Buzz
I opted for the bus as my mode of transportation. In Cao Bang, catching a bus is quite straightforward as there are only 2 routes available. One route leads to Ban Gioc Waterfall, and the other goes to Ha Quang district (Pac Bo cave). A bus arrives every 30 minutes, so getting on one was a breeze. The bus fare is 70,000 VND per trip.
The road from the city to the waterfall is truly scenic. As you get closer to the waterfall, the temperature drops, creating a cool and refreshing atmosphere amidst the lush mountains and verdant hills. If you're a confident driver, consider riding a motorcycle to fully appreciate this thrilling experience. The road is a bit winding but relatively easy to navigate, with sparse traffic except for the occasional cargo vehicle.
You'll reach your destination after a 2.5-hour journey through the winding mountain roads. The entrance fee to the waterfall is 45,000 VND per person. The breathtaking natural scenery, with its emerald-green cascades, immediately washes away the fatigue from the 10-hour bus ride. Any worries about the gloomy weather dissipate as the sun starts to peek through the clouds.
Here, you can take a boat ride to get a closer look at the waterfall and capture stunning photos. The boat ride costs 50,000 VND per person. Don't forget to visit Truc Lam Pagoda near the waterfall. I regretted missing out on this spot due to lack of research. If you're traveling by motorcycle, you can also visit Thang Hen Lake, known as the 'Enchanting Cup of Cao Bang,' on your way to Ban Gioc Waterfall.
The next day, I caught a bus to Ha Quang to visit the Pac Bo historical site, located approximately 50 km from Cao Bang city. The journey to Pac Bo was easier compared to the one to Ban Gioc Waterfall. However, the bus doesn't go directly to Pac Bo. Instead, travelers have to take a motorbike taxi for an additional 10 km. The entrance fee here is 45,000 VND per person, including round-trip shuttle service by electric vehicle.
Pac Bo served as the headquarters for Uncle Ho's revolutionary leadership after more than 30 years of struggle against foreign invaders. Uncle Ho resided in Coc Bo Cave and named the stream in front of the cave 'Le Nin.' This place is likened to a paradise on earth. The most impressive aspect for me was the crystal-clear stream, where you could see fish swimming underwater. If you have time, you can also visit Uncle Ho's shrine nearby.
The stunning natural scenery, friendly and hospitable people, and genuine warmth are what made me cherish and remember my days exploring this land. My trip to Cao Bang cost 1.5 million VND per person. Although it was quite exhausting due to long hours on the road, I felt it was truly worthwhile. Given the chance, I would love to return to Cao Bang for another trip to explore the places I didn't get to visit.
Source: Nguyen Phuong Anh/ Zing News
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Reference: Mytour Travel Guide
MytourJune 19, 2019
