Ba Be Lake: A Slice of Paradise in Northern Vietnam

Ba Be Lake is an ideal place to recharge your batteries, far from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Coming here allows you to disconnect and enjoy a moment of relaxation and immersion in the culture of the Vietnamese ethnic groups by staying in one of the stilt houses of the Tays ethnic group on the edge of the lake. Explore this region for unique experiences and discover the green beauty of northern Vietnam.

Written by Jade NGUYEN, (local expert) Updated on 08-10-2024

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1. Where is Ba Be Lake Located?

Ba Be Lake is in the heart of Ba Be National Park, located in Bac Kan province, about 210 km northeast of the capital Hanoi. This freshwater lake covers an area of more than 500 hectares, located at an altitude of approximately 150 meters. Ba Be Lake is made up of three lakes, namely Pe Lam, Pe Lu and Pe Leng, in a unique geological setting.

During the summer, the lake's waters provide perfect conditions for boating, kayaking, fishing and swimming. The winding paths, located on the slopes of the mountains surrounding the lake, are ideal for many activities, such as cycling to breathe in the fresh air or hiking to discover the wild nature of the region.

In Ba Be, several ethnic groups living in authentic houses on stilts, live on fishing, agricultural crops and preserve a culture and millennia-old traditions. Ba Be Lake is indeed the ideal place to recharge your batteries, far from the noise of the tumultuous cities. Coming here means disconnecting for a pure moment of relaxation and immersion in the culture of the Vietnamese ethnic groups by staying in one of the stilt houses of the Tays ethnic group on the edge of the lake.

2. The Legend of Ba Bể Lake

Once upon a time, a poor old woman was distrusted by villagers because of her dirty and ugly appearance. Fortunately, a kind mother and her son helped her.

Unbeknownst to the villagers, the old woman was a fairy. She warned of an impending natural disaster, but only the mother and son believed her and began building a boat.

That night, a terrible rainstorm engulfed the village. The prepared mother and son survived and saved many others from drowning.

The village was eventually submerged, forming what is now Ba Bể Lake.

3. When Is the Best Time to Visit?

Ba Be Lake can be visited year-round, with each season offering unique characteristics. The rainy season lasts from April to October, while the dry season runs from November to February, with temperatures dropping to as low as 0°C and occasional frost.

The ideal time to visit Ba Be Lake is from February to April when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C. On the 9th and 10th of January, you can experience local cultural festivals.

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3. What to do around Ba Be Lake?

• Boat or Kayak Trips on Ba Be Lake

When the morning sun's rays gradually appear on the lake's surface, awakening the villagers with their reflections, it's the ideal time to explore every corner of Ba Be Lake. If kayaking or canoeing excites thrill-seekers, you can also take a motorboat ride to discover all the unique wonders of this famous lake. You'll have the opportunity to visit a small temple on An Ma islet in the middle of the lake and the enchanting pond hidden along the lush shoreline. In the middle of summer, there's nothing more beautiful than taking a refreshing dip in the cool waters of Ba Be.

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For fishing enthusiasts, this is a great opportunity to witness traditional fishing sessions with members of the Tay ethnic group, who fish from their canoes at sunset. Moving from one trap to another, the canoe glides silently on the water thanks to the fisherman's gentle strokes. They skillfully catch numerous fish and shrimps, making it a feast for the fortunate ones. Truly unforgettable memories!

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• Pac Ngoi Village

Pac Ngoi boasts more than 40 traditional stilt houses nestled into the mountainside, right next to Ba Be Lake. The village is situated in front of the lake, backed by the mountains, making it an even more magnificent landscape of Ba Be.

The roofs of these houses are covered with tiles and are easily recognizable from a distance. Many guesthouses can be found in the heart of the village, offering travelers the chance to spend the night there. During your stay, you will not only have the opportunity to experience touching moments as you inmerse yourself in the daily life of your hosts but also to witness the preparation of a traditional meal with them. This will be the perfect opportunity to share delicious meals, traditional dishes, and, of course, enjoy glasses of homemade rice wine.

In Pac Ngoi Village, you'll have the opportunity to meet the Tay ethnic group, adorned in traditional black costumes. The Tay people inhabit the lowlands along rivers and streams. Whereas, The Dao community resides halfway up the mountains, while the Mong ethnic group inhabits the upper reaches. The Tay people are renowned for their melodious singing and their 'calculating' lute, which is a source of pride for the Ba Be region.

