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For centuries, the renowned Le Mat snake village Hanoi has held a distinguished reputation for snake farming, not only within Hanoi but also across the broader Northern region. This locale stands out as an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts.
Located on the outskirts of Hanoi Vietnam, the Le Mat craft village has been dedicated to the art of capturing, breeding, and processing snakes for an extensive period. Undoubtedly, this small village ranks among Vietnam’s most distinctive and must-visit destinations.
Le Mat Craft Village – Hanoi’s Exceptional Snake Farming Locale
Unveiling the Location of Le Mat Village
The whereabouts of Le Mat village, a distinctive snake farming hub, is a common inquiry for those planning a visit. Situated in Viet Hung ward, Long Bien District, Hanoi, this village traces its roots back to the 9th century and was formerly known as Tru Mat. Gaining acclaim for its snake farming industry, Le Mat garnered international attention, featuring in Reuters in 2007 and on CNN in 2019. In 2011, the City of Hanoi bestowed upon Le Mat the prestigious title of “traditional craft village.”
Anticipated further recognition awaits, as by December 2023, it will officially become a designated Le Mat Village Tourist Destination, fostering tourism growth. Conveniently located near the city center of Hanoi, Le Mat snake village beckons exploration – an invitation you wouldn’t want to miss.
How to Get Le Mat Snake Village Hanoi
For those seeking guidance on reaching Le Mat village from the city center, it is approximately 7km to the Northeast of Hanoi. Accessing this unique destination is straightforward. Starting from the Hoan Kiem Lake area, traverse Chuong Duong bridge, follow Nguyen Van Cu street, then take a right onto Nguyen Van Linh street, leading you to Viet Hung street and the village gate.
With its fame, Le Mat is widely recognized, making it easy to seek directions from the locals. Alternatively, visitors can rely on the convenience of Google Maps for precise navigation. Public transportation, including bus routes 11CT, 34, and 59, pass through Viet Hung, providing close access to Le Mat village. Travelers opting for public buses should calculate distances in advance, ensuring a seamless journey to this captivating locale. Embark on a captivating exploration with friends and family to Le Mat snake village – a hidden gem awaiting your discovery.
Snake Farming in Le Mat Village in Hanoi
Le Mat Snake Village, nestled in Hanoi, stands as an ancient settlement with an elusive founding date, veiled in the enchantment of a special ancient legend. Residents of this village share a gripping narrative that dates back to the reign of King Ly Thai Tong, involving a tragic princess, a valiant young man named Le Mat Hoang, and the birth of a thriving community.
As the legend goes, during the king’s reign, a princess tragically drowned in the Thien Duc River, her body lost to the depths. Despite royal rewards, no one could retrieve her. In a twist of fate, Le Mat Hoang, a skilled martial artist and swimmer, bravely faced a sea monster, rescued the jade body of the princess, and declined the king’s material rewards. Instead, he sought permission for the villagers to cultivate new land west of the capital, a request granted by the benevolent king.
The villagers, inspired by Le Mat’s example, prospered through agriculture, animal husbandry, and snake catching. Renamed Thanh Hoang in honor of Le Mat after his passing, the village faced a renaming to Le Mat during the 17th century due to historical conflicts. Today, Le Mat craft village continues the tradition of snake farming, specializing in cobras, king cobras, and various snake species.
Renowned internationally, the village has earned its place among the “Top Most Unique Destinations in Vietnam,” thanks to the unique snake-related practices. While the legend’s authenticity remains uncertain, Le Mat village has been cultivating snakes for medicinal purposes, creating medicines and snake-infused wines for centuries.
In recent decades, the village embraced snake-based culinary offerings, attracting visitors with dishes like fresh stir-fried snake meat and crispy fried snake skin. Diners witness the thrilling process of snake catching and the intricate preparation of these exotic dishes. Approximately 35 households in Le Mat village are engaged in snake farming, making it a significant snake trading hub in the North.
Preserving its ancient charm despite the passage of time and urbanization, Le Mat village retains its architectural heritage, including pagodas, communal houses, shrines, and wells. This cultural richness, coupled with the village’s traditional lifestyle, makes it an ideal destination for a spiritual and cultural tour, seamlessly blending with local craft village cuisine.
Visitors to Le Mat snake village Hanoi are not only treated to delectable food but also get to experience the captivating process of snake handling, all within a serene and authentic environment.
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The Distinctive Le Mat Village Festival
In honor of the esteemed young man Le Mat, the villagers organize a unique festival complete with diverse rituals. The Le Mat village festival typically unfolds from March 20 to 23 of the lunar calendar, with the highlight occurring on March 23, drawing a considerable number of attendees.
This traditional festival in Le Mat village encompasses three key activities. Firstly, a solemn ceremony unfolds, featuring traditional rituals such as a water procession, incense offerings, and expressions of gratitude towards ancestors, all aimed at invoking good weather and fortune for the villagers.
A highlight of the festival is the Fishing Ceremony, rooted in the age-old legend of Le Mat. This ceremony symbolizes the act of fishing at the bottom of a well, inspired by the heroic tale of a young man sacrificing his life to retrieve the body of a Ly Dynasty princess. The ceremony holds the belief that wishes of the fishermen will be granted on the night before the event, as rain is expected to aid the movement of fish from West Lake to Pearl well.
The Giao Long performance is a captivating snake dance held in the communal house yard. Depicting the defeat of a sea monster by Le Mat, the dance involves a giant snake crafted from bamboo slats and cloth. The dance incorporates up to 50 young participants, with someone portraying Le Mat and a young woman as the princess. Set to eight-tone music and the resounding beats of drums, this ritual surrounding the snake-catching dance is a deeply respected tradition, enhancing the cultural identity of Le Mat village.
The Thap Tam Trai procession serves as a reunion for descendants within the village and those residing elsewhere, providing an opportunity to reflect on the village’s history and traditions. Delegations from Ba Dinh district and Dong Da district join the festivities, offering incense and flowers to the Tutelary God who played a crucial role in the village’s establishment.
Post-ceremony, the Le Mat craft village festival kicks off with a plethora of sports activities, arts, and folk games. The ambiance becomes joyous and vibrant, ensuring every visitor leaves satisfied.
The allure of the Le Mat festival lies not only in its form but also in its steadfast commitment to preserving traditional cultural features over the years. This dedication contributes significantly to the rich history of a land steeped in thousands of years of civilization.
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Conclusion for Le Mat Snake Village in Hanoi
In conclusion, Le Mat Snake Village in Hanoi stands as a captivating blend of ancient traditions, legends, and a thriving snake farming heritage.
Nestled in the Northern region, this village boasts a rich history dating back to the 9th century, intertwined with the tale of a heroic young man named Le Mat. The village has evolved into a renowned snake farming center, drawing global attention for its unique practices and culinary offerings. The annual festivals and rituals, coupled with the village’s commitment to preserving its cultural identity, make Le Mat a distinctive destination.
From the solemn ceremonies to the lively festivities, visitors are treated to an immersive experience that not only highlights the village’s snake-related traditions but also showcases the enduring spirit of Le Mat Snake Village, making it a truly exceptional and memorable destination in Hanoi.
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