Thang Hen Lake is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting natural destinations. Nestled in the highlands of
Cao Bang Province, the beauty of Thang Hen Lake is enough to make any traveler pause and soak in the scenery. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Thang Hen Lake a must-visit, how to get there, the best time for a visit, things to do, and practical tips to plan your trip.
Is It Worth Visiting Thang Hen Lake?
Thang Hen Lake is not just a pretty water body but a whole valley full of natural beauty, local culture, and fascinating geology.
The lake itself stretches more than 2 kilometers long and half a kilometer wide, making it one of the larger lakes in your
Cao Bang travel. The calm surface reflects the surrounding limestone mountains and dense forests, giving photographers endless opportunities for mirror-like shots. During the rainy season, water levels rise and connect Thang Hen with other lakes in the system, forming one grand and dramatic body of water.
But the true charm of Thang Hen Lake lies in the entire valley. Here you will find Angel Eye Mountain with its mysterious hole through the rock, golden rice fields in autumn, and Tay and Nung villages where daily life still moves at a slow, traditional pace. Compared with crowded destinations, Thang Hen offers a tranquil atmosphere where travelers can breathe fresh air and feel deeply connected with nature.
How to Get to Thang Hen Lake
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.
Getting to Cao Bang City
Since there is no airport or train station in Cao Bang, all travel must be by road. From Hanoi, the most common way is to take overnight
Vietnam sleeper buses. These buses leave from My Dinh Bus Station and reach Cao Bang after 6–8 hours, costing between 300,000 and 450,000 VND per ticket. While sleeping on a bus may not be comfortable for everyone, it saves daytime travel.
Another option is to take a limousine van. These are smaller, more comfortable vehicles that provide a smoother journey. Although slightly more expensive than buses, many travelers find the comfort worth it.
From Cao Bang City to Thang Hen Lake
Once in Cao Bang, you still need to travel about 30 kilometers north to reach Thang Hen Lake. The only access to the lake is through the
Thang Hen Lake Eco Resort, where an entrance ticket costs 30,000 VND, including parking.There are three main ways to get there:
- Private Car with Driver: The safest and most comfortable option, especially for families or groups.
- Self-Drive Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is possible in Cao Bang City, but the road is rugged and recommended only for confident riders. The trip takes 1.5–2 hours.
- Guided Motorbike Tour: If you want the thrill of riding without the risk, join a local tour where you ride behind an experienced driver.
No matter how you arrive, the last stretch to Thang Hen Lake passes through mountain scenery that will leave you amazed.
When is the best time to visit Thang Hen Lake?
Thang Hen Lake changes dramatically with the seasons, so the best time depends on what you want to see.
- Summer (June–August): All 36 lakes are full and often connect with each other. The valley is lush green, creating the most spectacular scenery.
- Autumn (September–October): Rice fields turn golden, wild sunflowers bloom, and the lake sometimes experiences sudden drops and rises in water level, a rare natural phenomenon.
- Winter (November–February): Cooler weather makes trekking enjoyable, and the clear waters reveal the rocky lakebed. The atmosphere is quiet and reflective.
- Spring (March–May): This period can be less impressive as water levels drop, leaving the lake smaller.
For most travelers,
September and October are the most beautiful months at Thang Hen Lake.
What to do at Thang Hen Lake
Walk or Ride Around the Lake
A circular path surrounds the lake, giving you the chance to explore on foot or by motorbike. Some parts of the eco-resort feel abandoned, like old cabins and a swimming pool, but this adds to the sense of adventure. Walking slowly allows you to absorb the peaceful atmosphere and capture views from different angles.
Explore Caves and Stalactites
Hidden within the limestone cliffs feeding Thang Hen Lake are caves where underground springs emerge. Inside, stalactites and stalagmites create surreal formations that locals compare to animals and legendary figures. Guided tours are available and provide both geological knowledge and cultural folklore.
Admire the Sunflower Garden
In October, the eco-resort area around Thang Hen Lake is covered with blooming wild sunflowers. Their bright yellow against the blue water and green mountains is a dream for photographers.
Trekking Through the Lake System
For adventurous travelers, trekking routes connect several of the 36 lakes in the system. The trails pass through Tram tree forests, limestone ridges, and villages. Local guides not only keep you on the right path but also explain the area’s biodiversity and legends. Depending on your fitness, treks range from 3 to 5 kilometers.
Swimming and Boating
Swimming is allowed, though life jackets are usually required for safety. On hot days, dipping into the cool, clear water is refreshing.
A more relaxing way to experience the lake is by renting a boat or a stand-up paddleboard. Prices are affordable, and there’s no strict time limit. Drifting across the emerald water with views of cliffs and forests is one of the highlights of Thang Hen Lake.
Picnic or Taste Local Cuisine
If the resort’s restaurant is not operating, bring your own snacks for a picnic by the lake. Otherwise, enjoy Tay specialties like smoked buffalo meat, thang co stew, or locally brewed wine. Eating traditional food in such a setting enhances the cultural experience.
Overnight Camping – Thang Hen Glamping
Perhaps the most unique experience at Thang Hen Lake is spending the night. Thang Hen Glamping offers stylish tents overlooking the water. At night, you can enjoy music, storytelling, and traditional food by the fire. Waking up to mist rising from the lake is an unforgettable memory.
Some attractive tourist sites near Thang Hen Lake
If you plan well, Thang Hen Lake can be part of a bigger loop in Cao Bang:
- Angel Eye Mountain (Nui Thung): Angel Eye Mountain, also known locally as Núi Thủng or Núi Mắt Thần, is one of Cao Bang’s most unique natural wonders. Located in Trà Lĩnh District, just a short drive from Thang Hen Lake, this limestone peak stands out because of the giant, perfectly round hole that pierces through its middle. The hole is about 50 meters in diameter and looks like a massive “eye” watching over the valley, giving the mountain its poetic name. During sunrise and sunset, light streams through the hole and creates magical reflections on the lake below, making it a favorite spot for your Cao Bang Loops travel.
