Explore western Quang Tri, home to falls

The mountainous region of western Quang Tri is home to breathtaking natural landscapes, featuring pristine forests, towering mountains, waterfalls, and caves, holding immense potential for eco-tourism and cultural community experiences.

Ta Puong Waterfall is being developed as part of the Brai – Ta Puong Ecotourism Area project, combining eco-tourism with community-based tourism development. Photo: Le Truong

The first on the list is Chenh Venh Waterfall. Located about 27 km north of National Highway 9 along the western branch of the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Huong Phung Commune, Huong Hoa District, Chenh Venh Waterfall is a captivating and distinctive destination. Its most striking feature is the “mother” waterfall, concealed behind large, smooth boulders. The waterfall, at approximately 20 meters tall and 3-4 meters wide, plunges into a tranquil turquoise pool surrounded by forested mountains, offering a cool and refreshing retreat.

Local authorities have partnered with domestic and international organizations to harness its tourism potential to support residents in developing community-based tourism and homestay services. Currently, 16 households are involved in the community tourism cooperative, offering experiences such as visiting Chenh Venh Waterfall, Sa Mu Pass, and community forests. Two homestay families provide traditional stilt-house accommodations for tourists seeking an immersive local experience.

Another place is Ta Puong Waterfall. It’s a must-see destination in Huong Hoa District, situated in Trang Ta Puong Hamlet, Huong Viet Commune. Visitors can immerse themselves in its cool waters, try paddleboarding, and savor local delicacies. They can also browse handcrafted bamboo items like tea cups, chopstick holders, and other unique souvenirs made by members of the local community tourism cooperative.

Nguyen Thi Hanh, a local resident, shared her excitement about experiencing Ta Puong Waterfall for the first time, praising its untouched beauty, fresh air, and distinctive local cuisine.

Tourists delight in paddleboarding at Ta Puong Waterfall. Photo: Le Truong

Tourism growth based on cultural heritage

Huong Hoa District boasts a wealth of natural attractions, waterfalls, caves, and a pleasant climate. In addition to Chenh Venh and Ta Puong Waterfalls, visitors can explore scenic spots like O O and Xan Du Waterfalls, as well as historic sites such as Dong Tri Hill, Sa Mu Pass, and 21 national and provincial monuments.

The district welcomed more than 160,000 tourists in 2023, with an estimated 170,000 visitors in the first nine months of 2024. Authorities have focused on developing eco-tourism, cultural-historical tourism, and community-based tourism. Key eco-tourism destinations include Ta Puong Waterfall and Chenh Venh Waterfall, along with seasonal sites like Quang Tri Hydropower Reservoir and Ta Du Stream.

With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and expanding tourism infrastructure, western Quang Tri continues to emerge as a premier destination for eco-tourism and cultural exploration in Vietnam.

Many tourists flock to A Lao Stream in Ta Long Commune, Dakrong District to immerse themselves in its pristine natural beauty. Photo: Le Truong

Discovering Dakrong District: Nature, culture, and adventure

In addition to Huong Hoa, Dakrong District stands out for its rich historical relics and stunning natural landscapes, featuring over 10 caves of various sizes. The Dakrong Nature Reserve protects a diverse ecosystem of rare flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourism and nature exploration. Its network of rivers, streams, caves, and waterfalls creates a distinctive, unspoiled natural charm, offering a refreshing retreat beneath lush forest canopies. Key attractions include Chinh Hinh Stream, O O, Luoi, Hien, Xo Trieng, and Ta Tung Waterfalls, as well as A Lao Stream, Lang An Ravine, Ngai Cave, and A Po Ly Hong Cave.

Dakrong also boasts unique local specialties, including rice wine, bamboo-cooked rice (com lam), snail porridge, and forest vegetables. The district’s cultural heritage is equally impressive, featuring traditional musical instruments like gongs, the Ta Lu lute, and bamboo flutes. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural celebrations such as the New Rice Festival, A Rieu Ping Festival, and traditional oath-drinking ceremonies. Local crafts like bamboo weaving and brocade weaving further enrich Dakrong’s cultural appeal, offering an authentic glimpse into the lives of indigenous communities.

Tourism development initiatives

The Quang Tri Provincial People’s Committee has approved a detailed zoning plan for the Brai-Ta Puong Ecotourism Area, combining community-based tourism development in Trang-Ta Puong Hamlet, Huong Viet Commune, and Brai Mountain in A Xoc Hamlet, Huong Lap Commune, Huong Hoa District. Spanning 170 hectares with a proposed investment of VND200 billion (US$7,900), the project aims to build a high-end resort offering immersive eco-tourism experiences.

In Dakrong District, the authorities have also greenlit the Ba Voi Waterfall Ecotourism Area project, covering 120 hectares with a VND200 billion investment. This site will feature adventure activities, eco-tourism, nature exploration, and community-based tourism. Additionally, the Luoi Waterfall Ecotourism Project, covering 50 hectares in Mo O Commune, will integrate nature experiences, cultural exploration, and outdoor adventures. These projects form part of Dakrong’s socio-economic development strategy for 2021-2030, with a long-term vision extending to 2050.

Le Truong – Linh Pham