If you have heard about Ban Gioc Detian Falls and wondering if it’s worth visiting then you will find all your answer in this article. Located near the Vietnam-China borderline, this waterfall stands as a captivating tourism destination with a lot of potential. Here’s a comprehensive guide for your trip to Ban Gioc
Introduction
Ban Gioc Detian Falls, despite its modest height of 30 meters, boasts an impressive 300-meter span, making it the widest waterfall in Vietnam. Resting along Quay Son River, the blue waters flow from China through picturesque scenes of paddy fields and bamboo trees. The Quay Son River runs along as natural border between Vietnam and China, earning the title of being an international river in Chinese.
Overview of Ban Gioc Detian Falls
The waterfall’s grandeur lies in its expansive span and the scenic journey it takes on the Quay Son River. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. As thousands of years went by, the erosion of the waterfall’s crest slowly leading to the upstream movement, dividing it into three falls by rocks and trees.
Distance and Accessibility
Located approximately 360 kilometers away from Hanoi, reaching this fall involves an 8-hour journey via national highways and provincial roads. Despite being a top destination for locals, it remains relatively undiscovered by foreign tourists, allowing a more local experience. The cascade layers and the 300-meter span make it a visually magnificent sight.
Best Time to Visit
This waterfall is accessible and beautiful all year-round. However, the best time to visit is from September to October. From June to August the area may experience heavy rains that can hinder the experience. Weekdays are recommended to escape peak tourist times, and lunchtime offers the best opportunity for capturing the falls at their fullest when upstream dam is open.
How to Get There
Starting from Hanoi, travelers have several options, including taking a public bus, joining a car or motorbike tour to get to Ban Gioc.
Public Buses
If starting from Hanoi, travelers can take a bus directly to Cao Bang. Departing from Hanoi’s My Dinh bus station, the 8-hour journey to Cao Bang offers scenic views of the countryside and mountains in northern Vietnam. Mini-buses from Cao Bang can then take you to the waterfall. Booking the bus tickets online in advance is advisable, with departures every hour from 5:30 am to 6 pm. Bus quality may vary, influencing the cost from $15 per person for a round trip. If you depart in the morning, you might have time for advised for an afternoon arrival, allowing time for hotel check-in and exploration before sunset.
In the return journey to Cao Bang city center by bus, travelers should be mindful of the time, as the border location may cause phones to automatically switch to Chinese time, an hour later than Vietnamese time.
Car Or Motorbike Tours
Numerous tours, starting from Hanoi and Cao Bang hotels, provide a convenient way to explore not only Ban Gioc Falls but also the beautiful countryside of Cao Bang. Online booking options are available, YESD also offer Cao Bang tour in combination with Ha Giang tour. With a tour option, you will have freedom to explore off the beatean path destinations and stop enroute. The Ha Giang Cao Bang tour also includes visits to Nguom Ngao Cave, Lo Lo Village and many other places.
Driving Yourself
For the adventurous travellers, driving to Ban Gioc Detian Falls by motorbike is a popular choice. The recommended route is QL3 for its excellent condition and scenic beauty. Renting a manual motorbike is advisable due to the uphill roads. However, before you rent a motorbike, make sure you have a valid international driving license to drive in Vietnam. Renting a motorbike, costing from $10 per day, is available in both Hanoi and Cao Bang.
Nearby Attractions
A Closer Look with Raft
The entrance fee for the water fall is around $2 per person. Rafts are available for travelers who want a closer look at the falls, with blue rafts on the Vietnamese side and green on the Chinese side. For an extra $2 per person, you can enjoy a 10-minute raft journey close enough to feel the water pressure. These rafts accommodate 8-10 people and take visitors close enough to the falls.
Swimming is strictly prohibited, and crossing the border is highly restricted unless you applied for a border pass. Visitors are advised to stay on land or on bamboo rafts to avoid unnecessary trouble.
Nearby Attractions in Cao Bang
Sunset View from Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc
In addition to Ban Gioc Water Falls, Cao Bang offers other natural tourist attractions like Nguom Ngao Cave, Ba Be Lake, and Puong Grotto.
For a panoramic view of the falls and a picturesque scene, heading south and climbing up to the Buddhist pagoda called Phat Tich Truc Lam Ban Gioc is highly recommended. Watching the sunset from this pagoda is a must-try experience when visiting Ban Gioc Detian Falls.
Nguom Ngao Cave
Another must visit spot is Nguom Ngao Cave, located just 4 kilometers away from Ban Gioc Detian Falls. This cave was formed thousands of years ago by an underground river. But the caves were just discovered in 1979. For a fee of $2, visitors can explore the cave system, with 1 kilometer open to the travelers to explore. When inside, visitors should be cautious due to slippery floors.
Ba Be Lake
Another famous destination near Cao Bang is the renowned Ba Be Lake. It is the largest natural lake in Vietnam. These two destinations are often visited together, despite being a 4 to 5-hour drive far from Ban Gioc. Ba Be Lake offers outstanding natural beauty, best explored through trekking. Visitors can opt for a night at a local homestay for a cultural immersion.
Puong Grotto
Within the Ba Be National Park, Puong Grotto stands out for its unique location, which can only be reached by boat. To reach the cave, visitors can take a boat trip on the Nang River. After a short journey, stunning stalactites and stalagmites come into view, providing a captivating underground experience.
Where to Stay Near Ban Gioc Detian Falls
Cao Bang offers more than just Ban Gioc Detian Falls, and visitors planning to stay for one or two nights have several accommodation options to choose from, catering to different budgets.
Khuoi Ky Stone Village
For a unique local experience, visitors can stay overnight at the special Stone village called Khuoi Ky. Free wifi is usually available throughout the property. Breakfast is usually provided, and guests can choose from various suggested activities like hiking and fishing. With a starting price of $15, the homestays in this area provide an affordable yet immersive experience for travelers.
Yen Nhi Cao Bang
Located in Khuoi Ky village, this homestay features air-conditioned accommodation with free wifi access. Offering a panoramic view of the village from its terrace, this property is ideal for staying in village at night while exploring nature and sightseeing during the day.
Lan Rung Homestay
Located in the heart of the village, Lan Rung Homestay features comfortable air-conditioned bungalows. Highly recommended for a first-class host, this homestay offers well-decorated rooms equipped with an aircon and hot shower in the private bathroom. The host and staff are also very friendly.
Max Boutique Hotel
Situated in Cao Bang city center, Max Boutique Hotel provides 3-star accommodation with a terrace. Typical rooms feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, fridge, kettle, work desk, and private bathroom. Breakfasts can be enjoyed at the on-site restaurant. The hotel offers 24-hour reception, room service, and free wifi access across all units.
Conclusion
Ban Gioc Water Falls, with its breathtaking beauty and surrounding attractions, promises an unforgettable experience. Whether exploring the falls, caves, lakes, or grottoes, Cao Bang offers a diverse range of natural wonders for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility.
If you are interested in exploring this Detian Falls, please check out our Ha Giang Cao Bang tour to get more information.