Experience the Majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall
Ban Gioc is undoubtedly the most famous sight and it should top this list of things to do in Cao Bang. Straddling the border between Vietnam and China, it ranks as the fourth most beautiful cross-border waterfall in the world.
Admire the grandeur nature scene at Ban Gioc Waterfall
What sets this site apart is the waterfall cascading through lush mountains, tumbling down in three tiers to create a truly spectacular natural panorama. Entrance to this site costs 45,000 VND per person (around $1.80 USD).
Step Back in Time at Pac Bo Historical Complex
Tucked away in a remote area, Cao Bang was once a revolutionary base during Vietnam’s resistance against French colonial rule. Entry to this historical complex is 25,000 VND per person (about $1 USD).
Lenin Stream
The site combines natural beauty, with caves, rivers, and streams, and historical significance, featuring shelters, memorial houses, and more. These elements come together to tell the poignant stories of a difficult wartime era when the forest served as a vital stronghold.
Wander Through Phong Nam Valley
Phong Nam is a valley of exceptional beauty, particularly during the ripe rice season in September and October. Unlike the terraced fields in other mountainous regions, Cao Bang’s fields lie side by side, nestled between medium-high mountains and serene winding waterways. This creates a harmonious and tranquil rural landscape, showcasing the simplicity and charm of local agricultural life.
Phong Nam Valley’s ethereal charm in the midst of the rice season
Visit Nui Thung Mountain
This mountain draws many visitors with its unique feature—a natural hole right through the middle. Known as “The Eye of God,” this striking formation looks like an eye set within the lush nature of Cao Bang. The surrounding scenery is peaceful, with locals grazing their buffaloes and the interconnected Thang Hen lake system nearby, consisting of 36 linked lakes.
Recommendations for top things to do in Cao Bang
Journey into Nguom Ngao Cave
In the local Tay language, "Nguom Ngao" means "Tiger Cave." There are two legends associated with the cave: one tells of tigers once inhabiting the cave, and the other speaks of the echoing sound of water, reminiscent of a tiger's roar.
The magnificent Nguom Ngao Cave of Cao Bang
The entrance fee to explore this cave is 40,000 VND per person (about $1.60 USD). The cave stretches 2,769.6 meters long and 61.1 meters deep, with countless impressive stalactites and stalagmites in various shapes within.
Find Serenity at Truc Lam Phat Tich Pagoda
This pagoda sits quietly amidst the nature of the borderlands. It is built in the traditional Vietnamese temple style, with typical structures such as the main hall, entrance gate, statue garden, etc. The pagoda offers stunning views of Cao Bang’s landscapes, and its ancient architecture enhances the area's serene and otherworldly atmosphere. Besides, there is no entrance fee.
The pagoda sits quietly amidst the natural landscape of Cao Bang
Discover Cao Bang Downtown
In contrast to the natural beauty, the downtown area is bustling and lively, with the Bang River winding through the city. Here, you can stay at homestays or hotels, visit the Kim Dong walking street, explore the central market, stroll around the small-town streets, or indulge in local cuisine at humble streetside eateries.
Hustle Kim Dong walking street downtown at night with traditional games
Navigate the Thrilling Me Pja Pass
Me Pja is the most impressive mountain pass in Cao Bang. From a distance, it stands out with 14 continuous, tightly packed hairpin bends at varying heights, despite being just 2.5 kilometers long.
If you are an experienced motorbike rider with a thirst for adventure, you can rent a bike in town for $4-8 USD per day to tackle this road. Alternatively, you can trek and admire the pass from afar, appreciating its challenging nature and striking appearance.
The wild and breathtaking Me Pja Pass
Experience Traditional Lifestyle At Local Villages
Cao Bang is home to numerous ethnic villages, ancient settlements, and traditional craft villages. You can visit the 400-year-old stone village of Khuoi Ky or explore craft villages like Phuc Sen blacksmithing, Phuc Hoa sugar making, Nguyen Binh vermicelli noodle production, Lung Noi weaving, or Nung An papermaking. These visits offer a glimpse into the traditional lives and local culture of the region’s rural and indigenous communities.
Discover remote villages in Cao Bang
Stay at Homestay
There are two types of homestays in Cao Bang. The first is a simple, concrete home in downtown Cao Bang, where you live with locals and experience contemporary family life. Some examples are Cao Bang Eco House, Lan’s Home, and Cao Bang Eco Homestay.
Friendly homestays in Cao Bang to dive in daily local life
The second type is an eco-homestay built in the traditional stilt house style, made of wood, with a more indigenous concept like Tay Homestay or Khuoi Ky Eco Homestay. These homestays are often situated in remote areas, surrounded by nature. The price range for a homestay in Cao Bang is from $8 to $25 USD per night.
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These are some of the top 10 things to do in Cao Bang, offering you the overview to explore its natural beauty and immerse yourself in both downtown and remote local life. For more travel guides, feel free to browse our website or contact us directly for support with Vietnam tours.
