Thang Hen Lake in Cao Bang is a beautiful natural wonder, surrounded by limestone mountains and dense forests. The crystal-clear water that changes colors, along with the peaceful surroundings, makes it one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in northern Vietnam.
Introduction To Thang Hen Lake
Nestled in the highlands of Tra Linh District, Cao Bang Province, Thang Hen Lake is one of northern Vietnam’s most beautiful natural wonders. The enchanting lake system is located at approximately 1,000 meters above sea level and consists of 36 interlaced lakes that fill and appear depending on the seasonal transition. The turquoise waters, surrounded by enormous limestone mountains and birds, build a tranquil scene that is almost mystical.
Thang Hen Lake is a place where pristine natural beauty meets ethnic charm. Tourists can relax on a tranquil boat trip navigating crystal-clear waters, explore mysterious caves, or visit ethnic villages nearby and experience daily cultural life. The combination of fresh air, unspoiled landscape, and poetic scenery makes this area the ideal retreat for visitors who appreciate stillness and a pure experience of Nature.
History Of Thang Hen Lake
Thang Hen Lake is said, according to local legends, to have once been the lair of a terrifying water monster imprisoned for many years in the valley, which thrashed around, clawed its way through the earth, and created underground caves when it tried to escape–this created lakes, or caused lakes to mysteriously fill and empty periodically.
Another story from the Tay ethnic people involves a young man named Sung, who was smart and charming. After passing royal exams, he was promised seven days to travel back to his hometown in glory. There, he fell in love and married a beautiful girl named Boóc. So immersed in love was he that he forgot the day when he was to return to the Capital.
In fact, on that last night, he ran through the dark wood and forty steps ahead of where he fell and hit his head on the edge of a mountain. Where he fell created Thang Hen Lake, and those forty steps were said to be thirty-six lakes taken from Thang Hen Lake.
Unique Beauty Of Thang Hen Lake
Situated roughly 30 km away from Cao Bang city center, this splendid place is situated at an altitude of over 1,000 m above sea level, creating a tranquil getaway amid natural and dramatic scenery. The attraction at Thang Hen Lake is its remarkable system of 36 interconnected freshwater lakes of various sizes, creating a fabulous and fascinating scenery.
What is especially amazing about this location is the natural phenomenon of the water level, which can sometimes suddenly drop or increase overnight to contain all the lakes into one mass of water, particularly during the stretching rains of the rainy season.
6 Unforgettable Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
A trip to Thang Hen Lake is an experience that plunges you into a realm of natural beauty, mystery, and tranquility. With various scenic boat rides, intriguing legends, and lively photography opportunities, each moment here is worth remembering in its own unique way.
Ride A Boat And Enjoy The Scenery In The Lake
Sitting comfortably on a tiny wooden boat and slowly gliding on the emerald-green water of Thang Hen Lake is possibly one of the most calming experiences in Cao Bang. Nestled between lush mountains and a valley, the surface of the lake is so reflective that it bestows upon you the illusion that the sky and water are effectively blended.
As you drift along the surface of the idyllic water, the gentle breeze mingling with the songs of birds brings an undeniable sense of tranquility, while simultaneously linking you so closely to nature. The experience provides travelers with an opportunity to admire the beauty of the lake from every perspective, from the perfect reflections created on the surface of the water to the limestone cliffs that soar in the backdrop. The experience is truly the ideal way for your journey into the core of Cao Bang – northern Vietnam’s natural wonderland.
Listen To The Mysterious Legends
Aside from its splendor, Thang Hen Lake has a wealth of myths that have circulated over generations. And natives love to provide interesting explanations for how the lake formed and some of the spells that occur around that area of nature. One of the famous stories is about a young man and his love for a woman, which legend has it created the lake’s 36 interconnected bodies of water, each representing a tear of anguish.
Take Fantastic Pictures At Thang Hen Lake
Thang Hen Lake is a true treasure for travelers who enjoy a good photo opportunity. With its picturesque landscapes, typical green waters, arranged hills, and fog-covered forests, you’ll never be short of photogenic scenes. The scenery looks stunning in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun softly glimmers off the water’s surface. You may also want to check out the nearby fields of delicate wild sunflowers: they will be golden-yellow in October and can add a romantic effect to some photos.
Walk Through The Thang Hen Lake System
The trails wind through 36 lakes, surrounded by limestone mountains and verdant forests. Locals, either Tay or Nung guides (around 200,000-300,000 VND per day), provide interesting facts about the area’s rare plants, including trees that take hundreds of years to grow and delicate wild orchids. They’ll also relay legends and folktales about the area that have been shared for generations. Because the hike can be anywhere from around 3-5 kilometers, you can enjoy the flora at your own pace.
Overnight Camping At Thang Hen Lake
Camping overnight at Thang Hen Lake offers a genuine way to unplug from the modern world and immerse yourself in nature. The campsite, with downward-sloping views of the shimmering lake below, is located on a gentle hill. Cozy tents with dim lighting and a simple rustic setting provide a habitat for evening relaxation.
