Thac Ba Lake - Discovering Vietnam

Travelling to Thac Ba Lake

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Thac Ba Lake, a pretty good destination in Vietnam (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Thac Ba Lake and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Thac Ba Lake, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Vietnam, here's everything to know about Thac Ba Lake for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Thac Ba Lake

Thac Ba Lake is a man-made lake located in Yen Bai Province of Vietnam. The lake surface area covers over 19,000 hectares with over 1,300 islands and islets. It was created during the construction of a hydroelectric power plant in the 1970s. Thac Ba Lake is surrounded by lush forests and dramatic mountain landscapes, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is also home to many ethnic minority villages which have preserved their traditional customs and cultures. Visitors can also explore the local markets and taste the delicious local cuisine. The best time to visit Thac Ba Lake is from October to May as the weather is dry and mild.

What to visit in Thac Ba Lake

Thac Ba Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Vietnam and a popular tourist destination. Here are the top tourist attractions of Thac Ba Lake with some information: 1. Thac Ba Temple: This is a 13th-century temple located on an island in the lake. It was built during the Ly dynasty and is dedicated to the worship of the God of Water.
2. Thuy Tien Cave: It is a natural cave within the limestone mountains surrounding the lake. The cave has some unique rock formations and crystal clear water.
3. Ngoc Thanh Pagoda: This is a Buddhist temple located on the eastern side of the lake. It was built in the 12th century and features some beautiful statues and architecture.
4. The Island of Loi: It is an island located in the middle of Thac Ba Lake, accessible only by boat. The island is surrounded by limestone mountains and has a floating village where visitors can experience the local way of life.
5. Banh Loi Village: It is a small village on the western side of the lake known for its traditional weaving techniques and handmade fabrics.
6. Thac Ba National Park: It is a protected area around the lake, covering over 28,000 hectares. It provides habitat for many species of plants and animals, including some rare and endangered ones.
7. Dinh Hoa Revolutionary Base: It is a historical site located near Thac Ba Lake. It was used as a base by Vietnamese revolutionaries during the war against the French and American forces.
Overall, Thac Ba Lake offers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage and historical significance that make it a must-visit destination in Vietnam.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Vietnam, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Thac Ba Lake.

When to go on holiday to Thac Ba Lake

The best time to visit Thac Ba Lake in Vietnam is from November to April, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is cool and clear, and the water level is low, making it perfect for enjoying water activities like kayaking and swimming. However, it is important to note that the temperature can drop significantly from December to January, so some warm clothing may be necessary.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Thac Ba Lake

To get to Thac Ba Lake in Vietnam, you can take a bus or private car from Hanoi, which is about 180 kilometers away. If you choose to take a bus, you can take a local bus from My Dinh Bus Station in Hanoi to Yen Bai city, and then take another local bus or taxi to Thac Ba Lake. The journey should take about 5-6 hours and costs around 150,000 VND (6-7 USD). Alternatively, you can hire a private car or taxi from Hanoi to Thac Ba Lake, which takes around 4-5 hours and costs around 2,000,000 VND (85 USD) for a round trip. Once you arrive at Thac Ba Lake, you can enjoy activities such as boat tours, fishing, trekking, and visiting nearby ethnic villages.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Thac Ba Lake, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Thac Ba Lake

