Overview
Ba Bể Lake, whose name literally means "Three Lakes" in Vietnamese, is so named because it is composed of three distinct parts: Pé Lầm, Pé Lù and Pé Lèng. It is the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, covering an area of over 500 hectares. Located in
Bac Kan province at an altitude of approximately 150 meters above sea level, it is also the highest lake in the country. This vast body of water is majestically framed by impressive karst peaks that make up the Pia Booc mountain range, and by dense and lush evergreen forests, offering a spectacular and preserved landscape.
With its spectacular karst landscapes, lush forests, mysterious caves and peaceful lake, Ba Be offers an immersive experience in the heart of exceptional biodiversity. It is a prime destination for nature lovers, adventurers in search of discoveries and travelers seeking authentic encounters, especially for speleology enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
One of the best ways to discover the incredible beauty of Ba Be is from the water, exploring the rivers, lakes and caves that make up this breathtakingly beautiful region.
Boat trip on Ba Be lake - Mr Linh's Adventures
Navigating on Ba Be Lake
The jewel of the park, Ba Be Lake, is actually a set of three interconnected lakes. Navigating its calm waters, surrounded by verdant mountains, is an unforgettable experience.
Exploring the caves
The park is home to a network of impressive caves, sculpted by erosion over millennia, offering a fascinating plunge into the bowels of the earth.
Hiking in the forest
The hiking trails crisscrossing the park offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and allow visitors to discover the richness of the local flora and fauna.
Discovering the waterfalls: The Dau Dang waterfall, with its three impressive levels, is a must-see place to admire the force of nature.
Roaring Dau Dang Waterfall - Mr Linh's Adventures
See & Do
Ba Be offers a multitude of activities for travelers seeking adventure and sharing.
Speleology
Exploring the caves, including the famous Tham Phay, is a flagship activity for thrill-seekers and underground discovery enthusiasts.
Puong cave, a must-see in Ba Be National Park - Mr Linh's Adventures
Trekking and hiking
Marked trails of varying levels allow visitors to explore the forest, mountains and surrounding villages. Your steps will lead you to the heart of the third part of the lake, a magical place known as
Ao Tien (the Fairy Pond). Its name alone evokes a world of legends, including that of a local hunter bewitched by fairies who came to bathe in its secluded waters. Despite this mysterious story, local fishermen continue to peacefully carry out their activities there.
The
Widow's Island, meanwhile, sits in the middle of the lake, surrounded by a veil of mystery. This imposing rock formation, covered with a dense forest, invites exploration of its labyrinth of rocks, roots and branches. Its name originates from a touching legend: that of a widow and her son who, thanks to two envelopes of rice offered by a fairy, saved many lives during the natural disaster that gave birth to Ba Bể Lake.
Just 3 km from Ba Bể Lake, the
Dau Dang Falls mark the entrance of the Năng River into the Tuyên Quang province. Over a kilometer, the river is dotted with large rocks that create spectacular waterfalls, where the water changes color as it crashes. Legend has it that a giant was at the origin of this rocky mass, after digging the Puông cave. These waters also harbor a rare species, the Ca Chien fish, some of which reach 10 kg.
Kayaking and canoeing
Paddling on the lake offers a unique perspective on the landscapes and allows access to secluded coves.
Swimming and fishing: The calm waters of the lake invite swimming and traditional fishing.
Observing the fauna and flora
Ba Bể National Park is a true sanctuary of biodiversity, harboring exceptionally rich fauna and flora. An impressive number of 1,268 animal and plant species have been recorded, some of which are particularly rare and threatened. Inventories have identified 65 species of mammals, including Chinese pangolins, flying squirrels, macaques, langurs and bears. In addition, 106 species of fish, 223 varieties of birds and more than 300 types of butterflies have also been recorded.
Homestays
Sharing the daily life of local communities is an enriching experience to discover their culture and way of life.
Go Green
Heritage
Ba Be National Park is rich in important cultural and historical heritage.
