Top 10 Most Beautiful Lakes in the Ba Nui Mountain Region, An Giang

Thanh Long Lake was completed in 2015. Located on the majestic Thiên Cấm Mountain, it collects water from the Thanh Long stream on the slopes of Ông Cấm Mountain. The lake is considered an important irrigation project that marks a historic milestone in the development of highland irrigation in the Ba Nui region. Situated in Rau Tần village, it is currently being expanded with a water reservoir. The lake receives water from small streams flowing through rocky crevices, including Pháo Binh and Bà Cửu hills. During the rainy season, the lake stores a significant amount of water. In the past, it was from this lake that the cool Thanh Long stream emerged. Early settlers on the mountain relied on this lake for their water supply, and local farmers use the lake's water to irrigate their gardens year-round.

The lake's designed capacity is 255,000 cubic meters, with a total surface area of over 11 hectares, situated over 400 meters above sea level on Cấm Mountain. Aesthetically, Thanh Long Lake enhances the serene beauty of the Thanh Long stream as it peacefully flows along the mountain slopes. The lake lies beneath a cable car route, providing a picturesque view for tourists. This cable car system, the first in the Mekong Delta, is km long, making it the second longest in the country. Visitors riding the cable car will enjoy the dreamlike view of the lake and the thrilling sensation of floating through the mist. The vast, majestic natural landscape of the mountains will offer unforgettable experiences for those visiting the "Mysterious Seven Mountains" region.

Ô Tức Sa Lake has a tranquil surface and a cool, refreshing atmosphere. However, due to its location near the base of Thiên Cấm Mountain, it is somewhat shielded from the wind during certain seasons, unlike other nearby lakes like Ô Tà Sóc and Soài So. Ô Tức Sa is an irrigation reservoir designed to support agriculture in the mountain region during the dry season. The lake is situated in a quiet, sparsely populated area, far from the center, which adds to its rustic charm and natural beauty, attracting many visitors for photography. From Điện 13 (Vồ Đầu village, Cấm Mountain), the lake appears like a vast pond surrounded by endless rice fields.

Ô Tức Sa Lake collects a significant amount of rainwater, providing water for the residents of Chi Lăng town and surrounding communes like Vĩnh Trung, An Cư, An Hảo, and Tân Lợi in Tịnh Biên District. It is renowned as one of the “skywater” lakes in the Ba Nui region. The Ô Tức Sa stream flows from the Thủy Liêm cave (Cấm Mountain), cascading down a waterfall into the lake. The water flow is strong during the rainy season and when the dam is opened. Experiencing the majestic beauty of nature here can invigorate you, offering a chance to rejuvenate and improve your health. However, Ô Tức Sa also serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and safety, ensuring that we protect the invaluable gifts of nature given to the land and people of An Giang.

Ô Tà Sóc Lake is located at the foot of Ngọa Long Mountain (in Lương Phi Commune, Tri Tôn District, An Giang), offering a tranquil, serene, and mysterious beauty amidst the surrounding forested mountains. The name Ô Tà Sóc comes from Khmer, meaning 'the stream of Ông Sóc'. It is situated on the high point of Dài Mountain – a majestic peak in An Ninh village, about 11 km from Tri Tôn town. This lake was recently constructed and opened for use in 2016. It serves as an irrigation reservoir for local farmers in the area. Nestled between mountain crevices, the lake’s surface is beautifully calm, with constant breezes creating gentle ripples. The water, sourced from mountain streams, is clear and cool. Many locals bring their children to swim here as the lake's water is pure and refreshing. With a capacity of 620,000 cubic meters, Ô Tà Sóc supports irrigation for 150 hectares of farmland in Lương Phi Commune, providing peace of mind to the farmers.

To get to the lake, take Provincial Road 955B to Lương Phi Commune in Tri Tôn. On your right, you will see the entrance to the Ô Tà Sóc base. From the entrance, travel about 1 km to reach the lake. A few hundred meters from the entrance, there is a shop that sells delicious sweet palm milk. Along the way, you'll pass beautiful stretches of tall, slender bamboo forests on both sides of the road. With its cool atmosphere and pristine natural beauty, Ô Tà Sóc Lake is a popular spot for Tri Tôn's youth to hang out, take photos, and enjoy a camping trip in the evening. If you haven't been here yet, it's definitely worth a visit to check it out!

