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At 5 a.m., I arrived in Cao Bang city after an overnight bus ride from central Hanoi. After contacting the motorbike rental place, the owner arranged temporary accommodation for me so I could start my journey the next morning. To satisfy my hunger, I enjoyed Cao Bang's famous dish: rice rolls with eggs and pork sausage. The taste of the rice rolls here is quite different from those in the lowlands. Afterward, I continued my journey, conquering the long stretches of road to various destinations in this northeastern region.
Cao Bang possesses a peaceful and poetic beauty, like a picturesque landscape painting, blessed by nature with a system of rolling hills, lakes, and lush green waterfalls. During my 3-day exploration of Cao Bang, I was able to feast my eyes on the majestic natural scenery and had many memorable experiences. Below are some tips for a fulfilling trip.
Cao Bang is considered the green gem of the Northeast region.
Where should I go during my 3-day stay in Cao Bang?
Cao Bang is a mountainous province located in the Northeast region of Vietnam, bordering China with a border stretching over 300 km. The terrain here is 90% rugged and undulating hills and mountains, crisscrossed by a dense network of rivers and deep valleys. The majestic natural beauty of Cao Bang is enough to attract travel enthusiasts to this region.
On the first day, travel from Cao Bang city to Ban Gioc Waterfall and Khuoi Ky Stone Village, then return to the city for an overnight stay. On the second day, travel from the city to Thanh Cong Bamboo Forest and Pac Bo historical site. On the last day, travel from Ha Quang back to the city before taking a bus back to Hanoi.
Cao Bang possesses a peaceful, poetic beauty, like a picturesque landscape painting.
Besides the famous tourist attractions in Cao Bang, what impresses most visitors is the pristine natural beauty, largely untouched by human activity. Of all the famous destinations in Cao Bang, I was particularly impressed by: Ban Gioc Waterfall, Khuoi Ky Stone Village, and Pac Bo Historical Site.
Ban Gioc Waterfall - a paradise amidst the vast forest
Ban Gioc Waterfall is located at the border between China and Vietnam, resembling a pristine white silk ribbon amidst the mountains and forests of Cao Bang, cascading down into the emerald-colored Quay Son River. This location is known as one of the largest natural waterfalls in Southeast Asia, with a height of over 60 meters, including a longest drop of up to 30 meters.
The waterfall's structure is uniquely tiered, with each stream of water winding through layers of limestone and vegetation. Located about 100 km from the center of Cao Bang, Ban Gioc Waterfall is easily accessible by car or motorbike along a flat road.
Ban Gioc Waterfall is likened to a pristine white silk ribbon amidst the mountains and forests of Cao Bang.
The ideal time to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall is in August and September, as this is when the waterfall is in full bloom with its emerald green color, allowing you to fully appreciate its majestic beauty. The large volume of water from the river flows down, cascading over layers of rocks of varying heights. Amidst the vast mountains and forests, everything blends together to create a picturesque landscape like something out of a fairy tale. You can also experience rafting to admire the scenery or kayaking on the lush green Quay Son River.
Khuoi Ky Ancient Stone Village
When visiting Cao Bang, you certainly can't miss the Khuoi Ky stone village, a border hamlet over 400 years old. Khuoi Ky stone village is only about 3 km from Ban Gioc Waterfall and about 100 km from the center of Cao Bang city. Currently, the ancient village still retains its ancient, mysterious beauty and the distinctive cultural features of the Tay ethnic people.
A peaceful, over 400-year-old stone village nestled in the mountains on the border.
Nestled against a limestone mountain and covering an area of approximately 1 hectare, this village is home to over 14 Tay ethnic minority households. A unique feature of this ancient Cao Bang tourist destination is its stone houses, built dating back to 1594. The general architecture of these houses follows the traditional style – three-compartment houses with tiled roofs and stone foundations. Not only houses, but stone is found everywhere in Khuoi Ky village, from fences and hearths to mills and water dams.
With significant tourism potential, Khuoi Ky stone village is currently developing with homestay accommodations and community-based tourism. Tourists visiting here can also explore the lifestyle and culture of the Tay people in traditional stone stilt houses.
Pac Bo historical site
When visiting Cao Bang, one cannot miss the Pac Bo historical site, which not only holds historical significance but also boasts breathtaking natural scenery. Covering an area of over 500 hectares, the Pac Bo historical site includes many clusters of relics associated with President Ho Chi Minh's daily life: Coc Bo, Lenin Stream, Milestone 108, Gooc Mu rice fields, Karl Marx Mountain, etc.
Every season here is beautiful. But you should visit during the dry season (May - September). At this time, nature in Pac Bo is lush green, and the crystal-clear Lenin Stream attracts many tourists who come here to take photos.
Lenin Stream is located within the Pac Bo historical site.
Experiences and things to note when traveling to Cao Bang
Cao Bang is a border region, so it's important to bring all necessary personal documents. It's advisable to pack appropriate, lightweight clothing suitable for the season. Additionally, bring essential items such as a raincoat, hat, power bank, and insect repellent to prepare for unexpected situations. The weather in Cao Bang is quite unpredictable, so check the weather forecast beforehand and have contingency plans in case of rain.
The roads in Cao Bang are mostly mountain passes, although not too difficult to navigate, so drivers need to be skilled. Equip yourself with full protective gear and thoroughly check your vehicle to avoid breakdowns along the way. In addition, Cao Bang is home to many ethnic minority groups, so you should learn about the customs and traditions of the local people to avoid any taboos during your visit.
Cao Bang is a border region, so please bring all necessary identification documents.
Furthermore, Cao Bang boasts a diverse culinary culture of the highlands. There are countless delicious dishes you can enjoy or buy as souvenirs. All are unique specialties found only in this region. You absolutely must try famous local delicacies such as: roasted duck pho, rice rolls, sour pho, braised pork belly, ant egg cake, smoked meat, sausage, wild bamboo shoots, Trung Khanh chestnuts, black jelly...
