A tourist reaches to Pú Tó Cọ Peak.— VNA/VNS Photos

ĐIỆN BIÊN — With its majestic landscapes and rich cultural stories, imbued with local identity, Pú Tó Cọ is quickly becoming a captivating destination for travellers exploring Điện Biên.

Perched at an impressive altitude of 1,700 metres in Khá Village, Mường Phăng Commune, Pú Tó Cọ stands out as a prime spot for experiential tourism in the northwest region. As the highest peak of the Mường Phăng mountain range, it boasts pristine natural beauty and breathtaking panoramic views, while being woven into the rich cultural tapestry and historical narratives of the area, promising visitors an unforgettable experience.

9km trek to summit

The adventure begins at the guard station of the Điện Biên Phủ Campaign Command. From there, visitors embark on a scenic trekking route approximately 9 kilometres long, taking three to four hours to traverse. The path features a moderate slope and winds through lush primeval forests, allowing travellers to enjoy the refreshing altitude and crisp, cool atmosphere typical of the Mường Phăng region.

As the ascent continues, the landscape unfolds spectacularly. The dense canopy gives way to vibrant blue skies and wispy clouds, creating an exhilarating sense of freedom for adventurers. This enchanting appeal has made Pú Tó Cọ a popular destination for Famtrip groups and trekking enthusiasts eager to explore the wild beauty of nature.

At the peak, a sweeping vista reveals the entire Điện Biên basin. Visitors can spot landmarks including Điện Biên Phủ Airport, Pe Luông Lake, Hồng Khếnh Lake, as well as the tranquil communes of Thanh Yên, Thanh An, and the villages of Xôm and Kéo in Mường Phăng. In the distance lies the expansive Pá Khoang Lake, a standout eco-tourism site in Điện Biên. The majestic mountains and lush forests, dotted with quaint hillside villages and calm azure waters, create a breathtaking tableau.

Tourists on the way to conquer Pú Tó Cọ Peak.

Another fascinating aspect of this peak is the cultural narrative woven by the Thái people. In their language, 'Tó Cọ' translates to 'dragon-catching cage.' According to local legend, this was once a site for trapping dragons, a delightful backstory that enhances the uniqueness of the journey.

Merging nature, culture and history

Beyond its natural splendour, Pú Tó Cọ holds significant value as the former site of the Điện Biên Phủ Campaign Command's observatory. Here, soldiers once vigilantly monitored the stronghold's developments, using bamboo clappers to alert against aircraft threats and forest fires. This 'high tower' vantage point adds a profound historical depth to the location, paving the way for a tourism model that harmoniously blends exploration, ecology and education.

The national flag flies on Pú Tó Cọ Peak.

Today, the Observatory Monument at Pú Tó Cọ forms part of the Điện Biên Phủ Battlefield National Monument, attracting investment attention from local authorities and various sectors. Numerous survey teams and Famtrip groups have included this trekking gem in their itineraries, introducing Pú Tó Cọ to a wide audience of tourists.

The People's Committee of Điện Biên Province has also approved a 1/2,000-scale zoning plan for an urban and service complex in Điện Biên Phủ, which will be interconnected with major attractions, including the Điện Biên Phủ Campaign Command Headquarters and the serene Pá Khoang Lake eco-tourism area. The nearby villages of the Thái and Khơ Mú ethnic groups, renowned for their traditional stilt houses, enrich the cultural mosaic, creating a unique charm for visitors experiencing the richness of Mường Phăng and its historical treasures.

This interconnectedness not only establishes a cohesive tourist route but also enhances the overall experience, encouraging tourists to extend their stays in Điện Biên.

Pú Tó Cọ is fast becoming a captivating destination for travellers exploring Điện Biên.

With breathtaking landscapes, culturally rich narratives and a pivotal role in the history of the Điện Biên Phủ campaign, Pú Tó Cọ is set to become an enticing destination for tourism in Điện Biên. The nine-kilometre trek to the summit, combined with visits to surrounding historical and ecological sites, promises to transform Mường Phăng into a vibrant hub for nature lovers and adventurers exploring the northwest region. — VNS