Na Hang Lake in Tuyen Quang: A Hidden Gem Worth Your Visit in Northern Vietnam

After a quick lunch of local food in Na Hang town, we headed to the pier for the afternoon cruise ( 4-5 hours) to fully explore the beauty of Na Hang lake & its surroundings.It was really a nice day with blue sky & breeze which promised a day of much interesting travel experiences. Since it was a holiday, there was a high demand for boats, so we had to wait at least 30 minutes to get the boat arranged to share with other travelers.As the boat gently glided through the calm waters, we marveled at the limestone karsts towering above and the lush vegetation that surrounded us - so beautiful & relaxing.Throughout the expedition, we had the privilege of glimpsing into the daily life of the locals at the floating village, observing the diligent fishermen catching fish on the lake's surface. Our boat also made scheduled stops at some noteworthy attractions, including Coc Vai Pha, which exhibited a landscape reminiscent of Halong bay, a kayaking site for adventurous spirits, and the picturesque Khuoi Nhi waterfall.

 

3. Kayaking to Feel the Tranquility of the Landscapes

4. Hiking & Swimming at Khuoi Nhi waterfall

Following the thrilling kayaking activity, the cruise took us away & stopped at Khuoi Nhi waterfall, a gem nestled within the heart of the tropical forest. Only accessible via a scenic boat ride, this natural wonder stood as one of most magnificent waterfalls in the region.

As we drew closer, the grandeur of Khuoi Nhi waterfall unveiled itself—a breathtaking cascade tumbling gracefully from the surrounding limestone cliffs into a pool of glistening, crystal-clear water below

Visitors can hike along well-marked trails that wind through dense forests, leading to various vantage points to view the waterfall. The trek is relatively easy, making it accessible to the hikers of all skill levels. Along the way, you'll encounter a vibrant array of exotic flora and fauna, enhancing the overall experience.

Swimming in the natural pool formed by the waterfall is a must-do activity, especially on a hot day. The water is cool and refreshing, providing a perfect escape from the tropical heat. Additionally, you can relax on the smooth river rocks and enjoy a picnic amidst the tranquil surroundings.

5. Admiring Na Hang Lake's Landscapes at Sunset

As the afternoon came to an end, our cruise continued its leisurely journey back, allowing us to bask in the serene beauty of Na Hang lake at sunset. The water, once a brilliant blue under the midday sun, now transformed into a canvas of warm, golden hues as the sun dipped below the horizon.

As the sun's final rays illuminated the landscape, it was as if nature had crafted a masterpiece just for our eyes. The reflection of the limestone cliffs in the mirrored surface of the lake created an almost surreal scene, blurring the lines between reality and the fantastical.

6. Rich Insights of Local Culture 

Na Hang is not just about its natural beauty; it's also home to several ethnic minority communities. After the cruise, we drove to Na Tong village & spent a night homestaying with a local Tay ethnic minority family, an experience I had eagerly anticipated since I first heard about the rich culture and hospitality of this community.

Upon arriving at the village, we were warmly greeted by Mr. Tuan, the head of the household. He wore a traditional Tay outfit, a dark indigo tunic and baggy pants adorned with colorful embroidery. His wife & their two children were all smiling as they welcomed us into their charming stilt house, perched on the edge of the lake.

The stilt house itself was a masterpiece of indigenous architecture, crafted entirely from locally sourced bamboo and wood. Its elevated design allowed for a breathtaking view of the lake and the surrounding karst limestone formations.

A day full of activities & long drive made us a bit tired, we checked in the homestay, got our dinner served with typical local dishes with some cold beers, enjoyed the talk with the host & the traditional shows, and went to bed around 11h00 p.m

After a good night, we were waken up by the roosters's songs - that we haven't experienced in the daily routine of the city's life : really quiet, pristine & fresh !

