Visit Pu Bin: A Remote Mountain Village in Mai Chau

Pu Bin village is tucked away in the highlands of Mai Chau District, just south of Mai Chau valley. Unlike the more popular villages in the area, Pu Bin has fewer lodging options, providing a more secluded and authentic experience. Staying in Pu Bin allows you to enjoy the peacefulness of the countryside with fewer tourists, giving you a genuine connection to the local way of life.

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In contrast, villages in the Mai Chau valley, like Lac and Pom Coong, offer more accommodation and dining options, along with easier access to transportation. However, with these conveniences comes a busier atmosphere, as you’ll be sharing the space with more visitors.

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Whether you choose to stay in Pu Bin or the valley really depends on your preferences. If you’re seeking a quiet retreat and a more intimate experience, Pu Bin’s charm and tranquility might be the perfect fit. On the other hand, if you prefer more amenities and don't mind a bit more hustle and bustle, the Lac and Pom Coong villages may be a better option for your stay.

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Read: Vietnam’s Most Beautiful Places to Visit

Visiting Pu Bin: Our Experience

We visited in early May and were greeted by pleasant weather—cool mornings and evenings, with warm temperatures at midday.

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Our three-day stay was wonderfully peaceful and relaxing. Each morning, we woke early for a quiet walk around the village, followed by a hearty breakfast. The rest of the morning was spent unwinding at the homestay, lounging in a hammock or reading in the yard. By lunchtime, we would head to a nearby stilt house, where we enjoyed delicious home-cooked meals and rice wine with the village head.

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Afternoons were a mix of exploration and discovery. We walked through the village and out into the rice fields, taking in the peaceful scenery. The sound of kids playing football echoed in the background, their laughter blending with the quiet surroundings. Passing by friendly villagers, we noticed their pets lounging in the shade and small backyard gardens tucked away behind simple homes.

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Evenings were just as special. Our hosts prepared dinner at the homestay, followed by traditional Thai dances performed by local women. One evening, we even joined in mua sap, a lively bamboo dance that brought everyone together—tourists and villagers alike. The shared energy and laughter made it a perfect way to end each night, leaving us with cherished memories of our stay.

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After soaking in the rustic charm of Pu Bin, make your way to Tu Le in Yen Bai province, where you'll find an equally authentic homestay experience with its own unique vibe. With breathtaking rice terraces and soothing hot springs, read our guide to visiting Tu Le.

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Where to Stay

We stayed at Nha Cua Bin (Bin’s House) in Pu Bin Village, which we highly recommend especially if you’re visiting with family.

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The house consists of two interconnected structures. The traditional stilt house on the left is converted with shared rooms at the top and private rooms at the bottom. While the house on the right has additional private rooms on the second level and communal restrooms down below.

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Bin’s house offers plenty of space, including an outdoor dining area, a large garden, and even a swing for kids to enjoy.

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The house appears traditional on the outside, yet the interiors are fairly modern. With air conditioning, a sleek bathroom, and enough space, you can guarantee a comfortable stay, whether it's for a weekend or longer.

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To book your stay at Bin’s House, contact Nhung at +84912701004 or book online at Agoda.com.

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Where to Eat

Bin’s House can also provide all the meals (breakfast is included in the room rate). For lunch, you have the option of eating at the homestay or at the head of the Thai Village’s house, which is within walking distance. For dinner, you can choose between a local Vietnamese-style set menu or a BBQ meal.

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Tip: The village has few small stores that sell snacks and sodas within walking distance.

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Things to Do

Pu Bin is not a place you visit for attractions or bustling tourist spots. It’s a peaceful retreat, where the slower pace of life allows you to truly unwind, connect with the friendly locals, and soak in the beautiful surroundings. Here, relaxation is at the heart of your stay, offering a rare chance to experience authentic Vietnamese village life.

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While simply walking around the village, engaging with residents, and enjoying the serene environment is fulfilling on its own, there are also a few optional activities you can participate in.

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Here are additional activities you can book at the homestay:

• Forest camping & BBQ 
• Camping & BBQ at Sam Tang Lake
• Trekking with a local guide 
• Cooking demonstration (Bamboo rice, colorful sticky rice, traditional wedding cake)
• Bamboo weaving class
• Traditional Khon sewing class
• Health blessing ceremony at local shaman house
• Local Thai dance & bamboo dance
• Herbal foot bath

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In addition to these individual options, you can also book full packages for 2D/1N or 3D/2N stays, combining several of these experiences for a more immersive visit.

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How to Get to Pu Bin Village

Pu Bin is located in a remote village with no public transportation. The most convenient way to get there is by motorbike, which also gives you the freedom to visit nearby villages and Sam Tang Lake.

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Otherwise, if you’re coming from Hanoi, book a private car to Pu Bin through your hotel, and be sure to arrange your return transfer at Bin’s House in advance for a smooth journey.

If you’re in the area and are looking to visit more remote villages like Pu Bin, continue your way to Pu Luong Nature Reserve, located about 43 kilometers away. With numerous villages scattered throughout, you can enjoy amazing views of the rice fields and plenty of trekking opportunities.

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If you have any questions about Pu Bin, don’t hesitate to drop them in the comments below!