Overview of Cao Bang province

Cao Bang is a mountainous province located in the Northeast region of Vietnam, renowned as the “cradle of the Vietnamese revolution.” The province holds a strategically important position at the nation’s northern border — serving both as a vital trade gateway with Guangxi Province (China) and as home to the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, a site recognized for its exceptional cultural, historical, and geological values.

 

Location of Cao Bang Province on the map

Cao Bang Province holds a unique geographical position: it borders Guangxi Province (China) to the north and east with a boundary stretching over 333 kilometers; Thai Nguyen and Lang Son provinces to the south; and Tuyen Quang Province to the west. The province boasts a remarkably diverse terrain, characterized by majestic mountains, limestone plateaus, lush valleys, and an intricate river system — including the Gam, Bang, and Quay Son Rivers — all combining to create a magnificent and awe-inspiring natural landscape.

Outstanding destinations in Cao Bang

Ban Gioc Waterfall

Ban Gioc Waterfall

As one of the most magnificent and beautiful transnational waterfalls in Southeast Asia, Ban Gioc Waterfall is known as the “emerald jewel” at Vietnam’s northern border. Situated on the gentle Quay Son River, the waterfall cascades down from a height of several dozen meters, sending white foamy water tumbling amid lush green mountains — creating a truly breathtaking natural spectacle. Visitors can take a bamboo raft to the foot of the falls to feel the power of nature up close, admire the sacred border landmark, and capture once-in-a-lifetime “check-in” photos.

Nguom Ngao Cave

Nguom Ngao Cave

Located just a short distance from Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nguom Ngao Cave is a breathtaking natural masterpiece of stalactites and stalagmites bestowed upon Cao Bang by nature. Stretching for several thousand meters, the cave — whose name means “Tiger Cave” in the Tay language — unveils a mysterious underground world filled with stunning rock formations that have taken millions of years to form, resembling “stone lotus buds” and “terraced fields.”Visitors can wander through the cave, listen to the gentle murmur of underground streams, and marvel at the magnificent and awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder.

Pac Bo Relic Area

Pac Po Relics

As a Special National Relic and the “cradle of the Vietnamese Revolution,” Pac Bo is an unmissable destination for those wishing to trace the nation’s historical roots. This is where President Ho Chi Minh lived and worked after more than 30 years abroad. Visitors can explore iconic historical sites such as Coc Bo Cave, the crystal-clear Lenin Stream, the majestic Karl Marx Mountain, and the stone table where Ho Chi Minh worked. A visit to Pac Bo is a journey back to Vietnam’s heroic past, offering travelers a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air and experience the peaceful, contemplative atmosphere of this sacred land.

Address: Truong Ha Commune, Cao Bang Province.

Thang Hen Lake

Thang Hen Lake

Nicknamed the “emerald gem” of the limestone plateau, Thang Hen Lake is one of the most beautiful and unique natural freshwater lakes in Northern Vietnam. The lake is part of a system of 36 interconnected lakes linked by underground caves, with crystal-clear jade-colored water that remains pristine all year round. Visitors can take a boat ride across the tranquil surface, glide through limestone valleys, breathe in the pure mountain air, and immerse themselves in the serene harmony of nature surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

 

Address: Tra Linh Commune, Cao Bang Province.

Magical Eye Mountain

Magic Eye Mountain

Located within the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark and close to Thang Hen Lake, Mat Than Mountain (also known as Thung Mountain) is a remarkable natural wonder. The mountain is famous for its giant circular hole that pierces through the limestone cliff — resembling a “heaven’s eye” gazing down upon the valley below. Surrounded by lush, flat green meadows, this area has become a popular spot for camping, picnicking, and taking stunning photos, especially during the romantic dry grass season, when the landscape glows in golden hues.

 

Address: Tra Linh Commune, Cao Bang Province.

Phong Nam Field

Phong Nam Field

Though not as famous as Ban Gioc Waterfall, Phong Nam Valley is a picturesque hidden gem, often referred to as the “dry Ha Long Bay” of Cao Bang. The valley resembles a living watercolor painting, with lush green or golden rice fields stretching alongside the gentle Quay Son River, all embraced by towering limestone mountains. It’s an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty, especially during the harvest season (around September to October) when the fields glow in golden hues.

