Bau Truc Pottery Village is a must-see attraction for culture enthusiasts on their Vietnam travel to Ninh Thuan. Renowned for its centuries-old Cham pottery-making traditions, this village offers unique experiences. Get ready for your trip to this rustic haven, where you can witness skilled artisans at work and explore the rustic charm of pottery making.
1. About Bau Truc Pottery Village: Location and history
Bau Truc Village is situated in the heart of Phuoc Dan Town, Ninh Phuoc District, Ninh Thuan Province. It is one of the oldest pottery villages in Southeast Asia, renowned for its handmade clay products deeply rooted in the cultural identity of the Cham people.
According to folklore, the founder of the Bau Truc pottery craft is Po K’long Chank, a deity close to King Po Klong Garai of the Cham people during the period of 1151-1205. He taught the people of Bau Truc how to obtain clay, mold, and make it into various household items. Traditionally, pottery making was predominantly carried out by women in Bau Truc. They were taught to make pottery by their mothers. From generation to generation, the craft has been passed down to the present day.
>>> Explore: Places to visit in Central Vietnam: 11 captivating destinations to explore
2. What makes Bau Truc Pottery Village and its products unique?
Regarding the uniqueness of Bau Truc pottery, the first thing to mention is the use of clay, which was entirely sourced from the fine natural clay along the Quao River flowing around the village. The clay is mixed with fine white sand, in a proportion that was handed down through generations. The unique products are created by artisans who skillfully shape the clay with their hands, transforming it into distinctively rustic Cham pottery items. The products are not fired in kilns but on outdoor open fire, using wood and straw, for approximately 6 hours at temperatures from 500°C.
>>> More on: Vietnamese village: Top 15 famous places that tourists should explore
3. Things to do in Bau Truc Pottery Village in Ninh Thuan
3.1. Learn about the pottery-making techniques
Despite being centuries old, the techniques of Bau Truc pottery making have been retained by the villagers. After shaping, the products are air-dried in the sun before being fired. The characteristic red and yellow hues of Bau Truc pottery are achieved by spraying ash and adding a touch of sparkle from mineral dust. If requested, the artisans can demonstrate the shaping process of pottery items.
3.2. Make your own pottery products
In addition to exploring the traditional pottery-making techniques, you can also personally craft pottery items in your own style. The artisans in Bau Truc Pottery Village of the Cham ethnic minority will guide you through every step, from mixing the clay to shaping, firing, and coloring. You can take your creations home as keepsakes or gifts for friends and family.
3.3. Explore the culture of the Cham community
In addition to pottery-related activities, you can explore other cultural beauties of the Cham community in Bau Truc Pottery Village. Traditional lively dances accompanied by drums and horns showcase the grace of the local Cham women. Specialties such as buffalo meat, goat meat, indigenous vegetables, and sayaka cakes reflect the traditional flavors of the Cham people. Lastly, don't forget to participate in the Kate Ninh Thuan Festival - the largest festival of the Cham people, taking place around October to honor deities and ancestors.
3.4. Buy pottery products as souvenirs for your family
When in Ninh Thuan, don't forget to purchase Bau Truc pottery, one of the unique Vietnamese souvenirs, as a memorable gift for friends and family. The pottery products here come in various types, including bowls, plates, and vases They are all made entirely by hand, ensuring uniqueness in designs, patterns, and colors for visitors to choose according to their preferences.
>>> Discover: Central Vietnam Itinerary: A complete guide to satisfy your wanderlust
4. How to get to Bau Truc Pottery Village from Phan Rang - Thap Cham?
Located just about 10 kilometers away from the center of Phan Rang - Thap Cham City, the capital of Ninh Thuan Province, and situated right on National Road 1A, it is very convenient for you to reach Bau Truc Village by taxi, motorbike, or car. If you choose to drive yourself, from the city center of Phan Rang - Thap Cham, head towards Phu Ha intersection and continue straight on National Road 1A southward for approximately 8 kilometers. Then, make a right turn onto Nguyen Hue Street. Proceed for about 500 meters then turn right onto Road DT703. When you reach the intersection, you will see Bau Truc Village. The route is quite straightforward, so you can follow Google Maps or ask the locals for guidance.
5. Essential notes for your trip to Bau Truc Pottery Village
For an enjoyable trip to Bau Truc, consider the following tips:
- Get a Bau Truc Pottery Village map to conveniently explore this village.
- Respect the artisans and ask for their permission before taking photos or videos of them.
- Admission to the village is entirely free, allowing you to explore at your leisure.
- You can combine your visit to Bau Truc with a tour to My Nghiep Brocade Weaving Village, located only about 3 kilometers away.
- Here, you can stay overnight in the guest rooms of the communal center to learn more about the Cham culture.
>>> Read more: Central Vietnam weather: A complete overview for your travel preparation
Bau Truc Pottery Village of the Cham ethnic minority stands as a captivating testament to Vietnam's cultural richness. Preserving the ancient Cham traditions, this village invites visitors to delve into the artistry of handcrafted pottery. As a cultural gem in Ninh Thuan, Bau Truc offers an immersive experience, showcasing the enduring legacy of the Cham ethnic minority.
After exploring Ninh Thuan, you can go on to discover Nha Trang - a nearby coastal city boasting beautiful beaches and captivating cultural experiences. In Nha Trang, you can stay at the upscale hotels and resorts of Vinpearl Nha Trang for a flawless experience. With mesmerizing sea vistas, Vinpearl Nha Trang ensures an exceptional stay with premium amenities, including bars, restaurants, spas, outdoor pools, and shopping centers.
Also in Nha Trang, don't forget to indulge in exciting recreational activities at VinWonders Nha Trang, a top-rated amusement park in Vietnam. With thrilling games and mesmerizing shows, there is no shortage of fun to be had at VinWonders.
>>> Book rooms in Vinpearl Nha Trang and make your trip to Vietnam even more memorable!