The morning, we hired bikes to cycle around to explore some nearby villages - getting to know more about the locals & their authentic life. In fact, the warm smiles of the villagers made us feel at home, and we had the opportunity to witness traditional crafts, try local cuisine, and even participate in their dances and rituals. It was an eye-opening experience that left us with a profound appreciation for their way of life

Around the noon time, we drove back to Hanoi with a stop for lunch in Thai Ran restautant near Tuyen Quang city & were in Hanoi at 7h00 p.m

Best time to visit Na Hang lake & the region.

Na Hang boasts its beauty throughout all four seasons, but the best time to experience Na Hang's charm is during the spring and early summer. Those periods offers pleasant weather, high water levels, and a minimal risk of storms. Two most recommended seasons for tourists to explore Na Hang are:

• January to April: This period coincides with local festivals, providing visitors with the chance to partake in the vibrant celebrations of the Tuyen Quang people. Moreover, the northern region is adorned with cherry blossoms during this season, while Tuyen Quang is renowned for its captivating white plum blossoms, typically in full bloom around March.

• May to September: This season marks the rainy period, resulting in higher water levels in the lake and more water flowing in the streams and waterfalls, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings. However, it's advisable to avoid the peak of the rainy season, which occurs in July and August, to ensure a safe and enjoyable exploration without the risk of unfavorable weather conditions ( you should check the weather forecast in advance).

Recommended places to visit when planning your trip to Na Hang

1. Na Hang Ecological Lake ( as we shared in the first part of this blog)

Your journey to Na Hang Nature Reserve begins with a visit to the crown jewel of the area - Na Hang Ecological Lake. Nestled over 100 kilometers away from Tuyen Quang's city center, this iconic attraction beckons with its vast, mirror-like lake reflecting the serene beauty of its surroundings. Dotted with charming islands and embraced by majestic green mountains, the lake offers an oasis of relaxation and tranquility.

To fully immerse yourself in this natural wonder, you must rent a boat and take in the breathtaking scenery from the water. Here are the associated costs you can get for your best reference :

• Lake entrance fee: 10,000 VND per person per visit.
• Boat rental for a group of 10 people: 1,000,000 VND per trip.
• Boat rental for a group of 20 people: 1,500,000 VND per trip.
• Boat rental for a group of 35 people: 2,000,000 VND per trip.

A typical visit to Na Hang lake lasts around 4-5 hours, so remember to bring hats, sun protection, and some snacks to keep your energy up during this enchanting adventure.

2. Na Hang Hydroelectric Lake & Damp

Na Hang Hydroelectric Lake, the fourth-largest in northern Vietnam, is situated in the Gam River basin, covering Vinh Yen Commune and Na Hang Town. Besides supplying electricity to Tuyen Quang, it serves as a captivating tourist destination for those exploring Na Hang. Here, you'll encounter a massive hydroelectric dam with cascading white waters resembling a magnificent waterfall. On sunny days, you may even witness colorful rainbows as sunlight dances through the rushing waters at the dam's spillway.

3. Mo Waterfall (Thac Mo)

4. Admire the Beauty of Plum Flower ( Hoa Le) in Spring Time

5. Hong Thai Terraced Fields - Na Hang

6.Ba Be Lake

How to get to Na Hang Lake & its nature reserve?

• By Car or Motorbike: To embark on your own adventure, consider renting a car or motorbike to journey to Na Hang Town. The route spans approximately 100 kilometers from Tuyen Quang City, the capital of Tuyen Quang Province. You can effortlessly access this picturesque destination via a private car with a driver or opt for the exhilarating experience of riding a motorbike through local farms and scenic countryside.

• Join a Private Guided Tour: If you are eager to delve deeper into the captivating stories and local insights of the region, we highly recommend participating in a comprehensive package tour that explores the North East Region of Vietnam, with a highlight visit to Na Hang area. These tours typically include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and visits to other nearby attractions. For further details about our tour  & car rental services, please reach out to us at goldenholidaytravel.vn@gmail.com. or whatsapp us to +84.988451530