Address: Dinh Phong Commune, Cao Bang Province.

Below are suggestions for other attractions in Cao Bang in addition to the 6 outstanding locations mentioned above:

  • Khuoi Ky Ancient Stone Village: A hundred-year-old ancient village of the Tay people with stilt houses made entirely of stone, located right on the way to Ban Gioc Waterfall (now in Dam Thuy commune).

  • Ma Phuc Pass: One of the most majestic passes, known as "the most majestic" with 7 levels of dangerous slopes (now belongs to Nguyen Hue commune).

  • Khau Coc Cha Pass: A breathtakingly winding 15-storey pass, a "conquering" challenge for all backpackers, offering a panoramic view of the valley (now belonging to Bao Lam commune).

  • Tru Lam Ban Gioc Buddhist Pagoda: The pagoda has a beautiful, panoramic view of Ban Gioc Waterfall and the Vietnam-China border area (now in Dam Thuy commune).

  • Kim Dong Walking Street: A vibrant nightlife entertainment and culinary center right in the central area of the province (now in Thuc Phan ward).

  • Pac Rang Forge Village: Handicraft village A hundred-year-old tradition, where visitors can watch artisans forge knives and handmade agricultural tools (now in Phuc Sen commune).

Best time to travel

Cao Bang is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique charm of the Northeast mountains. However, the most breathtaking and picturesque time to visit is during the “golden season”, from August to September. This is when Cao Bằng is at its most radiant — Ban Gioc Waterfall reaches its full grandeur after the rainy season, cascading powerfully in white foam, while valleys such as Đình Phong and Đàm Thủy shimmer in the golden hue of ripened rice fields.

In spring (March–April), the province awakens with pure vitality, as plum and pear blossoms paint Pac Bo and Tay–Nung villages in white. Autumn (October–November) brings crisp, dry weather, clear blue skies, and fields of buckwheat and wild sunflower blossoms, perfect for trekking and mountain pass adventures.

For a more serene experience, visitors can also travel in winter (from December) to feel the chill of the highlands and even have a chance to witness frost or snowfall on the mountain peaks — a rare and magical sight in Vietnam.

Transportation information

Cao Bang is a mountainous province located at the northernmost border of Vietnam, characterized by its rugged and steep terrain. The province currently has no civilian airport or railway station, making road travel the primary means of access. Therefore, the most convenient gateway to reach Cao Bằng is through transportation hubs in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam.

Airways and railways

Visitors from distant regions (Central or Southern Vietnam) who wish to travel to Cao Bang should first fly to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) or take a train to Hanoi Railway Station. From these hubs, it is easy to take a taxi or bus to reach intercity bus stations (such as My Dinh or Giap Bat) to continue the journey to Cao Bang.

Passenger bus to Cao Bang

This is the most popular, convenient and cost-effective means of transportation from Hanoi to Cao Bang, mainly high-class sleeper buses running at night.

  • Departure stations (in Hanoi): My Dinh bus station (mainly), Giap Bat bus station, Nuoc Ngam bus station.

  • Travel time (estimated): 6 - 8 hours.

  • Popular bus companies: Vinh bus Dung, Thanh Ly, 42, Khanh Hoan, Hiep Ga... These bus companies have many trips during the day, especially evening trips (departing from 20:00 - 22:00) to reach Cao Bang center early in the morning. The bus usually drops off passengers at the Central Bus Station (now located in Tan Giang ward).

Moving within Cao Bang province

With a large province, mountainous terrain and attractions located far apart, choosing a means of transportation within the province is very important.

  • Taxi: The Traditional taxi companies such as Mai Linh Taxi, Huong Sen Taxi, An Binh Taxi are fast and convenient means of transportation. Taxis are most active in the three central wards of Thuc Phan, Nung Tri Cao and Tan Giang, suitable for short distances or moving from the bus station to the hotel.

