What to do in Ba Be Lake ? Best things to do in Ba Be Bac Kan

Nestled in the heart of the majestic mountains of Northeast Vietnam, Ba Be Lake is one of the top destinations to immerse yourself in untouched nature, discover the culture of ethnic minorities, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of village life. More than just the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam, Ba Be is also full of exciting activities. What to do in Ba Be? With Galatouriste, let’s explore the best things to do in Ba Be for a complete and unforgettable trip!

I. General Overview of Ba Be Lake

Located in the mountainous region of Northeast Vietnam, Ba Be is the largest natural freshwater lake in the country. It is situated in Nam Mau commune, Ba Be district, Bac Kan province. Ba Be Lake was formed from three smaller lakes, Pe Leng, Pe Lu, and Pe Lam - connected by the tranquil Nang River. Covering an area of 500 hectares and surrounded by limestone mountains and pristine forests, Ba Be captivates visitors with its wild, majestic, and poetic beauty.

Tourism in Ba Be draws travelers thanks to its rich ecosystem, cool climate, and remarkable natural landscapes. Located within Ba Be National Park, the site has been recognized as Vietnam's third Ramsar site.

A tour to Ba Be also offers the chance to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage. By visiting the villages around the lake, you can experience the daily life and customs of various ethnic communities, join traditional festivals, and savor authentic local cuisine.

Just 70 km from Bac Kan city center, a tour Bac Kan to Ba Be Lake promises unique ecotourism experiences, combining breathtaking landscapes and rich ethnic culture. So, what to do in Ba Be? Let’s explore our top suggestions for the best things to do in Ba Be!

II. Top Best things to do in Ba Be

1. Explore the must-see attractions in Ba Be

1.1. Ba Be National Park

Wondering what to do in Ba Be? Exploring Ba Be National Park is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Ba Be. Known as the "green lung of the Viet Bac mountains," this area boasts a rich ecosystem made up of primary forests, lakes, caves, and underground rivers.

Home to more than 1,200 plant species and nearly 80 rare animal species, Ba Be National Park is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Its year-round cool climate, fresh air, and wild landscapes make it a must-visit during any trip to Ba Be.

While visiting Ba Be National Park, you can go hiking through the forest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and fresh mountain air. Thanks to its unspoiled beauty and exceptional ecological value, this site remains one of the top highlights on any Ba Be tour.

1.2. Fairy Pond (Ao Tien)

Located in a valley surrounded by primary forests in the southeast of Ba Be Lake, Fairy Pond (Ao Tien) is a small lake of about 3 hectares. Its crystal-clear and still water reflects the sky, clouds, and greenery, creating a landscape that is both romantic and poetic. Surrounded by limestone mountains and ancient forests within the national park, this fairy pond offers a tranquil and mysterious space.

If you’re asking, “What to do in Ba Be?”, the answer is clear: visit Fairy Pond, one of the best photo spots during your trip to Ba Be. You can capture stunning shots from various angles : on a dugout canoe, at the water’s edge, or from bamboo rafts set up by the locals.

The site is also tied to a fascinating legend that explains the origin of the name "Ao Tien," making the visit even more captivating. As part of your Ba Be tour, discovering Fairy Pond remains one of the best things to do in Ba Be, especially for those who love wild beauty and enchanting stories.

1.3. Spectacular waterfalls of Ba Be Lake

Ba Be what to do? During your trip to Ba Be, don't miss out on exploring its stunning waterfalls: Dau Dang Waterfall and Ban Vang Silver Waterfall, two must-see spots in any Ba Be tour.

Located on the Nang River, Dau Dang Waterfall impresses with its cascading torrents plunging over multiple rock tiers, creating a breathtaking natural scene. Just 8 km from the lake, Ban Vang Silver Waterfall captivates visitors with its stream of water tumbling down a steep cliff, forming a white curtain that looks like silk suspended in the heart of the forest.

The majestic landscape, fresh mountain air, and the soothing sound of flowing water offer travelers a peaceful escape from daily stress. Exploring the spectacular waterfalls of Ba Be Lake is one of the best things to do in Ba Be, especially for nature lovers seeking tranquility in the Northeast highlands.

1.4. Impressive caves of Ba Be

What to do in Ba Be? Cave exploration is one of the best things to do in Ba Be. A highlight is Puong Cave, carved by the Nang River at the foot of Lung Nham Mountain. It showcases an impressive display of rocky columns, uniquely shaped stalactites, and thousands of bats. A boat ride through the cave is a must-do activity in any Ba Be itinerary.

