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The next morning, we got up super early, at 4 a.m.. It was still dark outside! We got into a canoe with a man who works at Ba Be Jungle Houses and went out on the lake. The lake was so calm, like a mirror, it was beautiful.

And then, I saw two ducks, a pair of mandarin ducks! They were young, but they were so elegant. The man said it was a surprising encounter because they mostly live in northeastern China, Korea, and Japan. He even told us that mandarin ducks are a symbol of marital fidelity and happiness in Vietnam

Once upon a time, the Bìm bịp lớn was born

For an unknown reason, a young, noble, and pious woman decided to shave her head and become a nun. She went on a pilgrimage to the West in search of the Buddha.

On her way, she had to face many trials. The Buddha, impressed by her devotion, tested her by disguising himself as a beggar and asking for the only little bag of rice she had. She gave it to him willingly. Deeply moved by her gesture, the Buddha offered her four sutras to recite in case of danger and for good luck.

Later, the nun got lost in a dark forest and found refuge in a hut, which turned out to be the lair of a serpent-sorceress, a python named “mụ Trăn,” and her son, both ready to devour her. By reciting the prayer, she managed to frighten them away. The python’s son, feeling guilty after hearing her sermons, asked her to offer his heart to the Buddha. The nun accepted, but after several days of travel, the heart rotted, and she threw it into the bushes because of its foul odor.

Exhausted and at the end of her strength, she finally reached the Buddha’s kingdom, where she was told that the gates of paradise would only open if she presented the promised heart as an offering. Unable to turn back, she began to cry and was transformed into a bird by a Bodhisattva so that she would never be tired again.

Since then, the bird with a black head like her nun’s hat, red eyes like her tears, and a brown body like her clothes, flies in search of the heart. It constantly cries “Tội nghiệp! Tội nghiệp!” (Pity! Pity!), which gave it its name, Bìm Bịp.

Tales and legends of Ba Be Lake

A Mosaic of Natural and Cultural Values

This geopark is a concentration of natural and cultural values. It features 24 distinct geological formations dating back 500 million years, 15 of which were discovered in Lang Son. There are also approximately 200 caves, such as Tham Khuyen and Tham Hai, which house human traces dating back 30,000 to 470,000 years, as well as animal and plant fossils from 40 to 50 million years ago. Culturally, the geopark is the birthplace of the Tay and Nung cultures, with intangible heritage recognized by UNESCO. It boasts rich biodiversity, particularly in the Huu Lien Nature Reserve, and important local crops like custard apple and star anise.

Major Sites to Discover

Lang Son Geopark is full of iconic sites:

• Bac Son Valley: A photogenic karst landscape, framed by mountains and limestone peaks. The valley floor is covered with rice fields, offering stunning panoramic views. It is also the cradle of the Bac Son Revolution in 1940 and home to archaeological sites of the prehistoric Bac Son civilization.
• Na La Cave (or Tham Na La): A major archaeological and geological site, this limestone cave contains stalactites and stalagmites, and discoveries proving prehistoric human occupation.
• Dong Lam Lake: Often compared to an “inland Ha Long Bay,” this lake offers serene natural beauty with verdant karst mounds and hills emerging from the water. It is home to rich fauna and flora, with numerous bird species and herds of horses grazing freely.

Lang Son: between karst mountains and cultural crossroads

Just 154 km from Hanoi, Lang Son stands as a mountainous province in Northeast Vietnam, sharing its border with China. Its landscape, characterized by karst mountains, peaceful valleys, and lazy rivers, creates an exceptional natural setting, home to a rich ethnic diversity.

Lang Son offers a rich and diverse tourist experience, blending grand landscapes with deep cultural heritage. The majestic mountains, with the highest point at Mau Son, offer spectacular panoramas over valleys like Bac Son. For geology enthusiasts, the caves of Tam Thanh and Nhi Thanh reveal unique rock formations.

History is also prominent through iconic sites such as the Mac Dynasty Citadel, a witness to ancient periods of Vietnam, and the historic Chi Lang Pass, narrating tales of battles and resistance. These two sites are part of Mr. Linh’s Adventures’ signature circuit.

Traditional markets, like Ky Lua, are lively places where local craftsmanship and trade exchanges unveil the regional culture. Local festivals and traditions enrich this cultural immersion.