Thac Ba Lake in Vietnam is known for its traditional cuisine that features fresh fish, vegetables, and herbs. Here are some typical foods you might find at Thac Ba Lake: 1. Grilled fish (Cá nướng): This is one of the signature dishes in Thac Ba Lake. The fish is usually marinated with spices, grilled over an open flame, and served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili.
2. Steamed fish with ginger (Cá hấp gừng): This dish features fish fillets steamed in a ginger-infused broth until tender. It's a light and healthy option that's flavorful and fragrant.
3. Sour soup with fish (Canh chua cá): Another popular dish at Thac Ba Lake is sour soup with fish, which is made with snap beans, tomatoes, tamarind, and fish. The sour flavor comes from tamarind which gives a refreshing taste.
4. Grilled chicken (Gà nướng): In addition to fish, grilled chicken is another popular dish in Thac Ba Lake. The chicken is marinated with lemongrass, garlic, and other herbs, then grilled until smoky and juicy.
5. Sticky rice (Xôi): Sticky rice is a common side dish in Vietnam. At Thac Ba Lake, you might find sticky rice served with a variety of toppings such as peanuts, fried shallots, or sweetened coconut.
6. Banh cuon (Steamed rice rolls): This is a popular breakfast dish in Vietnam and often filled with minced pork and mushrooms. It's a light option, but filling enough to keep you energized throughout the morning.
7. Nem chua (Fermented pork): A cured pork that is mixed with garlic, chili, and sugar before being wrapped in banana leaves for fermentation. It's a popular snack in Vietnam, and you can find it around Thac Ba Lake as well.
You can find general info about typical foods in Vietnam here.

Is Thac Ba Lake an expensive destination for tourists?

Thac Ba Lake in Vietnam is not considered a particularly expensive destination for tourists. Accommodations and food options in the area are generally budget-friendly, although prices can vary depending on the type of establishment and services provided. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before booking any accommodations or activities. Nonetheless, Thac Ba Lake is a beautiful and off-the-beaten-path destination worth visiting.

Where to find accomodation in Thac Ba Lake

When visiting Thac Ba Lake (Vietnam), it is best to find accommodation in the nearby towns of Yen Bai or Nghia Lo. These towns have a range of budget and mid-range accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. They are also conveniently located for exploring the lake and the surrounding area. If you prefer a more rustic or authentic experience, you may also consider staying in one of the local villages around the lake, where homestays and traditional stilt houses are available.
You can check hotel prices at Thac Ba Lake here:
Booking.com

Is Thac Ba Lake a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Thac Ba Lake in Vietnam is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to exercise common sense and take precautions to ensure your safety. This may include staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas, keeping valuables secure, and following local laws and customs. It is also advisable to research any potential risks or safety concerns specific to the area before your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Vietnam here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Thac Ba Lake.

What type of travelers will enjoy Thac Ba Lake the most?

Thac Ba Lake in Vietnam is a great destination for families and couples looking for a peaceful and tranquil getaway. The area is surrounded by beautiful scenery, lush green forests, and calm waters. The lake is a great place to relax and unwind while enjoying activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking.
While young people can also have fun in Thac Ba Lake, the area is better suited for those who are seeking a more calm and serene vacation. The lake is not known for having many nightlife spots or high-energy activities.
Overall, Thac Ba Lake is a great place for nature lovers, families seeking a peaceful vacation, and couples looking for a romantic getaway.

How to get around Thac Ba Lake

There are a few different transportation options available for getting around Thac Ba Lake in Vietnam. One popular option is to rent a motorbike or bicycle, which will allow you to explore the surrounding countryside at your leisure. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or private car to take you to different parts of the lake and its nearby attractions. Many travelers also opt for boat tours to explore the lake and its surrounding villages, which can be a fun and unique way to see the area. Additionally, there are regular bus services that run from Hanoi to Thac Ba Lake, making it easy to get to the region from the capital city.

What to see around Thac Ba Lake

Sure, here are some nice places that you can visit in a day trip from Thac Ba Lake: 1. Vu Linh traditional market, where you can enjoy the atmosphere of local trading and try some of the local specialties.
2. Thuy Tien Cave, with its beautiful stone formations and crystal-clear waters.
3. Hoang Yen Chao Castle, an ancient castle built in the early 20th century with unique architecture and stunning views.
4. Ba Be National Park, a beautiful national park with stunning scenery, waterfalls, and a peaceful lake that you can enjoy by boat.
5. Dau Dang waterfall, a magnificent waterfall with a height of about 500 meters, located in the middle of the jungle.
6. Thac Ba hydroelectric dam and reservoir, where you can enjoy the scenic view of the lake and learn about the history of the dam.
7. Hua Ma Cave, with its long history and unique cave formations that can take your breath away.
These are just a few examples of the great places that you can visit in a day trip from Thac Ba Lake.
For every travel information about Vietnam you can click here.

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