Ban Lac Mai Chau: What to Eat, Do, and Where to Stay?
Ban Lac Mai Chau in Hoa Binh Province is an attractive tourist destination known for its temperate climate and stunning natural scenery. What makes Ban Lac(Bản Lác) so special and appealing to visitors? Let’s explore with Vietnamtravis in the following guide.
1. Introduction to Ban Lac (Bản Lác)
Ban Lac
Ban Lac is located in Chieng Chau Commune, Mai Chau District, Hoa Binh Province. About 140 km from Hanoi, Ban Lac is surrounded by rugged mountains and a misty atmosphere. With over 700 years of history, Ban Lac has become a tourist spot rich in Thai ethnic culture, attracting numerous visitors both domestic and international every year.
The roads around Ban Lac are newly constructed, clean, and well-maintained. The village is surrounded by lush rice fields and clear streams flowing year-round. You can visit with friends and family on weekends to immerse yourself in the fresh air and enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery.
The best times to visit Ban Lac are during the water season from March to June and the rice harvest season from September to October.
2. How to Get to Ban Lac
There are generally two ways to reach Ban Lac:
By Motorcycle:
You can follow this route: Thang Long Avenue => National Route 6 => Hoa Binh City => Cao Phong => Da Trang Pass => Tong Dau Junction => Mai Chau Town => Ban Lac.
By Bus:
From Hanoi, you can catch a bus to Mai Chau at My Dinh Bus Station or Yen Nghia Bus Station. These buses pass by Tong Dau Junction. From there, you can take a motorcycle taxi or a regular taxi to Ban Lac. Bus fares range from approximately $4 to $5 per trip.
A few bus companies to consider:
- Ha Loan Bus Company: 098 271 2418
- Cuong Co Bus Company: 091 279 6896
3. Where to Stay in Ban Lac?
Homestays in Ban Lac are very affordable and offer full amenities comparable to other places. The local people are simple, friendly, and welcoming, ensuring you can trust the service quality.
Here are a few recommended homestays with good quality and reasonable prices:
- Mai Chau Green Eco House
- Address: 185 Ban Lac, Mai Chau, Hoa Binh
- Phone: 0356 659 089
- Price: $20 – $25 per night
- Mai Chau Xanh Bungalow
- Address: 2 Ban Lac, Mai Chau, Hoa Binh
- Phone: 0396 713 962
- Price: $17 – $23 per night
- Mai Chau Farmstay
- Address: 38 Ban Lac, Mai Chau, Hoa Binh
- Phone: 097 858 65 55
- Price: $20 – $30 per night
4. What to Do in Ban Lac?
4.1. Cycling Around the Village
Cycling through Ban Lac’s vast rice fields on a beautiful morning is a fantastic experience. The scent of ripe rice will help you forget the everyday stresses of life!
4.2. Visiting Ban Lac Market
The Ban Lac Market is a place for trading goods among the Thai, Muong, Mong, and other ethnic minorities. The market is held only on Sundays starting from 5 AM. Wake up early to explore this market and experience the unique local culture.
4.3. Checking Out Go Lao Waterfall
Go Lao Waterfall is a stunning spot to visit in Mai Chau. According to travel experiences, getting to Go Lao Waterfall can be challenging due to winding and rough roads. Therefore, finding a skilled driver is essential!
At Go Lao, you’ll be captivated by the impressive natural scenery. Water cascading over rocky outcrops creates a frothy pool where you can swim and take photos. Just be sure to keep an eye on your personal belongings.
5. What to Eat in Ban Lac?
When in Ban Lac, don’t miss out on the rich flavors of the Northwestern mountain cuisine. Fresh ingredients and unique cooking methods will leave a lasting impression.
Some must-try dishes include:
- Roasted Mountain Chicken
- Grilled Stream Fish
- Roasted Local Pork
- Stir-fried Bitter Bamboo Shoot with Garlic
- Beef Stew with Lom (Fermented Vegetables)
- Northwest Pickled Pork
VietNamTravis has summarized the complete travel experience to Ban Lac Mai Châu. Visit to experience the unique cultural and scenic beauty of this peaceful land.
For those traveling from Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or other major cities to Ban Lac Mai Chau, you can book a flight to Hanoi and then proceed to Mai Chau as described above.
