THUNG NAI

Thung Nai – A Hidden Gem on the Da River

Thung Nai is a lakeside commune on the Da River in Phu Tho Province. Today, it has become an attractive destination for many travelers from near and far. Sitting on a small boat weaving between rocky islands, visitors cannot help but feel proud of the poetic beauty of Vietnam. Thung Nai is not only charming during the flood season, but also in the dry season, when it takes on a unique, captivating beauty that enchants every visitor. Spending a weekend here, you will feel your soul filled with peace and sweet emotions, leaving behind the noise and stress of city life.

Accommodation in Thung Nai

Thung Nai has two reputable guesthouses, both offering boat transfers, sightseeing tours, meals, and overnight stays: Windmill Guesthouse and Coconut Island Guesthouse, each with its own appeal.

• Windmill Guesthouse stands out with its large, beautiful windmill. The traditional local dishes served here are delicious and satisfy even the most demanding guests.

• Coconut Island Guesthouse is located on a scenic island in the middle of the lake. It has a fruit garden with longans, lychees, jackfruit, and more, which guests can freely enjoy.

It is recommended to call ahead to book your boat and meals so everything is ready when you arrive. The package price for 2 days and 1 night, including boat transfer, lake sightseeing, meals, and accommodation, is 300,000 VND per person.

Things to Do in Thung Nai

Thung Nai is not a bustling urban area with shopping malls or amusement parks. Instead, it offers magnificent scenery, comparable to anywhere in Vietnam. After the completion of the Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant, the rising water submerged valleys up to the mountain slopes, creating stunning small islands. With its vast waters and surrounding mountains, Thung Nai is often called the “Ha Long Bay of the Mountains”, offering breathtaking natural views and unique cultural experiences.

Must-see attractions in Thung Nai include:

1. Thac Bo Floating Market: Held every Sunday morning, it is a lively trading place where boats gather from across the lake. Visiting Thung Nai on a Sunday gives you a chance to experience this special cultural feature of the highlands.

2. Thac Bo Temple: Located in Thong Nhat Ward, Phu Tho Province, the temple worships Lady Dinh Thi Van of the Muong people and a woman of the Dao ethnic group, both revered for helping King Le Loi lead his army past Thac Bo Rapids. Believed to be very sacred, the temple attracts a steady stream of pilgrims year-round.

3. Thac Bo Cave: Unlike other caves that require mountain climbing, the entrance to Thac Bo Cave is right at the water’s edge. During the rainy season, boats can enter the cave directly. Inside, visitors can admire magnificent stalactites formed over thousands of years.

4. Trach Stream: Though not large or mighty, Trach Stream is like a natural swimming pool with crystal-clear, refreshing water. It is the perfect place to cool off during summer trips.

5. Lake Tours: A boat trip on the Da River is a must when visiting Thung Nai. The serene green water, misty mornings, glowing sunsets, and moonlit nights create unforgettable scenes. In the early morning, mist covers the mountains and lake, giving a fairy-tale atmosphere. At sunset, the lake reflects golden and purple hues. Under the moonlight, the silver surface of the lake becomes a magical, tranquil place where time feels as if it stands still.

Food in Thung Nai

Though the cuisine here is simple, it is rich in local flavor. Must-try dishes include Muong-style roasted pork, free-range chicken, and grilled Da River fish.

• Muong pork is roasted on banana leaves, with golden crispy skin and tender, juicy meat.

• Da River fish is grilled to perfection, fragrant and savory with a chewy sweetness that delights every diner.

Thung Nai is truly a wonderful destination! We hope you will have a perfect trip filled with unforgettable experiences and stunning photos. And who knows, along your journey you may discover even more hidden gems in Phu Tho Province.