Thac Ba Lake (Hồ Thác Bà) is one of the largest and most beautiful artificial lakes in northern Vietnam, located in Yen Binh District, Yen Bai Province. Known as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” the lake covers an area of over 23,000 hectares and contains more than 1,300 green islands and islets. The lake was created in the 1970s during the construction of the Thac Ba Hydropower Plant, the first hydroelectric project in North Vietnam. Today, Thac Ba Lake is a haven for eco-tourism, cultural exploration, and peaceful relaxation.
Its calm, emerald waters, dotted with lush islands and limestone mountains, make it a spectacular location for boating, photography, and experiencing the traditional cultures of the local ethnic groups, including the Dao, Tay, and H’mong. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or culture, Thac Ba Lake offers a unique blend of all three.
How to Reach Thac Ba Lake, Yen Bai
Thac Ba Lake is located about 12 kilometers from Yen Bai City and approximately 180 kilometers from Hanoi. Getting there is relatively easy:
- By Car or Motorbike: From Hanoi, take the Noi Bai - Lao Cai Expressway and exit at Yen Bai. From there, continue on National Road 70B to Yen Binh District. The trip usually takes about 4–5 hours.
- By Bus: Buses from My Dinh or Giap Bat bus stations in Hanoi travel to Yen Bai City. From the city, you can take a local taxi or motorbike to reach the lake.
- By Train: Trains from Hanoi to Yen Bai are available. After arriving at Yen Bai Railway Station, you can take a local taxi to Thac Ba Lake (about 30 minutes).
Weather at Thac Ba Lake, Yen Bai
Yen Bai Province has a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. The weather around Thac Ba Lake is typically mild and pleasant:
- Spring (March – May): Warm and breezy, with blooming flowers and greenery. Temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C – perfect for boating and sightseeing.
- Summer (June – August): Hot and humid, but the lake breeze makes it bearable. Ideal for water-based activities. Temperatures can reach 35°C.
- Autumn (September – November): Cool and clear, offering great visibility for photos and peaceful exploration. A highly recommended time to visit.
- Winter (December – February): Cold and misty, especially in early mornings. Daytime temperatures average 15°C to 20°C.
Timing and Entry Details
Thac Ba Lake is open to visitors year-round and does not have strict opening or closing times, as it is a natural attraction.
- Opening Hours: Accessible all day, but best visited from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM for safety and lighting.
- Entry Fee: Free for general lake access. Boat tours and guided trips cost extra (from 200,000 VND to 500,000 VND depending on duration and boat type).
- Boat Rental: Local boats are available for hire at various piers such as Vu Linh pier. Most tours last 1–2 hours and include visits to key islands and caves.
Why Thac Ba Lake is Famous
Thac Ba Lake is renowned for its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and important historical background. It is especially famous for:
- Being the site of Vietnam’s first hydroelectric dam – the Thac Ba Hydropower Plant, completed in 1971.
- Its resemblance to Ha Long Bay with thousands of forested islands scattered across calm waters.
- Its significance in local ethnic culture – especially of the Dao ethnic group, who have inhabited the area for generations.
- The mystical Thuy Tien Cave and other natural limestone formations, accessible only by boat.
History and Architecture
Thac Ba Lake came into existence after the Chay River was dammed to form the Thac Ba Hydropower Plant. Construction began in 1964 and the dam was completed in 1971, during a time of war, making it both a technical achievement and a symbol of national resilience.
While the lake itself is man-made, the surrounding temples, pagodas, and ethnic villages represent centuries-old traditions. Notably:
- Thuy Tien Cave: A natural cave inside a limestone island with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, often linked to spiritual legends.
- Mother Temple (Đền Mẫu): Located on an island, this temple honors local deities and is a popular pilgrimage site.
- Dao Villages: Traditional stilt houses made of wood and palm leaves, reflecting local craftsmanship and ancestral heritage.
Things to Do at Thac Ba Lake, Yen Bai
- Boat Tour: Explore the lake’s islands, caves, and floating villages by motorized or paddle boat.
- Thuy Tien Cave Visit: Sail to this limestone cave for sightseeing and spiritual experiences.
- Visit Vu Linh Commune: Interact with the Dao Quan Trang people, enjoy traditional dance performances, and learn about their unique customs.
- Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in the lake or join local fishermen.
- Camping or Homestay: Stay overnight in a stilt house for an authentic local experience.
- Photography: Capture the emerald waters, sunrise over the lake, and cultural scenes from the villages.
Interesting Facts about Thac Ba Lake
- The lake has over 1,300 islands and islets, many of which are unnamed and unexplored.
- The Thac Ba Hydropower Plant produces over 400 million kWh annually.
- Thac Ba is part of a national program to develop eco-tourism and community-based tourism in Yen Bai.
- The area is home to various ethnic groups including Dao, Tay, Nung, and H’mong, each with unique clothing, languages, and traditions.
- Some locals believe that Thuy Tien Cave has sacred powers and visit it to pray for health and fortune.
Tips for Visiting Thac Ba Lake, Yen Bai
- Plan for a Full Day: Boat tours and visits to villages take time – set aside at least 6–8 hours.
- Hire a Local Guide: Guides can provide historical insights and facilitate visits to Dao households.
- Wear Light, Comfortable Clothing: It can get warm, especially in summer. Don't forget sun protection.
- Carry Cash: Card payments are rarely accepted; bring small notes for boat rentals and souvenirs.
- Respect Local Customs: Ask before taking photos of people and observe local etiquette in villages.
- Stay Overnight: Consider homestays in Vu Linh or neighboring communes to enjoy sunrise over the lake.