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• Puong Cave

Located in the north of Ba Be National Park, Puong Cave is a must-visit destination! It can be accessible by boat either from the Puoc Luom pier or from the village of Pac Ngoi. This natural wonder spans the Nang River. Crossing the water current within the cave, which boasts a height of 25m and a length of more than 200m, will impress more than one.

When you explore Puong Cave, you'll discover that it serves as a habitat for bats. The boat ride back to Pac Ngoi along the Nang River offers the opportunity to admire a panoramic view, especially at the end of the day when the birds, contented, return in groups to the riverbanks and the smoke from cooking rises from the roofs of houses.

• Dau Dang Waterfall

Dau Dang Waterfall offers travelers a delightful surprise during a peaceful boat ride along the Nang River, right next to Chez Ong Pirates Restaurant. Starting from the pier, travelers are invited to follow a narrow path filled with ferns and vegetable plantations on either side before reaching the waterfall. This famous waterfall was formed following a landslide of limestone mountains.

It is currently surrounded by a green setting in three levels, each measuring 4 meters in height. During the rainy season, a large flow of water pours from the top of the levels, transforming the water into mist and making this waterfall as mysterious as in a fairytale world. What a grandiose spectacle!

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• Hua Ma Cave

Located 6km from the village of Pac Ngoi, at the end of a concrete path bordered by gardens and karst mountains, Hua Ma Cave has recently become an significant speleological attraction. The cave is discreetly camouflaged on the sides of a beautiful cliff, covered with abundant vegetation. It was considered cursed by the locals before becoming a tourist destination due to the strange noises that resonated at the cave's entrance. This has allowed Hua Ma to be preserved in perfect condition with intact stalagmites and stalactites.

At present, a staircase has been put in place to allow travelers to go down to the main room which is definitely worth the effort. Mother Nature definitely creates magnificent places. If you find it difficult to walk for a while from the village of Pac Ngoi, you can also reach the cave more quickly by bike.

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• Ao Tien

A small, picturesque lake near Ba Be Lake, Ao Tien is known for its clear waters and tranquil surroundings, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.

• Hiking in Ba Be National Park

Ba Be National Park, renowned worldwide for its biodiversity, is a veritable nirvana for hikers and bikers. While bikers can easily explore the winding roads around Lake Ba Be, hiking enthusiasts will also find ample opportunities in Ba Be, with trails suitable for all levels of physical fitness.

From short walks lasting just a few hours within the heart of the park to multi-day hikes to meet the Tay, H'mong and Dao ethnic groups, you'll have a plenty of choice. What could be better than admiring the rice terraces and lush mountains during the day and spending the night in a traditional Tay ethnic group house? (For more information, please read: Why Stay at Homestays in Vietnam?)

Additionally, explore the weekly ethnic markets in the surrounding area to enhance your list of activities to do at Ba Be Lake. However, be prepared for the fact that these ethnic markets are not fixed and depend on unforeseen events in the lunar calendar. Lucky travelers may chance upon the market during their stay! It’s like a lottery game!

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• Camping in Ba Be National Park

Camping at Ba Be Lake offers a serene escape with picturesque lake views. Ideal during the dry season (October to April), the area provides amenities for comfortable camping, including designated sites with basic facilities. Activities like hiking, kayaking, and exploring local caves and waterfalls enrich the experience.

• Eating local food

• Grilled Fish: Freshly caught fish, marinated with special spices and grilled over charcoal. Best enjoyed hot with other local dishes.
• Lạp Xưởng: Local pork sausage flavored with ginger rock, smoked or hung to preserve, often enjoyed with local rice wine.
• Smoked Meat: Tay people preserve pork by smoking, similar to Northwest smoked buffalo meat. Traditionally served during special occasions.

5. How to get to Ba Be?

• By private car: The best way to get to Ba Be Lake is by private car, as it allows you to travel comfortably and enjoy the scenery. It's advisable to book a private transfer service in advance with a travel agency or private driver.
• By bus: You can also take a bus from Hanoi to Bac Kan. Buses depart from Gia Lam bus station in Hanoi, and the journey takes approximately 5 hours. From Bac Kan, you can take a taxi to Ba Be Lake, which is about 50 km away.
• By motorbike: If you are an adventurer, you can also rent a motorbike in Hanoi and drive to Ba Be Lake. The journey takes approximately 6 hours, but please note that the roads can be narrow and winding. It is recommended to exercise caution and wear a safety helmet.
• On an organized tour: Finally, you can opt for an organized tour, offered by many travel agencies. Organized tours usually include bus transportation, a guided tour of Ba Be Lake, as well as activities such as hiking, kayaking and visiting local villages,...

