The Thang Hen lake in the northern border province of Cao Bang is known as one of the most beautiful ecotourism areas in the region.
The Thang Hen lake in the northern border province of Cao Bang is known as one of the most beautiful ecotourism areas in the region.
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| An aerial view of the Thang Hen lake in Cao Bang province. The northern border province boasts a kaleidoscope of untouched destinations that are certain to wow visitors due to their jaw-dropping landscapes. They include the Pac Bo historical relic site, Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nguom Ngao Cave, Thang Hen Lake, Mat Than Mountain, Nam Tra Waterfall, and Truc Lam Pagoda. Among local famous and must-visit spots, Thang Hen, located in Tra Linh district’s Quoc Toan commune, is the highest natural freshwater lake on the mountain in Vietnam, at about 1,500 – 1,700 metres above the sea level. It was recognised as a national scenic site in 2001. |
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| To reach the lake, holiday makers are advised to start from Cao Bang city, crossing about 21km of the National Highway 3. Then, after following the provincial road 205 for about 4 more km, they will see a turn on the left with a signpost that read Thang Hen lake ecotourism area. Motorbikes are the commonly chosen means of transport to get to the off the beaten path location, with the journey praised as very scenic and well worth the ride. The lake, the highest natural freshwater lake on the mountain in Vietnam, is situated in a valley in the Tra Linh district’s Quoc Toan commune. |
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| Thang Hen lake is also associated with an extremely interesting folk story of Cao Bang people. Legend has it that in this beautiful land, there was a Tay guy named Sung who was smart and extremely handsome. He passed the imperial examination and was selected to become a mandarin. Before taking over the post, the king allowed him to return to his hometown to pay homage to his ancestors within seven days. While being at home, he fell in love with a village girl named Booc, then married her. After the seven day passed, he suddenly remembered the official post awaiting him and quickly returned to the capital. |
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| Tourists are kayaking on the lake. Coming here is like you are immersed in a peaceful space of mountains, forests and fresh air that can make you feel like all the troubles of life no longer matter. The Thang Hen area was recognised as a national scenic site in 2001. Considered the highest natural freshwater lake on the mountain in Vietnam, it consists of 36 large and small lakes, which are interconnected through a system of caves, rivers - underground caves on high peaks and situated about 1,500 – 1,700 metres above sea level. The complex boasts many poetic, charming, and mysterious landscapes that are very attractive to domestic and foreign tourists. |
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| The Thang Hen glamping is a sub-zone located in the campus of the Thang Hen lake eco-tourism area within the territory of Quoc Toan commune. It enables holidaymakers to have the fun of camping with convenient services. Glamping, a glamorous form of camping, is a relatively new way to travel. It’s all about luxury in a semi-outdoor or rural setting. Glamping means you can be close to nature without having to give up all the good things in life like being warm, having running water and so on. It typically involves staying in some types of tent that includes the luxuries not typically associated with traditional camping, such as a bed, a wardrobe, and private bathroom facilities. |
(Source: VNA)
