:30 AM: Arrival at Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Welcome to Pu Luong! Upon arrival, we’ll check-in at the charming Pu Luong Retreat in Ban Don, Thanh Lam, Ba Thuoc, Thanh Hoa. Nestled in the heart of the nature reserve, this retreat offers a perfect blend of comfort and rustic charm, providing the ideal base for our adventures.
12:00 PM: Lunch with Local Specialties
It’s time to indulge in a delicious lunch featuring local specialties such as Co Lung duck, hill chicken, and local pork. Savor the authentic flavors of Pu Luong as you prepare for an afternoon of exploration.
02:30 PM: Visit Ban Don Village
After lunch, we will head to Ban Don Village, a place renowned for its picturesque terraced fields and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the highlights:
Photography at Terraced Fields: Capture the stunning beauty of the terraced rice fields, an iconic symbol of Pu Luong. This is a photographer’s paradise, with breathtaking landscapes at every turn.
Cultural Exploration: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the local ethnic groups. Learn about their traditions, crafts, and daily life. The warmth and hospitality of the villagers will make this an enriching experience.
Swimming and Relaxation: Back at the resort, take a refreshing dip in the pool or simply relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
04:00 PM: Additional Local Experiences
For those looking to delve deeper into the local culture, we have some fantastic options:
Visit to Manh Cuong Homestay or Hieu Quan Restaurant: Enjoy more of the region’s delectable cuisine. These establishments offer traditional dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Traditional Dishes at Tuyet Huy Restaurant: Located on 15C Road, Ban Don, Tuyet Huy Restaurant serves up local favorites like bamboo-tube rice, fried stream fish, banana flower salad, grilled meat, and forest vegetables.
07:00 PM: Dinner at Pu Luong Retreat
As the day winds down, we’ll gather for a delightful dinner at Pu Luong Retreat. Enjoy a variety of local dishes and unwind with your fellow travelers. For an extra special evening, consider joining our optional Gala Dinner (additional cost), complete with entertainment and local performances. Afterwards, you have free time to explore or relax as you wish.
Day 2: Exploring Thac Hieu Waterfall and Return to Hanoi
Visit the cool Hieu waterfall
07:00 AM: Breakfast at the Resort
Rise and shine! Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the resort. Enjoy the tranquil morning atmosphere as you prepare for another day of adventure.
08:00 AM: Departure to Thac Hieu Waterfall
Our next stop is the spectacular Thac Hieu Waterfall, located 14 km from Ban Don. We’ll embark on a 1 km walk to reach the waterfall, passing through lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
Swimming in the Natural Pool: Once we arrive, take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters of the natural pool. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the waterfall.
Scenic Views and Photography: Don’t forget your camera! The waterfall and its surroundings offer stunning photo opportunities, capturing the essence of Pu Luong’s natural beauty.
Optional: Visit Phu Doan Market
If you’re joining us on a Thursday or Sunday, we have an additional treat for you – a visit to Phu Doan Market in Lung Niem, Ba Thuoc. This vibrant market is a cultural treasure trove:
Cultural Experience: Engage with locals and discover a wide array of local products. From fresh produce to handmade crafts, the market is a lively display of Pu Luong’s cultural richness.
Interaction with Locals: Learn about the daily lives of the local people, their traditions, and their crafts. This is a fantastic opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs and support the local community.
11:00 AM: Return to Pu Luong Retreat, Check-Out, and Lunch
After our morning adventures, we’ll return to Pu Luong Retreat. Take some time to freshen up and check out of your rooms. We’ll then enjoy a final lunch together, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past two days.
01:00 PM: Departure Back to Hanoi
It’s time to say goodbye to Pu Luong as we embark on our journey back to Hanoi. Relax and enjoy the scenic drive as we retrace our route, savoring the last glimpses of the beautiful countryside.
06:00 PM: Arrival in Hanoi
We arrive back at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, bringing our Excursions to Stunning Pu Luong from Hanoi to a close. We hope you’ve had an unforgettable experience and look forward to welcoming you on another adventure soon.
