Overview of Pa Khoang Lake

Pa Khoang Lake is located in Muong Phang commune, one of the key green administrative units under Dien Bien province. This is the largest artificial lake in the Northwest region, playing an essential role in regulating irrigation for the entire downstream agricultural production area. As the ecological center of the region, the lake not only regulates the climate but is also an important natural heritage space associated with the lives of the local community.

Pa Khoang Lake

At the area In the center of the lake, visitors can experience a sightseeing cruise service to admire the small islands hidden in the mist. The most attractive highlight today is the nature reserve surrounding the lake with a diverse flora and wild flowers blooming seasonally. The space here harmoniously connects outdoor picnic activities and typical indigenous cultural experiences of people in Muong Phang commune.

Outstanding attractions at Pa Khoang Lake

Pa Khoang Flower Island

Pa Khoang Hoa Island

Hoa Island is located in the middle of the lake in the commune's territory Muong Phang, Dien Bien province, is famous as a colorful "kingdom" of plants. This place gathers hundreds of precious flower species, especially cherry blossoms given by Japanese experts that have adapted and bloomed every early spring. Visitors here can leisurely walk on shady paths, take photos with the long flower beds and enjoy the peaceful space between the vast water surface.

Pa Khoang village eco-tourism area

Pa Khoang village

Pa Khoang village is located along the lakeside in Muong Phang commune, an ideal destination to explore the unique cultural features of the Thai and Kho Mu ethnic people. Visitors will experience staying in sturdy traditional stilt houses and enjoy highland cuisine such as grilled fish and grilled meat right next to the open fire. This is a space where community tourism and relaxation meet, where visitors can easily find relaxation in the rustic lifestyle of today's new communes.

Muong Phang special-use forest surrounding the lake bed

Muong Phang special-use forest

The special-use forest system surrounding Pa Khoang lake in Muong Phang commune plays the role of a giant "green lung" protecting water sources and ecosystems throughout the region. The wide canopy of ancient trees covers the paths leading deep into the forest, creating an exciting journey of nature discovery for those who love hiking. The chirping of wild birds mixed with the murmuring waves create a wonderful natural harmony, completely separate from the noise of the city.

Lake sightseeing boat dock

Boat to visit the lake bed 

Boat in the commune Muong Phang is the starting point for the journey to discover the magical beauty of more than 50 large and small islands rising in the middle of the lake. Visitors can choose to ride a motorboat or kayak to freely weave through the ravines and feel the clarity of the emerald green water. From the boat, you will have a panoramic view of the majesty of the Northwest mountains and forests and the innovation of residential areas around Pa Khoang lake today.

Lakeside picnic camping area

Picnic camping area

Lands The flat lakeside area in Muong Phang commune is an ideal place for camping and outdoor picnic activities. Tourists often choose this place to set up tents, organize BBQ parties and watch the starry sky in the quiet space of the mountains and forests. This is a favorite stop for groups of young people and families who want to find the feeling of complete immersion in pristine nature.

In addition to the above typical places, the Pa Khoang Lake area has many other interesting things for you to explore:

  • Relaxing fishing: A popular activity in the small bays around the lake, where there are abundant aquatic resources and a peaceful space. static.

  • Lakeside check-in points: Rocks and ancient tree stumps facing the water in Muong Phang commune are ideal places to capture impressive frames.

  • Lakeside trekking routes: Trails connecting lakeside villages provide a realistic view of the farming landscape of the people local ethnic groups.

Best time to travel

>Cherry blossom season (January - February)

January and February are the times when Pa Khoang lake in Muong Phang commune attracts the most tourists when thousands of cherry blossoms on small islands begin to bloom. In the cold air of the Northwest spring, the bright pink color of the flowers blends with the mist on the lake surface to create a romantic scene like a fairyland. Tourists coming here at the beginning of the year will enjoy the pristine beauty of nature and participate in special spring festival activities of the community around the lake.

The season of full water and deep green forests (June - August)

When entering the summer months, Pa Khoang lake in Muong Phang commune has a beauty full of vitality with rising water levels revealing The islands are as green as jade. This is the ideal time to participate in boating activities or relax along the lake to escape the harsh sun of the lowlands. The deep green color of the special-use forest reflects on the calm water surface, creating a cool, fresh space, bringing a feeling of absolute relaxation to those who love eco-tourism.

