Just 25 km from Cao Bang Town, the romantic lake is situated within Hoa An District.
On the sides of the road leading to Thang Hen, wild flowers blossom in a dazzling array of yellow, white and violet, creating a breathtaking landscape.
Nearby, ducks float leisurely along the surface of lime-colored water.
Thang Hen is the largest of the 36 freshwater lakes within the district stretching 3,000 meters long and 1,000 meters wide, surrounded by an ancient forest.
In the morning, soft white clouds reflect on the lake’s surface like strips of soft silk blowing in the wind.
At the riverhead of Thang Hen, a large cave appears where a relentless flow of water enters the lake.
During the middle of the rainy season, the water flow grows fierce enough to smash the cave’s stalagmites, creating a musical extravaganza with sounds of drums and gongs.
It is recommended that travelers stay a night inside one of the local houses built on stilts to learn about the life of the ethnic inhabitants.
Around a fire at night, visitors can enjoy the scent of grilled maize mingling with local alcoholic beverages, while listening to famous legends about the lake.
Recognized as an eco-tourist site in 2002, Thang Hen now offers accommodation for visitors who desire relaxation, fishing and a cool outdoor climate.
How to get there:
From Cao Bang Town, head to National Highway No. 3 until reaching Ma Phuc Pass.
Turn onto road No. 205 and travel 10 km more to reach Thang Hen.
Travelers on a tour of Cao Bang, which often includes a visit to Ban Gioc Waterfall, can also request a stop at Thang Hen.
Reported by Hong Quan |