Overview of Na Hang Lake

Na Hang Lake, also known as Tuyen Quang Hydroelectric Lake, is a magnificent artificial structure nestled in the middle of the majestic limestone mountains of Tuyen Quang Province. The lake spreads across the communes of Na Hang and Lam Binh, famous for its watery landscape considered "Ha Long Bay on land". The blue lake water surface embraces the rolling mountains, creating a unique ecosystem in the Na Hang - Lam Binh Nature Reserve. This is an attractive destination to explore the pristine natural beauty and fresh climate.

Na Hang Lake

Na Hang Lake has dual values of energy and eco-tourism, and is also the convergence of the Gam River and Nang River. Visitors coming here cannot miss the cruise experience to admire Khuoi Nhi Waterfall and the legendary Vai Pha stone pillar in the middle of the lake. Besides, cultural relics such as Pac Ta Temple are also attractions for spiritual tourists. Attention is being paid to exploiting the sustainable tourism potential in this area, aiming to turn the lake communes into high-quality ecological resort destinations of Tuyen Quang Province.

Outstanding attractions in Na Hang Lake

Khuoi Nhi Waterfall

Khuoi Nhi Waterfall

Khuoi Nhi Waterfall is a unique landscape located deep in the lake, where visitors must travel by boat to reach. The waterfall has many levels, the water pours down with white foam, creating a majestic and poetic scene amidst the mountains and forests. A special attraction for tourists is the experience of soaking their feet in the lake at the foot of the waterfall to be massaged by wild fish, a unique and relaxing ecological resort service.

Coi Pha Pile (Elephant Tie Pole)

Pha is a towering limestone column more than 30 meters high, emerging in the heart of Na Hang Lake, in Na Hang commune (Tuyen Quang Province). Local legend says that this is the stone pillar that the ancestors of the Tay people used to tie elephants when exploring the land, carrying a deep spiritual meaning. Cot Vai Pha is considered a unique symbol of the lake, a check-in point not to be missed, attracting tourists with its majestic beauty and interesting historical story.

Pac Ta Temple

Pac Ta Temple

Pac Ta Temple is a sacred temple located on Pac Ta mountain overlooking the lake, in Na Hang commune (Tuyen Quang province). The temple worships the fiancée of General Tran Nhat Duat, who was instrumental in suppressing the Northern rebellion and is revered by local people. The temple has been relocated and rebuilt on a higher mountain top due to hydroelectric projects, retaining its traditional architectural value and is a place to organize large peace and blessing festivals.

Na Hang - Lam Binh Nature Reserve

Na Hang Nature Reserve - Lam Binh

This large Nature Reserve covers most of the lake bed and surrounding forests, located in Na Hang and Lam Binh communes. This is the residence of many rare species of animals and plants, especially the snub-nosed monkey (or Tuyen Quang langur) which is at high risk of extinction. Tourists who love biological exploration and wildlife photography can participate in special eco-tours here.

Pac Ban Waterfall (7-storey Waterfall)

Pac Ban Waterfall

Pac Ban Waterfall, or Also known as Seven Storey Waterfall, is another beautiful waterfall located in Lam Binh Conservation Area, Lam Binh commune of Tuyen Quang Province. True to its name, the waterfall has seven levels of water pouring continuously through mossy rocks, creating an amazing natural scene. To reach the waterfall, visitors need to walk a short distance through the forest, providing an interesting experience of exploration and trekking among rich vegetation.

In addition to the above main highlights, the lake bed area and its surroundings also have many notable tourist experiences:

  • Song Long Cave: Mysterious limestone cave with a splendid stalactite system, located right next to the River Power.

  • Da Nhay Beach: A natural rocky beach area with a unique shape, suitable for resting, admiring the scenery and taking photos during the cruise.

  • Na Tong Cultural Village: A village of the Tay people in Lam Binh commune, famous for its traditional stilt houses and brocade weaving, a tourist destination. Guests can experience local culture.

  • Dream Waterfall: Another beautiful, majestic waterfall located near the old town of Na Hang, easily accessible and attracting tourists to cool off and enjoy.

Best time to travel

>Spring (January to March) - Festival Season

Spring is the ideal time to explore Na Hang Lake combined with spiritual cultural experiences in Tuyen Quang Province. The weather is cool and pleasant, very suitable for yachting activities and light trekking. In particular, this is the season where major traditional festivals take place in the area, typically the Tong Tong Festival (field-going ceremony) of the Tay people, providing an opportunity to learn about unique customs and a joyful, bustling atmosphere.

