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Nestled in the heart of Da Lat, Cu Lan Village stands out as a fascinating tourist destination, piquing visitors’ curiosity with its unique name. But what exactly is Cu Lan Village? Why the peculiar name? And what does this locale have to offer? All your questions will be answered in detail as we delve into the story behind Cu Lan Village.
For a complete and memorable trip to Da Lat, you shouldn’t miss out on Cu Lan Village. This destination captivates domestic tourists and attracts international visitors with its unique cultural atmosphere and architecture.
What is Cu Lan Village?
Cu Lan Village is a beautiful and romantic village inhabited by the K’Ho ethnic people. The town is nestled beside the pristine old-growth forest and covers a total area of 30 hectares. It is recognized as one of Vietnam’s six most beautiful ancient villages. So, where is Cu Lan Village? How far is Cu Lan Village from the center of Da Lat?
Cu Lan Village is located at the foot of the majestic Lang Biang mountain, in Suoi Can hamlet, Lat commune, Lac Duong district, Lam Dong province. This location is approximately 22km away from the city center of Da Lat, about a 30-minute drive.
Cu Lan village – a tourist destination in Da Lat with wild and rustic beauty (Photo: Zing. vn)
Legend of Cu Lan Village in Da Lat: The Origin of the Name
When people first hear the name Cu Lan Village, they will likely wonder about its unique origin. According to the residents, there are various explanations for this distinctive name. However, the most popular local legend associated with Cu Lan Village revolves around a young man.
In the past, a young man from the plains ventured up the mountain with a dream of collecting stones to build a paradise amidst the vast mountainous forest, a gift for the girl he loved. His dream of “collecting stones to mend the sky” and the unconventional method made people refer to him as Cu Lan.
The tale of the young man Cu Lan, who gathered stones to build a house, reached the ears of the girl he cherished. Touched by his sincere love, the girl left the town and ventured into the forest. Moved by the genuine affection, she decided to stay in the deep forest with him. Although they didn’t build the dream paradise as envisioned, together, they established a small village by the stream, surrounded by hills and mountains. Since then, people named the town Cu Lan in honor of the young man’s unique dream and the love story that unfolded.
Photos of the road leading to Cu Lan village viewed from above (Image: ST)
Cu Lan Village – What Fun Things to Explore?
If you’re wondering what fun activities Cu Lan Village offers, consider the following suggestions to plan your upcoming trip.
Marvel at the Fairy Tale-Like Landscape
Cu Lan Village is the ideal destination for nature lovers seeking the simplicity and tranquility of rural life. When visiting this tourist spot in Da Lat, you will undoubtedly be amazed by the enchanting scenery of the ancient mountains and the serene, rustic charm of the village. The picturesque view appears like a fairy tale brought to life, offering a unique experience that seems straight out of a storybook.
Experience Off-Road Jeep Tours
The off-road jeep tour is an unmissable experience for tourists at Cu Lan Village. You can embark on a jeep tour to explore the pristine forests for a small fee. The jeep tour will provide an exhilarating experience of off-roading, conquering hills, and crossing streams.
Cute Cu Cu with “the most beautiful big eyes in the world” (photo collection)
Rowing Boat to Enjoy the Scenery
Visiting Cu Lan Village without trying to row a boat to enjoy the scenery would leave you regretful. In the middle of the village, there is a vast emerald-green lake. The boats, made from bamboo and rattan, form a rectangular shape with a relatively large surface. Beyond just admiring the scenery, tourists can also experience the excitement of sitting on the boat and fishing.
Mountain Trekking and Exploration
For those who love physical activities, trekking the hills of Cu Lan Village is an unmissable adventure. The hills are not too steep, making them easy to climb and suitable for even those new to trekking. Welcoming you at the mountain’s summit is a breathtaking view of the rustic village at the foot of the hill. Here, you can immerse yourself in the cool and refreshing natural environment, breathe in the scent of pine, and capture some fantastic photos.
Entrance to Cu Lan village (Photo: ST)
Traditional Folk Games
Traditional folk games in Cu Lan Village provide a sense of relaxation and enhance community solidarity and cultural values. When visiting Cu Lan Village in Da Lat, you can experience various exciting traditional folk games such as archery, horseback riding, bamboo pole jumping, stilt walking, dart throwing, and billiards.
Here are some reference prices for certain games:
– Archery: 50,000 VND/10 arrows (excluding VAT)
– Horseback Riding: 100,000 VND/round (excluding VAT)
Note: Some traditional games may have fees, so checking the prices before using the services is advisable.
Rent Ethnic Costumes for Photoshoots
Like other ethnic groups in the Central Highlands, the K’Ho people have their traditional costumes. The traditional costumes of the K’Ho people are uniquely beautiful and deeply rooted in cultural identity. If you have the opportunity to join a Cu Lan Village tour, you can wear the ethnic costumes tailored by the K’Ho people to get a better understanding of the spiritual life values of the residents. Additionally, you can take plenty of photos, preserving memories with these unique outfits.
Learn the Process of Making and Taste Forest Fermented Wine
Forest-fermented wine is made from forest leaves and follows the traditional fermentation process of the K’Ho people. The rice used for brewing the wine is grown at an altitude of up to 1,500m, and the pure water is sourced from the Cổng Trời peak, over 1,800m high. Visitors to Cu Lan Village will have the opportunity to learn about the wine-making process and taste Forest Fermented Wine for free at the wine exhibition area.
Roofs in Cu Lan village hide themselves in nature (Image: ST)
Enjoy Gong and Drum Performances and Campfire
The image of Cu Lan Village in Da Lat is closely associated with the sounds of gongs and drums and lively dances with a mountainous ambiance. If traveling in a group, try lighting a campfire at night, singing together, and engaging in cultural exchanges through gong and drum performances. This activity helps you understand more about the spiritual life of the local people.
Overnight Camping
For a more immersive experience, tourists can organize overnight camping in Cu Lan Village. The remarkable thing is that you don’t need to prepare a tent, food, drinks, or other necessary camping equipment. Cu Lan Village now offers tent rental services. Each tent is approximately 12m2, with a capacity of up to 10 people. Visitors will have ready-made blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags, ensuring a safe and comfortable camping experience.
Chom Hom Market – Cu Lan Village (Image: ST)
Travel Tips for Cu Lan Village that will be helpful for you:
- Bring your ID card or citizen identification to rent a motorbike.
- The road to Cu Lan Village is mostly hilly. If you are not confident about your driving skills, you should not ride a motorbike alone.
- Check your vehicle thoroughly, especially the brakes, tires, and fuel.
- Research and compare prices before using any services.
- If you have young children, keep a close eye on them as the village has many areas with deep ponds and mountainous paths, making it easy for them to wander off.
Come to Cu Lan village in Da Lat to immerse yourself in the sound of the wind in the deep green of the mountains or sit by the lake to relax after the long, stressful working days, all lingering in the hearts of people.