Transportation information

Flight routes to Dien Bien province

Dien Bien Phu Airport

Dien Bien Phu Airport

Dien Bien Phu Airport is located in Dien Bien Phu ward, is the most important air traffic hub for tourists to access the Pa Khoang lake area. After landing, it only takes about 30 minutes to travel by car through smooth asphalt roads to reach Muong Phang commune. Upgrading runways for large aircraft has helped significantly shorten travel time, creating favorable conditions for tourists to explore highland nature.

  • From Hanoi & City. Ho Chi Minh: Direct connection with daily round-trip flights, providing convenience for tourists from both ends of the country.

  • Other domestic routes: Pick up flexible flights from northern tourist centers, creating favorable conditions to access new administrative units of the province.

Note: Tourists can easily use Use airport taxi services or tourist trams to travel to the center of wards with reasonable costs and professional services.

Passenger buses to Dien Bien province

>Inter-provincial bus station system

Dien Bien province central bus station is located in Muong Thanh ward, which is the main gathering point for high-quality sleeper bus routes from Hanoi and northern provinces. This is an important traffic hub that helps you easily transfer to intra-province vehicles to get to Muong Phang commune right after a long journey. Reputable bus companies maintain continuous running frequency, ensuring smooth connection between the central area and the system of 45 new communes and wards throughout the province.

Intra-city and inter-commune travel to the lake area

To fully visit the beauty of Pa Khoang lake, you can choose flexible means of transportation depending on your experience needs:

  • Tourist tram: This vehicle operates strongly in the center of Muong Phang commune, transporting tourists from parking lots to the boat dock to visit the lake. This is an environmentally friendly choice, helping you leisurely admire the scenery of special-use forests and breathe fresh air.

  • Taxi and technology vehicles: Taxi service is always available in Dien Bien Phu ward to take you through winding mountain passes and pine forests to reach Pa Khoang lake. Local drivers are very knowledgeable about the roads and will take you to the right locations with the best views to admire the panoramic view of the lake from above.

  • Intra-province buses: Modern bus routes run along Highway 279 connecting the ward center with Muong Phang commune at fixed time frames throughout the day. This is an economical method of transportation, allowing you to get off at convenient stops to walk to ethnic cultural villages located along the lake.

Rent a sightseeing vehicle

To freely explore the islands and lakeside roads in Muong Phang commune, you can contact to rent a vehicle at reputable locations:

  • Green Taxi SM Dien Bien: ☎ 1900 2088 | Providing new, smooth, professional electric vehicle services throughout the province | Suitable for groups of families who need comfort.

  • Muong Phang self-driving motorbike rental service: ☎ 0941 123 123 | Rental prices range from 150,000 VND to 200,000 VND per day | Providing healthy, well-maintained motorbikes for you to conquer the slopes around the lake area.

Accommodation information

Luxury (4–5 stars)

Phadin Hotel located in the center of Dien Bien Phu ward, famous for its professional service and the most modern accommodation space in the central area. From the hotel, you need to travel about 22km (equivalent to 45 minutes by car) to reach the lake boat wharf in Muong Phang commune. According to 2026 data, room prices here range from 900,000 to 1,800,000 VND/night depending on room type and time of booking.

Phadin Hotel

Long Giang Hotel Located right on the main road of Dien Bien Phu ward, providing maximum convenience for the journey connecting historical and ecological tourism. This location is about 23km from the water surface of Pa Khoang lake in Muong Phang commune, passing through winding mountain passes with majestic mountain and forest scenery. The average room price in 2026 is in the range of 800,000 to 1,500,000 VND/night, very suitable for business trips combined with quality relaxation.

If you want more high-end options in the new central area, you can consider:

  • Hanoi Hotel - Dien Bien - Dien Bien Phu Ward - 23km from the lake - Price about 700,000 - 1,300,000 VND/night.

  • A1 Hotel - Dien Bien Phu Ward - 22km from the lake - Price about 600,000 - 1,100,000 VND/night.

  • Ruby Hotel - Dien Bien Phu Ward - 24km from the lake - Price about 400,000 - 800,000 VND/night.

