Bac Can

Bac Can – A Hidden Mountainous Gem in Northern Vietnam

? Overview

• Location: Northeast Vietnam, about 170 km north of Hanoi.

• Capital: Bắc Kạn City.

• Known for: Pristine natural landscapes, mountains, lakes, ethnic cultures, and eco-tourism.

• Home to Ba Bể National Park, one of the most beautiful freshwater lake systems in Vietnam.

Why Visit Bắc Kạn?

• Off-the-beaten-path destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

• Home to ethnic minorities including the Tày, Dao, H’Mông, and Nùng.

• Beautiful scenery of limestone mountains, dense forests, rivers, waterfalls, and traditional stilt houses.

• Ideal for trekking, cave exploration, and cultural homestays.

Top Attractions

1. Ba Bể Lake (Hồ Ba Bể)

• The largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, located within Ba Bể National Park.

• Surrounded by limestone cliffs, caves, and lush forest.

• Activities: Boat tours, kayaking, swimming, hiking, and wildlife spotting.

• Visit Puong Cave, Dau Dang Waterfall, and An Ma Temple along the lake.

2. Ba Bể National Park

• Rich in biodiversity, with many rare species of flora and fauna.

• Numerous eco-trails and caves to explore.

• Offers trekking tours, homestays in Tày villages, and community-based tourism.

3. Hua Ma Cave

• A large, well-lit cave near Ba Bể with beautiful stalactites and legends from local folklore.

4. Pac Ngoi Village

• A traditional Tày village near Ba Bể Lake.

• Known for stilt houses and warm hospitality.

• Great place for homestays and cultural immersion.

5. Na Khoang Waterfall & Nang River

• Peaceful natural spots ideal for picnics, walks, and local exploration.

Best Time to Visit

• September to April: Cool and dry – best time for hiking and boating.

• May to August: Greener landscape, but occasional rain.

• Avoid peak rainy season (July–August) for smoother travel and activities.

How to Get There

• From Hanoi to Ba Bể Lake:

  • By car/van: ~5–6 hours.

  • By bus: Hanoi to Bắc Kạn City or Ba Bể town (overnight options available).

  • Self-drive or private tour is the most flexible.

Where to Stay

• Homestays in Pac Ngoi or Coc Toc Villages – authentic, cozy, and close to Ba Bể Lake.

• Eco-lodges and guesthouses around Ba Bể National Park.

• Hotels in Bắc Kạn City – if you want more urban amenities.

Local Food to Try

• Sticky rice in bamboo tubes (cơm lam)

• Smoked pork (lợn gác bếp)

• Grilled fish from Ba Bể Lake

• Corn wine (rượu ngô) made by local ethnic minorities.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for hiking.

• Bring insect repellent, especially in the forest.

• Respect ethnic cultures and ask before taking photos of locals.

• Cash is recommended – ATMs are rare in remote areas.