  • Intra-province buses: The public bus system is an economical option to get to major tourist destinations. The most important and popular bus route is route T1 (Nung Tri Cao Ward - Dam Thuy Commune), connecting the central area with famous attractions such as Nguom Ngao Cave and Ban Gioc Waterfall. There are also routes to Truong Ha commune (Pac Bo relic area) and Tra Linh commune (Thang Hen Lake).

  • Renting a motorbike: This is the most flexible and proactive option, loved by many tourists to freely conquer the mountain passes and explore nooks and crannies. This service is strongly developed in central wards:

    • Motogo car rental service (with verification): House number 036, Street 3/10 (now in Tan Giang ward) | ☎ 0338 023 344 | Reference price ranges from 130,000 - 200,000 VND/day, providing a variety of vehicle models.

    • Services at hotels/homestays: Most accommodation establishments in Thuc Phan and Tan Giang wards are affiliated or provide motorbike rental services, door-to-door vehicle delivery support, very convenient for tourists.

Accommodation information

Luxury

Muong Thanh Luxury Cao Bang Hotel

Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel

  • Address: No. 42, Kim Dong Street, Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province

  • Price from: 1,500,000 VND/night

Located in the tallest building in the city center, Muong Thanh Luxury is a 4-star hotel renowned as a symbol of modern luxury in the province. The hotel features premium rooms with panoramic views of the city and the gentle Bang River. Guests can enjoy high-end amenities such as an indoor pool, spa, gym, fine dining at the restaurant, and relaxation at the rooftop bar.

Resort

>Saigon - Ban Gioc Resort

  • Address: Ban Gioc Village, Dam Thuy commune, Cao Bang province

  • Price from: 1,200,000 VND/night

This is the only 4-star resort in Cao Bang with the most prime location, directly facing and offering uninterrupted views of the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall. The resort is harmoniously designed with nature, featuring luxurious villas and rooms infused with local cultural elements. Guests can relax while admiring the waterfall from their rooms, enjoy the fresh mountain air, dine at the on-site restaurant, and easily explore the waterfall early in the morning.

Other experiences

Homestay Khuoi Ky (Ancient Stone Village)

  • Address: Khuoi Ky Stone Village, Dam Thuy Commune, Cao Bang Province

  • Price from: 400,000 VND/night (private room)

Located in a centuries-old Tay stone village, Khuoi Ky Homestay offers a truly unique cultural lodging experience. Guests stay in traditional stilt houses built entirely from stone, situated right beside a stream. This is a perfect opportunity to immerse in local life, savor authentic regional cuisine, and enjoy a peaceful, historic atmosphere. The village’s location is also very convenient, just a few hundred meters from Nguom Ngao Cave.Lan's Homestay 

Address: No. 10, Lane 9, Kim Dong Street, Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province

  • Price from: 500,000 VND/night

As one of the notable boutique-style homestays in the city center, Lan’s Homestay attracts visitors with its cozy, elegant design and tranquil atmosphere. Although located in the heart of the city, the homestay is tucked away in a small alley, featuring a charming café on the ground floor. It’s an ideal choice for couples or young travelers seeking comfortable accommodation, beautiful “check-in” spots, and easy access to the walking street and local food market.

In addition, if you want more options for your vacation in Cao Bang, here are a few other accommodation suggestions worth considering - suitable for many different styles and budgets:

  • Max Boutique Hotel – 117 Vuon Cam, Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province

  • Jeanne Hotel – 99 Kim Dong, Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province

  • Primrose Homestay Cao Bang – 118 Hien Giang, Nung Tri Cao Ward, Cao Province Bang

  • I's Homestay – Kim Dong Walking Street, Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province

Local festival cuisine and culture

Famous restaurants

>Thu Hang Restaurant

Thu Hang Restaurant

  • Address: No. 83, Street 3/10, Tan Giang Ward, Cao Bang Province

  • This is one of the largest and most reputable restaurants in the city center, renowned for its diverse menu ranging from mountain specialties (such as hill pigs and free-range chicken) to fresh seafood. With its spacious, elegant interior and professional service, it is an ideal venue for tour groups, family gatherings, or hosting guests.

