Visitors to Northern Vietnam should not miss out on Hoa Binh Lake, a picturesque freshwater lake in harmony with the untouched nature of the province. With different outdoor activities, it is a great spot for tourists to chill out and explore the local culture.
1. Where is Hoa Binh Lake? How to get there?
Hoa Binh Lake is located on Da River, 70 kilometers west of Hanoi. It is renowned as one of the largest artificial reservoirs in Vietnam. The lake is often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on the mountain” thanks to its wild natural beauty. It has now become one of the most famous Hoa Binh attractions.
With a short distance away from the capital, Hoa Binh Lake is an ideal destination for tourists on a day trip or weekend getaway. You can easily take a bus (from My Dinh or Yen Nghia Bus Station) or rent a motorbike to get to the lake from Hanoi. Another option is to hire a private car with a driver who will take you directly from Hanoi to the lake.
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2. The outstanding features of Hoa Binh Lake
This lake was formed during the construction of the Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant, with an impressive storage capacity of approximately 9.45 billion cubic meters. There are 47 large and small islets, comprising 11 limestone islets covering an area of 116 hectares and 36 mountainous islets spanning 157.5 hectares.
Beyond the crucial role in supplying water and generating hydroelectricity, Hoa Binh Lake contributes to the development of Hoa Binh tourism. With its immense size and scenic beauty, the lake attracts visitors seeking a retreat or a glimpse into the interaction between nature and human endeavors.
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3. What to experience on your excursion to Hoa Binh Lake?
3.1. Enjoy a boat trip and take part in fantastic activities
Taking a boat trip is the best way to explore Hoa Binh Lake. A scenic two-hour boat trip reveals the poetic natural landscapes here. You will see numerous spectacular places such as Thac Bo, Hoa Tien Cave, Bung Cave, Ngoi Hoa Bay, etc.
Moreover, there are many exciting activities, such as kayaking, canoeing, fishing, etc., that you can experience here. You can rent essential equipment from the lakeside homestays. The best time to kayak at Hoa Binh lake is around late afternoon, when you can paddle in a beautiful sunset.
3.2. Visit ethnic villages and explore the local culture
Tourists visiting Hoa Binh Lake should not miss the chance to experience the daily life of the Muong people. You can visit their stilt houses, meet the local people, and learn about their legends and folktales.
For those seeking an immersive local experience, community lodges in Ba Bia, Ngoi, and Ke villages provide an ideal stay. Savoring the delectable Muong cuisine and enjoying traditional Muong dance performances are must-do activities on your Hoa Binh travel.
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In addition to Hoa Binh Lake, the northwestern region of Vietnam boasts other attractions like Sapa and Ha Giang, which are both ideal destinations for backpacking travel. Besides, Vietnam offers a lot of tourist sites across the country, with the highlights of Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Da Nang, Ha Long, etc.
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Hoa Binh Lake is a breathtaking attraction that offers visitors a unique and peaceful experience amidst nature. Its green waters, stunning mountains, and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit place on Northern Vietnam tours. Don’t forget to take a boat trip along the lake, visit the lakeside villages, and satisfy your taste buds with the local cuisine here.
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