Summer (April to July) - Waterfall Season and Beautiful Landscapes

This is the rainy season in the mountains, causing The lake water level rises and waterfalls such as Khuoi Nhi or Pac Ban pour water strongly, creating the most majestic and breathtaking scenery. The scenery of mountains and forests around the lake in the summer becomes greener and denser, very suitable for those who are passionate about landscape photography. Visitors can also enjoy the fresh, cool air, away from the sweltering heat of the plain.

Autumn (August to October) - Peaceful Travel Season

Autumn brings cold weather, little rain, and is the perfect time for trips to find peace and quiet on the lake. The lake water level is stable, making it easier to travel by boat to explore the deep nooks and crannies inside. This is also the harvest season of some typical fruit trees of the region, bringing an exciting seasonal culinary experience to visitors.

Winter (November to December) - Frost Hunting Season and Magical Scenery

Winter in Na Hang is immersed in cold air and is often covered with fog in the early morning, creating magical, place-like scenery. Fairyland on the lake surface. This time is suitable for tourists who want to watch the clouds and mist spread over the limestone peaks and take photos of the unique landscape. Furthermore, this is an opportunity to enjoy hot rustic dishes and experience relaxation in cozy villages such as Na Tong Cultural Village.

Transportation information

By air

Na Hang Lake (Tuyen Quang Province) does not have a direct airport.

  • Popular flight route:

    • Travelers traveling from Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang need to fly to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi.

    • After arriving in Noi Bai, visitors must continue traveling by road (passenger car, Limousine or private car) about 270–300 km to reach the Na Hang Lake area.

By road

  • Popular route Variable:

    • Hanoi → Na Hang Lake (Na Hang commune / Lam Binh): about 270–300 km, travel time 5–7 hours (depending on route and vehicle).

  • Reputable bus company (Bed located/Limousine):

    • Wuhan Group, Bao Yen, Tuyen Quang Limousine, Thanh Trung...

  • Reference ticket price:

    • Hanoi ↔ Na Hang: about 190,000 - 280,000 VND/person (depending on vehicle type and service).

  • Departure bus station:

    • In Hanoi: My Dinh bus station, Giap Bat bus station.

    • In Tuyen Quang: Bus companies usually have pick-up/drop-off points at Na Hang Bus Station or by agreement.

Travel in Ho Na Hang area

Tourist ship to explore the lake bed

Popular means of transport variable:

  • Train/Tourist boat: Required to visit the lake bed. Boats are full of life jackets, some large boats have fans and air conditioners.

  • Taxi/Motorbike taxi: Operating in the centers of Na Hang and Lam Binh communes.

  • Motorbike rental: Very suitable for tourists who want to freely explore places on the shore such as Pac Ban Waterfall, Na Cultural Village Tong.

Reference ship/boat rental price (depending on size and service):

  • Group of 10–15 guests: About 1,000,000 VND/trip/round trip.

  • Group of 20 passenger: About 1,500,000 VND/trip/round trip.

  • Large ship (40–60 passengers, air-conditioned): About 4,500,000 VND/trip.

Reputable motorbike rental address (in the vicinity of Na Hang):

  • Homestay Hoang Tuan: Thuong Lam, Na Hang | ☎ 0335 774 842

  • Services in the city. Tuyen Quang (if riding a motorbike from the city): Lo Giang, Minh Thanh Guest House.

Reference motorbike rental price:

  • Motorbike: 80,000 - 120,000 VND/day.

  • Handbike Station: 130,000 - 150,000 VND/day.

Accommodation information

Luxury (Standard Hotel)

Due to its characteristics as an eco-tourism area, the Ho Na Hang area focuses mainly on homestays and resorts. The most comfortable hotels are often located in the center of Na Hang commune or the center of Tuyen Quang province.

Muong Thanh Grand Tuyen Quang Hotel

This is a 4-star hotel providing the most modern and complete amenities in the province, located in Minh Xuan Ward. The hotel has standard services such as swimming pool, high-end restaurant and conference room. Although it is about 100km from Na Hang Lake, this is an ideal choice for travelers who want a luxurious stay before or after a trip to the lake. Room prices here range from 900,000 - 1,800,000 VND/night, depending on room type.

Royal Palace Hotel

Royal Palace Tuyen Quang Hotel

This hotel is also located in the central area of Tuyen Quang, belonging to Minh Xuan Ward, is a high-quality choice with modern design and attentive service. Royal Palace provides comfortable, clean resting facilities, suitable for business travelers or families. Room prices here are usually in the range of 600,000 - 1,200,000 VND/night, a good alternative to large hotel chains.