6. Accommodations

There are numerous hotels and homestays around Ba Be Lake, with prices ranging from 250,000 ($10) to 1.2 million VND ($70) per night for a double room. Community houses cost between 70,000 ($3) and 100,000 VND ($4) per person.

Many accommodations near Ba Be Lake offer basic amenities with rooms that have balconies or windows overlooking the lake. For more comfortable options, you may need to stay 1-2 km away from the lake at the entrance of Ba Be National Park.

Recommended places to stay include: Thai Binh Hotel, Saigon Ba Be Hotel, Ba Be National Park Hotel, An Thao Ba Be Hotel, and homestays such as Huyen Hao, Tran Xuan, Hoang Nguyen, and Minh Quang.

Camping by the lake is also a popular recent trend. Some recommended spots are: the alluvial land at the end of Leng River in Pac Ngoi village, Hội Xuân area, Lac Nga Garden, and Puong Cave. Prices range from 1 to 2 million VND per person, depending on the service package.

7. Best Itinerary Combinations for Exploring Ba Be Lake

Ba Be Lake is located exactly in the center of northern Vietnam. Consequently, there are several possible circuit options. Visiting Ba Be Lake is often combined with a trip to the famous Ban Gioc Cao Bang waterfall. This excursion requires 4 to 5 days to complete on-site.

If you have more time, we advise you to extend your trip by making a loop from the Northeast, from Ha Giang to Ban Gioc Falls without forgetting passing Ba Be Lake. This type of trip is designed for all those who are looking for an authentic stay away from the masses.

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8. FAQs

1. Can you swim in Ba Be Lake? 
Yes, swimming in Ba Be Lake is possible, especially during the summer months when the waters are cool and refreshing. The lake provides perfect conditions for swimming and other water activities like boating and kayaking.

2. Is Ba Be National Park worth visiting?
Absolutely. Ba Be National Park is a gem of northern Vietnam, offering diverse activities such as boating, kayaking, hiking, and cycling. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature and culture by exploring the lake, local villages, caves, waterfalls, and interacting with the Tay ethnic group. The park remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, making it an ideal destination for those seeking natural beauty and cultural experiences.

3. What is the legend of Ba Be National Park?
The legend of Ba Be Lake tells the story of a poor old woman, actually a fairy in disguise, who warned of an impending natural disaster. Only a kind mother and her son believed her and built a boat to prepare. After a terrible storm, the entire village was submerged, and the mother and son survived, along with many others they saved. This led to the formation of Ba Be Lake.

4. What animals are in Ba Be National Park?
While the text doesn't specify particular animals, Ba Be National Park is renowned for its biodiversity. It is home to various species, and one of the highlights is the presence of bats, particularly in Puong Cave. The park’s rich environment supports diverse fauna, including birds and aquatic life, which visitors may encounter during hikes or boat rides.

5. How to get from Hanoi to Ba Be?
There are several ways to get from Hanoi to Ba Be Lake:

• By private car, which is the most comfortable and scenic option.
• By bus from Hanoi to Bac Kan, followed by a taxi ride to Ba Be Lake.
• By motorbike, for adventurous travelers, though the roads are narrow and winding.

By joining an organized tour with Kampá Tour, which typically includes transportation and guided activities. Each option offers its own conveniences depending on the traveler’s preferences.

6. How deep is Ba Be Lake?

Ba Be Lake has an average depth of 20 to 25 meters, with its deepest part reaching 35 meters. The lake is located at an altitude of 145 meters above sea level.

7. Does Ba Be National Park have a fee?
Yes, Ba Be National Park requires an entrance ticket. The fees for various activities are as follows:

• Ba Be National Park entrance fee: 70,000 VND (about 2.8 USD).
• Hua Ma Cave entrance fee: 45,000 VND (about 1.8 USD).
• Ba Be Lake boat ride fee: Ranges from 300,000 to 1,200,000 VND per ride (approximately 12 to 48 USD), depending on the chosen route.

Our final words,

This green gem, nestled in Upper Tonkin, remains untouched by mass tourism, and Ba Be Lake is truly worth a visit during a trip to Vietnam. This destination is not just a pure adventure trip or natural disconnection, far from it, because it is also a cultural journey to meet ethnic groups and their traditions. Various itineraries are available to provide a comprehensive exploration of northern Vietnam starting from Ba Be. Moments of camaraderie and warmth await you in Ba Be. Have a good trip!

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