Klu Hot Springs: Quiet, devoid of tourists.

With its natural hot springs winding through the majestic Truong Son mountain range, Klu hot spring in Dakrong commune was once expected to be a unique eco-tourism destination, contributing to the promotion of community-based tourism in the mountainous region. However, due to the impact of natural disasters, diseases, and a lack of coordinated investment, the area is gradually falling into a state of desolation.

The hot spring pool has dried up, and the bottom is covered with algae - Photo: Tr.T

Precious resources amidst the vast Truong Son mountain range.

Located right next to National Highway 9, a key transportation route on the East-West economic corridor, about 50km west of the former Dong Ha City, Klu hot springs possess a strategic location in linking tourism in the western mountainous region of Quang Tri. Not only does it have the advantage of convenient transportation, but it is also blessed by nature with a year-round erupting hot mineral spring, with temperatures ranging from 35-45°C, containing many minerals beneficial to health, capable of supporting the treatment of bone and joint diseases, dermatological conditions, and physical recovery.

The area surrounding the stream is covered with ancient forests and high mountains, interspersed with villages of the Van Kieu ethnic group – places that still preserve many traditional cultural values. This harmonious combination of expansive nature and indigenous ethnic identity has made Klu an ideal stop for tourists who enjoy ecotourism and community-based experiences.

In 2014, the Official Development Assistance (ODA) project, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), invested in seven key infrastructure projects at Klu hot springs, including: an information and viewing center; community guesthouses; walking trails and signage; restrooms; a community festival area; lighting, water supply and drainage, and waste collection systems; and the Klu hot springs themselves. These projects were considered crucial foundations for the development of a community-based tourism area with local characteristics, creating sustainable livelihoods for the local people.

In August 2018, the Klu hot spring community tourism area was put into operation. Between 2018 and 2020, the Klu hot spring community tourism area welcomed nearly 40,000 domestic and international visitors, generating revenue of over 2.2 billion VND from services operated by local residents. These figures demonstrate the significant appeal of Klu when properly invested in.

Mr. Le Hoai Phong, Chairman of Dakrong commune, said: "After Dakrong commune took over the Klu hot spring tourist area, the commune People's Committee assigned the Department of Culture to receive, manage, and develop a plan to operate and effectively exploit this tourist area."

From expectation to desolation

Since July 2020, the Klu hot spring community tourism area has entered a prolonged period of "hibernation." First, this was due to the impact of Covid-19, which brought all tourism activities to a halt. Then, the historic floods at the end of 2020 severely damaged the tourism infrastructure in Klu. Many facilities were swept away, buried, or heavily damaged... Since then, the Klu hot springs have been deserted.

According to the head of the Culture Department of Dakrong commune, in addition to the two reasons mentioned above, there are still some subjective reasons leading to the decreasing number of visitors to the Klu hot spring community tourism area. For example: The environment is not yet guaranteed, with the continued practice of locals washing their clothes in the spring; the service staff and food groups are still passive and not welcoming enough; the hot spring pools are too small, the bathing pools are slippery and have many sharp stones...

According to the reporter's observations, the area has not yet been cleaned or renovated. The four hot water tanks are dry, covered with algae at the bottom, and emit a foul odor. There is a lot of trash around the main courtyard and information building. There are no staff on duty, and a maintenance system is lacking.

Mr. Nguyen Trong Hoang, a tourist from Hanoi, shared: “I had heard a lot about the pristine beauty of Klu hot springs, so I was very excited. However, when I came here to experience it and saw the deserted and unsanitary conditions firsthand, I was really disappointed. It's a waste that such potential hasn't been nurtured or invested in.”

The viewing pavilion is well-built but lacks visitors - Photo: Tr.T

A long-term strategy is needed.

To mitigate the consequences of natural disasters, at the end of 2023, the former Dakrong district implemented a project to repair and upgrade the infrastructure of the Klu hot springs with a total investment of nearly 7 billion VND (to be completed in January 2025). However, due to many difficulties in terms of capital, human resources, and management mechanisms, the tourist area has not yet officially reopened, causing significant waste of both resources and development opportunities.

Mr. Le Hoai Phong, Chairman of the People's Committee of Dakrong commune, acknowledged: "Rebuilding tourism at Klu hot springs is not simple. The stream bed is narrow, the sides are steep, and flash floods frequently occur during the rainy season, posing a high risk of damage if comprehensive protection measures are not implemented. The local authorities are developing a plan to invite businesses to invest in collaboration with the local community to exploit the springs, ensuring both safety and sustainable development."

Undeniably, Klu hot springs are one of the impressive ecotourism destinations in western Quang Tri province. However, to realize its potential, concerted efforts from the government, businesses, and the community are needed. In particular, a well-structured strategy is required for the restoration, management, exploitation, and promotion of this destination. With determination and a strategic vision, this place can be completely revived, becoming a unique ecological and cultural highlight on the Quang Tri tourism map.

Tran Tuyen

Source: https://baoquangtri.vn/suoi-nuoc-nong-klu-vang-lang-du-khach-196196.htm