Resort (Eco-resort & Luxury Eco-stay)

Him Lam Ecotourism Area located Close to the edge of peaceful Huoi Pha Lake in Dien Bien Phu ward, providing a green resort space completely separate from the noise of the city. The system of wooden stilt houses and bungalows here is designed to blend with nature, allowing visitors to enjoy the mist and fresh air right from the bedroom window. Reference room prices in 2026 here range from 1,500,000 to 3,500,000 VND/night, including high-end resort amenities and relaxing picnic space.

Him Lam Ecotourism Area

Muong Phang Guest House is located near the entrance to the Campaign Command relic site, providing a quiet resting space under the canopy of ancient trees in Muong Phang commune. The project is only about 5km from Pa Khoang lake wharf, very convenient for visitors to combine visiting historical and ecological sites in the same session. Accommodation prices here usually range from 600,000 to 1,200,000 VND/night for the experience of resting in the heart of the special-use forest surrounding the lake.

For diverse options for ecological resort space, you can refer to:

  • Dao Hoa eco-tourism area - Muong Phang Commune - Located in the middle of the lake - Price from 1,000,000 - 2,200,000 VND/night.

  • Muong Phang Accommodation Area - Muong Phang Commune - 4km from the lake - Price from 500,000 - 900,000 VND/night.

  • Tong Doan Guesthouse - Muong Thanh Ward - 23km from the lake - Price from 500,000 - 1,000,000 VND/night.

Experience (2–3 stars, Homestay, Hostel)

Homestay in Co La village is located along the lake shore in Muong Phang commune, is an ideal community accommodation spot to explore the indigenous culture of the Thai ethnic group. The traditional stilt houses here bring a rustic feel, where you can directly participate in preparing grilled fish with the host after a tour of the lake. Room prices here are very competitive, about 300,000 to 600,000 VND/night, including cultural exchange activities in the village.

Co La version Homestay

Chien Thang Village Homestay is located right at the gateway to Muong Phang commune, attracting tourists with its warmth and typical peaceful village space. From the village, visitors only take a few minutes to walk to access the lakeside trails or start a trekking journey through the special-use forests surrounding the area. Reference prices in 2026 range from 250,000 to 550,000 VND/night, suitable for young people who love experiential and cost-effective travel.

For travelers who love flexibility and optimal costs, the following places are suitable suggestions:

  • Homestay Ban Ten - Muong Thanh Ward - 24km from the lake - Price from 300,000 - 500,000 VND/night.

  • Provincial Party Committee Guest House - Dien Bien Phu Ward - 22km from the lake - Price from 450,000 - 800,000 VND/night.

  • Homestay Phieng Loi – Dien Bien Phu Ward – 25km from the lake – Price from 350,000 – 600,000 VND/night.

Festival cuisine and culture

High-class restaurant

Pa Khoang Lake Tourist Area Restaurant

Pa Khoang Lake Tourist Area Restaurant

The restaurant is located right at the entrance to the main boat wharf in Muong Phang commune, and is the largest culinary stop in the lake area. The restaurant space is designed in the style of a large innovative wooden stilt house, surrounded by a lush green special-use forest scene and a direct view of the quiet lake. Diners coming here are often impressed with dishes specializing in fresh lake fish such as sturgeon and lentils, meticulously prepared by chefs who understand highland flavors. This is an ideal place to organize group parties or luxurious family meals with prices ranging from 350,000 - 700,000 VND/person.

Pa Khoang Hoa Island Restaurant 

Located isolated on a beautiful island in the middle of the lake in Muong Phang commune, Hoa Dao restaurant offers a sophisticated culinary experience in the middle of nowhere. The space is filled with flowers. The menu here is a unique combination of lake products and seasonal wild vegetables, eye-catchingly presented in a nutritious culinary style. In the cold weather of the first months of the year, enjoying hot lake fish hotpot while watching cherry blossoms bloom is a classy experience that attracts many high-class tourists. The restaurant serves professionally with reference prices from 400,000 - 850,000 VND/person, including boat shuttle service.

Some other quality culinary places near Muong Phang commune:

  • Muong Phang Eco Restaurant - Muong Phang Commune - Price from 300,000 VND/person.