Ô Thum Lake (located in Ô Lâm Commune, Tri Tôn District, An Giang) is a water reservoir built at the base of Cô Tô Mountain to support agricultural activities. It lies to the west of Cô Tô (Phụng Hoàng) Mountain and to the east of Tức Dụp Hill. The lake offers stunning views, but because it is tucked deep in the foothills, it remains quiet and secluded, making it the perfect escape for those seeking peace in nature. In the middle of the lake, a small mound rises above the water, resembling a tiny island. Locals have built a simple wooden bridge connecting both shores, enhancing the lake's romantic beauty.

Formed about a decade ago, Ô Thum Lake was designed primarily to store water for farming. While it is not large, the lake’s peaceful and serene waters create a charming landscape. Local residents say that the lake is at its most beautiful during the rainy season, when the water spills over its stone banks, adding a wild, untamed feel to the surroundings. The banks of the lake are lined with sweet palm trees, a tree symbolizing An Giang Province. The name “thốt nốt” is derived from the Khmer word “th'not”. In addition to sightseeing and photography, visitors can also enjoy boating around the lake. Lakeside restaurants offer free boat rides for diners. Along the approach to the lake, locals sell fresh sweet palm fruit, beverages, and sugar made from these fruits, perfect for souvenirs.

Tri Tôn District, An Giang, with its stunning natural beauty, unspoiled landscapes, and rich historical and revolutionary landmarks, has long been a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation and memorable photos. One of the most beautiful lakes here is Cô Tô Stone Lake, a man-made reservoir created from stone quarrying in the area. Similar to Tà Pạ Lake, this lake is deep and the water remains crystal clear throughout the year. It is often affectionately referred to as 'Hà Tiên 2' by the youth.

The road leading to this lake is somewhat rough and dusty, as it is near a stone quarry. Visitors may occasionally hear blasting sounds from nearby factories. However, it's important to drive carefully on this uneven road to avoid any accidents. Once you arrive, the breathtaking view of the vast landscape and majestic mountains will certainly take your breath away. The best time to visit Cô Tô Stone Lake is during the flood season, from September to November (the exact timing may vary each year). During this period, the water level rises, making the lake appear even more expansive and crystal-clear than usual.

Latina Lake marks the border between Tịnh Biên and Tri Tôn districts, situated at the foot of the sacred Cấm Mountain. Known locally as the Stone Lake, it draws many visitors with its pristine beauty and towering rock cliffs that rise steeply along the shores. The lake is located near a trail leading up to Cấm Mountain, with the shore lined by countless flat stones in various shapes and sizes. Visitors can sit on these stones, dipping their feet in the cool waters. The lake's depth is not too great, and the water is clear enough to see all the way to the bottom. For young travelers, Latina Lake provides an ideal setting for taking beautiful photos and relaxing on the stones, surrounded by nature.

A visit to Latina Lake brings a sense of nostalgia, evoking the peacefulness of rural life. Along the winding trail up to Cấm Mountain, one side offers endless views of lush rice fields, while the other side reveals the majestic, unspoiled mountain. In some areas, wild grasses in vibrant colors peek out from behind rocky outcrops. Everything here feels simple, serene, and familiar, offering a peaceful retreat. In spring, visitors can enjoy the refreshing, vibrant scenery, a symbol of new life and hope. In the summer, with the bright golden sun, the landscape around Latina Lake becomes even more stunning. The water is crystal clear, and the calm surface reflects the vast blue sky. The lake, nestled between the mountains, takes on a melancholic, yet romantic charm.

Soài Chek Lake is a newly constructed reservoir designed to support agricultural activities. The lake is surrounded by majestic mountains, providing a stunning landscape, and is conveniently located not far from the town center. This makes it an ideal site for the development of eco-tourism in the region. After the completion of the Soài Chek Reservoir at the foot of Mount Tô, local authorities have built a bull racing track, a public park, and a Khmer cultural center. The area is also connected by a new road to Tức Dụp Hill, Núi Tô Commune, and the town center.

In the future, the total area of the Soài Chek tourism and sports complex is expected to span approximately 50 hectares, featuring nature-based tourism attractions, resort villas, and Khmer cultural festivals. The area will regularly host sports events like the Ba Nui bull racing festival, off-road motorcycle and car races, and other exciting activities. Visitors will have the chance to explore, relax, and enjoy precious moments with family and friends in this serene, yet dynamic setting.

