Cao Bang Travel Experience: Fully explore the "green gem" of the Northeast mountains and forests

When it comes to famous tourist destinations in the North, Cao Bang is definitely one of the names that cannot be ignored. This land stands out not only for its majestic natural scenery, such as Ban Gioc waterfall or Nguom Ngao cave, but also for its unique cultural values and unforgettable travel experiences. If you are planning a trip to Cao Bang, let's learn about useful Cao Bang travel experiences to have a complete and impressive trip.

Favored by nature with its wild beauty, Cao Bang stands out with its primeval forests, majestic waterfalls and majestic mountains hidden in the clouds.

1. Introduction to Cao Bang - The enchanting green gem

Majestic scenery in Cao Bang (Photo source: Collected)

Cao Bang, a province in the Northeast of Vietnam, is an ideal destination for those who love wild nature and rich historical culture. With a terrain of mainly mountains, deep valleys and a dense river system, Cao Bang is likened to a “green gem” hidden in the middle of the jungle.

Not only possessing magnificent natural scenery, Cao Bang is also a land associated with many important historical events. This is where President Ho Chi Minh lived and worked in the early days of the revolution. Therefore, Cao Bang tourism not only brings natural experiences but also helps visitors discover valuable historical values.

2. Ideal time to travel to Cao Bang

According to Cao Bang travel experience, the weather here is divided into two main seasons, each season has its own beauty. You can choose the most suitable time based on your interests and the purpose of the trip:

• Spring (March - May): Cao Bang is covered with brilliant plum and peach blossoms and a cool green landscape. The pleasant weather is ideal for visiting outdoor tourist attractions.
• Summer (June - August): This is the time when Ban Gioc waterfall - the symbol of Cao Bang tourism - becomes most majestic with abundant water. Activities such as bathing in streams, climbing mountains or camping are also very popular during this season.
• Autumn (September - November): Buckwheat flowers bloom, creating a romantic scene, attracting many tourists to Cao Bang to take photos and enjoy.
• Winter (December - February): Winter brings a mysterious beauty with mountains and forests covered in mist. This is also the time when Cao Bang organizes many unique traditional festivals.

 

3. Means of transportation to Cao Bang

Cao Bang is one of the famous tourist destinations in the Northeast, so you can easily get to this land. According to Cao Bang travel experience, when traveling to Cao Bang, you can refer to the following information:

3.1. How to get to Cao Bang

Currently, there are no direct flights to Cao Bang, but you can choose one of the following travel options:

• Bus: Departing from Hanoi , you can catch a bus at My Dinh or Gia Lam station. Ticket prices range from 150,000 - 300,000 VND/trip with travel time of about 6-7 hours.
• Motorbike: For those who love adventure, motorbike is the ideal choice to conquer the fascinating mountainous roads of the Northeast.
• Private car: This is a convenient option if you are traveling with family or a group of friends, providing flexibility in your schedule.
• If you are from the South or Central region, fly to Noi Bai airport (Hanoi), then continue your journey to Cao Bang by bus or car.

 

3.2. Means of transportation in Cao Bang

Once you arrive in Cao Bang, you can choose the following means of transport to travel between attractions:

• Rent a motorbike: Motorbikes are the most popular option, allowing you the flexibility to explore places deep in the mountains and forests.
• Taxi: Easy to find in Cao Bang city center, suitable for groups of friends or families.
• Motorbike taxi: Suitable for short trips or sightseeing spots near the center.
• Bus or inter-provincial coach: Suitable if you want to travel between districts at a cost-effective price.

 

4. Famous tourist destinations in Cao Bang

Cao Bang - the land at the head of the Fatherland, is not only famous for its wild and majestic natural beauty but also a place that preserves many unique cultural and historical values. This is definitely an ideal destination for those who want to explore and experience the original beauty of the Northeastern mountains and forests. Below are some Cao Bang travel experiences and prominent places you cannot miss:

4.1. Ban Gioc Waterfall

Ban Gioc Waterfall - "The first waterfall" of Vietnam (Photo source: Collected)

Address: Quay Son River, Dam Thuy Commune, Trung Khanh District, Cao Bang
Known as the symbol of Cao Bang tourism, Ban Gioc waterfall is not only one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam but also in the top 21 most beautiful waterfalls in the world voted by a famous magazine. This is the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia and also the 4th largest border waterfall in the world. With its majestic natural scenery and the echoing sound of the waterfall, Ban Gioc waterfall is an indispensable destination in any Cao Bang tour.

