Amid the majestic landscapes of the Dong Van Karst Plateau in northern Vietnam, Lo Lo Chai village in Lung Cu commune has been named one of the world’s best tourism villages by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).
Nestled at the foot of the Lung Cu Flag Tower, Vietnam’s northernmost point, Lo Lo Chai is home to over 120 households, most of whom are ethnic Lo Lo people. Of these, 56 households participate in community-based tourism initiatives.
From the summit of Dragon Mountain where the Lung Cu Flag Tower stands, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the entire village and the surrounding highlands.
The village is known for its centuries-old rammed-earth houses, some dating back more than 200 years. Since launching tourism efforts in 2011, 28 of the 37 traditional homes have been converted into homestays.
On October 17, 2025, in Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province (China), Lo Lo Chai officially earned its place on the list of the world’s most outstanding tourism villages, as recognized by UN Tourism.
This marks the first time a community-based destination in Tuyen Quang province has received such a prestigious honor. The recognition highlights Lo Lo Chai's success in meeting international standards in governance, environmental protection, and sustainable development goals (SDGs).
The "Best Tourism Village 2025" award by UN Tourism evaluates villages based on criteria such as governance, innovation, sustainability, environmental impact, and contributions to the United Nations SDGs. Lo Lo Chai stood out among more than 270 applications from 65 countries to become one of the most exemplary community-based tourism destinations globally.
Local residents have received training in hospitality, food safety, tourism etiquette, and fire safety. Women typically host guests and cook traditional meals, while young villagers serve as guides, helping visitors experience local agriculture, crafts, and cultural practices.
Unlike many destinations that lose their identity in the process of commercialization, Lo Lo Chai has preserved its sense of community and cultural integrity.
The village's development has received technical support from the Swiss organization Helvetas, through the “Sustainable Tourism for Development” (ST4SD) project. Experts provided training, guidance, and support throughout the international application process.
Without this structured collaboration, it would have been difficult for a remote highland village to meet the UN's strict standards for governance, livelihoods, environment, culture, and integration.
Visitors to Lo Lo Chai can immerse themselves in peaceful surroundings and authentic cultural experiences. Activities include hemp weaving, corn cultivation, traditional liquor brewing, and tasting local specialties such as thang co (a traditional meat stew), smoked buffalo meat, bamboo rice, and corn wine.
Travelers can also hike to the Lung Cu Flag Tower to take in sweeping views of Vietnam’s northernmost frontier and the breathtaking karst landscape of the region.
Lo Lo Chai is not only a charming destination for travelers but also a sustainable tourism model that helps preserve cultural heritage, enhance local livelihoods, and promote environmental stewardship.
The “Best Tourism Village 2025” award is a well-earned recognition of the Lo Lo community’s commitment to sustainable tourism and their efforts to protect both their cultural identity and natural environment.
Vietnamnet.vn
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