Lam Binh – A serene escape amidst Tuyen Quang’s great forests

As winter arrives in the mountainous region of Tuyen Quang Province, cold air and mist blanket the winding highland roads. Emerging through the haze after crossing Khau Lac Pass, Lam Binh appears from afar as a captivating and poetic landscape. Following the administrative merger of Lang Can, Phuc Yen and Xuan Lap, Lam Binh Commune today presents a harmonious picture of vast mountains, pristine forests and tranquil villages that leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Heritage tree in Na Khau Village, Lam Binh Commune.

Lam Binh is widely regarded as an ideal destination to “escape the city” and slow down amid unspoiled nature. Narrow roads curve gently like silk ribbons embracing rugged mountain slopes, surrounded by layers of towering ranges and primeval forests that invite exploration. The area is also home to distinctive cultural spaces of the Tay, Dao and Mong ethnic groups, with traditional stilt houses roofed with palm leaves carefully preserved and promoted in association with community-based tourism.

In recent years, alongside the orientation toward tourism development, Lam Binh has seen remarkable changes in its rural landscape. Transport infrastructure has been upgraded, with wider asphalt roads, paved sidewalks and green corridors enhancing both connectivity and scenery. Villages such as Ban Khien, Nam Dip, Lang Chua and Na Kha now bear the features of a vibrant mountain township. Homestay models have gradually taken shape, helping residents improve livelihoods while preserving traditional architecture and local cuisine.

Lam Binh is also known for its rich cultural festivals. Typical examples include the Long Tong (field-opening) festival of the Tay people, the Gau Tao festival of the Mong, and spring cultural activities of the Dao. These traditional events are being restored and promoted as valuable tourism products. Experiential programs such as the “Golden Harvest Experience” in Khuoi Trang Village allow visitors to join rice harvesting, explore local culture and enjoy traditional cuisine, gradually forming a distinctive tourism brand for the locality.

Covering an area of more than 327 square kilometers with a population of over 12,000, Lam Binh boasts outstanding natural landscapes such as Khau Cau, Khuoi Trang and Na Khau, along with terraced fields, lakes, waterfalls and well-preserved primeval forests. Notably, a Nghien tree over 1,000 years old in Na Khau Village has been recognized as a Vietnamese Heritage Tree, becoming a prominent ecological and tourism highlight.

Alongside tourism, Lam Binh is tapping into its strengths in agriculture, forestry and medicinal plants. Specialty products such as ancient Shan Tuyet tea, Phuc Yen honey and Khau Mang glutinous rice have been developed under the OCOP program, with branding and value-chain linkages encouraged. With a development approach that harmonizes nature conservation, cultural preservation and sustainable economic growth, Lam Binh is increasingly affirming its appeal as a poetic highland destination rich in potential.

Le Duy