- Ma Phuc Pass: Ma Phuc Pass is one of the most breathtaking mountain passes in Cao Bang Province, northern Vietnam. Stretching across seven winding slopes, the pass lies about 20 kilometers from Cao Bang City and serves as the gateway to Thang Hen Lake and Ban Gioc Waterfall. Surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts and terraced valleys, Ma Phuc Pass offers panoramic views that showcase the raw beauty of the Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark.
- Ban Gioc Waterfall: Ban Gioc Waterfall, located on the border between Vietnam and China in Cao Bang Province, is the largest waterfall in Vietnam and one of the most spectacular in Southeast Asia. Cascading down a three-tiered limestone cliff, the waterfall stretches over 300 meters wide and drops about 30 meters, creating a powerful yet graceful curtain of water. Surrounded by lush greenery, rice fields, and towering karst mountains, Ban Gioc feels like a scene from a painting.
- Nguom Ngao Cave: Nguom Ngao Cave is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Cao Bang Province, located just a short drive from Ban Gioc Waterfall. Stretching for several kilometers beneath limestone mountains, the cave is famous for its massive chambers and extraordinary stalactite and stalagmite formations. Inside, visitors are greeted by a cool, fresh atmosphere and shimmering rock pillars shaped like lotus flowers, corals, mythical animals, and cascading waterfalls.
These attractions combine perfectly with Thang Hen Lake, making Cao Bang one of the most diverse destinations in northern Vietnam.
Some important notes when traveling to Thang Hen Lake
- Because Thang Hen Lake is located near the border with China, travelers should carry identification, as checks sometimes occur.
- Bring essentials: good shoes for hiking, sunscreen, insect repellent, and layers for changing mountain weather. Phone signals are weak, so offline maps are helpful.
- Always respect local culture. Ask before photographing villagers, dress modestly, and support local handicrafts. The Tay and Nung communities here are known for their hospitality, and a small effort in respect goes a long way.
Ready to Visit Thang Hen Lake Responsibly
Thang Hen Lake may not yet be famous worldwide, but it embodies everything that makes northern Vietnam special: dramatic landscapes, cultural richness, and peace away from crowds. Whether you stop for a few hours or spend a night glamping, the emerald waters and surrounding mountains leave a lasting impression.
For travelers heading to Ban Gioc Waterfall or exploring the Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, Thang Hen Lake is more than just a detour; it’s a destination in its own right. With its mixture of natural wonder, adventure activities, and cultural encounters, it deserves a spot on every explorer’s itinerary.
Visiting Thang Hen Lake is a chance to truly connect with Cao Bang’s landscapes and people. With YESD, you can explore this emerald lake alongside a knowledgeable local guide who shares hidden stories and cultural insights you won’t find in guidebooks. Every trip is customizable, so whether you want to combine trekking, boating, or nearby highlights like Ban Gioc Waterfall, we’ll design an itinerary just for you. Travel responsibly, support local communities, and make your journey meaningful with YESD Travel.
The lake itself stretches more than 2 kilometers long and half a kilometer wide, making it one of the larger lakes in your Cao Bang travel. The calm surface reflects the surrounding limestone mountains and dense forests, giving photographers endless opportunities for mirror-like shots. During the rainy season, water levels rise and connect Thang Hen with other lakes in the system, forming one grand and dramatic body of water.But the true charm of Thang Hen Lake lies in the entire valley. Here you will find Angel Eye Mountain with its mysterious hole through the rock, golden rice fields in autumn, and Tay and Nung villages where daily life still moves at a slow, traditional pace. Compared with crowded destinations, Thang Hen offers a tranquil atmosphere where travelers can breathe fresh air and feel deeply connected with nature.
Since there is no airport or train station in Cao Bang, all travel must be by road. From Hanoi, the most common way is to take overnight Vietnam sleeper buses. These buses leave from My Dinh Bus Station and reach Cao Bang after 6–8 hours, costing between 300,000 and 450,000 VND per ticket. While sleeping on a bus may not be comfortable for everyone, it saves daytime travel.Another option is to take a limousine van. These are smaller, more comfortable vehicles that provide a smoother journey. Although slightly more expensive than buses, many travelers find the comfort worth it.
A circular path surrounds the lake, giving you the chance to explore on foot or by motorbike. Some parts of the eco-resort feel abandoned, like old cabins and a swimming pool, but this adds to the sense of adventure. Walking slowly allows you to absorb the peaceful atmosphere and capture views from different angles.
A more relaxing way to experience the lake is by renting a boat or a stand-up paddleboard. Prices are affordable, and there’s no strict time limit. Drifting across the emerald water with views of cliffs and forests is one of the highlights of Thang Hen Lake.
If you plan well, Thang Hen Lake can be part of a bigger loop in Cao Bang:
For travelers heading to Ban Gioc Waterfall or exploring the Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, Thang Hen Lake is more than just a detour; it’s a destination in its own right. With its mixture of natural wonder, adventure activities, and cultural encounters, it deserves a spot on every explorer’s itinerary.Visiting Thang Hen Lake is a chance to truly connect with Cao Bang’s landscapes and people. With YESD, you can explore this emerald lake alongside a knowledgeable local guide who shares hidden stories and cultural insights you won’t find in guidebooks. Every trip is customizable, so whether you want to combine trekking, boating, or nearby highlights like Ban Gioc Waterfall, we’ll design an itinerary just for you. Travel responsibly, support local communities, and make your journey meaningful with YESD Travel.