A visit to An Giang wouldn't be complete without experiencing the stunning beauty of Tà Pạ Lake – often referred to as the “Western’s Forbidden Pond.” Formed from rock mining activities, this lake sits atop Tà Pạ Mountain, creating a breathtaking landscape that looks like a Chinese ink painting, leaving visitors in awe. Much like other lakes in the Ba Mountain area, the road leading to Tà Pạ Lake remains wild and tranquil. Surrounded by towering mountains, the serene and crystal-clear lake is not only visually captivating but also a romantic retreat, ideal for couples seeking a peaceful escape. The surface of the water is always calm, so clear that you can see straight to the bottom. The surrounding scenery reflects perfectly in the water, blending the vibrant greens of vegetation with the turquoise sky, creating a magnificent and mesmerizing sight.

The lake is about 17 meters deep, but due to its past as a quarry site, swimming or wading is strictly prohibited for safety. Around the lake, visitors can enjoy the peaceful views of the untouched rice fields, offering a truly rustic and tranquil atmosphere. Tà Pạ Lake has become a popular location for wedding photoshoots and is a favored spot for young travelers looking for the perfect backdrop, whether it’s the mountain views or the crystal-clear waters. From Tà Pạ Lake, visitors can explore the Trà Sư Forest, visit Tà Pạ Pagoda, or stroll across the iconic Tà Pạ Rice Fields. The rice fields here are particularly unique, known for the “round rice farming” tradition of the Khmer people. If you're in An Giang, make sure not to miss this “Forbidden Pond” of the West.

Soài So Lake is one of the most well-known natural lakes at the foot of Tô Mountain. This pristine lake collects water from the Golden Stream and lies less than 2 kilometers from the center of Tri Tôn district, situated conveniently along the main road leading to Tô Mountain, making it an ideal spot for travelers seeking to experience the untouched beauty of the second highest mountain in the Ba Mountain range (after Mount Cấm). Upon arriving at the lake, visitors are immediately struck by the majestic views of Mount Cô Tô and the unique shoreline, with crystal-clear water that is so still it almost mirrors the surroundings. The lake's scenic beauty is complemented by its cool, fresh climate, making it an excellent place to relax and enjoy the surrounding natural landscapes. Further inside, visitors can stroll beneath the shade of towering mango trees, intertwined with vegetable gardens and cashew plantations cultivated by local villagers, adding a rustic charm to the area and creating an unforgettable impression for all who visit. Soài So Lake is also a fantastic destination for family and friends to enjoy a picnic amidst nature.

In the past, visitors had to navigate narrow, rocky trails to reach the mountain peak, often struggling to climb while holding onto trees. However, today, travelers are greeted with a smooth, paved road that leads to the scenic Phụng Hoàng Mountain. The once winding, treacherous path has been widened, and motorbikes can now easily climb to the top, where the views of the vast forests and legendary tales surrounding the Golden Stream and Soài So Lake await. Along the way, visitors pass through lush forests and extensive fruit orchards, particularly mango and jackfruit, as well as vast, green plantations resembling a plateau atop the mountain. The gentle waters of Soài So Lake still capture the golden rays of the sun, creating a mesmerizing reflection that invites visitors to pause and take in the beauty of the moment.

Thủy Liêm Lake is located in front of the Maitreya Buddha statue, flanked by the Phật Lớn Pagoda and the Vạn Linh Pagoda at the majestic peak of Cấm Sơn Mountain. Positioned at a high elevation, the lake is often enveloped by clouds, giving it an ethereal charm. Thủy Liêm Lake is the oldest constructed water reservoir in the region.

Many visitors fondly refer to Thủy Liêm Lake as the second Xuan Huong Lake, owing to its tranquil beauty, reminiscent of the Xuan Huong Lake in Da Lat. Situated on Cấm Mountain, the lake spans 60,000 square meters and holds 300,000 cubic meters of water. With its picturesque setting, the lake has now become a popular spot for releasing fish, symbolizing peace and good fortune. Additionally, visitors can admire the unique architecture of the Xá Lợi Pagoda atop the lake.

Currently, the lake's water is used by locals for daily needs and as a source for firefighting during the dry season. Surrounding the lake are colorful flower gardens, casting their reflections on the water's surface. Fish swim playfully beneath, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere. Early mornings at the lake are particularly magical, as misty clouds hover over the calm water, the picturesque scenery evoking a peaceful stillness, accompanied only by the distant sound of temple bells.

During the dam's release, water cascades dramatically from the cliff, forming beautiful waterfalls and streams that transform the surrounding forest into a white mist. Adventurous young visitors take delight in playing under the cool, refreshing waters, all while capturing stunning photos of the pristine landscape. Thủy Liêm Lake is truly a perfect place for relaxation, enjoying the breeze, and capturing unforgettable memories amidst nature's splendor.