Cao Bang is a mountainous province in Northern Vietnam, famous for its majestic and unique landscapes. In this article, we will explore the most beautiful mountains in Cao Bang and the exciting experiences when visiting here.
1. Thung Mountain or Eye of the Mountain God
Thung Mountain, also known as the Eye of the Mountain God, is a mountain with the most unique shape in Cao Bang, located deep in the mountainous and forested area, quite far from the old national highway and the city of Cao Bang. It is situated in Danh village, Quoc Toan commune, Tra Linh district. This mountain has a round hole on the top, resembling a giant eye looking down below. According to legend, this is the eye of the Mountain God, who protected the people of Cao Bang from enemy invasions. To climb Thung Mountain, you have to hike for about 2-3 hours through rocky paths and forests. From the mountaintop, you can admire the panoramic view of the lush and majestic land of Cao Bang.
2. Pac Bo Mountain
Pac Bo Mountain stands as a significant historical site in Vietnam, where Ho Chi Minh returned after 30 years of global travel to lead the anti-French resistance. Located in Ha Quang district, bordering China, about 50 km from Cao Bang city, this area offers visitors the chance to explore landmarks like Coc Bo Cave, Lenin Cave, Fish Deity Spring, milestone 0 of the Ho Chi Minh trail, and gain insights into Uncle Ho's life and activities during his time in Cao Bang.
3. Ma Phuc Mountain Pass
Ma Phuc Mountain Pass, also known as Ma Phuc Pass, represents the most picturesque mountain pass in Cao Bang province and serves as an impressive check-in spot when touring Cao Bang. Situated in Tra Linh district, it spans about 3.5 km with an altitude of 700m above sea level. Ma Phuc Pass boasts a unique layered structure with water cascading through multiple layers of limestone and vegetation. At its foothills lie the green roofs and lush rice fields of the Nung and Tay ethnic minorities. Designated as a geological heritage site of the Cao Bang Global Geopark by UNESCO, the best times to visit are late autumn to early winter (buckwheat season) and spring (rice and corn planting season).
4. Ban Gioc Mountain
Ban Gioc Mountain is one of the must-visit destinations in Cao Bang if you want to admire the beauty of nature. It is the highest peak in the Ban Gioc waterfall area, which is the largest waterfall in Vietnam and the fourth largest in the world. Ban Gioc Mountain stands approximately 600m above sea level and is covered by pristine forests. From the mountain base, you can hike or rent a motorbike to climb to the summit. The mountain ascent is quite challenging due to steep and slippery trails. However, once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Ban Gioc waterfall from above. Additionally, you can also admire the Vietnam-China border across the Quay Son River and the terraced fields surrounding the area.
5. Phia York Mountain
If you love exploring pristine nature and want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you should not miss Phia York Nature Reserve when traveling to Cao Bang. This nature reserve covers an area of about 10,000 hectares and is located in Ha Lang district. Here, you can admire the primeval forest with hundreds of ancient tree species and flowers. Especially, Phia York is also the habitat of rare and precious bird species such as peacocks and doves. Additionally, you can interact with the Dao and Tay ethnic minorities living in the surrounding villages of the nature reserve.
Posted by: Nguyen Hien
Keywords: Mountain Climbing in Cao Bang - Top Mountain Climbing Spots in Cao Bang