Cao Bang Tourism And Travel Guide

Cao Bang continues to draw the imagination of local and international tourists in Vietnam. This quiet, charming northern province located in the countryside is home to many stunning natural wonders. Tourism here is at its peak from October to April, with the seasons being divided into Dry and Monsoon. Additionally, the best way to reach the destination is by taking a car or bus from Hanoi nearby. The most popular things to do also revolve around natural wonders like the Bang Gioc Waterfalls and ancient cave systems like the Nguom Ngao Cave. This coupled with the laidback vibe of the town and the delicious local cuisine makes for a great holiday. Here's a short Cao Bang travel guide for the same.

By Air:

Both domestic and international visitors will be required to fly out to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi as there are no domestic airports in Cao Bang.

By Road:

The only way to reach Cao Bang locally is by catching a bus or private taxi from one of the neighboring destinations. The closest journey is from Hanoi which takes about 5 hours. 

By Rail:

There are unfortunately no train routes to Cao Bang.

Monsoon Season (October – March):

Not the most popular season for travel to Cao Bang, as this town is susceptible to high winds, heavy showers and increased humidity due to its geographic location in the north of Vietnam.

Dry Season (April – September):

Generally, the preferred season to visit Cao Bang owing to the lower levels of rainfall and humidity. Additionally, the clear skies make it ideal for outdoor adventure activities.

Explore Bang Gioc Waterfalls:

Exploring this ecological wonder is one of the best things to do in Cao Bang. The surrounding natural beauty and 5 intricate waterfalls is not to be missed.

Visit the Truc Lam Phat Tich Pagoda:

Checking out this ancient wonder is an ideal way to spend the day for historians and architecture lovers.

Check Out Nguom Ngao Cave:

This is a cave full of limestone rocks that are millions of years old and nearly 2 km deep. It makes for an adventurous way to spend the day. 

Thang Hen Lake System: 

The Hen Lake is a small but charming lake where visitors can observe local farmers and fishermen going about their daily routine. It is one of the best things to do here as it gives visitors a taste of rural life in Vietnam.

Due to its location in the northern province of the Vietnamese countryside, the cuisine of Cao Bang involves loads of fresh produce and locally sourced herbs and spices as well as standard fish-based sauces. Ban Coong Phu is one of the most popular dishes here and is like a rice based spicy soup. Additionally, a sour version of the famed pho soup called Pho Chua is famous here. Visitors can find equally good food in roadside stalls or fancy restaurants.

There are both daily and quarterly markets that are held in Cao Bang. However, these are primarily filled with fresh produce, spices, sauces and other produce. Visitors can alternatively also find local handicrafts and souvenirs in and around the major tourist destinations. Being a more laid back and simple town, there are practically no major shopping malls or chains here.