If you want more convenient options in the center of Tuyen Quang Province, you can consider other quality hotels:

  • Mai Son Hotel - Located near the central area, in Minh Xuan Ward - Price approx. 500,000 - 900,000 VND/night.

  • Tan Trao Hotel - Located near the central area, in Minh Xuan Ward - Price about 450,000 - 750,000 VND/night.

Resort (Ecolodge, Lakeside Bungalow)

This is the most advanced form of accommodation and most suitable for ecological experiences in the Na Hang Lake area, concentrated mainly in Lam Binh commune.

Lam Binh Ecolodge (Eco-resort)

Located in Lam Binh commune, this resort is famous for its wooden bungalows designed in harmony with nature, providing a quiet and private space absolutely. Lam Binh Ecolodge has lake views, offers specialty dining and organizes indigenous cultural activities. Room prices here usually range from 1,500,000 - 3,000,000 VND/night, depending on the type of bungalow and tourist season.

Na Hang Ecolodge (Resort)

Located in Na Hang commune, this facility provides comfortable rooms and stilt houses, designed in a rustic style. but modern. Visitors can enjoy fresh air, close to nature and easily connect with boat tours. Room prices at Na Hang Ecolodge are usually in the range of 1,000,000 - 2,200,000 VND/night.

Experience (Community Homestay)

This is an economical way to stay and brings the deepest cultural experience, mainly located in Tay ethnic villages.

Homestay A Gun

Located in Na Tong village, Lam Binh commune, Homestay A Sung is one of the typical community facilities, built in the traditional stilt house style of the Tay people. Visitors can experience family cuisine, participate in singing and dancing and learn about brocade weaving. Dormitory room prices are usually 80,000 - 150,000 VND/person/night, private rooms are about 350,000 - 500,000 VND/night.

Homestay Tai Ngao 

Also located in Na Tong village, Homestay Tai Ngao is famous for its view of rice fields beauty and hospitality of the host. This homestay offers specialty dining upon request and is an ideal stop to explore local culture. Room prices range from 300,000 - 600,000 VND/night, depending on room type and included services.

For travelers who love a cozy space, reasonable cost but still fully equipped, the following places are worth a try:

  • Cuong Huong Homestay - Near Na Hang boat wharf - Price from 400,000 - 700,000 VND/night.

  • Bui Thuc Homestay - Na Hang Commune Center - Price from 350,000 - 550,000 VND/night.

Cuisine and cultural ceremonies Hoi An 

Famous Restaurants 

Ha Thoi Restaurant (Stilt House Restaurant)

Ha Thoi Restaurant is famous for its unique traditional stilt house space, imbued with Tay ethnic architecture. The restaurant is located at group 8, Na Hang commune, is an ideal place to enjoy quality, rustic dishes. Special dishes include Lake Lang Fish prepared in all kinds of ways (braised with melon, grilled, salad) and Grilled Hill Chicken. The average price here ranges from 250,000 - 450,000 VND/person.

Thach Hoa Vien Restaurant 

Thach Hoa Vien Restaurant

Thach Hoa Vien is located in Group 3, Na Hang commune, is one of the restaurants with spacious and airy space, suitable for welcoming large groups of guests. The restaurant specializes in mountain, forest and river specialties such as Lang Ho Fried Fish (charcoal-grilled fried fish), Buffalo Meat and many delicious fresh wild vegetable dishes. The rich menu and good service quality are big plus points. The average price is about 200,000 - 400,000 VND/person.

Some other high-end/famous culinary places you can refer to:

  • Luong Son Quan Restaurant - Na Hang: Rustic architectural space, serving unique, rustic dishes.

  • Lam Binh Ecolodge Cuisine Area - Lam Binh: For resort guests, serving high-end dishes in local fusion style.

Local cuisine - Lake fish specialties

Lake fish of Ho Na Hang

Lang fish is raised or caught naturally from Na Hang lake, the fish meat is firm, sweet and fragrant and has no fishy smell. This is the most famous specialty in the region and is often processed into a variety of dishes. The most popular are Lang fish braised with sour bamboo shoots or Grilled Lang fish with galangal, rich in mountain and forest flavor. This dish is the top choice at parties for guests or family meals.

Black Pig (Ban Pig) Steamed with Lemon Leaves 

Black pigs are raised freely in the villages of the Dao and Tay people in Na Hang and Lam Binh communes, so the meat is very fragrant and the skin is crispy. Pork is often steamed with lemon leaves or grilled, preserving the natural sweetness of the meat. This dish is often eaten with Cham Xoi salt (or Cham Xoi), a typical dipping spice of the highlands.

