Hoa Binh Lake: boating and visiting the Thac Bo Temple.
Hoa Binh Lake is over 100km long with 8,000 hectares of water and 47 islands; enjoy boat trips to watch the sunrise and sunset, and visit the Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple (Phu Tho), a national historical site since 2009.
A boat trip on Hoa Binh Lake followed by a visit to the Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple (Phu Tho province) is a convenient itinerary combining expansive natural scenery with a tranquil spiritual atmosphere. Over 100km of water surface, 8,000 hectares of lakebed, and 47 large and small islands create an unforgettable landscape of mountains and water, with the Thac Bo historical site recognized as a National Scenic Landscape in 2009.
Hoa Binh Lake: a spacious area amidst the mountains and forests.
Stretching over 100km and covering an area of 8,000 hectares, Hoa Binh Lake offers the feeling of "having the sea in the heart of the mountains." 47 islands rise and fall on the water's surface, reflecting their images, leading many to liken it to a miniature Ha Long Bay in the Northwest. The continuous rocky mountains and dense forests embracing the lake create an ideal natural backdrop for any exploration journey.
Rowing: listening to the water, chasing the light.
A boat trip around the lake is the best way to truly feel the rhythm of the place: the water is crystal clear in the early morning, reflecting the blue sky; in the afternoon, the sunlight bathes the lake in golden light, and a gentle breeze rustles through the trees, slowing everything down. Amidst the vast expanse, the sound of oars splashing in the water and the scent of damp air from the lake create unforgettable memories.
Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple (Phu Tho): tranquil beside the Da River.
Located on a sacred mountain, the Thac Bo Goddess Temple is a famous spiritual tourist destination, attracting tens of thousands of visitors from all over the country each year to worship, pray for peace, and enjoy the scenic mountain and water views. The complex is built facing the river and nestled against the mountain, and is divided into two areas: the Thac Bo Goddess Temple on the left bank, situated on the top of Hang Than hill; and the Thac Bo Temple on the right bank, at the foot of Thac Bo waterfall, right next to the Da River. Despite numerous renovations, the site has retained its unique characteristics.
Golden moment on the lake
In the early morning, the lake's surface is crystal clear, reflecting the blue sky vividly, ideal for quietly admiring the water and the mountain ranges that embrace the lake. As evening falls, the sunlight bathes the water in golden light, the sky gradually warms and then darkens, leaving a sense of peace as the boat glides back across the water.
Each season has its own charm.
- Spring: a light mist hangs in the air, the landscape is bathed in a silvery hue like a legend; a gentle drizzle makes the mountains and forests even more ethereal.
- Summer: the lake water is a vibrant blue; white clouds drift across the clear sky, creating a sharp and dazzling landscape.
- Autumn: gentle sunshine; deep purple sunsets over the mountainsides, the lake's surface gradually calming, perfect for moments of tranquility.
- Winter: calm waters, peaceful and restrained atmosphere.
Suggested experiences for the day
- In the early morning: take a boat ride around the lake when the water is crystal clear, admiring the reflections of the mountains and hills and the undulating islands.
- Afternoon: Return to the lake at dusk to watch the sunset; combine this with a visit to the Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple (Phu Tho province) in a tranquil setting overlooking the river and mountains.
Note
- Hoa Binh Lake is suitable for visits year-round; each season offers a different experience.
- Take your time exploring to appreciate the tranquility of the water and the solemn atmosphere of the temple.
- Taking a boat is the closest way to witness the changing light from sunrise to sunset on the lake.
