In the first half of this year, Lai Chau welcomed nearly one million visitors, up about 12% compared to the same period last year. Tourism revenue was estimated at more than 32.6 million USD, an increase of nearly 20%. These figures reflect the growing appeal of eco-tourism and community-based tourism.
Than Uyen Pine Hill features rolling hills covered with endless green pine trees. The winding road leading to the hilltop is surrounded by tall, straight pine trees stretching across the hillside.
From the top of the hill, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Than Uyen town nestled peacefully in the valley. In the distance lies the Muong Than rice field, one of the most beautiful fields in northwestern Vietnam.
Beneath the pine canopy are colorful flower gardens, forest rest huts, traditional stilt houses for community activities, camping grounds, and numerous photo spots. Thoughtfully designed to blend with the natural landscape, these facilities preserve the hillside's peaceful charm and enhance visitors' experience.
Hoang Kim Hieu, Manager of Than Uyen Pine Hill Tourist Site, says: "Visitors can relax in the pine forest and stay in European-style bungalows. There are flower gardens and koi fishpond where people can feed the fish. Children can play swings in the large open space."
On weekends, groups of young people, families, and international tourists come here for picnics, camping, or simply to wind down beneath the pine trees while enjoying a hot cup of coffee in the cool mountain air.
Tran Thi Hong, a tourist from Hanoi, said: "This is my first time visiting Than Uyen. The weather is pleasantly cool and the scenery is beautiful. I feel close to the nature."
The hill's greatest attraction is its peaceful ambience. Free from traffic noise and urban bustle, it offers only the gentle sound of the wind, birdsong, and the subtle scent of pine resin in the air. It is a haven to watch the sunrise, admire clouds drifting over the hilltops, or capture stunning photographs of the majestic northwestern mountains.
Nong Yen Nhi from Lai Chau city said: "Than Uyen Pine Hill has many scenic spots and the air is so fresh. I took lots of beautiful photos here. It’s wonderful."
A local resident named Lo Thi Thu Thao said: "I took many beautiful photos in the pine forest. The air here is cool and refreshing. The tourist site offers photography and dining services. Visitors can rent a variety of traditional ethnic costumes for photos."
Beyond sightseeing and photography, visitors can extend their journey to visit Muong Than Valley and the Huoi Quang–Ban Chat Hydropower Reservoir. You can also discover the rich traditions of the Thai and Mong people by partaking in cultural staples like the festive Xoe dances and the lively tunes of the Khen panpipe.
It’s the simplicity of the landscape, the freshness of the mountain air, and the enduring beauty of the pine forest that leaves lasting memories for visitors to Than Uyen.
