The first attraction for visitors to Quynh Nhai is a temple in Muong Giang commune worshiping a female general called Han. Legend has it that Lady Han expelled invaders on the last day of a lunar year and ordered her soldiers to wash their hair and bathe in the river to welcome the new year and salute their victory. Since then, the hair washing ritual has become a tradition of the local white Thai people at year’s end to wash off all the difficulties, bad fortunes, and diseases in the waters while praying for a new year full of good luck, health, and bumper crops. Other activities are also held on the river for both visitors and locals. Dieu Chinh Hien, deputy head of the Culture and Information Office of Quynh Nhai district, said “The Son La hydropower plant has created stunning views in Quynh Nhai which has been dubbed an inland Halong Bay. Tourists can take a yacht to enjoy the scenery of the Da river at the beginning of the year when we also hold festivities such as a boat race on the 10th day of the first lunar month”. The Pa Uon bridge across the Da river links Son La province with other northwestern provinces of Lai Chau, Dien Bien, and Lao Cai. From afar, the bridge looks like a white silk strip over blue water background. Pa Uon bridge was recognized by the Vietnam Records Organization as the country’s highest abutment of 98.6 meters. The most-awaited activity… [Read full story]
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