Local Specialties to Buy as Souvenirs
One of the most delightful aspects of the Excursions to Stunning Pu Luong from Hanoi is discovering the unique local specialties that make perfect souvenirs. These items not only capture the essence of Pu Luong but also allow you to bring a piece of this stunning region back home.
Ruou Sieu Men La (Forest Leaf Wine)
Ruou Sieu Men La is a traditional wine made from forest leaves, a true embodiment of the local culture in Pu Luong. This wine is not just a drink but a symbol of hospitality and festivity among the ethnic Thai people.
Description and Cultural Significance:
Ruou Sieu Men La is known for its unique taste and aromatic fragrance, created by fermenting a variety of forest leaves. Each sip offers a blend of flavors that are earthy, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy.
This wine holds cultural significance as it is often used in traditional ceremonies and celebrations, symbolizing unity and joy.
Unique Preparation Process and Flavors:
The preparation of Ruou Sieu Men La is an intricate process that involves fermenting leaves such as Khăm Vặc, trầu, quế, and nhân trần, along with other herbs and spices. This fermentation process can take up to two months, ensuring the perfect blend of flavors.
The result is a smooth, mildly alcoholic beverage with a distinctive forest aroma, making it a cherished souvenir for anyone visiting Pu Luong.
Tra Soi Rung (Forest Jasmine Tea)
Tra Soi Rung, or Forest Jasmine Tea, is another exquisite specialty from Pu Luong. This tea is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits, making it a popular choice for visitors.
Health Benefits and Unique Taste:
Tra Soi Rung is known for its refreshing and soothing properties. It is rich in antioxidants and is believed to aid in digestion and boost the immune system.
The tea has a unique taste that combines the delicate flavor of jasmine with a subtle hint of forest herbs, providing a calming and aromatic experience.
Cultural Importance and Traditional Preparation:
Traditionally, the leaves used for this tea are harvested from the forest and dried carefully to preserve their natural essence. This method has been passed down through generations, ensuring that each cup of tea is steeped in tradition and care.
Drinking Tra Soi Rung is not just about enjoying a beverage; it is about embracing a piece of Pu Luong’s cultural heritage.
Mat Ong Rung (Forest Honey)
Mat Ong Rung (Forest Honey)
Mat Ong Rung or Forest Honey is a pure, natural product that reflects the untouched beauty of Pu Luong’s forests. This honey is a must-buy for its taste and health benefits.
Nutritional Benefits and Taste Profile:
Forest honey is packed with nutrients and antioxidants. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a healthy sweetener for your daily diet.
The taste of Mat Ong Rung is rich and complex, with floral and woody notes that capture the essence of Pu Luong’s forests.
How It Is Harvested and Its Significance to Local Communities:
The honey is harvested sustainably from the wild beehives in the forest, ensuring minimal impact on the environment. Local communities take great care in gathering this honey, maintaining traditional methods that have been used for centuries.
Purchasing forest honey supports these communities and helps preserve their traditional ways of life.
Siro Quyt Hoi (Hoi Orange Syrup)
Siro Quyt Hoi is a delightful and refreshing syrup made from the unique Hoi orange, a specialty fruit of the region.
Preparation Process and Health Benefits:
The syrup is made by extracting the juice from Hoi oranges and combining it with natural sweeteners like ginger and rock sugar. The process involves careful simmering to concentrate the flavors.
Siro Quyt Hoi is rich in vitamin C and other essential nutrients, making it a great natural remedy for boosting the immune system and refreshing your body.
Popularity as a Local Delicacy:
This syrup is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its tangy and sweet flavor. It can be enjoyed on its own, mixed with water as a refreshing drink, or used as a topping for desserts.
Mang Nua Say Kho (Dried Bamboo Shoots)
Mang Nua Say Kho, or Dried Bamboo Shoots, are a staple ingredient in many traditional Vietnamese dishes and a popular souvenir from Pu Luong.
