Nui Thung mountain, also called Angel Eye mountain, is still a very unknown place, at just 30 km from Cao Bang City and 70 km from Ban Gioc waterfall. It is not only the mountain that is worth a day trip, but the whole area, with Thang Hen Lake, villages, mountains and rice fields, all located in a hidden valley called Tuyet Tinh Coc.
- The hidden Angel Eye Mountain in Cao Bang
- Visiting Nui Thung mountain
- Thang Hen Lake
- Tay minority villages
- How to get there?
- Best time to visit
- Other places to visit
The hidden Angel Eye Mountain in Cao Bang
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Cao Bang province lies a hidden gem known as Nui Thung Mountain, or Angel Eye Mountain. This unique geological formation, characterized by a massive hole at its peak, is a testament to the region’s karst topography and a sight to behold. The mountain’s mystique is further enhanced by the surrounding Tuyet Tinh Coc valley, a tranquil haven of emerald lakes, traditional villages, and breathtaking scenery.
Angel Eye Mountain is still a hidden gem, a place for from well known Sapa and the infamous Ha Giang Loop. And while Cao Bang’s Ban Gioc Waterfall attracts hordes of tourists, Nui Thung and its surrounding valley remain largely undiscovered, offering a serene and authentic experience for those seeking to escape the crowds. The combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and off-the-beaten-path adventure makes this hidden gem a must-visit for any traveler exploring Northern Vietnam.
Visiting Nui Thung Mountain
Coming from Cao Bang City and driving to the north in the direction of Ban Gioc, you drive to the top of the Ma Phuoc pass where you take the DT205. After 10 km on this main road there is a small road on your left that takes you over a mountain into the stunning hidden valley of Tuyet Tinh Coc. Driving through this valley you will see lots of dense jungle, impressive mountains on both sides, small authentic villages of minorities and peaceful countryside of rice fields with buffaloes wandering around. Take your time to explore the area and enjoy some of the most breathtaking scenery that Cao Bang has to offer.
The biggest highlight of the valley is without a doubt the Nui Thung mountain. Nui Thung is also named as Angel Eye mountain, due to it’s enormous hole in the center of the mountain. On the foot of the mountain is a lot of vegetation, that almost grows through the hole of the mountain. Inside Nui Thung is a very large cave with many dark nooks, stalactites, stalagmites and water seeping out of cliffs above that form a small stream of tens of meters down into the cave. It is not a tourist attraction, so venturing in the cave can be dangerous and not recommended without a guide.
Around the mountain you will find large plains and lakes. There are 36 emerald lakes connecting with Nui Thung mountain and the closest one is called Thang Hen lake. There is also a small waterfall called Nam Tra waterfall. Before Nui Thung was known by tourists, it used to be the favorite place for locals to go camping and fishing depending on the water level at the lake in front of Nui Thung.
Thang Hen Lake
Just 10 minutes driving from Nui Thung, you will find Thang Hen lake surrounded by beautiful jungle and mountains. It is part of a 36 lake system, each of which is several hundred meters apart and all laying in the same valley. With 2 km long and 500 meter wide Thang Hen is the largest lake of them all. The mountains and jungle around the lake completes the impressive scenery. Unlike most other lakes in Vietnam that become brown in color during rainy season, Thang Hen lake stays blue all year round since it is fed by clear pure water from a cave located above the lake.
To get to the lake you have to pay 30K/person entrance at a abandoned resort. There is a road that goes around a part of the lake that you can walk or drive. You can discover the lake more by doing a a boat trip. There is also a restaurant for lunch, dinner or even accommodation for staying overnight.
Tay minority villages
There are few Tay minority villages in the valley and around the lakes that you can visit. They live in houses on stilts, surrounded by a forest of hardwood trees, some of which are a thousand years old. There are some trees, from which the locals say they make wine from. The villages are a great place to learn more about the local culture.
How to get there?
Location
Nui Thung Mountain, also known as Angel Eye Mountain, is located in the serene Tuyet Tinh Coc valley, approximately 30 kilometers from Cao Bang City and around 70 kilometers from the famous Ban Gioc Waterfall. For travelers starting in Hanoi, Cao Bang is about 280 kilometers to the north, a journey that can take between 6 to 8 hours.