  • Rung Thong Restaurant – Gateway of Muong Phang commune – Price from 350,000 VND/person.

  • Ho Pa Khoang View Restaurant – Lakeside Muong Phang commune – Price from 300,000 VND/person.

Local cuisine

Pa Khoang purple taro 

Purple taro is the most famous agricultural product of Muong Phang commune, grown on the hillsides surrounding Pa Khoang lake. This type of potato has a characteristic purple color from the skin to the inside. When cooked, it has a smooth, flexible texture and a very unique aroma that cannot be found anywhere else. Purple taro soup stewed with Ban pork bones or steamed potatoes with sugar are rustic flavors but deeply memorable for visitors every time they have the opportunity to visit the lake area. You can enjoy this dish at local restaurants or buy fresh potatoes as gifts for about 50,000 - 80,000 VND/kg.

Grilled Pa Khoang lake fish (Pa Pinh Top)

Unlike stream fish, Pa Khoang lake fish are usually large carp or silver carp, with firm and very fatty meat thanks to the clean water source in Muong Phang commune. Local people marinate fish with the "soul" seasoning of mac Khen seeds, wild chili, lemongrass and herbs and then grill it over charcoal until the skin is golden and crispy but the inside still retains its natural sweetness. Enjoying a fragrant piece of grilled fish and upland sticky rice right on the shore of a windy lake is a pure Northwest culinary experience that you must try. The price for each grilled fish is usually from 200,000 - 350,000 VND depending on weight.

Some other local culinary products you should try:

  • Muong Phang Hill Chicken grilled in bamboo tubes - Muong Phang Commune - Price from 250,000 VND/fish.

  • Pa Khoang wine - Cultural villages in Muong Phang commune - Price from 150,000 VND/jar.

  • Muong Phang buffalo skin salad - Restaurants in the commune center - Price from 80,000 VND/plate.

Experiential cuisine

Village meal at Co La village 

The experience of dining at the traditional stilt house of the Thai ethnic group in Co La village, Muong Phang commune brings the most cozy and authentic feeling. Diners will be able to sit on bean mats, enjoy dishes displayed on rattan trays and listen to the homeowner tell about legends associated with the formation of the lake bed. In particular, the whole roasted "underarm" pig dish served with boiled wild vegetables and dipping sauce will awaken the taste buds of any visitor. This cultural exchange space is not only a meal but also an emotional connection between tourists and the warm people here.

Some other unique culinary experiences that tourists should try:

  • Outdoor BBQ party by the lake: Organize camping and grill food directly on the lakeside lawns in Muong Phang commune.

  • Make bamboo rice yourself with villagers: Experience the process of stuffing sticky rice into bamboo tubes and grilling on wood stoves at Chien Thang village homestays.

  • Enjoy Muong Phang forest tea: Sip a cup of rich green tea picked from ancient tea trees in the special-use forest surrounding the lake.

Cultural Experiences & Festivals

Cherry Blossom Festival (January - February)

Cherry Blossom Festival

Taking place every year at Hoa Island in Muong Phang commune, this is the most prominent cultural and tourist event to honor the friendship between the two peoples of Vietnam and Japan. In a space filled with the vibrant colors of thousands of blooming cherry trees, visitors will be able to participate in cultural exchange activities, perform national costumes and enjoy tea ceremonies. The festival not only attracts tourists by the beauty of the flowers but also by the vibrant atmosphere of folk games such as toss and tug of war taking place right next to the blue lake.

New rice celebration of the Thai people (October of the lunar calendar)

After the crops on the hillsides around Muong Phang commune are harvested, people will hold a new rice celebration to give thanks Heaven and earth have given bountiful harvests. Tourists who visit on this occasion will witness the solemn ancestral worshiping ritual and join the villagers in the process of pounding green rice and making banh day from fragrant new rice grains. The bustling sound of drums and gongs and the solidarity rings around the jar of wine create an extremely impressive and unforgettable community cultural space in the Pa Khoang lake area.

Other annual cultural events and festivals:

  • Traditional boating festival - Taking place at the boat wharf area of Muong Phang commune on Tet holiday established.

  • Cultural exchange of ethnic groups along the lake - Held in Chien Thang village, bringing together the artistic quintessence of the Thai and Kho Mu people.

