How beautiful is the scenic spot of Ba Ho!

Located more than 25km north of Nha Trang ward along National Highway 1, the scenic Ba Ho stream (Van Thuan hamlet, Nam Ninh Hoa commune) is being proposed for provincial-level scenic spot ranking. The beauty of Ba Ho stream was once described by poet Quach Tan in his book "Land of Agarwood": "The scenery is truly beautiful. Its hues change with the day, hour, and weather. Therefore, one can gaze at it endlessly without getting tired, and visit it again and again without boredom."

Where nature blends with legend

The Ba Ho scenic area originates from a mountain peak reaching 660m, belonging to the Hon Goong - Hon Ngang - Hon Ba mountain range. The stream, less than 10km long, meanders through many slopes, creating a rugged and picturesque journey. Afterwards, the stream flows into the Phu Huu rice fields, then continues downstream to the Ha Lien estuary and Nha Phu lagoon. The Ba Ho stream boasts a beauty that blends rocks with vegetation and flowers; the birdlife is diverse and numerous. The lower reaches of the Ba Ho stream resemble a small, tranquil river flowing beneath rows of bamboo. The name Ba Ho (Three Lakes) comes from the fact that there are three lakes here, creating a stunning landscape. The first lake features layers of large and small rocks interspersed with ancient trees providing shade. The second lake is about 50m from the first, requiring a climb over some rather treacherous rocks and small crevices. Here, the water is calm and still, without any waterfalls. The lake was formed by a large, flat rock blocking the flow of water, creating a natural dam. The third lake is located about 50 meters from the second and is the highest lake, also the final destination. The lakebed is rocky and sandy, and the water is clear, cool, and refreshing.

The beauty of Ba Ho scenic spot. Photo: Provided by Ba Ho Tourist Area.

The beauty of Ba Ho scenic area is also associated with fascinating folk legends. According to legend, the three lakes here are sacred places, the dwelling place of mountain gods. These gods bestowed upon this land a source of pure water and abundant life. Local people believe that this stream carries the spiritual energy of the mountains and forests, a source of blessings, favorable weather, and bountiful harvests. Therefore, they often come to Ba Ho scenic area to offer prayers and seek peace, especially during droughts or at the beginning of the planting season. “During the feudal era, in years of drought, local people often came to pray. An altar was usually set up at the second lake. After the ceremony, the chief priest respectfully threw a large stone into the lake. Then, whatever they did that day would rain...” (excerpt from *Land of Agarwood* - Quach Tan). This folk belief affirms the special spiritual and cultural value of Ba Ho in community life.

Recommended ranking

The Ba Ho scenic area is currently being developed for ecotourism with the Ba Ho Tourist Area. However, for more effective management and protection, it is essential to classify it as a provincial-level scenic spot. According to Mr. Truong Hoai Phuong, Deputy General Manager of the Ba Ho Tourist Area, the Ba Ho scenic area is a well-known tourist destination among locals, domestic and international visitors. Many tourism services related to accommodation, entertainment, sightseeing, and cuisine have been invested in and developed here. In peak years, the tourist area welcomes over 76,800 visitors, and from the beginning of 2025 to date, it has welcomed over 10,500 visitors. Businesses are very keen for the Ba Ho scenic area to be classified as a provincial-level site. This would facilitate better management, protection, and exploitation of its natural values ​​and environmental landscape, as well as enhance the brand value of the destination for promotion and introduction to tourists. Therefore, the company has closely coordinated with relevant authorities and local governments in surveying and defining the scope of the scenic area, as well as providing necessary information to build the scenic area's dossier.

Tourists enjoying themselves at Ba Ho scenic spot. Photo: Provided by Ba Ho Tourist Area.

In late October 2025, the Provincial Center for Cultural Heritage Conservation sent a document to the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism regarding the ranking of Ba Ho scenic area. Accordingly, the center has completed the scientific dossier proposing the ranking of Ba Ho scenic area; and simultaneously proposed that the department seek opinions from relevant organizations and individuals to finalize the dossier before submitting it to the Provincial People's Committee for ranking. Mr. Hoang Quy, Deputy Director of the Khanh Hoa Provincial Center for Cultural Heritage Conservation, said that after researching and determining the value of Ba Ho scenic area, the center's leadership directed the specialized department to coordinate with the local authorities and businesses in building the scientific dossier for Ba Ho scenic area. Ba Ho scenic area is not only an attractive destination with its pristine landscape, unique forest and stream ecosystem, but also has historical, cultural, scientific, and tourism development value. Therefore, solutions are needed to protect the scenic site, providing a basis for research and the development of effective exploitation solutions.

GIANG DINH

Source: https://baokhanhhoa.vn/du-lich/danh-lam-thang-canh/202511/dep-thay-danhthang-ba-ho-9af1cc3/