Thac Ba Lake: A hidden "Halong Bay" in the mountains of Northern Vietnam

The north-west paths unfold to the rhythm of the majestic mountains and the abundant rivers. The land of Yen Bai, where the rice terraces in Mu Cang Chai are honoured, is ideal for hiking due to its beautiful waterfalls and rivers. It’s a shame to go there without walking around the Thac Ba lake, famous for being "Halong Bay in the mountains". One of the three largest artificial lakes in the country, it will impress you with turquoise water in which countless green islets are set. In the surrounding area, the picturesque landscapes punctuated by caves and villages on the mountainside invite you to take a stroll combining relaxation and discovery.

Get to know Thac Ba Lake

Born of the construction of a dam on the Chay River to build the first hydroelectric power station of the same name in the north, completed in 1970, Thac Ba Lake was recognized as a national historic relic in 1996. Covering an area of 23,400ha, it has a water table of over 19,000ha, measuring 80km in length, 8-12km in width and 50-60m in depth. In addition to the Chay River as its main source of supply, the lake is also fed by major rivers such as the Hanh and Cat. This explains the abundance of flora and fauna in and around the lake. Sculpted by more than 1,300 multiform islets, its exceptional natural setting can be admired endlessly on a relaxing cruise at any time of day. 

Things to do around Thac Ba Lake

Renting a boat for a boat tour on Thac Ba Lake is the best way to enjoy a relaxing day, soaking up the fresh air while admiring the peaceful wilderness. In this pastoral landscape, the daily lives of fishermen and the thatched houses dotted along its shores unfold peacefully. Amid the thousands of tree-covered peaks, the image of a person rowing a pirogue on foot reinforces Thac Ba's bucolic ambience. To satisfy your curiosity, the local will be happy to teach you this unusual technique. 

Along the water, you will have the chance to discover the cultural and religious landmarks that line Thac Ba Lake, including the Thac Ba and Thac Ong temples and the Sao Pagoda. Not far away, the Cao Bien mountains rise above the surrounding landscape, revealing beautiful caves such as Thuy Tien and Xuan Long, which feature stunning limestone formations. The most enchanting spot at Thuy Tien will captivate you with its legendary tales of nine fairies who once strolled there. From a peak, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Chay River flowing gently at the foot of the mountains, surrounded by lush vegetation and stilt houses upstream of Yen Binh.

A trip around Thac Ba Lake is not complete without visiting some of the ethnic villages that border it. You'll come across Tay, Nung, Hmong, Dao, Phu La, and Cao Lan men and women who make their living from fishing and handicraft. Fans of ethnic color will be delighted by traditional local festivals, such as the congratulations for new rice, the coming-of-age ceremony, and the folk dance festival.

Last but not least, how can you resist the local flavors of opulent fish, delicately accompanied by bamboo shoots and banana flower salad? What unique culinary discoveries!

Other activities to do when visiting Thac Ba Lake: Fishing, swimming, and hiking.

For a better vision of the beauty of Thac Ba Lake, here is a short video filmed by Authentik Vietnam. Check it out!

How to get to Thac Ba Lake?

Thac Ba Lake is 180 km from Hanoi and 13 km from Yen Bai City. Take National Road 2 to the west; you will reach the site located between the districts of Yen Binh and Luc Yen.

Other must-visit destinations while in Yen Bai

While in Yen Bai, make sure you won't miss these breathtaking destinations: Mu Cang Chai, Pu Nhu waterfall, Lim Mong village, Giang spring, Muong Lo valley…

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