  • Muong Phang Market - Takes place periodically in the commune center, a place to exchange agricultural products and brocade typical of the communes and wards new.

Amusement area

Ho Pa Khoang boat wharf amusement complex

Amusement complex Ho Pa Khoang boat wharf

Ho Pa Khoang boat wharf entertainment complex is located in Muong Phang commune, providing a variety of sports and entertainment on the water. Visitors can rent kayaks or water bicycles to weave their way through the small islands and explore the rich ecosystem of the lake bed. With a large lake surface area and cool breeze, this is an ideal stop to relieve stress and enjoy the feeling of freedom amidst the green natural space.

Besides the water play space mentioned above, the Pa Khoang Lake area has many other relaxing spots and attractive activities for your journey:

  • Love Island picnic area - Muong Phang Commune: This is an area with flat natural lawns close to the water's edge, very suitable for camping, BBQ parties and outdoor group games.

  • Cultural playground of Chien Thang village - Muong Phang Commune: Community living space This place regularly organizes folk games such as shuttlecock tossing, stick pushing and bamboo dancing, bringing fun experiences rich in indigenous culture to visitors.

  • Cherry Blossom Park - Muong Phang Commune: This area has a system of clean and beautiful walking paths and many scenic stops, attracting a large number of people to relax and take souvenir photos every weekend.

Suggested tour

Experiential tour

Indigenous Cultural Journey Tour - Soul of Muong Phang 

This journey takes visitors into rustic villages surrounding the lake to feel the breath of life of the Thai and ethnic minorities. Kho Mu. You will start the trip by visiting the brocade weaving village in Co La village, then directly participating in the process of catching lake fish with villagers in Muong Phang commune. The tour offers a unique cultural exchange experience, ending with a passionate wine party and bustling dances right next to the red fire of the traditional stilt house.

  • Itinerary: Muong Phang commune center - Visit Co La village - Experience brocade weaving - Cultural exchange at Chien Thang village - Enjoy grilled fish specialty Pa Khoang.

  • Transportation: Motorbike or tourist electric car.

  • Reference tour price: 400,000 - 600,000 VND/person.

  • Organizing unit: Muong Phang Eco-Travel.

Discovery tour

Tour "Spring color of Flower Island" - Explore the ecology of Pa Khoang lake 

This is an ideal journey to conquer the magical beauty of small islands and special-use forest ecosystems surrounding the lake in Muong Phang commune. Visitors will ride a motorboat through the mist to reach Flower Island, where thousands of Japanese cherry trees bloom brilliantly alongside rare wild orchids. The discovery trip brings a wonderful connection between pristine nature and the flower art space, where you can breathe fresh air and capture the most beautiful moments of Northwest spring.

  • Itinerary: Muong Phang Commune Boat Station - Visit Flower Island - Light trekking in special-use forests - Sightseeing from the top of the hill along the lake - Explore the botanical islands.

  • Transportation: Motorboat combined with walking.

  • Reference tour price: 550,000 - 800,000 VND/person.

  • Organizer: Pa Khoang Lake Discovery.

Family tour

Have fun picnicking at Pa Khoang lake 

The green journey is specially designed for families, starting from the Muong Phang commune wharf with gentle kayaking on the calm water surface. Children will participate in fruit picking activities at local gardens, play on flat lawns and experience baking Pa Khoang purple taro right at the lakeside campsite. The trip brings an absolutely relaxing space for the whole family, helping members bond with each other through outdoor activities close to nature.

  • Itinerary: Commune central boat station - Kayaking experience - Lakeside camping picnic - Visiting fruit gardens - Outdoor BBQ.

  • Transportation Transportation: Cars and tourist boats.

  • Reference tour price: 500,000 - 750,000 VND/person (including lunch).

  • Organization: Pa Khoang Resort & Spa.

Ecotourism

Muong Phang Great Green Vacation

Intensive eco-tour takes you deep into the core of the special-use forest surrounding Pa Khoang Lake to learn about the diverse flora and fauna in Muong Phang commune. Visitors will participate in a trekking journey through the forest, learn to recognize precious medicinal species and enjoy a "forest" lunch prepared by local guides who understand the terrain. This is a great opportunity to re-energize, completely separate from work and immerse yourself in the sustainable green life of the changing historical land.

