Lo Lo Chai: The best village in the world at the foot of Lung Cu flagpole

Surpassing 270 global candidates, Lo Lo Chai village in Ha Giang was honored by UN Tourism. Discover the unique rammed earth architecture and indigenous culture in the far North.

A world- renowned destination

Nestled peacefully at the foot of the Lung Cu flagpole, the northernmost point of Vietnam, Lo Lo Chai village (Lung Cu commune, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province) has just been officially honored by the United Nations Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) as the "World's Best Tourist Village in 2025".

At an event held on October 17, 2025, in Huzhou City (Zhejiang Province, China), Lolo Chai surpassed more than 270 applications from 65 countries to receive this prestigious award. This is recognition for its sustainable community-based tourism model, where local culture is preserved and promoted, while improving the lives of local people in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Lo Lo Chai village is located at the foot of the Lung Cu flagpole – the northernmost point of Vietnam. The entire village has more than 120 households, mainly Lo Lo people, of which 56 households participate in the community tourism model.

This success was achieved with the support and technical assistance from the Helvetas organization (Switzerland) through the "Sustainable Tourism for Development" (ST4SD) project, helping the highland village meet stringent criteria regarding governance, environment, and culture.

The unique architecture and culture of the Lo Lo people.

Centuries-old rammed earth houses

A distinctive feature of Lo Lo Chai is its sturdy earthen houses, some dating back several decades to over 200 years. This architectural style not only reflects the unique construction techniques of the Lo Lo people but also helps keep the houses cool in the summer and warm during the harsh winters of the rocky plateau.

The houses in Lo Lo Chai are all traditional rammed earth houses, ranging in age from a few decades to over 200 years. Since 2011, 28 of the 37 ancient houses have been used as homestays.

Since 2011, community-based tourism has begun to develop here. Currently, 28 out of 37 ancient houses have been converted into homestays, offering tourists the opportunity to stay in an authentic cultural space and experience the daily life of the local people.

Community life is close-knit.

The tourism model in Lo Lo Chai places the local people at the center. Women take on the role of hosts, preparing traditional meals, while young people become guides, leading guests to explore agricultural activities and handicrafts. The locals receive systematic training in hospitality, food safety, and tourism etiquette, creating a friendly and professional environment.

Women take on the role of hostess, cooking traditional dishes; young people guide guests through experiences of agriculture, crafts, and culture.

An experience not to be missed.

Conquering the Lung Cu Flagpole

Located just above the village is the Lung Cu Flagpole, a sacred symbol affirming national sovereignty. From the summit of Dragon Mountain, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Lo Lo Chai nestled in the valley, surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Dong Van karst plateau.

The Lung Cu flagpole – a sacred symbol of the nation – stands majestically atop Dragon Mountain. This location also offers a panoramic view of the entire Lo Lo Chai village.

Immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Visiting Lo Lo Chai, tourists can not only admire the scenery but also directly participate in daily life activities. You can learn how to weave linen with colorful patterns, join the locals in planting corn in the fields, or try your hand at brewing corn wine using traditional methods. This is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the culture and people of this place.

Upon arriving at Lo Lo Chai, visitors will be immersed in a peaceful atmosphere and blend into the rhythm of life of the Lo Lo ethnic people.

Enjoy the cuisine of the rocky plateau.

The trip wouldn't be complete without a culinary experience. Ha Giang's specialties such as thang co (a traditional stew), smoked buffalo meat, fragrant sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes, and a warm glass of corn wine will be unforgettable flavors, bearing the distinct mark of this northernmost region of Vietnam.

Source: https://baolamdong.vn/lo-lo-chai-ngoi-lang-tot-nhat-the-gioi-duoi-chan-cot-co-lung-cu-398246.html