Nestled in the remote mountains of Cao Bang Province, Thang Hen Lake is a true hidden gem, offering visitors a serene escape into nature’s untouched beauty. Despite its stunning landscape, this lake remains largely undiscovered by the typical tourist crowd, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and a unique experience in Northern Vietnam.
Thang Hen Lake – A hidden gem in Cao Bang
Located approximately 30 kilometers from Cao Bang City, Thang Hen Lake is a natural lake system that is part of a larger network of 36 lakes in the area. These lakes are interconnected and fed by underground rivers, which ensures that the water remains pristine and crystal clear throughout the year. Surrounded by dense forests, towering limestone karsts, and peaceful villages, Thang Hen Lake offers a picturesque setting that seems straight out of a postcard.
The lake itself stretches over 2 kilometers in length and 500 meters in width, making it one of the larger lakes in the region. The water’s calm surface reflects the surrounding mountains and sky, creating a mirror-like effect that enhances the area’s natural beauty. During the rainy season, the lake’s water level rises, sometimes connecting it to the other lakes in the system, creating an even more expansive and mesmerizing view.
Visiting Thang Hen Lake
Location and Access
Thang Hen Lake is located about 30 kilometers north of Cao Bang City. To reach the lake, you will need to pass through the Thang Hen Lake Eco Resort, as the only access to the lake is via the resort’s entrance. There is an entrance fee of 30,000 VND, which includes parking.
What to do at Thang Hen Lake
Go (Partly) Around the Lake
There is a road that encircles the lake, allowing visitors to explore the area either by walking or driving a motorbike. The path takes you through various parts of the resort, some of which appear to be abandoned, including an old swimming pool and dilapidated cabins, adding a sense of adventure to your exploration. The walk around the lake offers stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains, making it a peaceful and picturesque journey.
Swimming
While swimming is allowed in the lake, it is somewhat regulated by the resort management. They may request that you wear a life jacket for safety. The cool, clear water provides a refreshing break on hot days, and the pristine surroundings make it an unforgettable swimming experience.
Standup SUP
For those interested in water activities, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is available for rent at the lake. The cost is 200,000 VND for one board and two life jackets. However, it’s important to note that the paddles provided are boat paddles rather than traditional SUP paddles, which means you may need to sit while paddling. Despite this, the experience is enjoyable as you glide across the tranquil waters, with the option to paddle around the lake for as long as you wish.
Eat or Picnic
While the resort has a restaurant, it often requires advance booking for meals due to the low number of visitors. If the restaurant isn’t serving food, bringing your own snacks and drinks for a picnic is a great alternative. Find a quiet spot around the lake, relax, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It’s an ideal way to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Thang Hen Lake after a day of exploring Cao Bang by motorbike or car.
Angel Eye Mountain
Just a few kilometers from Thang Hen Lake, nestled in the same scenic valley, is the spectacular Angel Eye Mountain, also known as Nui Thung. As you approach the lake, you may have already passed the turn-off to this natural wonder, which is arguably an even more impressive highlight of the region. Angel Eye Mountain gets its name from a massive hole in its center, creating a unique “eye” that seems to watch over the lush valley below. The mountain is part of a larger limestone formation, and its striking appearance against the verdant landscape makes it a must-see when visiting this area.
The valley surrounding Angel Eye Mountain is equally captivating, offering a glimpse into the tranquil life of the local ethnic communities. The landscape is incredibly green, with rice fields stretching out between towering limestone karsts, small waterfalls trickling down the hillsides, and villages that seem untouched by time. Exploring this idyllic setting is a journey into one of the most beautiful and serene areas of Cao Bang, where every turn reveals another picture-perfect scene.
Is It Worth Visiting Thang Hen Lake?
Absolutely. Thang Hen Lake may be a small detour when traveling from Cao Bang City to Ban Gioc Waterfall, but it is one that’s well worth taking. If it were just the lake on its own, the detour might seem questionable, but the entire valley, with its hidden gems like Angel Eye Mountain, transforms the area into a destination that should not be missed. The stunning landscapes of towering mountains, rice fields, and local villages make for an idyllic stop where you can stretch your legs, soak in the peaceful scenery, and feel a world away from the usual tourist routes.
How to Get There
Getting to Cao Bang City
The first step in reaching Thang Hen Lake is to get to Cao Bang City. Since there is no airport or train station in Cao Bang, you’ll need to travel by road. The most common options are:
- Sleeper Bus: A convenient way to travel overnight, saving on daytime travel. However, these buses can be less comfortable for those who struggle to sleep while on the move.
- Limousine Vans: These are comfortable and affordable options for daytime travel, offering a smoother and more pleasant journey compared to standard buses.
From Cao Bang City to Thang Hen Lake
Once you’ve arrived in Cao Bang City, you’ll need private transportation to reach Thang Hen Lake, as public transportation options are limited.
Private Car: For a more comfortable and weather-protected option, you can rent a car with a driver. This is ideal if you’re traveling with others or prefer a more relaxed journey.
Driving Motorbike: Renting a motorbike in Cao Bang City is straightforward, but be aware that the route to Thang Hen Lake is quite rugged and best suited for experienced riders. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Motorbike Tour: If you prefer not to ride yourself, joining a motorbike tour is a great way to experience the adventure without the stress. You’ll be able to enjoy the stunning scenery while an experienced local guide handles the driving.
If you need help organising a tour through Cao Bang’s hidden gems, either on the back of a motorbike or a car with driver, we from Local Vietnam can arrange this for you. We help creating an epic itinerary, with well known and off the beaten destinations, taking care of all the planning and transfers from and to Hanoi. Request your customized Cao Bang tour here.