Culinary Uses and Preservation Process:
Dried bamboo shoots are used in a variety of dishes, from soups to stir-fries. They add a distinct texture and flavor, making them a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
The shoots are carefully dried to preserve their nutrients and flavor. This preservation process ensures that they can be stored for long periods without losing their quality.
Popularity as a Gift and Its Flavor Profile:
Mang Nua Say Kho is a popular gift due to its unique taste and cultural significance. The shoots have a slightly sweet and earthy flavor, which enhances the taste of any dish they are added to.
This product is a perfect souvenir, allowing you to bring a taste of Pu Luong back home to share with family and friends.
Tips and Useful Information for the Tour Excursions to Stunning Pu Luong from Hanoi
Participate in cultural activities with people
Best Time to Visit Pu Luong
Planning your Excursions to Stunning Pu Luong from Hanoi at the right time can make all the difference. The best seasons to visit Pu Luong are spring (February to April) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
In spring, you’ll witness the lush greenery and blooming flowers, making the landscapes even more stunning. Autumn, on the other hand, brings a golden hue to the terraced fields, offering breathtaking views and fantastic photo opportunities. Avoid the hot summer months and the rainy season to ensure you have the best experience possible.
Packing Essentials
Packing smartly is key to enjoying your Pu Luong Tours. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:
Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s rays, especially during hikes and outdoor activities.
Hats and Sunglasses: Essential for sun protection and keeping cool.
Insect Repellent: Pu Luong is lush and green, which means there might be bugs. Stay comfortable with some repellent.
Swimwear and Towels: Don’t miss the chance to swim in the natural pools and waterfalls.
Comfortable Shoes: Ideal for hiking and walking through the villages and forests.
Cameras: Capture the stunning landscapes and unforgettable moments.
Medications: Bring any personal medications you might need, along with basics like pain relievers and digestive aids.
Cash: Many local shops and markets do not accept credit cards, so having cash on hand is essential for purchases and tips.
Accommodation and Dining
Booking in advance is crucial, especially during peak seasons. The Pu Luong Retreat is a popular choice for its stunning location and comfortable amenities. Ensuring your accommodation is sorted means you can focus on enjoying your trip without any last-minute hassles.
When it comes to dining, you have options! You can enjoy meals at your resort, which often feature local specialties prepared with fresh, local ingredients. For a more immersive experience, try dining at local restaurants and homestays. Not only will you enjoy authentic dishes, but you’ll also support local businesses.
Resort Dining: Offers convenience and often a more refined dining experience.
Local Restaurants: Provide authentic and varied culinary experiences.
Dietary Considerations: Inform your hosts or the restaurant of any dietary preferences or restrictions to ensure your meals are prepared accordingly.
Cultural Etiquette and Environmental Responsibility
Respecting local customs and traditions is a cornerstone of responsible tourism. Here are some tips to ensure your visit is respectful and sustainable:
Respecting Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages and religious sites. Greet locals with a smile and be polite.
Maintaining Cleanliness: Always dispose of your trash properly. If you can’t find a bin, take your trash with you until you do.
Preserving Natural Beauty: Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging the flora and fauna. Avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife.
Supporting Local Businesses: Buy souvenirs, food, and services from local vendors to help sustain the community. This practice supports the local economy and helps preserve cultural traditions.
Sustainable Tourism Practices: Reduce your plastic use by bringing reusable water bottles and bags. Be mindful of your water and energy consumption at your accommodation.
