Lai Châu expands tourism through natural scenery and cultural heritage

Lai Châu is gradually establishing its position on the tourism map thanks to its majestic natural scenery, pristine ecosystems, and famous routes and peaks in Vietnam’s Northwest region. The province is also attracting visitors as its tourism infrastructure improves, its range of products broadens, and the cultural identities of local ethnic communities become a distinctive draw.

From 2021 to 2025, Lai Châu welcomed over 5 million visitors and recorded tourism revenue of more than 3,800 billion VND. Tourism infrastructure has been upgraded with more than 138 accommodation facilities and 1,255 rooms, including four hotels rated three stars or higher, along with around 150 restaurants meeting service standards for tourists.

Key attractions and tourism development

Mr. Nguyen Dinh Hung, Deputy Director of the Lai Châu Department of Finance, said the province has strengthened its tourism position with attractions including the Dragon Glass Bridge tourist area, O Quy Ho Pass Gate, and the Pusamcap cave complex. The province has also developed paragliding experiences such as “Fly to the Roof of Indochina” in Si Thâu Chải village, and community-based tourism in Sin Suối Hồ that meets ASEAN standards.

Lai Châu is also described as a land rich in history and culture, home to more than 20 ethnic groups. Their straightforward and hospitable character is presented as a “soft asset” that supports the region’s tourism appeal.

Community-based tourism model in Lao Chải 1

Lao Chải 1 village (Khun Há commune), located at an altitude above 1,300 meters, has become a community-based tourism site rich in Mong culture. Residents preserve traditional living, including architecture, clothing, customs, festivals, and crafts.

The village attracts visitors with pristine natural scenery, terraced fields, and a year-round cool climate. After nearly eight years of development, Lao Chải 1 has eight homestays serving 120–150 guests, along with services such as herbal baths, foot soaking, and coffee.

National tourism goals and service improvements

Ms. Nguyen Thi Hoa Mai, Deputy Director General of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, said that with guidance from the Party and Government, tourism is expected to contribute strongly to economic growth—both through visitor numbers and its share of GDP. She noted that achieving this requires improving service quality, extending tourists’ length of stay, and increasing tourist spending.

Advantages and product direction

Lai Châu has three major advantages: terrain, ethnic culture, and climate. Its high, rugged terrain supports activities such as mountaineering and exploration, alongside pristine ecosystems, waterfalls, and a sea of clouds. The province remains relatively less developed and less crowded, making sustainable tourism—focused on protecting the environment and preserving local identity—a core value.

In cultural terms, with more than 20 ethnic groups, Lai Châu has strong potential for community-based tourism and experiences. However, the province currently lacks distinctive products, and a shift is needed from “selling products” to “selling experiences.” Examples mentioned include turning highland markets into spaces for cultural and culinary experiences and developing craft villages into souvenirs that reflect local identity.