  • Itinerary: Dien Bien Phu Ward - Muong Phang Commune - Trekking the core of the special-use forest - Learn about the lake bed ecosystem - Relax at the lakeside Bungalow.

  • Transportation: Car combined with walking through the forest.

  • Reference tour price: 900,000 - 1,200,000 VND/person.

  • Organization unit: Northwest Eco-Tours.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Agricultural products at Muong Phang market 

Agricultural products at Muong market Phang

Muong Phang Commune Central Market is a unique shopping destination for those who want to find authentic products around Pa Khoang lake. Every morning, ethnic people from lakeside villages bring baskets of purple taro, wild bamboo shoots and hand-processed dried fish to exchange enthusiastically. This is a great opportunity for visitors to choose fresh foods and feel the rustic working life of the community in this new administrative unit.

Here are some reputable addresses for you to find souvenirs and typical products of the Pa Khoang lake area:

  • Introduction point Muong Phang purple taro - Muong Phang Commune: Located right on the road leading to the Campaign Command Headquarters, this is a reputable address for you to buy the famous specialty taro in the lake area. Purple taro tubers with fragrant flesh and eye-catching colors are carefully packaged by people, making it easy for tourists to transport as gifts.

  • Co La village brocade workshop - Muong Phang commune: Co La village is a place that preserves the traditional handicraft weaving of the Thai people with products with bold Northwest colors. Visitors can choose to buy hand-embroidered Pieu scarves, brocade handbags or decorative curtains with sophisticated patterns that reflect the lively worldview of the villagers. 

  • Dried fish specialties of Pa Khoang lake - Muong Phang commune wharf: At the main wharf area, stalls introducing dried and grilled fish always attract a large number of visitors. The fish is caught directly from Pa Khoang lake, cleaned and marinated with traditional mac khe spices, then dried on the kitchen floor until firm, giving off a characteristic aroma..

Support information and other information

Muong Phang Historical and Tourism Relics Management Board

  • Address: Muong Phang Commune, Dien Bien Province.

  • Support phone number: 0215.3861.020.

  • Function: Focal point to coordinate sightseeing activities in the lake bed area and the Campaign Command relic site. The unit manages the fleet of tourist boats, ensures safety for picnickers and provides tour guide services about the lake ecosystem as well as special-use forest trekking routes.

Dien Bien Phu ward police

  • Address: Vo Nguyen Giap Street, Dien Bien Phu ward, Dien Bien Phu province Bien.

  • On-call phone number: 0215.3824.150.

  • Function: The unit performs the task of ensuring order and security in the core area of ​​the monument, protecting the safety of both visitors and local residents 24/7. The ward police directly receive reports of property loss incidents, support the search for lost people and maintain a civilized historical tourism environment throughout the new ward.

Muong Phang Commune Police

  • Address: Muong Phang Commune Administrative Center, Dien Bien Province.

  • On-duty phone number: 0215.3861.113.

  • Function: Maintain security and order and manage residence in the commune after the merger. Commune police directly supervise accommodation activities at lakeside homestays, assist tourists in emergency situations related to personal safety, property and regulate traffic at the boat wharf during peak season.

Dien Bien Provincial General Hospital

  • Address: Muong Thanh Ward (area Old Noong Bua area), Dien Bien province.

  • Emergency phone number: 0215.3825.004.

  • Functions: The hospital provides emergency medical services and quickly handles health situations that arise during the journey to explore the relics. Located in the center of the new ward, this facility is very convenient for promptly treating problems such as heat stroke or minor injuries when tourists travel on the steep hilly terrain of the old battlefield.

Dien Bien Airport

  • Address: Residential group 10, Dien Bien ward Phu, Dien Bien province.

  • Phone number: 0215.3824.411.

  • Function: This is the province's key air trade gateway, supporting detailed information on flight schedules and handling issues related to luggage. Visitors can contact the hotline number to receive advice on official means of transportation such as tourist trams or taxis to conveniently move to accommodation areas in central wards.

Wish you an exciting journey to discover the "Jade" in the middle of the jungle, fully enjoying the wild beauty and brilliant innovation of Muong Phang commune and the Pa Khoang Lake tourist complex!