Nestled deep within the magnificent limestone mountains of Phong Nha, the Ruc community offers a fascinating glimpse into a lifestyle that, while seemingly lost in time, embodies rich cultural heritage and resilience. Discover the enchanting world of the Ruc people—a forgotten tribe living in the heart of nature—whose rustic existence is as captivating as the landscapes that surround them.
The Initial Encounter with the Ruc People
In the winter of 1959, during a patrol in the rugged terrain of Thua Hoa, border patrol forces stumbled upon a group of individuals who resembled the fabled “forest people.” These shy inhabitants, their bodies devoid of clothing, showcased remarkable agility as they swung effortlessly among the branches, much like monkeys. It took years of gentle persuasion for the authorities to encourage this elusive tribe to leave their rocky shelters and settle in three villages: On, Yen Hop, and Mo O – O O. The Ruc emerged as the youngest addition to Vietnam’s diverse ethnic community. By 2013, their unique story earned them a spot among the “Top 10 Most Mysterious Tribes in the World.”
Ruc People living in unique stone caves
Origins and Lifestyle of the Ruc People
The Origins of the Ruc People
Despite their recent discovery, locals had long been familiar with the Ruc tribe living in the deep caves of Phong Nha. Legends intertwined with tales of this hidden community abound among village elders. According to anthropological research, the Ruc are descendants of the Muong Vietnamese, who have thrived in their mountainous enclave near the Vietnam-Laos border for centuries. As of the 19th century, they maintained a lifestyle primarily based on hunting and foraging, making them one of the last groups to live in such primitive conditions.
The name “Ruc” stems from their habitat near ‘ruc’ water—a natural springs or underground water flow that nourished their lives under the shelter of the mountains.
Surviving in Isolation
Before their integration into modern society, the Ruc led a life almost completely detached from the outside world, resembling the early humans in their simple survival methods. They were not aware of the world beyond their caverns and thrived in a primal existence, often using bark to cover their modesty. With incredible agility, the Ruc traversed their forested homes—an innate ability cultivated through generations of living between the branches, hunting small game, and gathering edible plants.
They primarily consumed forest foods, with wild game and simple preparations of nhuc (starchy root plant flour) being staples of their diet. Notably, they developed a method to make traditional alcohol from nhuc, which helped ward off the winter chill.
The Ruc’s Contemporary Life
After more than five decades of embracing modern society, the Ruc have begun to blend their ancestral roots with the influences of contemporary life. The younger generation shows a remarkable adaptability, yet many elder villagers still feel drawn to their primal past, often retreating to the forests during harvest seasons to reconnect with their heritage.
Life inside the caves of the Ruc People
Insights for Visiting the Ruc Community
When planning a visit to Quang Binh to learn about the Ruc people, be prepared for their innate shyness. Engaging with them may prove to be a delicate endeavor, so it’s advisable to have an array of simple gifts such as candies to offer the children, who are generally more approachable and fluent in common language than the adults.
It’s important to recognize that nearly sixty years have passed since the Ruc began their transition into modern life, yet many aspects of their traditional lifestyle remain underdeveloped. As such, it is best to approach this community with respect and the understanding that overnight stays are typically discouraged, making short visits most appropriate.
Conclusion
The Ruc people of Quang Binh represent an extraordinary chapter in Vietnam’s heritage—a testament to human resilience in the face of an ever-evolving world. Their intriguing culture is not only a reflection of past traditions but also a bridge between the ancient and contemporary. If your travels lead you to this stunning region, immerse yourself in the unique lifestyle of the Ruc. Share your experiences in the comments below, and explore more of Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry through our travel guides.
Embark on a remarkable journey and deepen your understanding of the diversity that makes Vietnam unique—where every visit adds a new story to your adventure.