Equally remarkable is Hua Ma Cave, located south of the lake along the calm Leng River. It features shimmering rock formations and a mystical atmosphere linked to a touching legend of wandering souls.

For adventure seekers wondering what to do in Ba Be, Tham Phay Cave, nicknamed "the small Son Doong of the North", is a marvel with massive formations, vibrant colors, and surprising biodiversity. Meanwhile, Na Phoong Cave, just 500 meters from Bo Lu Hamlet, stands out for its unique structure combining dry chambers and underground rivers, along with its historical significance. It was a key broadcasting site for the Voice of Vietnam during the resistance war against French colonization.

1.5. Ba Goa Island

Wondering Ba Be what to do? Don't miss Ba Goa Island, one of the most iconic sites to explore during a trip to Ba Be Lake. Located in the middle of Pe Leng Basin, this small island is tied to a moving legend about an old woman who saved her village from a catastrophic flood.

Visiting Ba Be gives you a chance to hear this local tale while admiring the island’s serene beauty. Nestled in the crystal-clear waters of the lake, Ba Goa Island looks like a miniature garden, with sturdy roots clinging to the rocks and forming a harmonious shape.

During your Ba Be tour, make sure to stop at the small temple on the island, where locals come to pray for abundant harvests and favorable weather. From this vantage point, you can enjoy panoramic views of the lake in complete serenity. At sunset, the island is bathed in golden and purple hues, creating a truly magical moment.

2. Immerse yourself in local life in Bac Kan

2.1. Discovering ethnic minority communities

What to do in Ba Be? One of the best things to do in Ba Be is undoubtedly exploring its various ethnic minority communities. Each ethnic group contributes a unique cultural identity, enriching the Ba Be travel experience.

The Tay people, the largest ethnic group living around Ba Be Lake, are known for their stilt houses, Then singing, and local dishes made from lake fish, bamboo shoots, and aromatic herbs. The Dao impress with their hand-embroidered clothing, weaving techniques, and natural dyeing methods. The H’Mong are recognized for their colorful traditional outfits and their mountain farming skills, cultivating corn, rice, and valuable medicinal plants on steep slopes.

The Nung are known for their deep spirituality and attachment to traditional family rituals. They actively take part in local markets, seasonal ceremonies, and typical village life. Nung women’s traditional attire features intricate embroidery and silver jewelry. The San Chi are known for the Tac Xinh dance associated with the agricultural calendar, reflecting the harmony between humans and nature.

2.2. Experiencing traditional festivals in Ba Be

What to do in Ba Be? Don’t miss the chance to discover the unique traditional festivals of local ethnic communities. Traveling to Ba Be in spring allows you to join the Long Tong Festival, or Field Going Festival, celebrated by the Tay people at the beginning of the year to pray for good harvests.

In the second or third lunar month, the Nang Hai Festival (Moon Invitation Festival) is held in Nam Mau commune, featuring rich traditional folk practices. This festival takes place every two years (even years) in Nam Mau.

Another sacred event is the Procession Ceremony of Earth and Water, a traditional Tay festival praying for fertile soil and abundant water. It usually takes place in February of the lunar calendar with the participation of villages around the lake.

In addition, a trip to Bac Kan may also lead you to the Mu La Festival of the H’Mong in Pac Nam district, or the Coming-of-Age Ceremony of the Dao people. If your visit coincides with one of these events, a Ba Be tour will immerse you in the festive spirit of the locals, with traditional dances, folk songs, and authentic local cuisine.

2.3. Visit traditional craft villages

Discovering traditional craft villages is one of the best things to do in Ba Be. During your trip to Ba Be, stops in artisan villages will allow you to explore the cultural essence of the Tay, Dao, and H’Mong people through weaving, bamboo and rattan crafting, and wood carving.

Must-visit traditional craft villages in Ba Be include:

• Pac Ngoi village, where Tay women preserve the traditional art of weaving.
• Coc Toc hamlet, known for its refined bamboo and rattan basketry.
• Bo Lu hamlet, offering a variety of crafts: weaving, basketry, and carpentry.
• Ban Cam hamlet, remarkable for its wood carving craftsmanship.

For these communities, traditional crafts are not only a source of livelihood but also a form of artistic and spiritual expression. Every handmade item carries meaning, beliefs, or ancestral rituals of the local ethnic groups around Ba Be Lake.

What to do in Ba Be? Visiting the traditional craft villages around Ba Be lets you find unique souvenirs that carry the soul of Bac Kan, while supporting local communities and contributing to the preservation of their cultural heritage. Don’t miss the chance to explore and shop in these villages, true guardians of the mountain cultural identity during your Ba Be itinerary.