Since there is no airport or train station in Cao Bang, the primary way to get there is by road. You have two main options:
- Sleeper buses: These overnight buses are a popular choice as they allow you to save daytime for activities. However, not everyone finds them comfortable, and there can be safety concerns due to the winding roads.
- Limousine buses: These comfortable buses with VIP-like seats provide a more pleasant daytime journey, though the travel time is around 5-6 hours.
Once you’re in Cao Bang City, the real adventure begins. To reach Angel Eye Mountain, you have two primary options. Plan for at least two days to fully appreciate the area, as rushing through would mean missing out on Cao Bang’s other remarkable sights and experiences.
Option 1: Drive a Motorbike Yourself
Renting a motorbike in Cao Bang is relatively easy and affordable, with prices typically starting around 100,000 to 150,000 VND per day. This option offers flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. You can easily reach Angel Eye Mountain and then continue to a homestay near Ban Gioc Waterfall on the same day, allowing you to visit the waterfall the next morning before heading back or exploring other areas.
Directions:
- From Cao Bang City, head north on QL3.
- At the top of Ma Phuoc Pass, turn left onto DT205, instead of continuing straight towards Ban Gioc Waterfall.
- Follow DT205 for approximately 10 kilometers.
- Look for a small road on your left with a sign indicating the way to Tuyet Tinh Coc valley.
- Take this small road, which will lead you into the valley.
- Once in the valley, follow the signs to reach Angel Eye Mountain and Thang Hen Lake.
Option 2: By tour (Car or Motorbike)
If you prefer a guided experience or don’t have a motorbike license, opt for a private tour. All tours to Angel Eye Mountain are private due to its off-the-beaten-path location. You can choose between a car with a driver or a motorbike tour, where you’ll ride pillion with a local guide who knows the area intimately. The motorbike option offers a more adventurous and immersive experience, while the car option provides comfort and convenience.
Arrange a Cao Bang Experience with Local Vietnam
At Local Vietnam, we can arrange everything for your trip to Cao Bang, including transportation, meals, and accommodations. We work with local motorbike drivers and car drivers to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Our custom itineraries can include popular destinations like Ban Gioc Waterfall as well as hidden gems such as Bao Lac, Me Pja Pass, and Phung Nam Valley. Let us help you create the trip of a lifetime!
You can either check our Off The beaten Cao Bang loop tour here or request a custom tour here.
Best time to visit
The area can be perfectly visited all year round. If you want to see the rice fields in their most beautiful time – golden season or harvest season – you should visit from September till the beginning of October. During this time the lakes also have more water then during the dry season.
Other places to visit around Nui Thung mountain
Cao Bang is an incredible destination, brimming with hidden gems and natural wonders. The province is vast, offering a wealth of experiences that could easily fill a week-long adventure. However, if you’re short on time, we recommend spending at least 3 days to truly make the most of your visit.
Around Nui Thung Mountain
Beyond the majestic Nui Thung Mountain, the surrounding Tuyet Tinh Coc valley beckons exploration. The valley’s compact size makes it ideal for a leisurely motorbike ride, allowing you to discover its hidden charms within an hour or two. Narrow roads wind through picturesque landscapes, passing traditional villages, emerald rice paddies, and serene lakes. Thang Hen Lake, in particular, is worth a visit for its tranquil beauty and unique blue waters.
More in Cao Bang
For those seeking further adventures, Cao Bang offers a wealth of options:
West of Nui Thung Mountain: Embark on a journey west, where you’ll encounter long stretches of untouched beauty, with mountains, rice fields, and jungles unfolding before your eyes. This off-the-beaten-track route is dotted with small ethnic villages, offering a glimpse into traditional life. The journey culminates in Bao Lac, a picturesque town surrounded by breathtaking scenery reminiscent of Ha Giang province. Don’t miss the opportunity to conquer the awe-inspiring Me Pia Pass, a winding road with 14 hairpin bends that rewards travelers with stunning panoramic views.
North of Nui Thung Mountain: Journey north to witness the awe-inspiring Ban Gioc Waterfall, Vietnam’s most magnificent cascade, nestled amidst lush greenery and dramatic karst formations. Explore the nearby Nguom Ngao Cave and Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda for a deeper cultural experience.
Phong Nam Valley: Not far from Ban Gioc lies Phong Nam Valley, another hidden gem with stunning landscapes. The valley’s mountains, rice fields, and quaint villages create a fairytale-like setting, and a scenic viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the area.