Suggested culinary address:

  • En Na Hang Island Restaurant - Near the wharf area, Na Hang: Famous for fresh fish and ethnic dishes.

  • Canh Ho Restaurant - Lam Binh: Specializes in serving local dishes, especially Ban Pig and wild vegetables.

  • Homestay at Ban Na Tong - Lam Binh: Serves meals on traditional trays, allowing visitors to enjoy cuisine right at the stilt house.

Experiential Cuisine - Village Flavors

Making and Enjoying Leaves Leaves Corn Wine

In villages in Lam Binh and Na Hang communes, visitors have the opportunity to experience the traditional Dao people's process of distilling Leaves Leaves Corn Wine. The wine is brewed with natural forest leaf yeast, has a light sweet taste, fragrant corn smell and does not cause headaches. This is not only a drink but also a hospitable culture of highland people, often used in festivals and parties.

Pig Tongue Bamboo Shoot Soup and Wild Vegetables 

The Ho Na Hang area has a rich source of wild vegetables and bamboo shoots, exploited seasonally. Pork Tongue Bamboo Soup is a rustic sour soup, refreshing and rich in nutrients, very suitable for cooling off. Guests staying at the homestay can join local people to pick wild vegetables and cook simple, natural meals.

Cultural Experiences & Festivals

Ho Na Hang culture is a multi-ethnic mix of Tay, Dao, and H'Mong people, with many festivals associated with religion and agriculture.

Long Tong Festival (Field Festival) – Tay People

Long Tong Festival​​​​​

  • Time: Usually takes place at the beginning of the lunar year (January) in communes around the lake such as Na Hang and Lam Binh.

  • Content: The festival aims to give thanks to heaven and earth, praying for a year of favorable weather and good harvests. The solemn ceremony includes the ritual of plowing the fields at the beginning of the year, followed by a festival with folk games such as shuttlecock throwing, tug of war, and traditional Then singing and dancing.

Dao people's ceremony

  • Time: Not fixed, takes place at the request of the family.

  • Content: The Cap Sac Ceremony is an important coming-of-age ceremony, marking the recognition that a Dao man is qualified to participate in worship and community activities. Lucky visitors can witness complex spiritual rituals, listen to ancient offerings and participate in multi-day celebrations.

Other cultural festivals:

  • Khau Vai Love Market Festival (Meo Vac) - Although located in Ha Giang before, it is very close to Lam Binh area: Taking place in the third lunar month, attracts tourists from Tuyen Quang to participate.

  • Fire Dancing Festival of the Dao people - Held at the end of the year or the beginning of the lunar year: Demonstrating spiritual strength, with the ritual of jumping into embers.

Amusement area

Community cultural tourism village

Lam Binh Community Cultural Tourism Village

Cultural villages in Lam Binh commune, especially Na Tong village, are the center of entertainment activities and cultural experiences. Tourists come here not only to relax in traditional stilt houses but also to participate in cultural exchanges, learn bamboo dancing and xoe dancing with the Tay ethnic people. In the evenings, there is often a campfire, drinking leaf-fermented corn wine and enjoying Then singing and Tinh music performances, creating a joyful, cozy and richly authentic atmosphere.

Tuyen Quang also has many other attractive places to visit and experience suitable for both tourists and local people who want to relax and explore:

  • Na Hang - Lam Nature Reserve Binh: Ideal place for light trekking tours, exploring diverse ecosystems, especially observing the rare Snub-nosed Langur.

  • Na Hang Market: Takes place every Sunday morning in the central area of Na Hang commune, where the trading of local products, brocade costumes and unique ethnic cuisine is concentrated.

  • Pac Ta Temple: An important spiritual tourist destination, where visitors can combine contemplation Pray, pray for peace with a panoramic view of the lake from above.

Suggested tour

Cultural experience tour

>1 Day Na Tong Cultural Exchange Tour

  • Schedule: Center Na Hang - Na Tong Cultural Village (Lam Binh) - Visiting traditional stilt houses - Learning brocade weaving/making Ngo Men La Wine - Enjoying a lunch of Tay specialties - Cultural exchange of Then singing/stall dancing.

  • Transportation: Local motorbike/car + Walking.

  • Reference tour price: 400,000 - 600,000 VND/person (Including local tour guide, lunch, exchange fee).

  • Suggested organizer: Community Homestays in Na Tong (for example: Homestay A Gun).