  • Reference price: 200,000 - 400,000 VND/person.

Huy Linh Restaurant (Duck King) Heaven)

  • Address: Group 5, Nung Tri Cao Ward, Cao Bang Province

  • If you want to savor unique duck dishes, this is a must-visit restaurant. Huy Linh Restaurant is famous for its “wild duck” specialties, prepared in a variety of delicious ways, including grilled wild duck, sour plum duck hotpot, and steamed duck. The restaurant offers a spacious, local-style setting, providing visitors with a distinctive and authentic culinary experience.

  • Reference price: 180,000 - 350,000 VND/person.

Local cuisine

  • Pho Chua Cao Bang (Quyen Restaurant) – Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Nung Tri Cao Ward, Cao Bang Province: This is a unique “cold” noodle dish, combining chewy rice noodles, crispy roasted pork belly, pork liver, roasted peanuts, and fried sweet potatoes, all mixed with a special sweet-and-sour sauce. Quyen Restaurant is a popular spot among locals and tourists seeking the authentic taste of pho chua.

  • Cao Bang Smoked Pork Sausage (Lap Suon) – Central Market (Cho Xanh), Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province: This smoked pork sausage is a renowned specialty, perfect as a souvenir. Made from hill pork marinated with local spices (such as mac khen and mountain ginger) and smoked over sugarcane husks, it has a distinctive aromatic and rich flavor. Visitors can easily purchase it from market stalls.

  • Seven-Spice Roasted Duck – This famous specialty is marinated with seven secret spices derived from forest leaves and roots and roasted over charcoal for a crispy, golden-brown skin. It is available at many reputable specialty restaurants in the Tan Giang and Thuc Phan wards.

Cuisine discovery experience

  • Kim Dong Walking Street – Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province: When night falls, this riverside walking street along the Bang River comes alive with bustling street food stalls. Visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious snacks such as roasted Trung Khanh chestnuts, skewers, grilled chicken feet, and experience the aromatic “street-side beef” dishes.

  • Central Market (Cho Xanh) – Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province: Visiting Cho Xanh in the early morning offers a genuine local market experience. Here, you can observe the lively market activity of ethnic communities while savoring hot local treats such as sticky rice with oil tea seeds (xoi tram), coong phu cake, and various leaf-wrapped pastries.

In addition to the above restaurants, people can refer to some other famous restaurants such as:

  • Co Hac fried rice cake - 116 Hien Giang, Nung Tri Cao Ward, Cao Bang Province

  • Co Beo Sticky Rice (street vendor) - Central Market (Green Market), Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province

  • Sour Pho of Song Hien Bridge - Song Hien Bridge Head Area, Nung Tri Cao Ward, Cao Bang Province

Cao Bang Cultural Experience

>Long Tong Festival (Council Down to the Field)

Cao Bang Long Tong Festival

  • Time: January 10 of the lunar calendar every year

  • Location: Taking place throughout Cao Bang province

  • As the most important and largest festival of the Tày and Nùng people, the Long Tong Festival marks the beginning of a new agricultural season. The festival features ceremonial rites praying for favorable weather and bountiful harvests, along with lively festivities including folk games such as stone throwing, stick pushing, tug-of-war, and traditional singing. It is a perfect opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant spring atmosphere of the Northeast mountains.

Sung Phuc Temple Festival

  • Time: The 15th day of the first lunar month

  • Location: Sung Phuc Temple, Bao Lac Commune, Cao Bang Province

  • This festival holds profound historical significance, honoring the contributions of the leader Nung Tri Cao. It is celebrated with solemn rituals, including processions, ceremonial offerings, and traditional folk activities, attracting both local residents and visitors from afar who come to pay respects, pray for blessings, and learn about the history of this borderland region.

Some other cultural experiences in Cao Bang:

  • Then singing - Dan Tinh: Representative intangible cultural heritage of humanity, visitors can enjoy this unique form of art at community homestays or cultural events.

  • Ban Gioc Waterfall Tourism Festival: Usually held in October every year in Dam Thuy Commune, with cultural display activities, cuisine, sports and a unique light show at the waterfall.

