A young woman poses next to docynia indica flowers in Nậm Nghẹp Village. — VNS Photo Đoàn Tùng

SƠN LA — This month, visitors to Ngọc Chiến Commune in Mường La District will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the sơn tra flower, also known as táo mèo (Docynia indica) in the country's biggest area for blooms.

The stunning landscapes will also be adorned with the vibrant hues of rhododendron flowers blossoming throughout Nậm Nghẹp Village, creating a captivating natural tapestry.

To celebrate this floral spectacle and showcase the region's tourism potential, Ngọc Chiến Commune will host the third Docynia Indica Flower Festival on March 15-16, followed by the inaugural Rhododendron Flower Festival in early April. These events will provide a golden opportunity for guests to explore the commune and engage in unique cultural experiences.

Ngọc Chiến Commune is situated at an altitude of over 1,600m, approximately 40km from the centre of Mường La District and nearly 80km from Sơn La City, accessible via Provincial Road 106. This picturesque area is home to the Thái, Mông, and La Ha ethnic groups. The docynia indica flower area in Nậm Nghẹp Village spans over 1,600ha, making it the largest in the country. When the flowers are in full bloom, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking sea of pure white.

As the docynia indica flowers bloom, the forests of Tà Tao in Nậm Nghẹp Village will also burst forth with vibrant rhododendron colours. Visitors can expect to see fiery reds, soft pinks, deep purples and sunny yellows, creating a stunning natural gallery that captivates all who visit.

The docynia indica flower area in Nậm Nghẹp Village spans over 1,600ha, making it the largest in the country. — VNS Photo Đoàn Tùng

This year, the cold weather has caused the docynia indica flowers to bloom later than usual. However, experts predict that this season will be one of the most spectacular in the last five years, with the best time for visitors to admire the exquisite beauty of these flowers from mid-March to the end of April.

During the festival, attendees will have the chance to partake in a variety of engaging activities. They can capture stunning photos amidst the docynia indica flower forest, enjoy traditional folk games of the Mông people, and savour the delicious specialties of the northwest mountainous region. Visitors will also learn about the rich culture and customs of the local communities, visit stalls showcasing agricultural products and local OCOP (One Commune One Product) goods, and participate in contests for families with the most beautiful docynia indica flower gardens and traditional Mông ethnic costumes.

To accommodate visitors, Ngọc Chiến Commune currently offers 28 options from homestay services, motels and access to hot mineral springs. If accommodations in Nậm Nghẹp Village are fully booked, travellers can easily find lodging in the heart of Ngọc Chiến Commune, which is just a 20-minute drive away.

The newly established Nậm Nghẹp Cooperative is promoting nearly 20 indigenous tourist routes to serve tourists during the festival. Activities include climbing Tà Tao Mountain, witnessing breathtaking sunsets from Yên Ngựa Mountain, 'cloud hunting' and leisurely village strolls. The cooperative also provides rental services for costumes and camping gear, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Visitors to Ngọc Chiến Commune in Mường La District will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the sơn tra flower, also known as táo mèo (Docynia indica). — VNS Photo Đoàn Tùng

Director of Nậm Nghẹp Cooperative, Nguyễn Cao Cường, said: “We have formed three dedicated teams: a professional motorbike taxi service, a porter and tour guide group, and a homestay team. Our goal is to offer tourists a variety of options tailored to their preferences, health, and budget. All details about routes and services are available on our Facebook page and website.”

The average temperature in Nậm Nghẹp is cooler than in surrounding regions, especially in March when the weather can be quite cold, particularly at night. Therefore, visitors should prepare warm clothing for their trip. For those travelling by bus to Ngọc Chiến Commune, motorbike rentals and taxi services are readily available for journeys to Nậm Nghẹp Village.

This year also marks the inaugural Rhododendron Flower Festival, which will take place on April 5-6 at the Nậm Nghẹp village stadium. This area, covering an impressive 300ha, is renowned for its spectacular rhododendron blooms, particularly around Tà Tao peak, drawing numerous visitors eager to witness its beauty.

Chairman of Ngọc Chiến Commune People's Committee, Lò Văn Thoa, said: “Preparations for the flower festivals are complete, with a strong focus on environmental sanitation and showcasing local agricultural products. We aim to provide a rich cultural experience through traditional sports and community engagement.”

He added: “The road to Nậm Nghẹp Village is now fully paved, making travel to the festival much more accessible. However, due to its winding nature and steep slopes, we recommend using 16-seat passenger vans or smaller vehicles for safety and convenience. To alleviate traffic congestion, we’ve established temporary parking areas and encourage the use of taxis and motorbike taxis.”

With meticulous planning and a variety of unique tourism offerings, this year’s Docynia Indica Flower Festival and Rhododendron Flower Festival promise visitors an unforgettable experience.

Now, coming to Ngọc Chiến to marvel at the enchanting flower forests, delve into the rich cultural and floral tapestries and create cherished memories amid the splendour of spring. VNS