What is Lac Village?
Mai Chau is a district, not a single town — it covers a large rural area made up of scattered villages and farmland. Lac Village (also called Ban Lac) is the main area where most travelers stay, and it acts as the unofficial center for tourism in Mai Chau. Unlike a place you just stop by for sightseeing, this is where people actually spend the night — usually in local homes or small lodges.
Lac is a White Thai ethnic village that has slowly adapted to tourism over the years. It’s still very much lived in by locals, and the shift toward tourism happened naturally — homes were turned into homestays, a few shops and restaurants opened, and small workshops appeared. But the traditional stilt house architecture remains, and the people who run the businesses are still from the village.
Just outside Lac Village, especially on the edges of the rice fields, you’ll find more homestays, small retreats, and eco-lodges, offering a mix of comfort and scenery. Even though Lac is the most visited part of Mai Chau, it doesn’t feel overly commercial or staged. It’s tourist-friendly but still laid-back and authentic in a simple, everyday way.
Nearby alternatives include Pom Coong Village, which blends into the same area, and Nhot Village, a quieter option with more local life and fewer visitors.
What to see and do in Lac Village
1. Homestay experience
The main reason to stay in Lac Village is the homestay experience. Most accommodations are traditional stilt houses where you sleep on thin mattresses under mosquito nets, share meals with the family, and enjoy the peace of rural life. It’s a simple but comfortable way to get a feel for ethnic minority culture, especially if it’s your first time in a village setting.
2. Handicraft workshops
Some houses in the village have looms set up for brocade weaving, and you’ll often see women working on textiles during the day. A few places offer informal workshops where you can try your hand at weaving or wax batik, but it’s not a polished tourist experience — more of a drop-in, low-key activity. Still, it’s an interesting way to learn about traditional crafts that are still part of daily life here.
3. Souvenir shops
Scattered around the village are small souvenir stalls and homestay-run shops selling handmade goods — textiles, bags, scarves, purses, and small decorative items.
Most are locally made by the people living here, so buying something is a good way to support the local economy. You won’t find mass-produced souvenirs — what’s here is usually crafted in or near the village.
4. Explore the stilt village & observe local life
Lac Village isn’t frozen in time — it has adapted to tourism — but that doesn’t mean it’s inauthentic. Many homes now host guests or sell handmade products, but the people living here are from the village, and life goes on much as it has for generations. It’s a nice place for a quiet walk, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and villagers are out tending to their daily routines.
5. Traditional dance performances
In the evening, some homestays and local restaurants host traditional dance performances by White Thai villagers. While the performers are often paid for their time, they’re not outsiders — they’re locals sharing their culture. The shows are informal, sometimes interactive, and often include music, dance, and shots of rice wine passed around. It’s a fun, relaxed way to end the day.
Things to do in the area
Lac Village is a great base to explore the Mai Chau Valley and beyond. Whether you’re into cycling, light hikes, or cultural side-trips, there’s plenty nearby to keep you busy for a day or two. For a full list of highlights, see our complete Mai Chau travel guide.
1. Cycling
This is the classic activity in Mai Chau. The valley roads around Lac Village are mostly flat and wind through rice fields, stilt houses, and small villages. You don’t need to plan much — just grab a bike and go. Most homestays have free or cheap bicycles, making it one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the area.
2. Chieu Cave
Located about 2 km from Lac Village, Chieu Cave is best known for its viewpoint. You’ll need to climb over 1,000 stone steps, but the panoramic views over the valley are worth it if you’re reasonably fit. The cave itself is quite large, with limestone formations inside — bring a flashlight if you want to explore deeper.
3. Other nearby sights
- Go Lao Waterfall – A small waterfall about 20–30 minutes from Lac. Good for a short trip, especially in rainy season when water levels are higher.
- Mai Chau Viewpoint – A scenic stop on the way in or out of the valley, with panoramic views over rice fields.
- Hoa Binh Lake – For longer or more remote experiences, you can take boat trips or combine it with a day tour. Less visited, good if you want something quieter.
- Hang Kia & Pa Co – A great cultural extension if you’re staying longer. Best on Sundays for the Pa Co Market or at sunrise for cloud hunting. See our separate guides for more details.
Where to stay in and around Lac Village
When choosing where to stay in Mai Chau, you’ll want to decide between staying inside Lac Village or at a retreat just outside the village. Both offer great experiences, but they feel a bit different depending on what you’re looking for.
Inside the Village
Most places here are traditional stilt house homestays run by local families. They’re usually simple but comfortable, and prices are very reasonable — from around 250,000 to 1,000,000 VND per night. You’ll be within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and evening dance performances. Some homestays on the edge of the village have better views over rice fields, so it’s worth checking the location carefully.
Outside the village
If you prefer more space or a quieter stay, there are boutique lodges and eco-retreats just a few minutes away from Lac Village. These are often set among rice fields or gardens, offering a more peaceful atmosphere. Prices are a bit higher, but you’ll get more comfort and privacy. Most of these places still provide free bicycles so you can reach Lac Village easily.
Tip: Read our full guide on where to stay in Mai Chau for the best homestays and lodges.
Restaurants in Lac Village
Lac Village is one of the few parts of Mai Chau where you’ll find actual restaurant choices. In most other villages, meals are mainly served at your homestay. If you feel like eating out or trying a different style, here are a few good options:
La Mai Châu Home Food & Coffee
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the village, this spot offers a simple, relaxed vibe with a focus on vegetarian-friendly dishes. Portions are modest, but the food is fresh and nicely presented. Highlights include the fried spring rolls, mild curries, and coconut coffee. A good option if you want something light and casual.
Bó Luông Restaurant
Located by a small lake near the village edge, this is one of the more comfortable and polished restaurants in the area. It has a large menu that covers both Vietnamese classics and some Western comfort food. The setting is air-conditioned and nicely decorated, though prices are a bit higher than average for Mai Chau.
Mai Chau Restaurant Countryside
Just a short walk outside the village center, this restaurant is set in a peaceful garden with rice field views. The food is more home-style, focusing on local ingredients and a few vegan dishes. It’s not fancy, but the staff is friendly and can speak decent English — making it a popular stop for travelers who want something local but approachable.
Tips for visiting Lac Village
How to get there
The easiest way is by direct limousine bus from Hanoi to Mai Chau. Some services drop you right near Lac Village.
Read our full guide: Hanoi to Mai Chau transport guide
Bring what you need
There are no big shops or convenience stores in Lac Village. Bring mosquito repellent, sunscreen, cash, and any basic toiletries you might need.
Cash is king
Some larger homestays and restaurants accept cards, but many are cash-only. There’s an ATM about 1 km away, but it’s not always reliable. It’s best to bring enough cash from Hanoi.
Consider Nhot Village
Just a short bike ride away, Nhot Village offers a quieter alternative with a more agricultural, local vibe. It has fewer tourists and a slower pace — worth visiting even if you don’t stay there.
