Trà Leng is not only known for its majestic natural landscapes but also as a place that preserves many unique cultural values of the Ca Dong, Xơ Đăng, and Mơ Nông ethnic communities. In its current development journey, the locality is gradually linking heritage preservation with community tourism development to create sustainable livelihoods and spread the cultural identity of the highlands.
Preserving Cultural Heritage Amidst the Vast Mountains
At an altitude of about 1,500m above sea level, Trà Leng is the long-standing home of the Ca Dong, Xơ Đăng, and Mơ Nông ethnic communities, accounting for nearly 98% of the local population. Through many generations, the people here have preserved traditional cultural values such as gongs, brocade weaving, can wine, and characteristic community rituals. For the highland people, the sound of gongs is not just music but also a part of their spiritual life, associated with festivals, beliefs, and community activities.
Besides, brocade weaving and the culture of can wine are still maintained as a way to preserve the memories and identity of their ethnic group. Many village elders and artisans in Trà Leng are currently teaching traditional cultural values to the younger generation, contributing to keeping these “living heritages” present in community life.
Linking Cultural Preservation with Tourism Development
In the direction of sustainable tourism development, Trà Leng is focusing on exploiting indigenous cultural values as a unique strength of the locality. Accordingly, preservation is not just about retaining traditional customs or festivals but also aims to create practical experiences for tourists.
Many cultural exchange activities, gong performances, introductions to brocade weaving, and community life experiences are being developed by the locality to promote the image of the highlands to domestic and international tourists.
Promoting OCOP Products and Community Development
Parallel to cultural preservation, Trà Leng also promotes local specialty products such as Quế Trà Leng and Sâm Ngọc Linh. Among them, Quế Trà Leng was granted geographical indication in 2011 due to its distinctive quality and high essential oil content. OCOP products from cinnamon, medicinal herbs, and traditional handicrafts are gradually being widely introduced through trade promotion, tourism, and market connection activities.
According to the local orientation, the development of OCOP products associated with experiential tourism will contribute to enhancing economic value, while also promoting the image of Trà Leng closer to tourists and investors interested in mountain community development.
