Tale of a Village: From Cultural and Natural Heritage to Economic Growth

Tucked away in the highlands of Hà Giang, the small Dao community of Nam Dam has gradually transformed its future through a unique blend of tourism, nature and cultural preservation. This journey began in 2011 when PanNature, in partnership with Caritas Switzerland, began supporting the village in creating sustainable economic opportunities that honor its rich cultural heritage.

At the heart of this initiative was a vision: to help the community share its traditions with the world while preserving its way of life and their living environment. PanNature worked closely with the villagers to develop tourism infrastructure, provide training, and empower them to build a model that leverages their traditional knowledge. It wasn’t a quick transformation, but it was a meaningful one.

Over the years, Nam Dam has grown into a celebrated destination, earning multiple ASEAN tourism awards. Today, 26 households are actively involved in tourism, offering visitors an authentic experience of Dao culture—from staying in traditional houses to engaging in everyday community life.

A key success has been the establishment of a community cooperative that turns the Dao’s traditional knowledge of medicinal plants into a valuable economic resource. With PanNature’s guidance, this cooperative has created jobs, preserved cultural knowledge, and provided a sustainable source of income for the village.

Nam Dam’s story is a testament to how gradual, community-driven change can lead to sustainable development. It’s a journey of resilience, collaboration, and hope. For PanNature, this project serves as a reminder that real change takes time, but with patience and partnership, it’s possible to create a future where economic growth, nature protection, and cultural preservation go hand in hand.

Promotion video about Nam Dam tourism made by PanNature in 2012:

Some historical photos of Nam Dam in 2012: