General Vo Nguyen Giap Forest, also known as Ong Giap Forest. This is a luxuriant forest with big trees that some people can’t hug. The forest is very well preserved by people in Son La. Partly because this is considered a sacred forest, partly because this place used to have the presence of General Vo Nguyen Giap and the liberation army.
Where is General Vo Nguyen Giap’s forest?
General Vo Nguyen Giap Forest is located in Gia Phu commune, Phu Yen district, Son La province. About 105km from the center of Son La city, Ong Giap forest is now a protected forest with an area of 197ha. The forest is formed and surrounded by two mountain ranges. The trees are green all year round, dense, and covered with clouds. Thanks to its historical values, the forest receives the attention and protection of the government and people here. 
The road to the forest General Vo Nguyen Giap
| >>See more: Son La tourism information and experiences |
History of the forest General Vo Nguyen Giap
General Vo Nguyen Giap‘s forest is the only forest in Vietnam that bears the name of commander-in-chief with complete virtue, an outstanding commander who is respected by the whole world. Previously, the forest was called Nhot village forest. Right before winning the famous Dien Bien Phu victory in five continents, the General and the liberation army were secretly stationed here for a few days to attack Dien Bien. The people here were extremely proud when this place once had the imprint of General Giap’s army. To show gratitude to the talented General of the nation, the people named the forest General Vo Nguyen Giap Forest. In 2008, the forest was recognized by Son La Provincial People’s Committee as a provincial relic. And take measures to protect and exploit tourism.
Photo: VNA
According to Mr. Hoang Van Uu – a witness who witnessed General Giap’s army with his own eyes. Then in 1953, the General’s army took refuge here very quietly. To completely avoid the sweep and eyes of the enemy. The stationing and marching took place extremely quickly, leaving no trace. He happened to encounter the army during a hunting trip in the forest. This predestined relationship was still mentioned by him until later and considered a good fortune in life. When meeting with his own eyes the famous General of the nation.
Mr. Hoang Van Uu told about meeting with the General in the forest. Photo: VTC News
In addition, contributing to this victory was the great effort of the people of the Phu Yen Son La ethnic groups with patriotism and a heart to follow the Party. Although life faced many difficulties, they did not hesitate to donate rice, contribute energy, and people to contribute to the historical victory of the nation. Over the years, the people here have always maintained the national spirit. They still have one heart towards the country and always keep a simple life, close to the mountains and forests.
General Vo Nguyen Giap Forest – a suitable place to explore majestic nature
Vo Nguyen Giap Dai Tuong Forest still retains its wildness and majesty after many years of development of the country. Thanks to the protection and preservation of the people here, this forest is still completely intact. The old trees, giant trees, and precious wood trees are still intact. Trees such as papaya, sedge, ancient crocodile, or towering po mu trees create a green picture for the forest. Every time the fog covers this place, it brings a very fresh and quiet atmosphere like the scene in a documentary film. In that space, there was the poetic murmur of water of Don stream – this was the first shelter of the army. Next is Tac Te stream – where the General stopped until now is still intact.
Visitors check in with the big tree in Ong Giap forest
The forest ecosystem is also fully preserved. There is also no human exploitation here. It can be said that General Giap Forest is a pristine forest, an extremely wonderful place to explore. Especially for those who love to explore, love nature and mountains. Then this place is indeed the most suitable natural paradise. Over the past 60 years, the Muong people in Nhot village still cherish each tree branch. The forest is still covered with vast green color and retains the typical atmosphere of the protection forest.
The immense green of General Vo Nguyen Giap’s forest
To commemorate the General’s merits and save traces of the image of the General’s army, the People’s Committee of Son La province has implemented the construction of a temple to worship General Vo Nguyen Giap. The work was completed on the occasion of the 67th anniversary of the historic victory of Dien Bien Phu. The temple will be a place to preserve and promote the precious cultural and historical values of the nation. Meeting the thoughts and aspirations of the government and people of ethnic groups in Son La province. It is to express gratitude to the great merits of General Vo Nguyen Giap.
Inauguration of the temple of General Vo Nguyen Giap
This is also the place to welcome tourist groups, government delegations to visit and learn about the historical and cultural values of the ethnic groups in the region. To relive the glorious moments of the glorious war against the French. The moment when Vietnam’s history had a resounding victory that was applauded by the whole world.
This is also the place to welcome tourist groups, government delegations to visit
What to prepare when visiting General Vo Nguyen Giap Forest?
Since this is a pristine forest, you need to wear long-sleeved clothes, sports shoes, a hat, bring a raincoat or umbrella, water and especially insect repellent. You should also bring a flashlight to go in the forest. Because when it rains, the forest will be darker than usual. Here are some notes when visiting General Vo Nguyen Giap Forest that you should “pocket” to have the most convenient trip.
Experiencing trip of young people in the forest General Vo Nguyen Giap
Photo: Internet