EN
ES
FR
Don't Visit Cao Bang, Vietnam Without Knowing These 6 Things
A top place to visit in Vietnam is Cao Bang. It is a fascinating tourist spot with important remnants from the revolutionary era. As Vietnam’s second UNESCO World Heritage site, Cao Bang, with its green hills, towering mountains, serene lakes, and stunning waterfalls, resembles an impressionist painting. Aside from breathtaking landscapes, visitors are attracted to its special cuisine, vibrant culture, and ethnic diversity, making it both a peaceful and romantic getaway, as well as a spectacular place to explore, especially for adventure travelers.
Here are the top reasons why you should visit Cao Bang. This article will guide you through the essential landmarks and provide six key recommendations to make the most of your trip to this remarkable region.
- 1. Where Is Cao Bang Located in Vietnam?
- 2. When to Visit Cao Bang?
- 3. How To Get There?
- 4. Things To Do In Cao Bang
- 5. What to Do for an Adventure Beyond the Ordinary in Cao Bang?
- 6. Culinary Specialties of Cao Bang: What to Try?
- Bonus: A Visit To Cao Bang Can Be Combined With Which Itineraries In Northern Vietnam?
Key Takeaways
- Location: Cao Bang is located in the northeast of Vietnam, next to China.
- Best Time to Visit: August to September for waterfalls, November to December for wildflowers, and winter for snow at Phia Oac Mountain.
- Must-See Attractions: Ban Gioc Waterfall, Phong Nam Valley, Nguom Ngao Cave, and Khuoi Ky Stone Village.
- Activities: Hiking, trekking, visiting traditional craft villages, and staying in local homestays.
- Cuisine: Cao Bang dumplings, Ant egg cake, Ap Chao cake, Trung Khanh chestnut
- Travel Options: Sleeper buses, private cars or motorbikes from Hanoi are good means of transport.
- Note: Bring extra cash, as very few businesses, including homestays, accept cards. Outside Cao Bang city, ATMs are scarce.
1. Where Is Cao Bang Located in Vietnam?
Cao Bang, a gem in Northeast Vietnam, is just around 300 kilometers from Hanoi (about a 5-hour drive), inviting both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The landscape consists of rugged mountains, green hills, and attractive caves. Cao Bang city, the region's core location, lies along the Bang Giang River, about thirty kilometers (nineteen miles) from Guangxi Province in China.
In addition, travelers will also discover remarkable flora and fauna, pristine waterfalls, and streams that seamlessly blend into the landscape. It’s no surprise that much of Cao Bang was designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2018, celebrating the region's incredible richness and diversity.
.jpg)
>>> Worth Knowing: The name "Cao Bang" means "flat land between high mountains". Despite its remote geographical location, Cao Bang is easier to access than many other remote areas in the North, creating great convenience for tourists.
2. When to Visit Cao Bang?
Unique natural beauty is what Cao Bang Province possesses for a visit. The climate here has two distinct seasons- the rainy season from April to September, and the dry season from November to March of the subsequent year. This area only has one rice harvest per year, from June to late October. During the rest of the year, you will see other crops such as corn, peanuts, sweet potatoes, or brown tubers, creating a landscape that changes with each season.
According to local guide, each season has its own beauty for Cao Bang, making it worth the visit.
August and September are said to be the best months to travel to the region's amazing treasures because of the dry and cool weather. The golden rice fields and waterfalls were usually at their best during this time of the year, setting the scene for breathtaking views.
In November and December, the Cao Bang Mountains are adorned with wildflowers, including cornflowers and marigolds, creating a picturesque landscape. What's even more captivating is the thick clouds of fog that drift in, adding a magical touch unique to the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam. Early spring brings forests of blooming peach and apricot trees, offering an exceptional display of colors.
For those craving adventure, winter in Cao Bang is the perfect time for snow hunting. Phia Oac National Park, often called the second "roof" of Cao Bang due to its nearly 2,000-meter altitude, features stunning natural landscapes, a refreshing climate, and steadily dipping temperatures, creating the ideal conditions for snow to blanket the area.
>>> Good To Know: "Before exploring the highlights of Cao Bang, you should spend your first night in Cao Bang city. It is a small, clean, and pleasant city with many options for accommodation and restaurants." – Oliver Phung (local expert)
>>> Get more details about Vietnam Travel Tips
3. How To Get There?
If you are based in the northern provinces of Vietnam, you have several options for traveling to Cao Bang: Sleeper buses or private cars. For those traveling with elderly people or children, it is recommended to hire a private car with a driver for added comfort and safety.
