Hang Tau is a production area of the people living in Ta So village, Chieng Hac commune, Moc Chau district, Son La province. In recent years, Hang Táu has become known to many tourists and has been called the 'Primitive Village' because it still retains the original beauty of the Mong ethnic people in the past. Life here is closely associated with the 'three no's': no electricity, no mobile signal, and no wifi.

The 'Primitive Village' of Hang Tau is located in a valley surrounded by mountains, and is a production area for more than 20 Mong ethnic minority households. In the past, before participating in tourism development, the lives of the local residents were quiet and isolated from the outside world. They mainly lived in a self-sufficient manner, relying primarily on shifting cultivation, which made their economic conditions very difficult. Since 2020, with the policy of building the Ta So community-based tourism village initiated by the People’s Committee of Moc Chau district (now Moc Chau town), the Hang Tau area has become more well-known. The number of tourists visiting Hang Tau has steadily increased, allowing the Mong people here to operate several services to meet the needs of visitors for sightseeing and experience, such as renting traditional costumes, horse riding, selling souvenirs and local specialties, etc.

According to Mrs. Đinh Thi Huong, Head of the Department of Culture and Information of Moc Chau town, in the past, people in the Hang Tau area mainly relied on farming and animal husbandry, but the goods they produced were very difficult to sell. Since receiving support from Moc Chau District and the GREAT project, with training courses opened on welcoming guests, community-based tourism, and English communication, the Mong ethnic people here have become more confident. The village has also welcomed a large number of foreign visitors who come to explore and experience the local life…

Currently, the people of Ta So have learned to preserve the cultural values of Hang Táu in order to develop it into a sustainable community-based tourism destination while still maintaining its pristine character. Regulations on community-based tourism development have been written into the village's customary rules. In August 2023, Chieng Hac Commune established the Hang Táu Tourism Cooperative with 20 member households. These members are responsible for welcoming and guiding tourists, as well as partnering with households in Ta So that provide homestay services, including meals and accommodations for visitors.

According to Mr. Mua A Chau, Director of the Hang Tau Tourism Cooperative in Chieng Hac Commune, Moc Chau Town, Son La province: Since this area developed tourism, it has become easier to sell vegetables, chickens, and pigs. The number of tourists coming here for experiential activities has been increasing, and the lives of local people in this area have become more stable. We also encourage and raise awareness among the residents about the importance of preserving the cultural and natural features of this place, striving to develop sustainable community-based tourism in connection with the conservation of traditional cultural values.

It can be seen that the development of community-based tourism in Hang Tau is a sound direction taken by Moc Chau Town in preserving the traditional cultural values of the Mong ethnic people. With the involvement of the entire political system and the determination and unity of the Mong community in tapping into the local potential, Hang Tau is set to become a favorite destination on Moc Chau’s tourism map, making a significant contribution to improving the living conditions and spiritual life of the local ethnic minority people..

Duc Anh

Translated by Huyen Vu