Why is it that such a breathtakingly beautiful place remains so little known to the public? 
Pù Luông, located in the northwestern part of Thanh Hoa province, is only 180km from Hanoi . In terms of natural beauty, it's no less stunning than the Northwest region, boasting majestic mountain ranges, cloud-watching spots, terraced rice fields, waterfalls, caves... it has it all.
I had the opportunity to visit Pu Luong recently. Located at an altitude of about 1200m above sea level, waking up early to chase the clouds was one of my most memorable experiences. If I only posted pictures of the scenery, many people probably wouldn't even think this was Thanh Hoa.
The people living here are mainly Muong, Thai, and Kinh. Besides its beautiful natural scenery, Pu Luong also has a very unique culture, similar to the Northwest region, with traditional bamboo pole dancing, folk singing, and characteristic stilt houses scattered throughout the valley. 
There's a very interesting village known for its brocade weaving that you can explore: Lan Ngoai village. Almost all the households there are Thai people and they all work in brocade weaving. I even heard an old woman in the village singing a traditional Thai folk song, wearing a Thai skirt and blouse, singing a song she composed herself. 
Pù Luông also boasts a very rich culinary tradition. Besides dishes similar to those in Northwest Vietnam, there are two very famous dishes: Cổ Lũng duck and rock snails. Everyone I meet here mentions the Cổ Lũng duck, but rock snails aren't available all year round, so be careful!
Tourists are usually interested in the rice harvest season in Pu Luong, where the terraced rice fields are arranged in layers, creating a picturesque scene. Locals cultivate two crops a year; the first turns golden in May-June, and the second in September-October. Remember to check carefully before you go if you plan to see the ripening rice. 
When I arrived, the rice harvest was almost complete, but that didn't diminish the beauty of nature; besides the terraced rice fields, you can also visit and explore some places like Hieu Waterfall, Bat Cave, the waterwheel in Ban Cong commune, and wander around Buon Don village... 
I found the service quality in Pu Luong to be relatively good. I had experiences at two places with two different styles. My first night was at Ciel De Pu Luong, a resort nestled amidst lush greenery, just a few minutes from Buon Don. 
One place that impressed me a lot was Pu Luong Jungle Lodge. This place has a more open view, and in the morning you can wake up early to chase the clouds right here without having to travel far. 
In fact, in terms of geology and culture, the Northwest region of Thanh Hoa is similar to Northwest Vietnam. So don't be surprised that the scenery here is so majestic and resembles Northwest Vietnam.
Pu Luong truly left a strong impression on me. I only regret that this region has so much potential but hasn't received enough attention from tourists. Hopefully, this article will show everyone the magnificent beauty of Pu Luong and inspire you to visit and explore the Northwest region of Thanh Hoa province someday.
Rot's Blog
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