Author: Admin

A journey into traditions

Bac Kan is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, where the Tày, Nung, Dao, and Hmong ethnic groups harmoniously coexist.

Immerse yourself in the daily lives of the locals by visiting the charming villages of Phieng Phang and Phieng An. Discover their distinctive stilt houses, witness the intricate artistry of weaving and basketry, and be captivated by traditional dances and songs.

Indulge your senses with the local cuisine, savoring delicacies like banh cooc mo (glutinous rice cake), khau nhuc (a savory taro and pork dish), and the exquisite flavors of forest honey.

Participate in the numerous local festivals that enliven village life. Marvel at the colorful costumes, vibrant processions, and heartfelt offerings to ancestors

Objectives
of Road Construction

Enhancing Connectivity

 The road significantly reduces travel time between the city and the lake, facilitating economic and cultural exchanges.

Boosting Tourism

 With a modern road, access to Lake Ba Be will be improved, fostering tourism development in the region.

Stimulating the Local Economy

The project will create new jobs and energize the hospitality, catering, and service sectors.

Advantages of the New Road

In addition to easing transportation, this road offers several benefits:

• Scenic Route: It provides spectacular views of the surrounding nature, turning every journey into a unique experience.
• Modern Infrastructure: Built to recent standards, it features quality surfacing and efficient safety equipment.
• Positive Environmental Impact: Local authorities have integrated sustainable solutions to minimize effects on fragile ecosystems.

What to see and do
at Na Khoang Waterfall

Admire the landscape

Of course, there is the spectacle of white water torrents cascading, winding through rocky slopes, creating a poetic and wild beauty. Surrounding the waterfall is a virgin forest of deep green, where visitors can hear the melodious sound of flowing water, mixed with the chirping of birds, creating a charming natural scene. Na Khoang Waterfall is an ideal place to destress and escape the pressures of modern life.

Swim

Na Khoang offers you a clear and cool blue water current, with a moderate flow rate, allowing for swimming. Immersing yourself in the clear water will help you relax. Once you’ve had enough fun, you can climb onto the large flat rocks to rest and relax.

Take a walk

From Na Khoang Waterfall, you can climb to discover the slightly higher waterfalls. If you like adventure, follow the upstream and enjoy your natural escapade in an environment conducive to inner peace and reconnecting with your deep nature.

The best time to visit?

Frankly, Ban Chang is like a good friend – it’s welcoming all year round! But here’s a little guide according to the seasons:

The lake offers diverse experiences throughout the year. Summer is ideal for water activities and escaping the city heat, while spring invites visitors to hike in mild temperatures amidst blooming nature. Autumn showcases stunning fall foliage and pleasant weather, and winter offers opportunities for photography with picturesque morning mists.

Must-see spots nearby:

• Ba Be Lake: The famous “big brother,” with its breathtaking landscapes
• Ao Tien Fairy Pond: A magical little corner at altitude, perfect for lovers of legends
• Dau Dang Waterfall: Be prepared to be impressed by its power!
• Local villages: To immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture

Why choose Ban Chang?

Tired of touristy places where you have to elbow your way to take a photo? Ban Chang is the opposite! Here, there are no souvenir shops on every corner or guides chasing after you. Just you, nature, and the authenticity of Vietnamese rural life. It’s the perfect place to: escape from the digital world, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature, meet friendly locals, and practice photography undisturbed. It’s a perfect place to meditate, recharge, and simply unwind.

A rich history

Beyond its natural assets, Sam Chiem has a rich and eventful history. Vestiges of a tumultuous past, such as traces of the Indochina war, bear witness to the courage of those who lived here. Today, it’s in the heart of the villages that the story continues, carried on by the ancestral traditions of the ethnic minorities who populate the region. Immerse yourself in their world and discover a unique cultural heritage.

Pu Lau waterfall: a spectacular reward

The highlight of the visit is undoubtedly the Pu Lau waterfall. After an invigorating hike through the bamboo grove, walkers are rewarded by the spectacular sight of its crystal-clear waters tumbling from a height of almost 100 meters over rocks carpeted with verdant moss. The roar of the water and the freshness of the spray create an almost mystical atmosphere, particularly enjoyable after the walk.

