Discover the beauty of the Ngang River amidst the vast forest.

The Ngang River flows from Tu Do commune (formerly Hoa Binh province, now Phu Tho province) into Thach Quang commune, passing through Dang Thuong village to Thong Nhat village. The river is 15km long and flows into the Buoi River about 10km from the center of Thach Quang commune. This area boasts picturesque natural scenery, clear, cool water, and a unique Muong cultural identity, offering attractive tourism experiences amidst the vast forests of western Thanh Hoa province.

Tourists enjoy the experience at Ngang River, Thach Quang commune.

From above, the river meanders gently through lush green hills, creating a vibrant natural landscape. From the Ho Chi Minh Highway, visitors will see the end of the Ngang River where it merges with the Buoi River. Here, the water is crystal clear, cool year-round, and surrounded by a pristine natural forest ecosystem. Visitors can not only immerse themselves in the clear natural waters but also experience a range of activities steeped in local culture, such as traditional raft rowing, collecting shellfish, and fishing, providing a relaxing experience. Recognizing the potential for tourism development, many households have boldly invested in providing services for tourists, creating jobs and improving their lives.

Mr. Bui Van Dai, from Thong Nhat village, Thach Quang commune – a household involved in tourism in the Ngang River area – said: "My family lives near the Ngang River. Recognizing the picturesque scenery, the cool water flowing year-round, and its proximity to the famous May Waterfall, in 2021, I renovated the land and built facilities to welcome visitors. Initially, the number of visitors was quite sparse, but in recent years, the Ngang River has become increasingly well-known. On hot days, especially on weekends, we welcome hundreds of visitors daily. This is an opportunity for my family to increase our income and improve our lives. To better meet the needs of tourists, in addition to focusing on service style, my family also prioritizes food safety and hygiene. This is how we attract tourists to the area and promote the development of tourism in the commune."

Mr. Le Van Nhat, from Hac Thanh ward, a tourist experiencing the Ngang River, shared: "In the sweltering summer heat, immersing myself in the cool waters of the Ngang River made all my fatigue seem to disappear. The stream has many gently sloping rocky areas, and the water level is just right, making it safe for tourists, even families with young children can comfortably play and have fun. The romantic atmosphere, the chirping of forest birds, and the unique local culture are the 'magnet' that attracts tourists to visit and experience the Ngang River."

Besides enjoying a refreshing swim, visitors to the Ngang River can also savor traditional dishes of the Muong ethnic group, such as grilled stream fish; steamed free-range chicken with lime leaves; five-colored sticky rice; pickled wild boar meat; bitter soup, etc. When night falls, visitors can stay in traditional stilt houses and enjoy folk songs and dances that reflect the unique cultural identity of the Muong people.

With the poetic beauty of the Ngang River, the majestic natural landscape, and the friendliness and hospitality of the local people, this area is becoming a popular destination attracting many tourists. From the beginning of 2026 to the present, the Ngang River has welcomed approximately 50,000 visitors. To protect the landscape and environment, Thach Quang commune is actively encouraging tourists to join hands in protecting the environment and absolutely refrain from littering. Security and safety on the river are also being tightened through the installation of warning signs and the deployment of rescue teams in deep water areas to minimize the risk of drowning.

From the Ngang River, visitors can explore and experience May Waterfall. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thanh Hoa province, boasting a pristine, romantic beauty and a unique layered structure, considered a "masterpiece" of nature. Besides the stunning natural scenery, the area also attracts tourists with its distinctive Muong culture and traditional stilt houses, some hundreds of years old, featuring unique architecture.

Mr. Le Huy Duong, Chairman of the People's Committee of Thach Quang commune, said: "The Ngang River area possesses many outstanding potentials and advantages for tourism development. To realize this goal, in the coming time, the commune will focus on building detailed plans for key tourist areas and destinations in the commune, including the Ngang River area. We will strengthen the promotion and introduction of the image and strengths of the Ngang River to attract strategic investors. We will prioritize resources to complete the transportation infrastructure connecting bus stations, accommodation facilities, and other convenient services to meet the needs of tourists."

Text and photos: Xuan Cuong

Source: https://baothanhhoa.vn/kham-pha-ve-dep-song-ngang-giua-dai-ngan-288655.htm