The Tay, Nung and Dao ethnic communities have lived in the region for generations, preserving their ancestral traditions, artisanal skills and traditional costumes. From a few isolated stilt houses to larger communities, their presence testifies to a rich culture.
The Tay of Ba Be - Mr Linh's Adventures
The Tay, renowned for their traditional wooden stilt houses, are concentrated in the villages of Cốc Tộc, Pác Ngòi and Bản Cám. These dwellings, of rustic simplicity, blend harmoniously into the landscape, reflecting peacefully in the waters of the rivers that border them, with the mountains as a backdrop. Agriculture and fishing are the main sources of income for the Tay, who can be observed fishing or navigating on their traditional pirogues, the "độc mộc". These boats, remarkable for their ingenuity, are entirely carved from a single tree trunk and, despite their narrowness, glide with astonishing agility on the water. In addition to their mastery of woodworking, the Tay are also recognized for their weaving skills. It is not uncommon to come across women weaving delicate fabrics under the stilts of their houses, taking advantage of the cool air.
The Dao village of Na Nghe, accessible after a hike in the heart of nature, offers spectacular views and a glimpse of local life in traditional wooden houses. Herbal baths, a Dao tradition, are a relaxing and purifying experience thanks to the vapors of medicinal herbs.
During your exploration of the lake, do not miss the An Ma temple, peacefully nestled on its shores. This serene place will offer you a relaxing break and the opportunity to discover the religious traditions and rituals of the local population.
The Caves of Ba Be
Lo Mo Cave, a river cave discovered in 2016 by Mr Linh - Mr Linh's Adventures
Ba Be National Park is a true paradise for budding and experienced speleologists. Among the many caves that dot the karst landscape, some stand out for their beauty and geological interest:
The Puong Cave
This natural tunnel dug by the Nang River is a unique experience. Accessible by boat, it offers an impressive spectacle of stalactites and stalagmites.
The Hua Ma Cave
Located a few kilometers from the lake, this cave, adorned with magnificent limestone formations, offers a mystical and enchanting atmosphere.
The Tham Phay Cave (formerly Lo Mo)
This cave, whose name means "the sky cave", is often compared to the famous Son Doong cave, the largest in the world. Although of more modest dimensions, Tham Phay offers spectacular underground landscapes, with impressive galleries, unique rock formations and natural skylights creating striking plays of light and shadow. Exploring Tham Phay is a true speleological adventure, a dive into the heart of the mysteries of the earth.
Food & Drinks
The cuisine of Ba Be and the Bac Kan province is simple, authentic and tasty.
Traditional food of Ba Be National Park - Mr Linh's Adventures
Among the local specialties, we can mention:
Grilled fish from Ba Be Lake: Fresh and tasty, it is simply prepared over a wood fire.
Black pig raised in freedom: The "Lon Cap Nach", literally "pig carried under the arm", takes its name from the small size of the pigs used, about 10 kg. Raised freely in the surrounding fields and forests, these pigs offer particularly tender and tasty meat. During preparation, the aromas of spices fill the air, especially when the meat is grilled or roasted for the evening meal.
Mountain vegetables: Fresh and varied, they accompany many dishes.
Sticky rice: Staple food of the region, it is often consumed during meals and festivals.
The "khau nhuc": A dish made with braised pork belly, typical of Tay cuisine.
To end a busy day, there is nothing like a tasting of Noc Suong, the local rice wine. This powerful artisanal alcohol, served in plastic bottles and consumed sitting on small chairs, offers a moment of relaxation and warm sharing, even on the coldest nights. An authentic and unforgettable local experience.
Directions
Location
Ba Be National Park is located in the Bac Kan province, about 250 km north of Hanoi.
How to get there from Hanoi:
- ✓ Bus: Regular buses connect Hanoi to the town of Cho Ra, the gateway to the park. The journey takes about 6 to 8 hours. The ticket price varies between 150,000 and 250,000 VND.
- ✓ Private car or motorbike: A more flexible option, allowing you to enjoy the scenery on the road.
Best season
The best time to visit Ba Be is from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is nice and the scenery green. The rainy season (June-August) can make some activities more difficult.