Day 2: A Cultural and Natural Wonder

We woke up early this morning and had a delicious breakfast at the homestay. Afterward, we headed to Trung Khanh, a border town with China. It was fascinating to see the Nung people and their traditional blacksmithing. The tools they create are truly impressive.

Next up was the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall. It’s even more beautiful in person! The waterfall is shared by Vietnam and China, and the view is simply breathtaking. The thunderous roar of water announced its presence before we even caught sight of it. At 30 meters high and 300 meters wide, Ban Gioc is Vietnam’s largest waterfall, and standing before it, I felt humbled by its raw power. The cascade splits into multiple levels, creating a mesmerizing display of white water against emerald pools.

The highlight? A bamboo raft ride that brought us close enough to feel the waterfall’s spray on our faces. Our local boatman skillfully navigated the currents, sharing stories about the waterfall’s history in between maneuvers.

 We spent some time taking photos and just admiring the natural beauty.

After the waterfall, we visited Nguom Ngao Cave. Unlike the tourist-heavy caves in Ha Long Bay, this 2,144-meter limestone cave system feels raw and untouched.  It was a bit of a hike, but the underground world was incredible. The stalactites and stalagmites were amazing to see.

We’re now at Ba Be Lake, staying in a traditional Tay homestay. The lake is so peaceful, and the homestay is really cozy. Can’t wait to relax and enjoy a home-cooked meal.

Day 2: Cultural and natural immersion

Wake up to the birdsong and get ready for a day full of discoveries. After an energizing breakfast, embark on a hike through the primary forest of the national park. Your expert guide from Ba Be Jungle Houses will introduce you to the unique flora and fauna of the region.

In the afternoon, delve into the local culture by visiting an authentic Tay village. Interact with the locals and discover their traditional way of life. To top it off, treat yourself to a relaxing swim in the pure waters of Ba Be Lake.

As the sun begins to set, it’s time to bid farewell to this little piece of paradise. You head back to Hanoi, your heart full of unforgettable memories and your spirit rejuvenated.

Long Tong, spirituality,
and local folklore

The Long Tong festival of Ba Be follows the same procedures as spring festivals in other regions.

Before the festival’s opening, early in the morning, participants offer incense at the An Ma Temple, located on an island in the middle of Ba Be Lake. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of tourists from inside and outside the province flock to the region to participate in the festival located on Ba Be Lake.

The first part, marked by solemnity, is dedicated to worship ceremonies. People prepare beautifully presented trays to offer to the gods. The dishes on the trays are traditional foods that represent the result of a year of hard work by the region’s inhabitants. These offerings, consisting of sticky rice, fruits, and poultry, are placed on richly decorated altars.

Cinematic Impact on Tourism in Ba Be

The Power of the Big Screen

Films shot in the Ba Be National Park have had a significant impact on tourism in the region. This phenomenon, known as “film tourism” or “cine-tourism,” is not unique to Ba Be, but has taken on particular significance there.

After the release of “Red Sky”, the park experienced a notable increase in tourist visits. According to local statistics, the number of visitors rose by nearly 30% in the two years following the film’s release. This increase is directly attributed to the media exposure provided by Olivier Lorelle’s feature film.

Before the screening of these films, Ba Be mainly attracted Vietnamese tourists and some well-informed foreign adventurers. The international visibility brought by cinema has significantly widened the geographical origin of visitors. There has been a significant increase in French tourists, as well as visitors from other European and North American countries.

The impact of cinema on tourism in Ba Be perfectly illustrates the power of images in our modern society. While showcasing the natural beauty of Vietnam, this phenomenon also highlights the importance of thoughtful and sustainable tourism management to preserve these natural treasures for future generations.

Vietnam and French Cinema:
A Love Story

The links between Vietnam and French cinema are deep-rooted in history. This cinematic relationship dates back to the colonial era and has continued long after the country’s independence. Many French directors have been captivated by the diversity of Vietnamese landscapes, from the mythical Halong Bay to the terraced rice fields in the north, and the tropical forests in the central region.

“Indochine” by Régis Wargnier, released in 1992, perfectly illustrates this fascination. This film, awarded several Césars and an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, highlighted the beauty of former French Indochina. Several iconic scenes were shot in Halong Bay, contributing to the international renown of this exceptional natural site.