Budget-conscious travelers can opt for the sleeper bus from Hanoi to Cao Bang, which is both economical and comfortable.
The transportation system in Cao Bang and neighboring provinces is well-developed, making it easy to travel by car or motorbike. From Hanoi, you can take National Highway No. 3 (QL3) through Thai Nguyen and Bac Kan, or the Hanoi – Lang Son Expressway. Both routes offer stunning scenery, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
For those coming from the central or southern regions of Vietnam, you can fly to Hanoi and continue your journey to Cao Bang using any of the methods mentioned above.
>>> Map of the must-sees in Cao Bang
Please click on the "[ ]" at the top right for better visibility
4. Things To Do In Cao Bang
-
Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc waterfalls stands tall as one of Southeast Asia's greatest natural wonders, and largest waterfall in Vietnam perched right on the border between China and Vietnam (Detian and Ban Gioc). China lays claim to the upper part, while Vietnam boasts the lower part. With a colossal waterfall over 60 meters high, and measuring 300 meters wide tumbling down in cascading layers of rock, the Quay Son River charges through, painting a picture of green mountains and tranquility.
For the ultimate Ban Gioc experience, plan your visit between October to March. That's when the water dances with abundance, putting on a show with its frothy white waves.
Near the falls lies Truc Lam Buddhist Temple, a perfect spot to recharge and commune with nature. Imagine gazing out over the plains, the distant murmur of Ban Gioc Falls serenading you, while lush green mountains cradle you.
>>> Ban Gioc Waterfall Tourism Festival 2024 (02/09/2024 Updated):
The Trung Khanh Festival will take place on October 13-14, 2024, near the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall. This event highlights local customs and traditions, including a food fair, the drama of the wandering boy, the yangge lion dance, cultural exchange with Guangxi, China, and adventurous activities like mountain biking and kayaking on the Quay Son River. For the latest updates on this cultural event, follow Kampá Tour!
.jpg)
-
Phong Nam - Ngoc Con Valley
One of the secret favorite attractions in Cao Bang is Phong Nam Valley. This serene location, nestled in the Trung Khanh district and just a 45-minute drive from Ban Gioc Waterfall, features majestic limestone formations surrounded by rivers, rice terraces, and quaint villages. Reminiscent of Ninh Binh Province but without the crowds, Phong Nam Valley remains largely undiscovered by tourists, enhancing its allure.
Considered one of Vietnam’s most stunning locales for rice fields, the valley offers a perfect escape to appreciate nature’s beauty. Enveloped by rivers, mountains, and traditional houses, it’s a place to let go of daily stresses and find peace.go of daily stresses and find peace.
.jpg)
Visitors can also discover the local villages to gain insight into the lives of the residents. Predominantly inhabited by the Tay ethnic group, these communities maintain a slow-paced life centered around farming and forestry, preserving their unique cultural heritage.
This is an ideal place for walking or cycling, perfect for enjoying the atmosphere and exploring the villages. You can also join a day trip to Ngoc Con.
There are two things to do in the valley:
- Take a leisurely walk along the paths leading to the end of the valley to see the waterfall. The distance is around 3-4 kilometers from the valley's starting point.
- Hike up to the viewpoint, which takes about an hour. The trail can be difficult to find and navigate, so it’s recommended to have a guide who can help locate the trailhead and lead the way.
Cao Bang is one of the seven best places in Vietnam to trek through breathtaking rice fields. Curious about the other six? Discover them all here: 7 Amazing Places to Catch Stunning Rice Fields in Vietnam!
-
Traditional craft villages
Cao Bang is, above all, an agricultural province where traditional craft villages continue to play an important role in the lives of the Tày and Nùng minorities.
About a 40-minute drive from Cao Bang city, Quang Uyen district is home to five traditional craft villages, each specializing in a different craft: Phia Thap is famous for its incense sticks; Lan Duoi specializes in bamboo weaving; Lung Ri produces terracotta yin-yang tiles; Phia Chang is known for its blacksmiths; and Dia Tren is famous for its traditional paper.
These villages, located in remote areas, continue to preserve their traditional crafts with great passion. We organize one- to two-day walking trips to explore these villages, following scenic routes surrounded by rice fields and limestone mountains.
