With its pristine beauty and unique cultural activities, this place not only attracts visitors with its picturesque scenery but also offers profound experiences of the local customs and traditions. Cù Lần Village promises to be a wonderful destination for those who wish to explore the natural beauty and unique culture of the region.
1. Introduction to Cu Lan Village
Cu Lan Village, a beautiful and romantic village of the K’Ho ethnic group, is located beside a vast, pristine forest, covering an area of 30 hectares. Known as one of the six most beautiful ancient villages in Vietnam, Cu Lan Village attracts visitors not only for its natural beauty but also for its unique cultural values.
Cu Lan Village lies at the foot of the majestic Lang Biang Mountain, in Suoi Can Hamlet, Lat Commune, Lac Duong District, Lam Dong Province. Just 22 km from Da Lat City center, it is easily accessible within a 30-minute drive. With its dreamy landscape and fresh air, Cu Lan Village promises to be an ideal destination for those who love exploring the natural beauty and culture of the highlands.
2. History of Cu Lan Village
When visitors first hear the name Cu Lan Village, they can’t help but wonder about the origin of this unique name. According to local people, there are various explanations, but one legend is most widely told.
The legend tells of a young man who moved from the plains to the mountains with the dream of building a paradise in the forest as a gift for the woman he loved. With the determination to “pick stones to patch the sky,” the young man was nicknamed “Cu Lan”, reflecting his unconventional way of working.
The rumor of Cu Lan reached the woman he loved. Touched by his sincere love, she left the town and moved to the forest with him. Although they couldn’t fulfill the dream of building a paradise, they together created a small village by the stream, surrounded by hills. From then on, the village was named Cu Lan, forever tied to the passionate love story and aspirations of a young man.
3. Activities to try at Cu Lan Village
3.1. Enjoy the fairy-tale scenery
If you are a nature lover seeking the simplicity and tranquility of rural life, Cu Lan Village is the perfect destination for you. Located in the heart of Da Lat, this tourist spot will amaze you with the pristine beauty and peacefulness of the vast mountain forest. The natural scenery here seems like something from a fairy tale, now brought to life before your eyes, offering visitors a sense of calm and a deep connection with nature. Visiting Cu Lan Village provides an opportunity to experience a lively and inspiring environment, offering a break from the hectic pace of city life.
3.2. Experience the off-road jeep tour
One of the must-try activities when visiting Cu Lan Village is the off-road jeep tour. With affordable pricing, visitors can embark on an exciting journey exploring the pristine forest. The jeep ride brings the thrill of driving through the woods, crossing hills, and wading through streams, allowing you to fully enjoy the untouched beauty of nature here. This is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating mountain and forest landscape and discover new things in the heart of Da Lat.
3.3. Bamboo rafting and scenic viewing
When you arrive at Cu Lan Village, not trying bamboo rafting would surely leave you with a sense of regret. In the middle of the village, a large turquoise lake awaits visitors. The rafts, made of bamboo and rattan, form a large rectangular shape, providing a wonderful space for relaxation.
Not only for sightseeing, visitors can also enjoy the fun experience of fishing while on the raft. This activity not only helps you relax but also creates unforgettable memories in your exploration of nature at Cu Lan Village.
3.4. Mountain climbing and nature exploration
For those who enjoy physical activities, trekking at Cu Lan Village is a must-do. With a terrain that is not too steep, this place is suitable for even those without prior trekking experience. Upon reaching the mountain summit, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of the picturesque village below.
Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the open, fresh air and breathe in the scent of pine trees. It’s also a great opportunity to take beautiful photos, creating lasting memories of your journey to explore Cu Lan Village.
3.5. Rent traditional ethnic costumes
Like other ethnic groups in the Central Highlands, the K’Ho people have traditional costumes that reflect their unique cultural identity. The women typically wear simple dresses that reach knee-length, while the men wear loincloths and sleeveless round-neck shirts, representing simplicity and a close bond with nature.
When participating in a tour at Cu Lan Village, visitors have the opportunity to wear these traditional costumes, which are handmade by the K’Ho people. This not only provides a deeper understanding of the cultural values and spiritual life of the local people but also offers a fantastic opportunity for photo-taking, capturing beautiful moments in these unique outfits. It is truly a memorable experience in your journey to explore the culture of the Central Highlands.
3.6. Try traditional games
At Cu Lan Village in Da Lat, traditional games not only provide moments of fun and relaxation but also strengthen community bonds and preserve cultural values. Visitors here have the opportunity to experience many exciting activities such as archery, horseback riding, jumping rope, stilt walking, dart throwing, and billiards.
Below are the reference prices for some of the games:
- Archery: 50,000 VND for 10 arrows (excluding VAT)
- Horseback riding: 100,000 VND for one round of the field (excluding VAT)
Participating in these games not only gives visitors a fun time but also offers a deep cultural experience and insight into the customs of the local people.
3.7. Learn the brewing process and taste forest fermented wine
Forest Fermented Wine, a specialty of the K’Ho people, is made from forest herbs and brewed using traditional fermentation methods. The rice used in the brewing process is grown in high-altitude fields up to 1,500 meters, combined with pure water from the high peak of Cong Troi, over 1,800 meters above sea level.