Culinary delights play a significant role, with specialties such as roasted duck and the famous Mau Son wine inviting visitors to savor the authentic flavors of the region. Finally, its border position with China gives Lang Son a unique character. Border crossings like Huu Nghi and Tan Thanh make it a dynamic hub for cultural and commercial exchanges, attracting tourists and traders.

The Lakes of Vietnam: A Contrasting Overview

Before diving into the exceptional nature of Ba Be, an overview is necessary. Vietnam has several remarkable lakes, each with its own personality. Two are particularly iconic:

Thac Ba: The Industrial Artifice

Thac Ba, in Yen Bai province (now Lao Cai, since the administrative merger of July 2025), illustrates human intervention on nature. Born from a hydroelectric dam in 1971, this artificial lake of 370 km² symbolizes industrial development. Its creation profoundly modified the original ecosystem, transforming a natural landscape into energy infrastructure.

Ho Xuan Huong: The Colonial Legacy

Further south, Da Lat city lake offers a striking contrast.

Perched at an altitude of 1500 meters in the Central Highlands, it retains the marks of the French colonial era. Its temperate climate, unique in Vietnam, gives it an almost European atmosphere. Resorts, colonial architecture, and mass tourism have shaped an environment very different from traditional tropical landscapes.

Activities for all ages at Ba Be lake

Ba Be is brimming with activities to entertain young and old alike

On the water

Boat and traditional tay canoe rides: Explore the lake and discover An Ma Temple, Ba Goa islet, Puong Cave, and the impressive Dau Dang waterfall. Excursions ranging from one to six hours are available, perfect for a gentle family outing.

Kayaking and Stand-up Paddling: For the more adventurous, these options allow you to explore the lake at your own pace, glide near the mountains, and even venture into small caves. Kayaking is particularly great for children, as they can paddle when they want, take breaks on the banks, and enjoy the scenery.

Swimming: The calm waters of the lake invite you to swim for a refreshing break.

Traditional fishing: At sunset, observe (or even participate in) traditional fishing with the Tay ethnic group. This is a peaceful and immersive activity to connect with the local culture.

♦ Ba Be along the water

Day 1: From Hanoi to Ba Be lake, the call of calm

Your journey begins with a gentle transition from the hustle and bustle of the Vietnamese capital to the tranquility of Ba Be lake. Leave the urban agitation behind to embrace the calmness of its waters, nestled in the heart of mountains covered with dense and wild jungle. This first step is perfect for relaxation, a change of scenery, and contemplation.

Day 2: Ba Be, strolling on land and water

Explore the wonders of Ba Be lake. A peaceful hike will lead you through tropical vegetation, offering stunning panoramic views. In the afternoon, glide peacefully on the waters aboard a traditional boat, allowing you to fully appreciate the surrounding beauty and the peaceful atmosphere of the lake.

Day 3: From Ba Be to Khuoi Ky, cultural immersion

Leave the magic of Ba Be to reach the charming stone village of Khuoi Ky. The journey will reveal changing landscapes, a prelude to a deeper immersion into local life. This is an opportunity to discover the unique architecture of stilt stone houses and the traditions of the mountainous communities. The custom of building stone houses comes from the Tay people’s belief in the Stone God, a deity with powerful natural abilities who can protect them and ensure a peaceful life.

Day 4: From Khuoi Ky to Ban Gioc Waterfalls, then Khuoi Khon

A spectacular day awaits you with the discovery of the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfalls, one of the largest natural waterfalls in Southeast Asia, shared with China. After this magnificent spectacle, the road will lead you to Khuoi Khon, a village inhabited by the Black Lo Lo people, offering a glimpse into Vietnamese rural life.

⇒ Don’t miss out our Cao Bang travel guide

A treasure of biodiversity buried within limestone cliffs

The Kim Hy Nature Reserve, located in Bac Kan province in Northern Vietnam, is an ideal destination for adventurers seeking pristine landscapes and authentic experiences. Established in 2003 and readjusted in 2014 to preserve an ecosystem of invaluable worth, the reserve spans over 15,715 hectares.

The karst landscape is the beating heart of its biodiversity, a true “hotspot” harboring endemic flora and fauna, found nowhere else in Southeast Asia. The Ngan Son River and its tributaries wind through the reserve, guarding endangered species. 

The reserve is an open-air laboratory for botanists, listing over 1,072 species of vascular plants, including the precious Nghien, an ironwood used by the Tay and Nung people to build their stilt houses. Chinese cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia), present only in certain provinces of Vietnam and China, is also found there.