As you stroll through these villages, you'll encounter buffaloes grazing, farmers tending to their fields, villagers diligently working at their crafts, and majestic mountains on the horizon—all contributing to a tranquil and authentic atmosphere. Most importantly, this area remains largely untouched by tourism, making it a truly off-the-beaten-path destination.
-
Nguom Ngao Cave
The mysterious Nguom Ngao cave stands as one of Vietnam's most magnificent natural wonders, second only to the famed caves of Phong Nha Ke Bang. Dating back to its discovery in 1921, this cave's origins trace back over 300 million years! While stretching for a little over 2 kilometers, only 1 kilometer is open to the public.
However, in exciting news, a new tour named "Nguom Ngao Cave - part of Ban Thuon" is set to open, extending nearly 3 kilometers deeper into the cave. Visitors will have the chance to delve further into the cave by boat, encountering cliffs to climb, rafts to navigate, and streams to wade through in the darkness. These additions promise even more unforgettable and thrilling experiences for avid explorers and adventurers alike
Nguom Ngao boasts three entrances and is divided into various sections, such as the 'Four Celestial Columns' boasting impressive pillars, and the 'Jewels' area, renowned for its sparkling stalactites and stalagmites. Stepping into Nguom Ngao Cave, prepare to be enchanted by the breathtaking rock formations and vivid colors that adorn the interior of this natural marvel.
>>>> Embark on a North Vietnam Tours: A Journey Through Southeast Vietnam! 🌏🇻🇳
-
Hike Through Cao Bang's Spectacular Landscapes
Experience the enchanting landscapes of the region by going on a hike or trek. Traverse the rolling hills, meandering valleys, verdant rice fields, and stunning limestone formations that create a mesmerizing panorama. Although the trails are rocky, they reward you with breathtaking views of distant towering peaks.
In Cao Bang province is the Khau Coc Cha Mountain Pass, beginning from Bao Lac; another pass that cannot afford to be missed. Although it doesn't belong to the classification of the "Four Great Passes," Khau Coc Cha has 15 steep inclines and 14 tight turns that absolutely captivate visitors. To fully appreciate it, ride up its serpentine road and hike up the forested hill to get a bird's eye view of the pass.
Bao Lac also acts as a gateway to the villages of diverse ethnic minorities, including the H'mong, Tày, Nùng, Dzao, Sanchay, and Lo Lo. Be sure to visit the vibrant Bao Lac market, which brings these communities together every five days according to the lunar calendar. This market offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich mosaic of cultures and traditions thriving in this captivating area.
>>> Find out the Top 10 Best Vietnam Trekking & Hiking Tours 2025
-
Stay with a local
Staying with a homestay in Bao Lac offers an authentic and enriching experience, allowing you to discover the region in a unique way and immerse yourself in its culture. The local inhabitants, such as the H'mong, Tày, Nùng, Dzao, Sanchay, and Lo Lo (Ethnicity Vietnam), are known for their warm hospitality and sincere welcome. Living with them, you'll have the chance to share special moments, from preparing traditional meals to participating in local agricultural activities and learning about their way of life.
This experience also provides the opportunity to discover hidden gems known only to the locals. A walk-through traditional Tay and Nung villages, still largely untouched by modernity, will reveal houses adorned with "Yin Yang" tiles. You can also visit Phia Chang Village, renowned for its knife-making, and Thac Phia, an expert in incense, both located in Quang Uyen, just 40 kilometers from Cao Bang's bustling center.
>>> Related to: Immerse in Culture: Staying with Local Host
5. What to Do for an Adventure Beyond the Ordinary in Cao Bang?
-
The Ancestral Stone Village of Khuoi Ky
Less than 3 km from the Ban Gioc waterfall, there is also the ancestral stone village, Khuoi Ky, which is culturally relevant and worth considering while touring Cao Bang. The village consists of 14 households of the Tay ethnic group. This ancient village has a history of a thousand years, with stilted stone houses that have resisted time yet maintained their aesthetic value over the centuries. The centuries-old veneration of the stone genius is rooted in the traditional practices of the local populace. A visit to Khuoi Ky offers the possibility of enriching your trip by taking part in many activities with the inhabitants. A life cradled by mountainous landscapes and wooded areas will bring tranquility to your spirit.
(1).jpg)
-
Ba Quang Burning Grass Hill
Just a one-hour drive from Khuoi Ky, Ba Quang Grass Hill is a haven for both amateur and professional photographers, offering a blend of wild, idyllic beauty and vast stretches of yellow grass.
