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The breathtaking beauty of mountains, forests, rivers, streams, and majestic waterfalls is what makes Cao Bang so attractive to tourists. Travel blogger Lam Di Dau (Bui Ngoc Lam) recently had four memorable days in this land, dubbed the "green gem" of the Northeast region.
Cao Bang – the “green gem” of the Northeast mountains and forests.
The best time to visit Cao Bang
In Cao Bang, each season brings its own unique beauty. Everywhere, the landscape of mountains, waterfalls, and clear streams creates a scene that is both majestic and poetic. However, at other times of the year, the beauty of Cao Bang also changes and takes on its own unique charm.
Travel blogger Lam Di Dau during his trip to Cao Bang.
In spring, Cao Bang captivates with its late-blooming mustard flowers blending with the vibrant colors of pear and plum blossoms across the hills. Even in the slightly hot summer days, the lush green landscapes and clear blue waters enchant visitors from afar. Especially during this time, visitors can pick plums directly from the orchards and enjoy this special summer fruit of the border region. Autumn offers pleasant weather and clear blue skies, making Ban Gioc Waterfall even more majestic with its cascading blue water. During this season, the rice paddies of Cao Bang are ripening, creating a picturesque scene around Ban Gioc Waterfall. Towards the end of the year, the area is painted with the colors of buckwheat and wild sunflower blossoms, further stirring the hearts of travelers, making them reluctant to leave.
No matter the season, Cao Bằng is beautiful in its own unique way.
Sharing with a Travellive reporter, Lam said: "The best time to visit Cao Bang is probably from September to November. The weather is cool and perfect for exploring Cao Bang's incredibly beautiful roads. These months have less rain, and the water is exceptionally clear and blue. But don't worry too much about the specific time of year, because each period offers unique experiences that you can only truly appreciate."
From September to November, the sky is clear and the water is crystal clear.
Nature has bestowed its favor upon this "green gem" of the Northeast mountains.
Cao Bang is renowned for its diverse topography, characterized by a rich system of rivers and streams, rolling hills, and deep valleys. Over 90% of the province's area is covered by mountains and forests, creating a majestic and picturesque natural landscape. Blessed by nature, this region is a popular destination for those who appreciate the beauty of mountains and the charm of nature.
Ban Gioc Waterfall is as beautiful as "a sleeping princess in the forest".
Despite being here for four days, Ngoc Lam still hasn't been able to visit all the tourist attractions in Cao Bang. On the first day of arriving in this land, he and his group of friends chose to visit the Pac Bo National Special Monument as a way to begin their journey.
"People can follow the Lenin Stream route located within the Pac Bo Cave Historical Site. Lenin Stream is considered the green heart of Pac Bo with its characteristic emerald green water. Here, you can immerse yourself in the green of the mountains and forests, the green of the water, and see schools of fish swimming around... Honestly, the first time I came here, all I could say was 'wow'," Lam recalled.
A meeting place for those who love to reconnect with nature.
He said that along this route, tourists can also visit Khau Coc Cha Pass and the Kim Dong Memorial Site to offer incense. However, to be safe, tourists should check the opening and closing times beforehand, as well as see if any of the places they want to visit are under renovation.
During this trip, Ngoc Lam also didn't forget to conquer Ma Phuc Pass – considered the most beautiful pass in Cao Bang province, with a length of over 3.5 km, nearly 700 m above sea level, and 7 layers of steep, winding hairpin bends. Visiting well-known landmarks among backpacking enthusiasts such as Ban Gioc Waterfall, Khuoi Ky Stone Village, Vinh Quy Grass Hill, Mount Mat Than, Thang Hen Lake, Me Pia Pass... left many memorable experiences for the young man.
The Khuoi Ky stone village is over 400 years old, and currently only about 10 families in the village have preserved their houses to develop tourism.
Lam shared: "I think there are two most special experiences you should try: a night camping at Mount Eye of God, and a night in Trung Khanh to paddleboard and watch the incredibly beautiful sunset over the Quay Son River. I still vividly remember waking up early at Mount Eye of God, seeing the clouds and mist floating just above the water's surface; that moment made me feel completely embraced by nature. Perhaps only the eyes and heart can fully appreciate that beauty."
Experience camping at Mount Eye of God.
So that when you open your eyes to greet the dawn, you will be met with an unreal, beautiful sight.
In addition, Ngoc Lam also noted that the Northeast region is quite unique, so planning your itinerary carefully to avoid deviating from the timeline is extremely important. The roads in Cao Bang are quite beautiful, with gentle curves, so you might feel sleepy while driving; tourists need to concentrate fully. And importantly, while enjoying the scenery in Cao Bang, don't forget to sample the local specialties such as Cao Bang rice rolls, sour pho, steamed balut with beer, and steamed rice cakes...