4.2. Pac Bo relic site

Finding historical roots at Pac Bo relic site (Photo source: Collected)

Address: Truong Ha Commune, Ha Quang District, Cao Bang
This is the place associated with the revolutionary life of President Ho Chi Minh in the early days of returning to the Fatherland. When coming here, you can visit Pac Bo cave, where Uncle Ho lived and worked, and the clear Lenin stream. The poetic scenery combined with profound historical value makes Pac Bo a memorable place in the journey to explore Cao Bang travel experiences.

4.3. Nguom Ngao Cave

Address: Dam Thuy Commune, Trung Khanh District
Only 5km from Ban Gioc waterfall, Nguom Ngao cave is a natural masterpiece created by limestone with a length of more than 2,100m, a famous tourist destination in Cao Bang. The cave possesses a unique, mysterious beauty and cool air all year round, bringing a pleasant feeling to visitors.

4.4. God's Eye Mountain (Phja Piot)

"Mountain God's Eye" in Cao Bang (Photo source: Collected)

Address: Thang Hen Lake Complex
Mat Than Mountain or Thung Mountain is an attractive Cao Bang tourist destination for those who love to explore nature. This place stands out with its large valley, green grass and peaceful, wild space. This is also an ideal place for you to enjoy relaxing moments.

4.5. Khuoi Ky ancient stone village

Address: Dam Thuy Commune, Trung Khanh District, Cao Bang
Khuoi Ky ancient stone village is a special village with more than 400 years of history, where the stone houses of the Tay ethnic group are still preserved intact. This is a destination that not only offers a unique cultural experience but also offers an interesting perspective on the traditional architecture of the indigenous people.

4.6. Lung Pan Bamboo Forest

Address: Lung Pan Commune, Bao Lac District, Cao Bang
Lung Pan Bamboo Forest is likened to a beautiful natural picture with rows of tall, straight bamboo. Visitors coming here will be immersed in a peaceful space, enjoy the fresh air and participate in activities such as taking photos, walking, or relaxing in nature.

5. Some experiences when traveling to Cao Bang that cannot be missed

5.1. What to prepare when traveling to Cao Bang

Preparing your luggage when traveling to Cao Bang not only helps you have a comfortable trip but also fully enjoy the natural beauty here. Below are some important suggestions:

• Don't forget sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat: Cao Bang has mild sunny weather in the summer, so these items will help protect your skin.
• Dress respectfully for spiritual sites: Many famous sites such as Truc Lam Ban Gioc Pagoda require respect in dress.
• Book bus tickets and hotel rooms in advance: Especially during peak season, you will avoid the situation of "no rooms available" or no vehicles available.
• Bring warm clothes if traveling in winter: Cao Bang is famous for its rare snowfall in Vietnam. Preparing a thick coat, scarf, and hat will help you feel more comfortable during your trip.
• Keep the environment clean: Clean up trash after visiting to protect the natural landscape, contributing to preserving the sustainable beauty of this land.

5.2. Accommodation in Cao Bang: Experience in choosing the ideal resort

Homestay right at Mat Than mountain is popular in Cao Bang (Photo source: Collected)

When planning a tour to Cao Bang, you should book a room in advance to ensure a smooth journey. Below are suggestions from luxury hotels to cozy homestays, to help you choose easily:
Hotels and motels:

• Muong Thanh Luxury Cao Bang Hotel: Located in the center of Cao Bang city, this hotel is an ideal choice with high-class service, close to famous places.
• Bao Ngoc Diamond Hotel: Meeting 3-star standards, the hotel has a prime location and reasonable prices.
• Royal Hotel: 2-star hotel, convenient for travel and near Cao Bang bus station.
• Duc Trung Hotel: Budget option with basic amenities, located near the city center.

