Moc Chau Tourist Area recognized as national tourist area

In the space of tourism development in the Northern Midlands and Mountainous region of Vietnam's Tourism Development Strategy, the Moc Chau National Tourism Area, comprising Moc Chau and Van Ho districts, is considered one of the most important national tourist areas along the "Northwest Corridor" tourism route via National Highway 6. On November 12, 2014, the Prime Minister issued Decision No. 2050/QD-TTg approving the "Master Plan for the Development of Moc Chau National Tourism Area until 2020, vision to 2030"; on January 25, 2019, the Prime Minister issued Decision No. 128/QD-TTg approving the "General Plan for the Construction of Moc Chau National Tourism Area until 2030."

Since then, up to now, Son La province in general and the two districts included in the planning have continuously endeavored to construct and develop, meeting the prescribed criteria regarding tourism resources, infrastructure, technical facilities serving tourism; connectivity with the national transportation and communication infrastructure, ensuring conditions for security, order, social safety, and environmental protection. Tourism services have developed strongly, and efforts in propaganda and promotion of tourism have been intensified, focusing on the effective exploitation and utilization of tourism resources. At the same time, there has been a diversification of tourism products, attracting tourists for sightseeing, recreation, and various types of tourism activities: Ecotourism, experiential tourism, community-based tourism, festival and cultural tourism, spiritual tourism, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), resort tourism, and agritourism... Many scenic spots and historical sites have been invested in and preserved by investors and authorities, such as the pine forest tourism area in Áng village; the Dải Yếm waterfall tourist area; the historical site commemorating the 52nd Battalion's Western Advancement, which is chosen by many tourists in their travel itineraries.

The community-based tourism model in Ang village, Đong Sang commune; Vat village, Muong Sang commune; Ta So village, Chieng Hac commune; Ta Phinh village, Tan Lap commune (Moc Chau district); Hua Tat village, Van Ho commune, Van Ho district, has been prioritized for development by the local authorities of the two districts. Transportation infrastructure and clean water supply in these community-based tourism villages have been upgraded; traditional cultural practices have been revived, and housing has been renovated according to ethnic architecture combined with tourism services. Especially, community-based tourism within ethnic communities, have seen rapid development. For two consecutive years, the Moc Chau National Tourism Area has been honored as the "Top Natural Destination in the World" in 2022 and 2023. This award affirms the position and influence of Moc Chau tourism, as well as the international community's recognition and appreciation for this region...

With the efforts in construction and tourism development, on April 22, 2024, the Minister of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism signed Decision No. 1077/QD-BVHTTDL to officially recognize Moc Chau National Tourism Area in Sơn La province. This recognition as a National Tourism Area serves as a significant motivation for Son La province in general, and Moc Châu and Van Ho districts in particular, to continue striving for the further development of tourism, asserting their position on the world tourism map and deserving the status of a national tourism area.

Huong Diep

          Translated by Thao Huyen Nguyen