Conclusion
As we conclude our Excursions to Stunning Pu Luong from Hanoi, we reflect on the scenic drives, immersive cultural experiences in Ban Don Village, and the breathtaking Thac Hieu Waterfall. This tour, filled with unique local specialties, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, promises lasting memories. Choose Impress Travel for top-notch service, knowledgeable guides, and a perfectly balanced itinerary. Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Book your Excursions to Stunning Pu Luong from Hanoi with Impress Travel today! These excursions are more than a tour; they offer cherished memories and a deeper appreciation of Pu Luong’s wonders. Join Impress Travel to discover Vietnam’s hidden gems and embark on future adventures. Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling Pu Luong to and to book Pu Luong Tours at the best prices
Water wheels walk and rafting | 3 km easy walk – 1.5 hours | 800m river rafting – about 45 minutes
AM: You enter Pu Luong Nature Reserve by road via a breathtaking mountain pass giving you a panoramic view of the whole valley. You arrive at your accommodation in time for a delicious lunch, followed by free time to explore the beautiful retreat, with its captivating panoramic views and tranquil setting. PM: You will be transferred to a suspension bridge over the Cham River, where you begin your walk in search of stunning water wheels. Get up close to each wheel and discover how water is moved from river to handmade bamboo aqueducts via simple constructions of all sizes. Arriving at a local fisherman’s house, you have a short rest to gear up for the bamboo river rafting . Float along the calm river and enjoy the views, in between learning how to paddle and steer your handcrafted rafts. Arriving at scenic Tan Lap bridge, you disembark to be transferred back to Pu Luong Natura for dinner.
What’s included in this trip
Private bed (House on stilt) or Private room with ensuite bathroom (for Bungalow).
All activities are mentioned in specific itineraries.
Transfer around Puluong during tour.
Entrance and Sightseeing fees.
Local guide (none speak English).
Full board: 2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfasts.
River rafting.
Free Wi-Fi at Pu Luong Natura.
Welcome drink.
2 bottles of water in rooms dail
What’s excluded in this trip
Personal insurance
Expenditure of a personal nature, tips, such as drinks, souvenirs, laundry, emergency transfers & etc.
HOTELS & CRUISES IN VIETNAM SELECTED
Destination
Room Type
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE
Pu Luong
https://naturabungalow.com/album.htm
Ranana
You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Ebrahim
Tour of Vietnam
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
Solly Pochee
The tour was fantastic
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating! We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC. The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T". I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all. Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team. Sulaiman Pochee
Bernard Lim
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
Derek.Schooling
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress. Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide). Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
AM: Start early to descend into the beautiful valley facing the Natura where you walk around tumbling rice terraces. Trek through small paths shrouded in vegetation to slowly reveal a picturesque village sitting at the base of a towering mountain. Your camera will not be able to sit still! Continuing to the base of the valley, you weave between roads and farmland, villages and wild fields, ponds and rivers, mountains and open land. Savor the ever-changing scenery as you trek to a beautiful spot to enjoy a simple picnic lunch. PM: After enjoying delicious food, you have free time to explore the refreshing water to the nearby river, before moving to our pick up point to be transferred back to the resort.
Day 02
Village life and the community | 4,5 km easy walk – 2 hours
AM: You have the chance to get close to village life and interact with locals living in the hills above the resort. Glimpse at daily life, walk around working farmland and rice fields, and learn about making weaving colourful textiles, followed by lunch at the Lodge. PM: Check out the Lodge. See you next time!
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Pu Luong is a natural reservation in the northern land of Vietnam. It is 160 km away from Hanoi and is a 4-hour drive north-west of Hanoi. Pu Luong Reserve is located in Quan Hoa & Bac Thuoc District, Thanh Hoa Province and shares a border with Hoa Binh Province in Tan Lac, Mai Chau, and Lac Son districts, and is divided by a central valley, which contains several human settlements and a large area of agricultural land, therefore, it is not included within the nature reserve. Pù Luông is endowed with great biodiversity, its flora and fauna are closely associated with the Cúc Phương National Park 25 km south-east. Impress Travel offers travelers a tour to explore Pu Luong combined with a Mai Chau trekking tour. It is a trekking tour from Mai Chau to Pu Luong, then an overnight stay at Pu Luong Retreat – 9 comfortable bungalows, 1 traditional stilt house with 16 comfy beds, an open-air restaurant with tasty cuisine, an infinity pool and spa with rock garden, all at your disposal. Come to Pu Luong Retreat to discover the hidden magic, of a place built by hand, with meticulous attention to detail, from the ground uppuluong@impresstravel.com