Buzz
Through the test of time, Ba Be Lake maintains its pristine, serene beauty.
If you're pondering weekend plans, let your thoughts drift to the allure of Ba Be Lake.
Ba Be Lake, situated in the Ba Be District of Bac Kan Province, stands as the largest natural freshwater lake in Northern Vietnam, ranking among the world's most stunning lakes. Approximately 240 km from Hanoi, Ba Be Lake is perfect for short day trips. While some find the lake somewhat monotonous, limited to 'water and boat rides' in a loop, lacking extraordinary experiences like fancy cafes, upscale hotels, or posh eateries, and offering modest, non-air-conditioned accommodations, trekking and biking seem to resonate more with foreign tourists than domestic ones. Nevertheless, for many, the destination continues to possess an inexplicable allure.
Devoid of towering structures, vibrant colors, or the rapid development seen in other tourist destinations, Ba Be Lake simply retains its authentic, pure essence—tranquil and peaceful. If you cherish quiet places and relish living in harmony with nature, Ba Be Lake should not be overlooked.
You can opt for Pac Ngoi village as your resting place, where quaint stilt houses nestle behind a mountain range, unpretentious and incredibly close to nature. Pac Ngoi, a small village with only a few dozen households, offers homestay services by some families. The locals here are kind, simple, and unfamiliar with tourism. Perhaps it is this very reason that endears this place to travelers. Everything unfolds slowly and peacefully in this serene haven.
At Pac Ngoi village, experience authentic homestays where you share a traditional stilt house with your host and savor local dishes prepared by them. Delight in specialties such as Ba Be carp, free-range chicken, and homegrown vegetables. Guests can gather over fragrant rice wine, relish ethnic cuisine, engage in conversations with hosts, and admire the sunset across the lake—a fulfilling escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Evenings at the lake are a tranquil affair as nightfall blankets the surroundings. On moonlit nights, the water sparkles with a silver sheen. Try an evening without noise, sans TV, phones, or emails. Sit on the balcony overlooking the lake, or gather with friends for a peaceful respite after a stressful period before returning to everyday life.
In the morning, seize the opportunity to wake up early, embrace the crisp lake air, sip hot coffee, and listen to Trinh's music. Experience a serene morning you may have long forgotten. A leisurely stroll around Pac Ngoi village reveals a charming, poetic landscape.
For an added adventure, purchase local ingredients from nearby markets and hike up the hills for a barbecue. Use stones as stoves, corn husks as fuel, and leaves as plates. Enjoy a self-cooked feast amidst the majestic waterfall, a scene that will undoubtedly evoke emotions.
If you're a nature enthusiast and explorer, Ba Be Lake is the perfect weekend retreat. Alternatively, if you seek to immerse yourself in nature, forgetting the complexities of busy life, this is an ideal place. Just open your heart and embrace it.
By Tuan Dao/Star News
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Reference: Travel Guide from Mytour
MytourJune 22, 2017
