ECOTOURISM IN BAN VAN

Ban Van is a small village near Mai Chau town that has only recently begun to develop tourism. Though not as bustling as Lac Village, Ban Van impresses visitors with its picturesque terraced rice fields stretching along both sides of the road leading into the village.

Ban Van is one of the villages closely associated with the traditional and distinctive culture of the highland people of the Northwest. It remains one of the few places that still preserves the authentic and simple cultural characteristics of the Thai ethnic minority in Mai Chau.

Currently, Ban Van has 94 households with 376 residents, of whom 99% are Thai people. The village is divided into five community groups according to production teams. The stilt houses in Ban Van are built in the traditional Thai architectural style but combined with modern interior conveniences, offering visitors both comfort and a truly cultural experience.

The stilt houses are located close together, and each has a clean vegetable garden. The food served to guests is made from fresh ingredients grown in these very gardens, ensuring hygiene and food safety.

When visiting Ban Van, tourists can admire the stilt houses nestled among bamboo groves, the winding terraced fields surrounding the village, and the lush green corn and cassava fields that create a poetic natural landscape.

Walking around the village, visitors can witness the simple daily life of the locals and be greeted with the warm smiles and friendly eyes of the mountain people.

As evening falls, around a cozy family meal filled with warmth and hospitality, guests can savor the spicy aroma of traditional dishes, enjoy drinking ruou can (wine drunk through long bamboo straws), and immerse themselves in the graceful Xoe dance of Thai women.

The sound of traditional music and the rhythmic dance steps will help visitors forget their fatigue and find a sense of peace and relaxation.

Those visiting Ban Van early in the year can take part in traditional folk games such as “to mac le,” tug-of-war, “keng loong,” “nem con” (throwing a ball through a ring), crossbow shooting, and many other activities being revived by local authorities to enrich the cultural life of the Thai people.

In January and late July, Mai Chau enters the “water pouring season,” when the fields are filled with water in preparation for a new rice crop. At this time, the entire Mai Chau Valley shines like a giant mirror reflecting the glimmering sunlight — a favorite season for photographers.

From March to May and August to September is the green rice season, when the fields are lush and vibrant. This is a peaceful and relaxing time to visit Mai Chau and escape the noise of the city.

In early July and late October, the golden rice season begins — the most beautiful and impressive time of the year in Mai Chau. Visiting during this period to “hunt” golden rice photos has become a popular trend among young travelers in recent years.

Thuy Ha Homestay is located in Ban Van, Mai Chau — a charming and peaceful village with the long-standing and distinctive traditions of the Thai ethnic people. The homestay can accommodate 40–50 guests, offering clean and comfortable rooms with full amenities.

Thuy Ha Homestay is always ready to welcome and serve visitors.
For more information, please contact: 091.546.3571

Ha Van Cuong Homestay is also located in Ban Van, near Mai Chau town. Visitors staying here can enjoy a fresh, quiet, and relaxing environment. In addition to accommodation, Ha Van Cuong Homestay also provides dining, cultural performances, and nature experience activities for guests.

Ha Van Cuong Homestay is always ready to warmly welcome and serve visitors.
For more information, please contact: 038.693.4159

In 2019, the People’s Committee of Mai Chau Commune launched the model of the “Mai Chau Highland Market” with the aim of promoting ethnic cultural identity and attracting tourists. The market is held every Sunday at the commune’s central stadium, becoming a favorite destination for both domestic and international visitors.

To diversify tourist attractions, the “Mai Chau Highland Market” recreates traditional festivals of the Thai and Mong ethnic groups. Every last Sunday of the month, cultural performances such as singing, dancing, and ethnic musical shows are held. In addition, the market activities take place regularly and orderly at the central stadium, ensuring convenience, security, and environmental hygiene.

At the market, both locals and tourists can freely shop and explore various stalls scientifically arranged by category — including areas for local cuisine, fresh produce, highland agricultural products, orchids, ornamental plants, farming tools, fashion, and household goods. The most bustling area is the local produce zone, where Mong people from Hang Kia, Pa Co, Co Luong, Xam Khoe, Mai Hich, Noong Luong, Pu Bin, Tan Son, Tan Mai, and Phuc San bring their unique specialties such as mustard greens, native oranges, taro, glutinous corn, and purple garlic.

After dozens of sessions, the “Mai Chau Highland Market” continues to be held regularly every Sunday, eagerly awaited by both locals and tourists alike.