Visitors to Cu Lan Village will have the chance to learn about the unique brewing process and taste Forest Fermented Wine for free at the display area. This is an exciting experience that not only helps visitors understand the culinary culture but also allows them to savor the distinctive flavors of the Central Highlands.
3.8. Enjoy gong and drum performances and bonfire ceremonies
The image of Cu Lan Village in Da Lat is always associated with the lively sounds of gongs and drums, accompanied by vibrant dances that showcase the cultural identity of the mountains. For large groups of tourists, an exciting activity to try is organizing a bonfire ceremony at night. Here, everyone can sing, dance, and engage in a cultural exchange centered around the gongs.
This activity not only offers enjoyable moments of entertainment but also provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the spiritual life of the local people. Cù Lần Village is not just a place to explore nature, but also a destination where you can deeply experience the unique cultural values of the Central Highlands.
3.9. Overnight camping
For a new and refreshing experience, visitors can organize an overnight camping trip at Cu Lan Village without having to worry about preparing tents, food, or water. Tent rental services are available here. Each tent covers an area of about 12m², enough to accommodate up to 10 people, providing a comfortable space for groups of friends or families.
Visitors will be provided with blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags, ensuring that the camping experience is not only safe but also very comfortable. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the beautiful natural environment of Cu Lan Village and create unforgettable memories during your journey of exploration.
4. Tips for visiting Cu Lan village
4.1. Opening hours and admission fees
Visitors to Cù Lần Village can refer to the following information about opening hours and ticket prices:
Opening hours:
Monday – Thursday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday – Sunday: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Ticket price: 100,000 VND per person
With a reasonable price and flexible hours, Cu Lan Village promises to be an ideal destination for those wishing to explore the unique natural beauty and culture of the Da Lat area.
4.2. What to Eat at Cu Lan Village?
When asked about the delicious dishes at Cu Lan Village, the locals are happy to recommend famous specialties that capture the essence of the forest and mountainous region.
“Com Lam” is one of the standout dishes, cooked in bamboo or rattan tubes. When cooked, the rice becomes sticky and fragrant, with a natural sweetness from the bamboo or rattan water. Visitors should try Com Lam with grilled chicken or grilled wild boar to fully experience the unique flavors.
Grilled mountain chicken is also a must-try. These chickens are raised locally, and in the cool climate of Da Lat, a piece of hot, fragrant grilled mountain chicken is truly a wonderful culinary experience.
Grilled wild boar on tiles is a dish that leaves a lasting impression with its rich flavors. The meat is marinated to perfection and then grilled on tiles, resulting in chewy and unforgettable meat slices.
In addition to these signature dishes, there are many other local delicacies. These dishes not only offer unique flavors but also provide an opportunity for visitors to experience the rich culinary culture of the K’Ho people at Cu Lan Village.
4.3. Where to stay when visiting Cu Lan village?
In addition to the fun activities, the accommodation options at Cu Lan Village are also a major attraction for many visitors. The village currently offers several lodging options with simple and cozy styles, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests.
If you are wondering where Cu Lan Village is located, here are some accommodation suggestions:
- Thang Cu Lan Stilt House
- Huong Rung Stilt House
- Dai Ngan Stilt House
- Chien Binh Stilt House
- Giac Mo Cu Lan Stilt House
- Cu Lan Mong Mo Stilt House
Each location offers a cozy environment suitable for groups of friends or families, promising moments of relaxation and an opportunity to immerse in the beautiful natural space of Da Lat.
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4.4. Useful travel tips for Cu Lan village
To ensure a safe and complete trip to Cu Lan Village, visitors should pay attention to the following points:
- Bring identification: Visitors should bring their ID card or citizen identification for convenience when renting a motorbike.
- Be confident when driving: The road to Cu Lan Village is mainly mountainous. If you are not confident in your driving skills, consider not driving the motorbike yourself.
- Check your vehicle: Before starting your journey, make sure to carefully check your vehicle, especially the brakes, tires, and fuel level.
- Check service prices: It’s advisable to research and inquire about prices before using any services to avoid overcharging.
- Take care of children: If you are traveling with young children, be sure to keep a close watch on them as there are many deep ponds and mountain roads around the village, which can easily cause children to get lost.
By paying attention to these issues, visitors will have an enjoyable and safe journey to Cu Lan Village.
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5. Some tourist attractions near Cu Lan village
In addition to the fun activities at Cu Lan Village, visitors also have the opportunity to explore many famous nearby destinations. Some of the must-see spots include:
- Ma Rung Lu Quan: This nature tourism area is hidden among lush pine forests, offering a wonderful space for relaxation.
- Thung Lung Vang (Golden Valley): This place boasts stunning scenery with vast lakes and sprawling pine forests, creating a poetic and romantic landscape.
Additionally, there are other interesting places to visit, such as An Kroet Lake, Lang Biang Mountain tourism area, and Phuc Duc Hill, all promising rich and memorable experiences for visitors exploring the Da Lat region.
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With its beautiful scenery, diverse activities, and enticing cuisine, Cu Lan Village is truly an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility. Come and explore Cu Lan Village, where every moment offers memorable experiences and deep impressions.
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