2.4. Homestay experience

Ba Be Lake is surrounded by traditional villages, making a homestay experience one of the best things to do in Ba Be. It allows you to discover the authentic lifestyle of the locals and immerse yourself in the unspoiled natural beauty of Bac Kan’s mountains.

During your Ba Be tour, you’ll stay in traditional stilt houses peacefully nestled at the foot of the mountains or along the lake. It’s a unique opportunity to soak in breathtaking landscapes of lakes and forests. Ba Be what to do? At a homestay, you can take part in activities such as fishing, cooking local dishes, or learning traditional crafts.

In the evening, in a serene atmosphere, a simple dinner and a traditional folk music performance, such as Then singing, will offer deeper insights into the local culture. Your Bac Kan tour will be even more complete if you choose to stay at a homestay around Ba Be Lake. This experience promises a journey rich in cultural identity and unforgettable memories.

3. Boat trip on Ba Be Lake

What to do in Ba Be? Cruising on Ba Be Lake is one of the best things to do in Ba Be, especially for nature and peace lovers. During your trip to Ba Be, you’ll board a boat gliding gently across the clear waters, admiring the breathtaking scenery of limestone mountains, ancient forest, and the calm surface of the lake. Visitors can choose between a motorboat, kayak, stand-up paddleboard (SUP), or try a traditional dugout canoe - an ancient mode of transport used by the Tay people.

Most Ba Be tours include attractive stops such as Puong Cave, Fairy Pond, Ba Goa Island, and Dau Dang Waterfall, where travelers can relax, swim, or simply enjoy the unspoiled landscape. This is a highlight of any Bac Kan tour, offering visitors a chance to explore a rich ecosystem and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Ba Be’s stunning nature.

4. Trekking in the forest of Ba Be National Park

Trekking in Ba Be National Park is among the best things to do in Ba Be, particularly for nature and adventure enthusiasts. This area is famous for being home to Vietnam’s largest natural freshwater lake, lush primary forests, and a spectacular system of caves and diverse rivers. The trekking trails in Ba Be National Park also lead through green terraced rice fields, crystal-clear streams, and ethnic minority villages.

Along the way, visitors can admire towering limestone mountains, green valleys, and shimmering lakes. You may also spot rare wildlife such as gibbons, long-tailed monkeys, or endemic bird species.

Hiking through pristine nature not only boosts physical fitness but also brings a sense of peace and relaxation. What to do in Ba Be? Try trekking in Ba Be National Park - a unique opportunity to deeply connect with nature and collect meaningful memories in one of Northern Vietnam’s most beautiful trekking destinations.

5. Camping

If you're looking for one of the best things to do in Ba Be, camping in the heart of unspoiled nature is a perfect suggestion. With stunning natural scenery and fresh mountain air, camping has become a unique highlight of the Ba Be Lake travel experience. It’s not just a moment to rest and relax, but also an opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy a forest meal, and embrace the peace.

Popular camping spots during a Ba Be tour include: the alluvial plain at the end of the Leng River, Lac Nga Garden, Puong Cave, Ban Cam Village, and Bo Lu Village. These locations offer a close-to-nature experience, reflecting the authentic atmosphere of the northeastern mountainous region.

6. Tasting the Local Cuisine

As the homeland of several ethnic minority groups, Ba Be boasts a rich cuisine full of mountain and forest flavors. Local specialties include: grilled fish from Pac Ngoi, fermented shrimp, smoked dried pork, smoked sausage, sticky rice cake with mugwort leaves, “sky cake” of the Tay people, mountain sticky rice, and corn wine fermented with forest leaves, among others.

Each dish reflects the skill, subtlety, and deep-rooted culture of the locals. What to do in Ba Be? Traveling to Ba Be is not just about admiring its natural landscapes but also about discovering its rich and flavorful cuisine, definitely one of the best things to do in Ba Be.

If you wish to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with pristine nature, explore untouched beauty, and enjoy authentic highland experiences, then Ba Be is undoubtedly an ideal destination. With its majestic landscapes, diverse ecosystem, and rich ethnic culture, Ba Be Lake is not only a paradise for ecotourism lovers but also a perfect place to explore and relax. What to do in Ba Be? From breathtaking waterfalls and mysterious caves to the slow rhythm of local life, every moment brings a sense of serenity and discovery. This article is a roundup of the best things to do in Ba Be, proudly shared by Galatouriste. We hope these suggestions provide helpful insights for planning your next trip to Ba Be. Contact us to get personalized advice and organize a Ba Be itinerary that suits your time!