The fauna is equally spectacular, with 99 animal species, 256 bird species, and emblematic residents like the White-cheeked Langur or the Pygmy Musk Deer. The numerous limestone caves serve as refuges for 36 species of bats.

Kim Hy is associated with Ba Be National Park, highlighting the importance of responsible tourism for the conservation of this regional ecosystem.

Traditional dugout canoes: a journey back in time

Before the rise of tourism, the inhabitants of Ba Be crafted wooden dugout canoes from the surrounding forests for navigation and fishing. These elegant and slender boats are much more than simple vessels ; they represent a cultural symbol deeply rooted in the identity of Ba Be. Today, they allow you to experience an authentic journey, silently gliding over calm waters, in the heart of untouched nature.

Kayaking: to explore hidden treasures

Kayaking, a booming water sport, finds its ideal playground in Ba Be thanks to a network of rivers and streams winding through a spectacular mountainous landscape. Whether you are a novice or an adventurer, kayaking allows you to discover isolated nooks inaccessible to large boats. Here are some itineraries to get you started:

• The serenity of the lake: Paddle along the shores of Ba Be Lake, peacefully gliding past legendary islets, where the story of a widow and her son is told. Continue to An Ma Temple. This 2 to 3-hour route is a true breath of fresh air in the clear waters of the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short break to walk ten minutes to the Fairies’ Pond (Ao Tien).
• Adventure in Puong Cave: For a longer and more picturesque experience, begin your journey upstream on the Nang River, near Buoc Lom. After passing through the charming village of Cam Ha, you will enter the famous Puong Cave by kayak! This 13-kilometer journey is a true natural “love tunnel,” leading to a well-deserved swim in the lake.
• The challenge of the Nang River: If you enjoy challenges, start from Coc Toc, Bo Lu, or Pac Ngoi. Paddle through dense reed beds and flooded forest areas around the lake. You can discreetly observe birds and fish before descending the Nang River to the magnificent Dau Dang waterfall^. This route of over 15 kilometers is the most demanding, but the view is worth it!
• Good to know: Kayaks are available for rent, either by the hour or as part of a guided tour, for a price between 150,000 and 250,000 VND (approximately 6 to 10 USD) per person.

Ba Be Lake Kayaking 1-day

Origins and tradition

Although its exact origins are difficult to pinpoint precisely, Tôm Chua is deeply rooted in the culture and natural resources of the Tày people living around Lake Ba Bể. For a long time, these mountain inhabitants have developed the art of fermenting freshwater shrimp (tôm) and fish (cá) to create typical dishes, making the most of their environment rich in aquatic resources. Over time, they have combined natural fermentation with local ingredients such as sticky rice (nếp nương), galangal (riềng), garlic, and chili, giving Tôm Chua its characteristic flavor: a subtle harmony of sweetness, acidity, and slightly spicy notes.

Ingredients, preparation, and characteristics

Tôm Chua is a fermented dish made from small freshwater shrimp from Lake Ba Bể. The quality of the shrimp is crucial: they must be fresh, of uniform size, plump, and with short antennae. After being cleaned and stripped of their antennae, the shrimp are mixed with steamed sticky rice and a natural ferment to initiate fermentation. Crushed spices like garlic, chili, and galangal are also incorporated into the mixture. The whole mixture is then placed in tightly closed jars for fermentation for about 7 to 10 days, depending on the climatic conditions.

Tôm Chua from Ba Bể stands out for its delicate balance of flavors, offering subtle sweetness, acidity, and spiciness, with a natural and authentic taste that sets it apart from marine or Huế versions. It is appreciated for its finesse, rich aroma, and pleasant texture.

Nutritional value and accompaniments

Beyond its taste, Tôm Chua is an interesting nutritional source, rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants beneficial for muscular, cardiovascular, cerebral, and immune health. Its traditional fermentation could also promote digestion. However, its cholesterol content and potential allergenicity should be taken into account.

Culinarily, Tôm Chua is often served with boiled meats such as pork knuckle or belly, and fresh vegetables like sour starfruit (khế chua), green banana, and aromatic leaves like đinh lăng (a local plant). It is also traditionally enjoyed with rượu ngô, local corn alcohol, for a complete taste experience typical of the region.

► The Tay of Ba Be: A Fascinating People of Vietnam