  • Pac Rang Forging Village: Visit the hundred-year-old traditional craft village of forging knives and agricultural tools of the Nung An people in Quang Uyen Commune.

Amusement area

Kim Dong Walking Street

  • Address: Kim Dong Street, Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province

  • As the busiest public entertainment and cultural hub at night in the province, Kim Dong Walking Street is a must-visit destination, especially on weekend evenings. It is a place where locals and tourists gather to stroll and relax, offering a variety of activities, from sampling street food and shopping for souvenirs to participating in traditional folk games (such as bamboo jumping and tug-of-war) and enjoying street performances and Then singing.

  • Reference ticket price: Free admission.

Cocoon Family & Kids Cafe

  • Address: Vuon Cam Street, Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province

  • This is a combined café and indoor playground designed specifically for children. The concept allows parents to relax with beverages while their kids enjoy a variety of activities in safe and creative spaces, including ball pits, slides, and other fun play areas.

  • Reference ticket price: About 60,000 VND (weekdays) - 80,000 VND (weekends/holidays) for one child (unlimited time, excluding food). uống).

Children’s Play Area (Hanoi Phoenix Tower Mall)

  • Address: Kim Dong Street, Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province

    Located inside Hanoi Phoenix Tower Mall, this “Kid Zone” is a modern play area for families. It offers a wide range of active play options such as ball pits and mini climbing walls, as well as creative activities like painting ceramics and making sand art.

  • Reference ticket price: There is no fixed entrance ticket, the ticket price is charged according to each individual game and service that the child participates in.

Suggestive tour Italy

Experience tour

Tour 3 Days 2 Nights: Non Nuoc Journey (Departing from Hanoi)

  • Itinerary:

    • Day 1: Hanoi – Travel to City. Cao Bang (check in at Thuc Phan Ward/Tan Giang).

    • Day 2: Thuc Phan Ward - Pac Bo Relic Area (Truong Ha Commune) - Visit Lenin Stream, Coc Bo Cave - Thang Hen Lake & Mat Than Mountain (Tra Linh Commune) - Thuc Phan Ward.

    • Day 3: Thuc Phan Ward - Nguom Ngao Cave - Ban Gioc Waterfall (Dam Thuy Commune) - Return to Hanoi.

  • Transportation: Car.

  • Reference tour price: 2,890,000 VND/person (package from Hanoi).

  • Organizer: PYS Travel.

Family tour

1-Day Tour: Back to Pac Bo Source

  • Itinerary: Thuc Phan Ward (Cao Bang City) – Pac Bo Relic Area (Truong Ha Commune) – Visit Coc Bo Cave, Lenin Stream, Karl Marx Mountain – Visit the tomb of hero Kim Dong – Thuc Phan Ward.

  • Transportation: Car.

  • Reference tour price: 650,000 VND/person (group tour in Cao Bang).

  • Organizing unit: Cao Bang Eco Travel.

Eco tourism

Tour 2 Days 1 Night: Conquering Magic Eye Mountain (Camping)

Camping at Mat Mountain Than

  • Itinerary:

    • Day 1: Thuc Phan Ward (Cao Bang City) - Thang Hen Lake (Tra Linh Commune) - Move to Mat Than Mountain valley - Camp, organize a BBQ party overnight.

    • Day 2: Welcoming the sunrise at Magic Eye Mountain - Trekking to explore the valley and Nam Tra waterfall - Thuc Phan Ward.

  • Transportation: Car + Trekking (on foot).

  • Reference tour price: 1,850,000 VND/person (including tents, meals).

  • Organizer: Vietravel.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Cao Bang, the borderland of majestic mountains and rivers, is renowned not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its unique local products and souvenirs, reflecting the rich cultural life of the Tay and Nung ethnic communities. Visitors can choose from a variety of meaningful gifts, ranging from renowned agricultural specialties to exquisite handcrafted items.

