A local making five-color sticky rice. — Photo dulich.laichau.gov.vn

By Lâm Giang

Nestled in Bản Hon Commune, Tam Đường District, Thẳm Village is an enchanting destination that promises to captivate every traveller.

As you step into this charming village, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking natural beauty and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. The vibrant life of the Lự ethnic group, showcased beneath their iconic stilt houses, offers visitors a glimpse into traditions steeped in unique cultural values, ensuring experiences that are both fascinating and unforgettable.

Located just 15km southeast of Lai Châu City, Thẳm Village is a serene haven that seamlessly blends pristine nature with the meticulous care of its inhabitants. This burgeoning community tourism area is quickly becoming a magnet for visitors drawn by an array of intriguing and distinctive tourism services.

Tourists and locals dance together at a campfire at night. — Photo dulich.laichau.gov.vn

With a population of just over 40 Lự households, the village is home to a close-knit community where life revolves around agriculture and small-scale livestock farming. The Lự people, a small ethnic group in Việt Nam, primarily inhabit the highland communes of Tam Đường, Tân Uyên and Sìn Hồ Districts. In recent years, recognising the province's push to develop tourism, local families have embraced the opportunity to invest in their burgeoning tourism potential.

Spanning a modest area of over 15ha, Thẳm Village has been transformed into a picturesque landscape adorned with vibrant flower gardens, meticulously tended by the villagers. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the unique culture of the Lự people, exploring traditional architecture, colourful costumes, delectable cuisine and lively festivals that enrich the cultural diversity of Lai Châu Province.

The entrance to the village. — Photo dulich.laichau.gov.vn

The handcrafted costumes of the Lự women are a sight to behold. They wear indigo shirts adorned with colourful tassels, paired with elegantly embroidered indigo skirts designed for both beauty and functionality. These festive skirts feature intricate three-layer patterns, making them perfect for celebrations. Complementing their attire, the women wear jewelry crafted from silver, aluminium, copper and indigo thread.

Lự men, meanwhile, wear striking black indigo-dyed clothing, featuring open-chested blouses with buttons and braided fabric straps. While the traditional black folded scarf has largely fallen out of favour, the men’s attire remains a symbol of their rich heritage.

Culinary delights abound in Thẳm Village, where the Lự people whip up mouthwatering dishes from simple, readily available ingredients, each infused with distinct flavors. Signature dishes like “xà sủm” (minced meat steamed with spices), grilled fish and fish baked in ash showcase their culinary creativity, while unique cakes made from sticky rice and corn flour offer a sweet taste of tradition.

Visitors to the village can enjoy unique dishes prepared by local people. — Photo dulich.laichau.gov.vn

Beyond their exquisite food, the Lự people preserve a wealth of intangible cultural heritage, including vibrant festivals, traditional crafts and folk performing arts. Their festivals, often celebrated during significant times of the year, are infused with rituals honoring the Forest God, ensuring harmony and prosperity for the community.

One of the most cherished customs is the Forest Worship Ceremony, held during the third and sixth lunar months. This event is a heartfelt plea for divine protection over the village, fostering warmth, prosperity and flourishing livestock. It serves as a poignant occasion for locals to express gratitude and reverence to their ancestors, deities and nature.

The Lự also have a beautiful tradition for couples wishing to unite, tying a red thread around their hands as a symbol of their bond. This thread is believed to strengthen their connection, making them truly inseparable. Consequently, many love-struck couples visit Thẳm Village to tie red threads, hoping for a love that lasts a lifetime.

A homestay in Thẳm Village with full amenities for tourists. — Photo dulich.laichau.gov.vn

With its poetic landscapes, refreshing natural surroundings and the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Lự people, Thẳm Village offers thoughtful and appealing services that are sure to leave visitors enchanted at every turn. Come and experience the magic of Thẳm Village, where every moment is a celebration of nature and culture. VNS