what to vist in Cao Bang
When talking about Cao Bang, travel enthusiasts immediately think of the majestic northern region with its pristine nature and cool climate all year round. Cao Bang is famous for its dense primeval forests and river systems. These factors have contributed to making it a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts. If you’re planning a trip to this area, let Traveloka introduce you to the top 8 what to vist in Cao Bang
- Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc Waterfall has been listed among the most beautiful waterfalls in Southeast Asia and is also one of the world’s top four largest waterfalls. Located at the convergence of the borders between China and Vietnam, Ban Gioc resembles a pure white silk strip amidst the emerald green Quay Son River flowing down from the Cao Bang mountains.
To reach Ban Gioc Waterfall, it is about 100km from the center of Cao Bang, and you can get there by bus or motorbike. The ideal time to visit is from August to November. In August and September, Cao Bang enters the end of the rainy season, so the waterfall is abundant and crystal clear. In October, it’s the ripe rice season, and in November, wild sunflowers bloom here.
- Ma Phuc Pass
Ma Phuc Pass is the most beautiful pass in Cao Bang province, mesmerizing travelers with its magnificent natural beauty. The pass is located in Tra Linh district and is about 3.5 km long with a height of 700m above sea level. True to its name, Ma Phuc Pass winds its way through limestone mountains and valleys, resembling a horse.
The pass is among the most challenging roads in Vietnam and is also classified as a geological heritage of the Non Nuoc Cao Bang Global Geopark, recognized by UNESCO. The best time to visit Ma Phuc Pass is in early winter (buckwheat season) and spring (rice and corn planting season).
Not only is Ma Phuc Pass a place of rugged beauty, but it also offers traditional markets and local dishes such as seven-flavor roasted duck, lam cake, and kho cake.
Thang Hen Lake
Located in Tra Linh district, Thang Hen Lake is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Cao Bang. The lake is part of a group of 36 natural lakes at an altitude of nearly 1700m and is interconnected through an underground cave system. Among them, Thang Hen Lake has the largest area and attracts the most adventurous travelers.
The lake boasts one of the most beautiful landscapes in Northern Vietnam, with its emerald green water reflecting the sky. Surrounded by primeval forests and wildflower carpets, Thang Hen Lake is a breathtaking sight. Although the water becomes murky during the rainy season, the scenery remains picturesque, like a watercolor painting in the Northeast mountains.
While visiting Thang Hen Lake, you can stroll around the lake, explore its waters on a boat, or visit nearby attractions such as the solitary rock cliff, wild sunflower fields, the ancient house in Lung Tao, or Ma Phuc Pass. Traveloka recommends visiting Thang Hen Lake early in the morning to catch the beautiful sunrise.
- Nguom Ngao Cave
Although it was formed over 400 million years ago, Nguom Ngao Cave was only opened for tourism in 1996. In the Tay language, “Nguom Ngao” means “tiger cave.” Hidden in the mountains of Trung Khanh district, it is a limestone cave over 2100m long.
Nguom Ngao has three main entrances: Ngom Lom, Nguom Ngao, and Ban Thuon. As you step inside Nguom Ngao Cave, you will be amazed by the majestic natural beauty of this tourist destination in Cao Bang. The unique-shaped stalactites with vibrant colors decorate every corner.
Moreover, the temperature inside the cave is quite pleasant, cool in summer and warm in winter. There are small streams flowing playfully inside the cave. Nguom Ngao Cave is only about 5 km away from Ban Gioc Waterfall, so you can combine a tour to visit both these attractions.
- Pac Bo Historical Site
When it comes to tourist destinations in Cao Bang, the Pac Bo historical site cannot be missed. It not only has historical significance but also features breathtaking natural scenery. With an area of over 500 hectares, the site is divided into many relics associated with Ho Chi Minh’s daily activities. Among them, Coc Bo Cave, Lenin Stream, Milestone 108, Gooc Mu terraced fields are the most famous.
The road to Pac Bo is more than 50km away from the city center, passing through many famous tourist attractions in Cao Bang such as Ban Gioc Waterfall and Thang Hen Lake. When you visit here, don’t forget to try the famous specialties of Cao Bang, such as sour pho, Pac Bo bamboo-tube rice, and sausages.
- Truc Lam Ban Gioc Zen Monastery
This is one of the first Buddhist monasteries in the northeastern region of Vietnam. Leaning against the Phia Nhằm mountain, Truc Lam Ban Gioc Zen Monastery is built on a vast area of 3 hectares. From the monastery, you can have a panoramic view of Ban Gioc Waterfall and the valley below.
The monastery is divided into different areas, such as the Tam Quan Gate, Tam Bao Tower, statue garden, and temples. The entire temple is designed in the traditional Vietnamese architectural style with familiar materials such as ironwood and clay tiles.
The best time to visit the monastery is in the early morning or evening, when you can catch the beautiful moments of sunrise or sunset. Therefore, besides being a famous spiritual destination, Truc Lam Ban Gioc Zen Monastery is also an ideal location for what to vist in Cao Bang.
- Cao Bang Ancient Stone Village
Located in the Ban Gioc Waterfall tourist area, Khuoi Ky Village is a 400-year-old village, about 100km from the center of Cao Bang. With its location against limestone mountains and an area of about 1 hectare, this is the residence of more than 14 households belonging to the Tay ethnic group.
The special feature of this ancient and cultural tourist destination in Cao Bang is the stone houses built from 1594. The common architecture of these houses follows the traditional style, with three rooms and tiled roofs, all built with stone foundations. what to vist in Cao Bang
