Home Tips Discover Than Uyên (Lai Châu): Top 3 Must-Visit Attractions

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Discover Than Uyên (Lai Châu): Top 3 Must-Visit Attractions

20 January, 2026

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Discover Than Uyen, where golden rice terraces and crystal-clear rivers nestled between majestic mountains create a picturesque landscape. This hidden gem in Lai Chau Province is a must-visit destination. Join us as we explore the top 3 attractions in this enchanting region.

1 Overview of Than Uyen

The serene beauty of Than Uyen

Located in the southeastern part of Lai Chau Province, Than Uyen District sits at an altitude of 500m to 1800m above sea level. It is a vast, enclosed valley surrounded by the majestic Fansipan and Pung Luong mountains. To the east, it borders Lao Cai Province (National Highway 32 and 279) and Yen Bai Province (National Highway 32), while to the west and south, it adjoins Son La Province. To the north, it shares borders with Tan Uyen District.

The terrain of Than Uyen consists mainly of low and medium mountains, along with valleys along the Nam Mu River. The climate features two distinct seasons: a cold winter and a hot, humid summer.

Than Uyen is home to 10 ethnic groups, with the Thai people making up over 70% of the population. The Kinh people account for 13%, followed by the Hmong, Kho Mu, Dao, and others. This cultural diversity creates a fascinating blend of traditions that captivates every visitor to Lai Chau.

2 Top 3 Must-Visit Attractions in Than Uyen

Khau Co Pass

Panoramic view of Than Uyen from Khau Co Pass

Quality Rating: Updating

Address: Between Nam Bai Village, Muong Than Commune, Than Uyen District, Lai Chau Province, and Nam Si Tan Village, Nam Xe Commune, Van Ban District, Lao Cai Province

Fee: Free

Opening Hours: All days of the week

Phone Number: Not available

Facebook: Not available

Pros: Stunning, majestic scenery

Cons: Challenging terrain, harsh weather

A visit to Than Uyen is incomplete without experiencing Khau Co Pass. This breathtaking route offers a vibrant natural landscape, promising an exciting adventure. For the best experience, ride a motorcycle to enjoy the thrill of navigating the terrain and marveling at the awe-inspiring views of Than Uyen’s natural beauty.

Muong Than Rice Terraces

Muong Than Rice Terraces during harvest season

Quality Rating: 5.0/5 (Google Reviews)

Address: Than Uyen Town, Than Uyen District, Lai Chau Province

Fee: Free

Opening Hours: All days of the week

Phone Number: Not available

Facebook: Not available

Pros: Serene scenery, cool climate

Cons: Updating

With approximately 2,000 hectares of agricultural land, Muong Than is one of the largest and most beautiful rice terraces in the Northwest region, located in Than Uyen. Visitors traveling in July, August, and September can witness the vast terraces during the rice harvest season. The swaying rice stalks under the golden sunlight create a picturesque rural landscape that captivates all who visit.

Tham Phe Fish Village

Tham Phe Fish Village, a popular eco-tourism destination for weekend getaways

Quality Rating: 4.3/5 (Google Reviews)

Address: Tham Phe Village, Muong Kim Commune, Than Uyen District, Lai Chau Province

Fee: Updating

Opening Hours: All days of the week

Phone Number: 0388544585

Facebook: Tham Phe Fish Village

Pros: Beautiful scenery, delicious food

Cons: Often crowded on weekends

Tham Phe Fish Village is located in Tham Phe Village, 25 km west of Muong Kim Commune. It features local fish farms on the hydroelectric reservoir, where fresh fish is prepared and served to visitors. Enjoy a variety of dishes made from locally caught fish in this unique setting.

3 Local Specialties of Than Uyen

Lam Nho

Lam Nho, a Thai specialty

Lam Nho is a signature dish of the Thai people in Than Uyen, made from beef or buffalo meat. The meat is marinated with ingredients like mac khen seeds, ginger, and pumpkin leaves, then stuffed into bamboo tubes and grilled until tender. Best enjoyed hot, this dish offers a rich, flavorful experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Grilled River Fish in Ash

Grilled river fish in ash, a fragrant delicacy

This unique dish is cooked using hot ash. After cleaning, the fish is marinated with special spices, wrapped in dong leaves, and buried in a charcoal stove. The result is tender, sweet fish with a fragrant aroma that lingers in your memory.

Bamboo Shoot Salad with Ban Flowers

Bamboo shoot salad with ban flowers

This simple yet distinctive dish combines the bitterness of bamboo shoots, the nuttiness of ban flowers, and the tangy, spicy, and savory flavors of the dressing. It’s a delightful treat that tantalizes the taste buds.

These are the top 3 attractions in Than Uyen. Don’t hesitate—take a break from your routine and explore this beautiful destination. Follow us for more exciting travel tips and information.