Thung Nai

Thung Nai impresses anyone who sees it from the very first time with the harmonious combination of mountains, lakes and charming houses nestled in between the high hills.

Contents

Location
History
Visitor Information
Activities
Best Time To Visit
How To Get There
Useful Information

Location

Situated in the Cao Phong district of Hoa Binh province, approximately 110 kilometers northeast of central Hanoi, Thung Nai continues to be a favored weekend getaway for both tourists and affluent Hanoians who seek relaxation in nature.

Photo dulichvietnam.com.vn

History

Historically, Thung Nai was a lush valley abundant with deer, which inspired its name—meaning "the Valley of Deer." With the construction of the Da River hydropower plant in the 1980s, the valley transformed into a vast lake that serves as the water source for the plant's operation. The once towering mountains now stand as floating green islands, creating a majestic and picturesque landscape that captivates visitors. Thung Nai is often compared to "the second Ha Long Bay on land" in Northern Vietnam, after Tam Coc Bich Dong in Ninh Binh province.

Visitor Information

Many visitors opt for the Windmill Guesthouse on Friends Island, which is renowned for its comfort and relaxing atmosphere. The guesthouse features a two-story redbrick building, a windmill offering stunning views of the lake, a communal stilt house for meals, and a tennis court nestled within a lush orchard. The Windmill itself is considered an attraction within Thung Nai.

Activities

Guests at the Windmill can indulge in local specialties such as grilled Muong pork, smoked or grilled Da River fish, sour fish soup, and straw wine. Evenings often find travelers, especially younger ones, gathered around a campfire outside the guesthouse, enjoying the tranquil setting with twinkling fishing canoes on the lake.

Mornings in Thung Nai offer a fresh start to the day, with opportunities to breathe in the crisp air and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the area. A boat tour around the lake enables visitors to explore notable sites like Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple, Thac Bo Grotto—known for its stunning stalactite formations—and Ngoi Hoa village, home to the Muong people. For those visiting on a Sunday morning, the Thac Bo floating market, accessible within a 20-minute boat ride from the Windmill, is a delightful stop to purchase fresh fish and shrimp caught by local fishermen.

Best Time To Visit

The autumn months are considered the prime time to visit Thung Nai, when the water levels peak and the valley transforms into a romantic landscape enhanced by the lake's shimmering reflections. Visiting during this season allows you to fully experience the area’s natural beauty.

How To Get There

Travelers can reach Thung Nai easily from Hanoi by car or motorbike. They should follow National Highway 6 until they reach Hoa Binh town, where they will make a right turn and continue for about 20 kilometers upstream along the Da River, eventually arriving at Binh Thanh Marina. From here, visitors can board a boat to begin their exploration of Thung Nai's enchanting sights.