Agricultural Products & Specialties

Cao Bang chestnuts

  • Trung Khanh Chestnuts: Grown on the limestone soil of Trung Khanh and Dinh Phong communes, these chestnuts are large, dark brown, with golden kernels and a rich, nutty flavor. A seasonal specialty harvested in autumn, they are a famous gift that every visitor to Cao Bang wishes to take home.
  • Smoked Sausage (Lap Suon): A traditional specialty of the Tay and Nung people, Cao Bang smoked sausage is made from wild pork, marinated with mac khen pepper and other mountain spices, then carefully smoked over sugarcane husks. It has a fragrant, rich flavor, making it a distinctive culinary gift from the mountains.
  • Nguyen Binh Dong Starch Noodles (Mien Dong): Nguyen Binh commune is renowned for its handmade dong starch noodles. Made from 100% arrowroot starch, the noodles have a grayish color, and when cooked, are chewy, crisp, and non-sticky. These noodles are a practical and high-quality gift often purchased by visitors to bring home.

Handicrafts & Cultural Souvenirs

  • Pac Rang Forged Knives: The skilled hands of the Nung An blacksmiths in Quang Uyen commune create exceptionally sharp and durable knives. Each knife is hand-forged from car leaf spring steel using a traditional family tempering technique. These knives make a unique and practical souvenir, showcasing the centuries-old craftsmanship of the region.
  • Giao Co Lam Tea: A precious herb naturally grown in high mountain areas, Giao Co Lam is harvested and dried by locals. The tea has a mildly bitter taste with a sweet aftertaste and is valued for its numerous health benefits, making it a thoughtful gift for elders.
  • Tay and Nung Brocade: At local markets or community tourism villages (such as Khuoi Ky Stone Village), visitors can find vibrant handwoven brocade products. These include scarves, handbags, wallets, all meticulously woven and embroidered by hand, reflecting the rich cultural patterns of the indigenous ethnic groups.

Suggested shopping places

  • Central Market (Cho Xanh, Thuc Phan Ward): This is the largest and busiest market in the province, where visitors can find a wide range of dried local specialties such as smoked sausages (lap suon), Nguyen Binh dong noodles, dried bamboo shoots, shiitake mushrooms, and chestnuts (in season).
  • Pác Rằng Blacksmith Village (Quang Uyen Commune): Visitors can tour the village’s forges and purchase knives directly from the craftsmen. This provides a unique hands-on experience and ensures that you get authentic, high-quality products.
  • Ban Gioc Waterfall Tourist Area (Dam Thuy Commune): Along the entrances and within the tourist zone, there are numerous souvenir stalls and local specialty shops selling items such as chestnuts, traditional sweets, and herbal products—convenient for shopping while sightseeing.

Support information and other information

Tourism Support Center

Dưới đây là bản dịch tiếng Anh giữ nguyên nội dung và ngữ cảnh du lịch:

For travel advice, information, maps, or any inquiries, visitors can directly contact the Provincial Center for Culture and Tourism Information. This is the official point of contact providing promotional materials, information about attractions, accredited accommodations and restaurants, and handling visitor feedback when necessary.

  • Address: Central Cultural House, Hoang Nhu Street, Thuc Phan Ward, Cao Bang Province.

  • Phone (Tourism Hotline): 0206 3959 198

Health Information health

The largest and most reputable medical facilities are concentrated in the provincial center, ready to handle emergency cases 24/7. The Provincial General Hospital is the top-tier medical facility, fully equipped with modern devices and a team of highly skilled doctors and medical staff.

  • Cao Bang Provincial General Hospital: Dong Khe Street, Tan Giang Ward, Cao Bang Province.

  • Phone number (Hotline): 02063 954 216

  • Call ambulance (Emergency): 115

Security Information

Cao Bang is a mountainous border province with excellent security and friendly local people. However, in case of an emergency or if security assistance is needed, visitors can contact the emergency numbers or the provincial police headquarters.

  • Call Police (Emergency): 113
  • Cao Bang Provincial Police Headquarters: Tan An Street, Tan Giang Ward, Cao Bang Province
  • Phone (Duty Office): 069.2406.112

With the majestic beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfall, the sacred historical value of Pac Bo, and its picturesque landscapes, Cao Bang is a grand and remote land, promising profound and unforgettable experiences along every path of exploration.