This destination is the best choice for travelers who love trekking. Also known as Ba Quang Burnt Grass Hill, it showcases lush green grass stretching across the undulating hillsides from May to October each year.
From October to February of the following year, the grass hill enters the burning grass season, creating a scene full of poetic and impressive yellow and orange colors.
To fully appreciate Ba Quang Hill during the burning grass season, consider renting a tent and setting up camp. Imagine sitting in your tent, sipping hot cocoa while enjoying the panoramic view of the hill. The view from the top is a million-dollar vista that many photographers seek.
>>> Good To Know: Golden grasses reaches its optimum beauty from the months of October to February hence this site is a favorite of many professional photographers. For enhanced experience, one may carry a drone to take an aerial view of the vast scenery.
>>> Explore Top 6 Best Places for Trekking in Vietnam
-
Mount Mat Than: The Eye of the Mountain Genius
Just 24 km from Cao Bang town, Mount Mat Than, affectionately known as the 'Eye of the Mountain Genius,' is a captivating destination for explorers. This remarkable site is part of a complex of 36 interconnected lakes known as Thang Hen Lake.
Yet, Magic Eye Mountain has a special environmental feature with two distinct seasons. In the wet season, cascading waterfalls replenish the lakes, transforming Nam Cha Lake (the seasonal name for the lake at Mat Than Mountain) into a gleaming mirror that reflects the surrounding peaks. This scene resembles a tranquil painting, complete with azure waters and serene rafts, all framed by towering mountains.
During the dry season, the receding waters reveal a varied landscape of rolling hills and winding streams set against lush greenery, evoking a gentle, poetic atmosphere. This season is ideal for activities like camping, picnicking, trekking, and cycling, offering a unique way to engage with the natural beauty of Nam Cha Lake.
Year-round, whether in spring, summer, fall, or winter, the mystical 'Eye of the Mountain God' captivates visitors. Part of the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, this area not only offers stunning landscapes but also a wealth of historical and archaeological sites, making it a treasure trove for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts.
Good to know: Hikers should bring sturdy shoes, as the trail can be muddy, especially after the rainy season. For campers, the area around Thang Hen Lake offers picturesque spots to set up camp, but make sure to bring your supplies as there are no facilities nearby.
-
Visit Important Historical Sites in Pac Bo
Cao Bang's historical significance dates back to the Franco-Vietnamese War, with Pac Bo being a key revolutionary landmark located 52 km from downtown. This site marks the start of the Ho Chi Minh Road, symbolized by its "km 0" designation.
The site includes the Ho Chi Minh Memorial, Coc Po Cave, Lung Lan Cave, Nguom Vai Cave, Lenin Stream, and the Ho Chi Minh Stone Worktable, all significant to Vietnam's struggle for independence.
Visiting Pac Bo, you will not only learn about the history of the precious relics of Vietnam's resistance leader but also experience fully in the natural beauty of the mountains and forests and long turquoise streams.
.jpg)
6. Culinary Specialties of Cao Bang: What to Try?
- Bánh Cuốn: In Cao Bang, bánh cuốn takes on a special twist. Served with a sauce made from simmered pork broth, it adds a subtle sweetness. The thin pancakes, infused with rice from Cao Bang's fields, complement the sauce perfectly. Topped with minced meat, eggs, ham, chives, fresh cilantro, and soaked salted bamboo, it’s a true culinary delight.
- Bánh Ap Chao: A winter specialty in Cao Bang, this donut-like treat has a glutinous rice crust filled with savory duck meat. It’s served with a sweet and sour sauce, green papaya salad, and fresh herbs for a delightful twist on a classic dish.
- Bánh Trứng Kiến (Ant Egg Cake): A unique culinary experience, the ant egg cake is made with black forest ant eggs, cooked with dried onions, ground pork, roasted peanuts, and basil leaves. Available between April and May. Caution: This dish may cause allergies for those sensitive to bugs or peanuts.
Finally, in July and August, indulge in Xôi Trám, a dish exclusive to Cao Bang. Soft and fluffy sticky rice infused with the slightly sweet flavor of local trám fruit creates a tantalizing combination that will leave you craving more.
Bonus: A Visit To Cao Bang Can Be Combined With Which Itineraries In Northern Vietnam?
