Thac Ba Lake

Location

Thac Ba Lake is situated in Yen Bai province, approximately 140 km west of Hanoi. The lake spans across two districts, with part of it located in Yen Binh and the other in Luc Yen District.

History

Thac Ba Lake was originally formed by two waterfalls, Thac Ba and Thac Ong, both of which no longer exist due to dam construction. The lake retains the name Thac Ba as a homage to its historical roots.

Photo: motogo.vn

The lake is also a historical site, having witnessed a significant battle against the Mongolian forces in 1285 when General Tran Nhat Duat successfully led the Vietnamese army to repel the invaders.

How to Get There

Visitors traveling from Hanoi can reach Thac Ba Lake by private vehicle via National Highway 32 (QL32), which leads to Yen Bai. Alternatively, one can take the Hanoi - Lao Cai Expressway and exit at the Yen Bai interchange. The final leg of the journey to Thac Ba Lake is approximately 30 km long and takes about 1 hour.

Photo by @Thanh Miền

For those preferring public transport, buses operate from My Dinh bus station in Hanoi to Yen Bai city with several companies running daily services. Once in Yen Bai, visitors can hire a motorbike or take a taxi to Thac Ba Lake, approximately 50 km away. There are also direct buses available from Hanoi to Thac Ba Lake, notably from the company Bao Ngan, operating a direct route that typically departs around noon.

The Unique Role of Thac Ba Lake

Constructed in 1970 as part of a hydropower project along the Chay River, Thac Ba Lake stands as one of the largest artificial lakes in Vietnam, stretching about 80 km in length and reaching depths of approximately 58 meters. Its existence has enhanced the local ecosystem, with a cool climate and high humidity fostering lush greenery around the lake.

Photo: nangluongvietnam.vn

Thac Ba Lake is dotted with over 1,300 lush islands that contribute to its stunning scenery, earning it the nickname "Halong Bay in the mountains."

Things to Do in Thac Ba Lake

Floating on the Water

The most enchanting way to experience Thac Ba Lake is by taking a boat ride. Gliding across the surface allows visitors to appreciate the clear waters and beautiful landscapes, where reflections create a seemingly ethereal quality.

Stop along the journey to visit local temples including Doi Ca Temple, Mau Temple, and Song Pagoda, where you can pay respects and explore the rich cultural heritage of the area's ethnic communities.

Photo by @V.E.O

For adventure-seekers, exploration of limestone caves is a must. Notably, Thuy Tien Cave, which historically housed local war committees during the Vietnam War, is linked to captivating local folklore about a fairy's forbidden love.

Climb Till Sunset

For those who enjoy trekking, climbing to the summit of Cao Bien Mountain, the highest point overlooking Thac Ba Lake, offers breathtaking panoramic views. The ideal time to ascend is late afternoon, between 5 pm and 6 pm, when the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the lake and its islands, perfect for serene reflection.

Immerse in Ethnic Group Culture

There are over 13 ethnic groups residing around Thac Ba Lake, including the Tay, Nung, Mong, Dao, and Cao Lan, who maintain traditional customs and lifestyles. Each January, the local communities hold spiritual festivals to celebrate the past year and anticipate a fruitful season ahead. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with local daily lives, gaining insight into their rural way of living.

Eat and Stay in Thac Ba Lake

Not only is Thac Ba known for its spectacular natural landscape, but it also boasts a rich culinary scene influenced by its diverse ethnic groups. Local delicacies include grilled mountain chicken, five-colored sticky rice, bamboo-tube rice, and smoked buffalo meat.

Photo: dulichfun.com

For accommodations, travelers are encouraged to stay at Ngoi Tu village homestays or the Vu Linh eco-lodge, both offering stunning lake views and warm hospitality. Staying overnight not only provides a chance to experience the local culture but also to savor the unique local cuisine.

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