A Luoi is a picturesque mountainous district nestled between the scenic A Shau Valley and the border shared with Salavan and Sekong provinces in Laos. Located approximately 60 kilometers southwest of Hue City, it holds historical significance, particularly for Vietnam War veterans and historians who are well acquainted with its name. The district’s rugged terrain and rich cultural heritage make it a captivating destination for those seeking to explore its natural beauty and learn more about its historical context.
How A Luoi is unique?
Since it was the location of US military bases that saw battles, including Asho airport and Hamburger Hill, immortalised in 1987 movie. The district encompasses 100 kilometers Ho Chi Minh Historic Trail.
Infact, A Luoi will likely not be worth for visiting with normal tourist. However, it is one of the most attractive places tours of Hue Vietnam history also to get off the beaten trail within 2 hours driving from Hue city.
Yes, it is definitely worth stopping for a couple of hours to check the area’s natural attractions while traveling to A Luoi. It is wonderful to have fairly waterfalls and the beautiful bridges and valleysat the mountainous landscapes at the border area. It is the home of the minority people group of Katu, Van Kieu.
Factually, A Luoi had been primed for tourism success. It is in a GMS Sustainable Tourism Development Project, from 2009 to 2013. Thanks to the finance by Asian Development Bank and have brochures to this site, it attracts hiking itineraries to the villages to tourist.
In addition, A Luoi is the habitant of minority people, therefore, traditional products weaving can see at Hue Festival. However, the project stopped and no one understood to emerge, leaving shelves full of dusty brochures in the large Tourist Information Centre. It includes a playground leaving shelves full of dusty brochures.
While visiting the replica of an ethnic minority community house, it is worth stopping in to get an English booklet. And you also need directions to a view or are just in need of inspiration on what to do, each to look at the wall map with. The center is on Ho Chi Minh Highway/QL14 across from the post office, look for the across from the post office, look for the driveway leading up the mountain.
In general, A Luoi has The center “Trung Tam Thong Tin & Du Lich A Luoi or A Luoi Tourism Center”. It opens Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 16:30 pm. The government continues to carry on and make small efforts for tourists. We detected infrastructure like signage and bridges. This, we are told, is because in 2016 A Luoi celebrates its 40 year anniversary of liberation from enemy forces.
Transport
The bus station is on the main highway, 850 meters south from the central market. There is local bus travel daily between Hue and A Luoi. And it connects by National Highway #49 which is twisty and mountainous but is mostly nicely paved. The bus departs when there are enough passengers. It costs 35,000 VND and takes two hours.
Timetable bus
Hue to A Luoi: Departs at 06:15, 09:00, 11:15; 14:00 and 15:15. A Luoi to Hue: Departs at 06:15, 08:00, 10:15, 14:00 and 15:15. Quang Binh (Dong Hoi): Departs at 07:30. Costs 165,000 dong and takes 5.5 hrs.
Amazing things to do in A Luoi
A Luoi is a famous site for the veteran who wish to return to the past battle field. It is one of the hotspots during Vietnam – America War. So it offers many visiting sites related wars such as Hamburger Hill, Abia Hill, Ashau Valley, etc.
Furthermore, A Luoi is a beautiful mountain highland where offers beautiful sites and stream for visiting and discovery. Plus, A Nor waterfall or Thac A Nor is a few kilometers south on the Ho Chi Minh Highway from the town center. There’s a sign marking the turn off. Follow that road through Viet Tien village, an ethnic Pa-co village, and you’ll arrive at a new metal bridge spanning a ravine.
After crossing the bridge, continue along the dirt motorbike path to an abandoned hut. By foot climb the stairs and follow the trail. You’ll be guided by the sound of the water, which a local told us flows year round.
Moreover, it takes a river crossing and scrambling over rocks and boulders to reach the base of the falls for a great view. The water is clear, cool and a lovely place for a dip. A Roang Commune is 30 kilometers south on Ho Chi Minh Trail/QL14.
Here is the ideal place for trekking short trip to Vietnam and especially relax on A Roang hot springs. Natural hot spring water is fed into concrete tubs to be enjoyed.
Phong Chat Waterfall and Ta-Oi weaving villages is nearby for more discovery. In addition, on the way is the chance to visit A Sho Airport and see that no large trees can grow. Dong Ap Bia (Ap Bia or A Biah Mountain) or other names Hill 937 and later nicknamed Hamburger Hill. It was the site of an intense, disastrous 11-day battle from May 10 to 20, 1969. It is one of the sites for visiting A Luoi for 1 day or longer than.
From the summit after climbing hundreds of step, the visitor can view the whole forest and A Luoi Additional, travel to Hue along Ho Chi Minh trails to the north will reach Quang Tri with Ashau valley and Dakrong Bridge which is famous in DMZ. While travel to the south will reach Hoi An, en route is passing through minority village of Bhoong.
When is the best time to visit A Luoi?
The best time to visit A Luoi is during the dry season, which typically extends from January to August. This period offers favorable weather conditions with lower chances of rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.
From January to April, the weather in A Luoi is relatively cool and pleasant. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, adorned with blooming flowers and greenery. It is a great time to embark on trekking adventures, visit local villages, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
May to August marks the peak of summer in A Luoi, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. This is a fantastic time for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring the stunning waterfalls and scenic trails that dot the region.
It’s important to note that A Luoi experiences a rainy season from September to December, characterized by increased rainfall and occasional storms. During this period, the terrain can become slippery, and some roads may be more challenging to navigate. However, the rain also contributes to the lush green landscapes, creating a unique and picturesque atmosphere for those who don’t mind the occasional showers.
Ultimately, the best time to visit A Luoi depends on your personal preferences and the activities you wish to engage in. Whether you prefer cooler temperatures and blossoming nature or are willing to embrace the rainy season’s charm, plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your experience in this captivating mountainous district.
It is great for:
- Make one day trip from Hue city or Hoian for visit A Luoi with Hamburger Hill or A Roang Forest trekking
- Experience homestay with minority people by 2 or 3 days trip
- Make a off beaten track by motorbike along Ho Chi Minh trails
Explore the captivating beauty and rich history of A Luoi with Origin Travel. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and fascinating heritage of this mountainous district. From trekking adventures to cultural encounters, our experienced team will curate an unforgettable journey tailored to your interests. Discover the hidden gems, engage with local communities, and create lifelong memories in A Luoi. Contact Origin Travel today and embark on a transformative travel experience in this enchanting destination.