A trip to Cao Bang fits seamlessly into any northern Vietnam adventure, tailored to your interests and time frame. Nestled near the famed Ha Giang Loop, known for its scenic mountain routes, Cao Bang promises stunning landscapes and rich cultural immersion.
Just a three-hour drive away lies Ba Be Lake, a haven of natural wonders. Pairing a visit to Cao Bang with a trip to Ba Be allows you to discover waterfalls, lakes, caves, and experience the traditional lifestyle of local ethnic groups.
>>> Get your best Northern Vietnam Itineraries
In essence, Cao Bang serves as the perfect hub for exploring northern Vietnam. With various itineraries to choose from, you can craft a journey that suits your schedule and passions, ensuring a fulfilling travel experience.
Is Cao Bang Worth Visiting? – Conclusion
A million yeses, and more besides: Cao Bang is now ready to be discovered. It is untouched, authentic, and beautiful, yet also very welcoming. With stunning landscapes, rich history, and living traditions, it’s an attractive option for adventurers looking to venture off the beaten path. This travel guide has shared much about Cao Bang, and we hope it sparks ideas for your next trip to Vietnam. Visit our website today to explore detailed tours of this historical northern province in Vietnam!
>>> Discover more attractive destinations in Vietnam:
Quiz: Do you really know about Vietnam?
Quiz: Do you really know about Vietnam?
Whatsapp
Email
Messenger
3 Weeks in Vietnam: A Tapestry of Unforgettable Highlights
Are you eager to embark on a profound exploration of our country? Consider the 3-week Vietnam journey with highlights, an ideal selection that will lead you from the lofty mountains in the North to the picturesque North Bay, from historically significant destinations in the Center to the captivating red soil landscapes of the southern highlands. Notably, this tour will immerse you in the world-renowned arroyos and vibrant floating markets of the Mekong Delta. Moreover, you'll have the unique opportunity to connect with locals during two nights' stays in the Mekong Delta and the highlands of the North. This Vietnam 3 weeks highlights tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
Exploring Vietnam with the Family: An 18-Day Adventure
Ready for an adventure? Join us for an 18-day family getaway to Vietnam, where breathtaking landscapes and cultural wonders await. Discover our meticulously crafted 18-day Vietnam itinerary for families, packed with fun activities to ensure a memorable vacation for everyone. From exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay and the vibrant markets of Ho Chi Minh City, this trip offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. Don't miss the chance to create lifelong memories on this unforgettable journey!
10 Days, 10 Colors: A Journey from South to North Vietnam
Discover Vietnam's vibrant diversity from south to north in 10 days. Start on the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City and end at the majestic waters of Halong Bay; each stop promises a unique adventure. With this tour, you can explore breathtaking destinations and experience the diverse cultures of Vietnam. Each destination on this South to North Vietnam expedition is handpicked to showcase the country's iconic beauty, ensuring you create lasting memories.
Exploration from Northern to Central Vietnam in 12 days
This budget-friendly 12-day itinerary from the North to the Central regions of Vietnam is sure to captivate you. We have thoughtfully balanced this tour to combine structured activities with free days for personal discovery and leisure. Experience overnight stays with local families in Bac Ha, evenings on traditional junk boats in Halong Bay, vibrant weekly markets, scenic hiking trails, and more. This tour offers a gateway to Vietnam's spirit and heritage, all within a concise 12 days!
Vietnam’s North to South Highlights in 2 Weeks
Our Vietnam 2-week itinerary from north to south offers an overview of the country's three main regions, shaped like an S. To the north, you will visit Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital, experience both the maritime and terrestrial beauty of Halong Bay, and make an excursion to the splendid mountains of Sapa. In the center, explore the ancient imperial city of Hue and the charming old town of Hoi An. The journey concludes in the south with visits to Ho Chi Minh City and the vibrant Mekong Delta. Below are our program suggestions for a comprehensive Vietnam 2-week itinerary in Vietnam.
Vietnam Hill Tribe & Trekking Itinerary in 5 Days
This 5-day itinerary of North Vietnam leads you through the high mountains of the North-West, exploring the homeland of the Thai and Hmong minorities. Along the way, you'll witness spectacular terraced rice fields, adding to the beauty of the landscapes, and engage in emotional encounters with ethnic tribes. This North Vietnam 5 days itinerary offers an in-depth experience of the region's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, ensuring a memorable adventure in the heart of Vietnam.
