Nestled in the mountains of northeast Vietnam, the province of Bắc Kạn is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. Just 160 kilometers from Hanoi, this region offers a complete change of scenery, blending spectacular landscapes, age-old traditions and warm hospitality.
An unspoilt natural setting
Imagine sailing on the crystal-clear waters of
Ba Be Lake, Vietnam's largest natural lake, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush vegetation. Or walk the winding trails of Ba Be National Park, a veritable sanctuary of biodiversity.
Bac Kan is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a spectacle that changes with the seasons.
Peacefull landscapes of Ba Be - Source : Mr Linh's adventures
A rich history, a living heritage
Bac Kan's history is as ancient as it is fascinating. From the earliest traces of human occupation to the French colonial period and its crucial role during the Vietnam War, each era has left its mark. Today, this history is reflected in the architecture, traditions and lifestyles of the local people.
The province is home to a mosaic of ethnic communities, including the Tay, Nung, Dao and Hmong. Each has its own customs, language and traditional festivals. A visit to traditional villages such as Phieng Phang or Phieng An will plunge you into the heart of this cultural diversity.
Flavours and culinary traditions
Bac Kan's cuisine is a festival of flavors, reflecting the diversity of its people and the richness of its terroir. As you explore, your taste buds will travel through emblematic dishes such as banh cooc mo - a traditional specialty of the Tay, not only in Bac Kan but also in the neighboring province of Tuyen Quang. This cake has a conical shape, rather like an ox horn. It is made from glutinous rice and mung beans or mixed black beans, wrapped in banana leaves and tied with bamboo vines.
Delicious Banh Mooc Mo - Source : Collected
Khau nhuc is also a characteristic dish of the Tay - Nung people of Bac Kan. The main ingredients are purple taro and pork belly. Banh ngai is famous in Lang Son but also quite common in Bac Kan. The cake is a distinctive green, while its shape and method of preparation are very similar to banh giay. Be sure to try the local honey, renowned for its medicinal properties, or the tea grown on the surrounding mountainsides.
The best time to visit Bac Kan
Ideally, you should visit this endearing province between November and April, during the dry season. From Hanoi, allow around 4 hours' drive. Regular buses connect the two cities, but hiring a car and driver can be a more comfortable and flexible option for exploring the region.
Out of the beaten track Phieng An Village - Source : Collected
Adventure and discovery
Whether you're a hiker, kayaker, caving enthusiast or simply want to relax in the great outdoors, Bac Kan is sure to meet your expectations.
Ba Be National Park is the beating heart of Bac Kan, offering exceptional biodiversity and spectacular scenery.
Ba Be Lake
A true jewel of the park, this natural freshwater lake stretches over 8 kilometers. Its calm waters, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush forests, offer an idyllic setting for boat or kayak trips. Be sure to stop off at the An Ma temple on the island of the same name.
Puong caves
Located in the heart of the park, these impressive caves are crossed by the Nang River. A boat trip through the 300-meter-long main cavern reveals spectacular karst formations and a large colony of bats.
Pac Ngoi village, Ba Be National Park - Source : Collected
Pac Ngoi village
This traditional Tay village on the shores of Lake Ba Be offers an authentic insight into local life. Its houses on stilts and the hospitality of its inhabitants make it an essential stop-off for understanding the region's culture.
Dau Dang Falls
At the edge of the park, these impressive waterfalls stretch for almost a kilometer. The boat ride to reach them is an experience in itself, taking you through wild landscapes of striking beauty.
Cho Ra market
This lively market, located near Lake Ba Be, is held every five days according to the lunar calendar. Like a wide-open window on local life, it's the ideal place to observe traditional costumes and sample regional specialties.
Biodiversity
The park is home to a rich flora and fauna, including many rare species. Birdwatchers will be able to observe over 230 species of birds, while the lucky ones may spot langurs or Asiatic black bears.
Litttle-known Kim Hy Nature Reserve - Source : Collected
Beyond Ba Be: Bac Kan's hidden treasures
The province of Bac Kan is home to many other sites that are well worth a visit, offering a blend of exhilarating nature and fascinating culture.
Hua Ma cave
Located in Quang Khe district, this impressive cave is a veritable underground labyrinth of spectacular karst formations. Take a guided tour to explore its most fascinating nooks and crannies.
Kim Hy nature reserve
Less well known than Ba Be, this reserve is a paradise for nature lovers. Its tropical forests are home to remarkable biodiversity, including several endangered species of primate. Recently, a rare Francois langur was discovered in the reserve, underlining its ecological importance. The Kim Hy reserve is an ideal destination for nature lovers and ecotourists, offering hiking trails and the chance to explore its diverse ecosystems.
Romantic meadows of Sam Chiem - Source : Collected
Thảo Nguyên Sam Chiêm (Meadows of Sam Chiêm)
Sam Chiêm is a collection of green grassy meadows and hills located in Hiep Luc commune, Ngan Son district, Bac Kan province, about 30 km from Bac Kan city center. Also known by the poetic name of “Đồi Tình” (Hills of Love), the destination is very popular with young Vietnamese who come here to disconnect from the urban world and immerse themselves in a setting of vast expanses of green grass and grassy hills as far as the eye can see.
From the town of Bac Kan, it can be reached by motorcycle via a small mountain trail, or by car if you're carrying a lot of camping equipment.
Historical sites in Bac Kan
As mentioned above, the province has witnessed many historic events. Fans of ancient times are sure to make a detour to the sites below. Did you know? Today, Bac Kan boasts 11 state-recognized historical and revolutionary sites.
ATK, an important historical site - Source : Collected
ATK (An Toan Khu-Total Security Zone)
This site is an important historical area where Ho Chi Minh and other Vietnamese leaders met during the Indochina War, between 1946 and 1954. It was here that they planned strategies for resistance against French colonial forces. The local authorities are committed to promoting this historic site through tourist itineraries that combine heritage and nature. An initiative that appeals to history and ecotourism enthusiasts... You'll find the ATK site around thirty kilometers from the town of Bac Kan, in the Bang Lung commune. The cab ride takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.
French Council House
Located in the town of Bac Kan, this historic house bears witness to Vietnam's colonial architecture and history during the French period.
French Consulate House
Also in the city, this house offers a glimpse of the French presence in the region and its impact on local history.
Speaking of the city of Bac Kan, the city is home to historical sites and natural landscapes that are well worth a visit: from natural wonders such as the Ang Tong caves and Na Nooc waterfalls, to historical sites linked to the revolution, such as Khuoi Cuong where Uncle Ho stayed, the city also bears witness to its spirituality through the Co, Mau and Thac Gieng temples.
To conclude this guide to Bac Kan
Bac Kan province, with its majestic landscapes, rich cultural mosaic and preserved authenticity, promises an unforgettable travel experience. Far off the beaten track, this land of history, culture and nature invites you on a journey to the heart of Vietnam, where every bend in the road reveals a new wonder to explore.