Your night will include local entertainment and food prepared by locals using local ingredients. There was little to no noise from the real world nearby. The morning awakened to mist hanging over the lake and birds singing their way into a new day.
Discover The Iconic Attractions Around Thang Hen Lake
If you have free time, explore the natural beauty of the region that makes this area even more special. Mat Than Mountain (known as the “God’s Eye Mountain”) is located 2 km from Thang Hen Lake. It is known for the colossal circular hole that goes straight through the limestone peak. From the mountain top, you can take in 360-degree views of green valleys, cornfields, and quiet villages below.
The next must-see is Ma Phuc Pass, most often considered the prettiest mountain pass in Cao Bang province. It lies on the UNESCO site of the Non Nuoc Cao Bang Global Geopark. The winding road traverses through massive limestone rock formations with incredible shapes like galloping horses; it is another masterpiece of nature.
Entrance Fee
Visitors to Thang Hen Lake will pay an entry fee of 30,000 VND per person. It is an economical price to be immersed in the tranquil atmosphere, beautiful natural landscapes, and a remarkable mountain lake.
Best Time To Visit Thang Hen Lake
Each season in Thang Hen Lake has its own unique allure, each possessing different colors and moods to its respective surroundings. However, the best time to visit is in spring when the hillsides are covered with wildflowers in bloom, creating a soft, gentle, and almost poetic atmosphere.
During the summer months in Cao Bang, the lake is wide and shimmering when rain falls and the water level rises to its vast, mirror-like surface, reflecting the surrounding mountains. Autumn is the busiest time of year when bright fields of golden rice transform the valleys below, and the winds turn colder and crisp in the air.
Visiting the lake in early winter would bring you to the lake during its quiet beauty of changing leaves. It is the time when the water level is low, and the lake displays the calm and mercurial, reflective soul of a lake. The scene is a peaceful representation of the spirit of Cao Bang’s highlands.
How To Get To Thang Hen Lake
Traveling to Thang Hen Lake is a memorable and quintessential adventure filled with lovely views. Because Cao Bang lacks an airport, most people initially fly to Hanoi and then finish the trip on the road.
Getting To Cao Bang from Hanoi
It is best to fly into Hanoi’s observatory, Noi Bai International Airport. Many deals with the starting flights coming in around 1,600,000 VND from Da Nang and 2,500,000 VND from Ho Chi Minh City. Then you can take a bus or rent a car to travel to Cao Bang. The bus takes approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic.
For the adventurers, an alternative is traveling from Hanoi to Cao Bang via motorcycle for an exciting change of pace. You will enjoy astonishing nearby views of mountain scenery on the journey. However, it takes a decent amount of time because the distance is very far, so it is best to make sure your machine is in good working condition and you are prepared for safety.
From Cao Bang City to Thang Hen Lake
When you arrive in Cao Bang City, travel about 21 km along National Highway 3, then change to Provincial Road 205 and travel for another 4 km. Soon, you will come across the Thang Hen Ecological Lake announcement board on your left side. While it’s a short distance, we recommend you drive carefully due to the winding nature of the mountain roads. The drive to the tranquil beauty of Thang Hen Lake is usually about one hour.
Things To Know Before Traveling To Thang Hen Lake
To make the most of the relaxing natural beauty and cultural ethos that embellish Thang Hen Lake, it is advisable to have a set plan before setting off. Thang Hen Lake is remote, with rough limestone mountains surrounding it, and without a plan, you will have a very different experience than planned. Here are some packing tips:
- Wear a sturdy pair of hiking shoes to avoid slipping on the limestone trails you will encounter.
- Bring along a wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the intense sun, in addition to some high SPF sunscreen.
- Pack a waterproof camera bag for all of your photographic needs, especially for any of the boats you may potentially take to ferry around.
- Power banks, insect repellent, and layered clothing are all strongly recommended to adapt to temperature shifts throughout the day.
- While hiking, you should use caution when traversing wet rocks, and always wear a life jacket on the boat.
- In addition to a plan, if you are exploring alone, you should let someone know the route you will be taking and try to stick to marked paths when possible.
- When taking pictures out and about with locals, be sure to ask permission first, and dress modestly if you have the opportunity to visit a Tay or Nung village.
- Be sure to support local artisans for handicrafts, try to buy locally made pieces, and please bring the area back while you explore.
- If you are thinking of staying overnight in or around Cao Bang City, you may find more affordable lodging options, but do also be prepared to bring some snacks along as well. There are local, but limited food options near the lake.
Final Thoughts: Is Thang Hen Lake Worth Visiting?
Thang Hen Lake is undoubtedly one of the most peaceful and poetic tourist destinations in northern Vietnam, providing visitors with one of the rare opportunities to immerse themselves in nature. Travelers can find pleasure in woodland rafts, casual hikes, and relaxation in the cool mountain air while sharing experiences with the local Tay culture. Let Seni World take you to this hidden gem in Cao Bang and discover the secret tranquillity in Thang Hen Lake.
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