Known as the “Halong Bay” on the Da River, Thung Nai is the perfect summer destination for those seeking pristine nature.
Explore the Beauty of Thung Nai with Mytour

In recent years, Thung Nai has become a hot topic among adventure enthusiasts, located approximately 110km from Hanoi. Situated in the heart of Da River, Cao Phong District (Hoa Binh Province), Thung Nai captivates visitors with its pristine and rustic charm.
For those residing in Hanoi and neighboring areas of Hoa Binh, Thung Nai is an easily accessible destination by motorcycle, being not too far away. Traveling by motorcycle adds excitement as it allows you to manage your own time, save costs, and stop anytime to admire and capture the landscapes of the Northwest mountains and forests.

According to local residents, Thung Nai derives its name from “thung lũng” (valley) and “đàn nai” (herd of deer). Previously, Thung Nai was a large valley surrounded by dense forests and high mountains. It was home to various animals such as tigers, leopards, deer, and especially deer... living. Every day, herds of deer grazed, frolicked on the mountainsides, and hills. This picturesque natural scene has led people to call this place by a simple name until now: Thung Nai.

First impressions of Thung Nai evoke a sense of peace akin to a dreamland, simultaneously wild and romantic, authentic and serene. The scenery is immersed in the predominant green of the vast water, majestic mountains, and drifting clouds. Except on rainy days, the lake surface reflects a reddish hue of sediment, otherwise Thung Nai is shrouded in an enchanting iridescent blue light. Nature's beauty, above the clouds, high mountains, below is the deep lake blending into the calm green of the river.
Since the construction of the Hoa Binh hydroelectric plant, the water of the Da River has flooded the valleys, transforming Thung Nai into a gigantic reservoir. Simultaneously, the rising water levels create small beautiful islands that bob on the waves, reminiscent of a “Halong Bay” on the Da River.

The cool climate year-round has made Thung Nai an ideal recreational and outdoor destination, especially during the hot summer. Thung Nai is beautiful and romantic all year round. Most beautiful on full moon days, the moonlight gently shines down on the lake's surface on quiet nights, or immerses oneself in the poetic nature of the river and lakes.



You can name each small island you pass based on its unique shape. Like a small island with a peak resembling a warrior looking towards the shore. Or the low and high islands that protrude into the river. Or the “rocky island” composed of countless rocks of different shapes still bravely standing against the heavens and earth without wearing out…
If you're looking for a lively entertainment spot or a luxurious resort, Thung Nai may not be the best choice. But to experience the rural charm, there's no better place than here. Stay for at least a day to experience the countryside life firsthand. During the day, you can chase chickens, catch river fish, pick wild vegetables, in the evening go boating on the lake to admire the moon or light a campfire, grill fish, enjoy a few cups of strong wine, then chat, sing... What could be better than that!
By Đặng Huy/Timeout Vietnam
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Reference: Explore Travel Tips on Mytour
MytourMay 31st, 2017