Eco-tour & discovery tour

>1 Day Cruise Tour to Explore the Lake

  • Itinerary: Tuyen Quang Hydroelectric Station – Cruise to see Pha Pile – Visit Pac Ta Temple – Bath and experience fish massage at Khuoi Nhi Waterfall – Lunch on the boat or at the rocky beach – Explore Destroying Song Long Cave.

  • Transportation: Train/Lake tourist boat.

  • Reference tour price: 650,000 - 900,000 VND/person (Including train fees, sightseeing tickets, specialty lunch).

  • Suggested organizer: Na Hang Tourist Area Management Board/Tour companies in Tuyen Quang.

Adventure tour - trekking

1-Day Pac Ban Waterfall and Ban Dao Trekking Tour

  • Itinerary: Lam Binh Center - Trekking through the forest to Pac Ban Waterfall (7-storey waterfall) - Bathing in the stream and taking photos - Continue trekking to the neighboring Dao/H'Mong village - Field lunch - Explore the daily life of the people.

  • Transportation: Local motorbike + Trekking on the forest road.

  • Reference tour price: 750,000 - 1,000,000 VND/person (Including trekking guide, field meals, village fees).

  • Suggested organizer: Tay Bac Trekking, Na Hang Discovery.

Family tour

Na Hang – Lam Binh Tour 2 Days 1 Night (Combined with resort)

  • Itinerary:

    • Day 1: Hanoi/City. Tuyen Quang – Move to Lam Binh – Check in to Homestay/Ecolodge – Afternoon cruise on the lake – Evening cultural exchange at Na Tong.

    • Day 2: Morning visit terraced fields (if any) – Visit Pac Ta Temple – Shop for specialties at the market (Na Hang) – Return.

  • Means of transportation: Tourist car, personal car, tourist boat.

  • Reference tour price: 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 VND/person (Including 1 night of accommodation, meals, sightseeing/train fees).

  • Suggested organizer: Large travel companies (Viettravel, Hanoitourist) have branches in Tuyen Quang.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Visitors coming to Ho Na Hang area (Tuyen Quang Province) often look to buy culinary specialties and handicraft products with strong mountain flavors forest. The most outstanding is the Kitchen Buffalo Meat, elaborately marinated with Mac Khen, then dried, very suitable as a gift because it is easy to preserve and has a unique flavor. In addition, Ngo Men La Wine, hand-distilled by the Dao and Tay people using wild yeast leaves, is also a precious and unique gift. These products can be purchased at Na Hang Market (open on Sunday mornings) or specialty stores in the center of Na Hang commune.

Corn Leaves Wine

In addition to cuisine, handicraft items reflecting national culture are also meaningful souvenirs. Tourists should look to buy Brocade from the Tay and Dao people, including scarves, bags and costumes handwoven and embroidered with sophisticated patterns. To support traditional crafts, you can buy directly at households in cultural villages such as Na Tong village (Lam Binh). Other products such as pure wild honey and handmade silver jewelry of ethnic minorities are also very popular.

Support information and other information

To ensure a safe and convenient ecological and cultural tour at Na Hang Lake, visitors should save the following emergency contact information and official support agencies:

Security Support

Tourists need to contact the following agencies if they have problems with security or order or need administrative support in the area of Na Hang commune and Lam Binh commune.

  • Report/Emergency security support: 113

  • Fire alarm/Fire prevention: 114

  • Na Hang Commune Police:

    • Address: Na Hang Commune, Tuyen Quang Province (Center of tourist area).

    • Phone number: 0207 3864 116

  • Lam Binh Commune Police:

    • Address: Lam Binh Commune, Tuyen Quang Province (Lam Binh Regional Security Support Center).

    • Tel: 0207 3868 113

Nearest Medical and Emergency Services

When needing urgent medical assistance or initial first aid, visitors should go to the following facilities:

  • Emergency Switchboard: 115

  • Na Hang Commune Medical Station/Lam Binh Commune Medical Station:

    • Serves initial first aid and basic health problems, located right in the commune center area.

>Tourism and Service Support

For the best experience and protection of travel rights, visitors should use the following support and management channels:

  • National tourism support hotline:

    • Contact phone number: 0941 33 66 77

    • Useful for answering questions, consulting tourist information and receiving feedback about services.

  • Na Hang - Lam Ecotourism Area Management Board Binh:

    • Address: Located in the center of Na Hang commune (A center to support information, license boats and provide tour guides).

  • Market Management Switchboard:

    • Phone number Contact phone number: 1900.888.655

    • Contact if you encounter problems with non-transparent prices or commercial fraud at fairs.

Wish you a truly wonderful journey to discover Na Hang Lake, with memorable and safe experiences in the mountainous region of Tuyen Province Quang!