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Located in Quoc Toan commune, Tra Linh district, Thang Hen Lake stands as one of the impressive attractions in the Non Nuoc Cao Bang Geopark, captivating visitors with its mystical charm and vibrant green waters.
Explore the mesmerizing Thang Hen Lake in Cao Bang – an emerald water oasis nestled in the heart of the Tra Linh mountains.
From Cao Bang city, follow National Highway 3 through Ma Phuc Pass, and take Provincial Road 205 towards Tra Linh for about 10 km to reach Thang Hen Lake. The area is surrounded by towering rock walls, with massive rock formations resembling giant irregular teeth. Some slopes of the mountains rise steeply, while others gently create a sensation of interconnected rooflines.
Thang Hen Lake translates to 'bee tail' in the Tay language, as the lake's aerial view resembles the tail of a bee. Unlike other lakes in the region with reddish mud bottoms, Thang Hen maintains its brilliant emerald color year-round due to its source originating from higher altitudes. Water consistently flows from the caves, ensuring continuous purification, keeping the lake water crystal clear.
The lake is approximately 100 to 300 meters wide and 500 to 1000 meters long, depending on the water level. Each day, Thang Hen Lake experiences two tidal cycles of rising and falling. Especially in September and October, during the autumn season, the lake water may recede within a few hours. Even in flood or drought seasons, while other lakes turn muddy or reveal dry bottoms, Thang Hen Lake remains vividly green.
According to folklore, in the past, in the Tra Linh region, there was a clever and dashing young man who passed the imperial exam, receiving seven days of prosperity and blessings from his ancestors before heading to the capital. Before leaving, he married the beautiful Bi Ooc. Lost in the enchantment of his newlywed wife, he forgot the return date to the capital. Only on the seventh night did he remember, rushing back to the capital.
Crossing 36 valleys and rocky mountains in the dark of night, the exhausted man collapsed, hitting his head on the mountain and perishing. Those 36 valleys are now 36 lakes, large and small, with different names in the mountainous forests of Tra Linh district, Cao Bang province. It is believed that the place where he lay down is now Thang Hen Lake.
Traveling west, tourists will hear the rhythmic sounds of paddles chasing fish by local fishermen. Further to the east, the expansive lake shore is adorned with pleasant rocky outcrops resembling playful cat ears. In the northeast, Thang Hen Cave emerges from the water like the dormant head of a dragon for thousands of years. The picturesque beauty of Thang Hen Lake inspires visitors with visions of a lush green land and azure waters.
The lake area features towering rock cliffs, allowing visitors to easily observe age-old trees and various species of wild orchids. The natural environment provides an ideal habitat for wildlife such as singing birds, jungle fowl, and golden monkeys.
As per Mytour
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourOctober 3, 2023