Unique Homestay:

• Primrose Homestay: Homestay is located right in Cao Bang city, suitable for tourists who want to explore the Green market and nearby places.
• Ca Homestay: Located near Thang Hen Lake, this homestay has a beautiful view and quiet space.
• Nep Nha Homestay: Suitable for those who love nature, with spacious space and affordable price.

 

5.3. Famous dishes to enjoy when traveling to Cao Bang

Cao Bang sour pho (Photo source: Collected)

Cao Bang not only attracts tourists by its majestic natural landscape but also by its delicious dishes with the rich flavors of the highlands. Discovering Cao Bang cuisine, you will feel the uniqueness in each specialty dish, made from local ingredients, imbued with the culture of the people here.

• Cao Bang Sour Pho: Sour Pho is a prominent specialty dish, typical of the Northeast mountainous region. The dish has a harmonious combination of soft pho noodles, char siu, pork liver, thinly sliced cucumber, fragrant roasted peanuts and sweet and sour fish sauce mixed according to a special recipe. The special feature of sour pho is the refreshing sour taste, slightly spicy, stimulating the taste buds, very suitable to enjoy on hot summer days.
• 8-color dry vermicelli: Known as a "unique" dish of Cao Bang, 8-color dry vermicelli impresses with vermicelli noodles made from natural ingredients such as brown rice, purple leaves, butterfly pea flowers, corn, purple sweet potatoes and moringa. Each color is not only eye-catching but also has its own flavor, bringing a rich experience to diners. This vermicelli dish is often eaten with chicken, herbs and a special dipping sauce.
• Cao Bang rice rolls: Unlike rice rolls in the plains, Cao Bang rice rolls have a thin, soft crust made from finely ground rice flour. The unique point lies in the dipping sauce, usually made from pork bones, bringing an unforgettable rich flavor. The rolls are often served with stir-fried minced meat, wood ear mushrooms and fried onions. This is a popular breakfast dish for locals and tourists.
• Banh ap chao: Banh ap chao is a familiar street food, especially popular in winter. The cake is made from glutinous rice flour mixed with rice flour, wrapped in minced pork mixed with wood ear mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms and green onions, then deep-fried until golden brown. Banh ap chao is crispy on the outside, soft and fragrant on the inside, served with raw vegetables and sweet and sour fish sauce, creating a very attractive flavor.
• Sour pork: Cao Bang sour pork is a traditional dish of the Tay and Nung people, which is elaborately prepared. After being pre-processed, the pork is marinated with salt, rice powder and other typical spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and naturally fermented for several days. Sour pork has a light sour and slightly spicy taste, and is often eaten with herbs, rice paper and roasted peanuts, creating a special and unforgettable flavor.
• Cao Bang Khao Cake: Khao cake is a traditional dish that is indispensable during Tet of the Tay and Nung people. The cake is made from fragrant roasted sticky rice, ground into fine powder, the filling includes rock sugar, fatty meat and peanuts. When eaten, the cake has a mild sweetness, a fatty, fatty taste, and a characteristic sticky aroma. This is also a souvenir chosen by many tourists.
• Banh coong phu: Also known as banh troi, banh coong phu often appears in festivals and Tet holidays of Cao Bang people. The cake is made from smooth sticky rice flour, filled with green beans or rock sugar, then boiled and sprinkled with roasted peanuts and chopped ginger. The sweet, fragrant flavor of the cake symbolizes fullness and prosperity.

5.4. Shopping experience & souvenirs

• When buying specialties in Cao Bang, you should ask carefully about the price before buying and should choose to buy at reputable and famous places.
• If you bring dried specialties such as banh khao or banh che lam as gifts, you need to carefully check the information on the packaging such as expiration date and place of manufacture.
• Avoid buying specialties at street vendors.

A trip to Cao Bang is not only a journey to explore beautiful landscapes but also an opportunity for you to learn more about the culture and life of the people here. With the Cao Bang travel experiences that you have grasped, your trip will surely become more interesting and memorable than ever. Do not forget to enjoy the unique specialties and enjoy the peaceful moments in the middle of wild nature, so that every time you mention Cao Bang, you will remember the wonderful experiences you have had in this land.

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/kinh-nghiem-du-lich-cao-bang-v16307.aspx