Bac Kan Province, located in the northeast of Vietnam, is a land of rugged mountains, dense forests, emerald lakes, and vibrant ethnic cultures. Unlike more crowded destinations such as Sapa or Ha Giang, Bac Kan (or Bắc Kạn) remains a peaceful and relatively untouched gem that promises authentic and immersive travel experiences. From the breathtaking Ba Be National Park to traditional ethnic villages and scenic mountain passes, Bac Kan offers an ideal escape for nature lovers, adventurers, and cultural explorers alike.

Where is Bac Kan?

Bac Kan is about 230 kilometers north of Hanoi, accessible by private car or bus in approximately 5 to 6 hours. The province borders Cao Bang to the north, Tuyen Quang to the west, Lang Son to the east, and Thai Nguyen to the south.

Its remote location and limited commercialization make it a haven for eco-tourism and off-the-beaten-path travelers.

Top Attractions in Bac Kan

1. Ba Be National Park – The Heart of Bac Kan

The crown jewel of Bac Kan is undoubtedly Ba Be National Park, a UNESCO-recognized ASEAN Heritage Park known for its Ba Be Lake – the largest natural freshwater lake in Vietnam.

Highlights:

• Boat trips across Ba Be Lake
• Explore Puong Cave by riverboat
• Trekking through dense jungles and karst mountains
• Homestays in Pac Ngoi or Bo Lu ethnic villages
• Spotting wildlife like langurs, butterflies, and rare birds

Tip: For a unique experience, take a traditional wooden canoe ride at sunrise across the misty lake.

2. Pac Ngoi Village – Home of the Tay Ethnic People

Located within Ba Be National Park, Pac Ngoi Village is a great place to experience local life. Visitors can:

• Stay in stilt houses
• Learn traditional weaving
• Enjoy Tay folk songs and local cuisine (like grilled fish, sticky rice, and bamboo-cooked dishes)

Hospitality is deeply rooted here, making your stay feel like being welcomed into a family.

3. Hua Ma Cave – The Underground Wonder

Just 6 km from Ba Be Lake, Hua Ma Cave features:

• Spectacular stalactites and stalagmites
• A cool, mystical interior with hidden chambers
• A peaceful forest trail leading to the cave entrance

It’s one of the most impressive caves in Bac Kan and still relatively uncrowded.

4. Kim Hy Nature Reserve

For seasoned trekkers, Kim Hy Nature Reserve in Na Ri District offers:

• Pristine primary forests
• Biodiversity with over 100 species of animals and plants
• Challenging hiking trails and eco-research opportunities

This is an excellent spot for those passionate about eco-tourism and conservation.

5. Na Khoang Waterfall & Fairy Pond

Located in Ngan Son District, Na Khoang Waterfall is a scenic cascade surrounded by rocky cliffs and forested paths. Nearby, the Ao Tiên (Fairy Pond) is a small but serene pond shrouded in legends of fairies descending to bathe.

This site is ideal for picnicking, light trekking, and photography.

Best Things to Do in Bac Kan

•  Trekking and Hiking in Ba Be or Kim Hy forests
•  Boat Trips across Ba Be Lake and Nang River
•  Stay in Ethnic Homestays and enjoy local hospitality
•  Try Local Specialties such as “Com Lam” (bamboo sticky rice), smoked meats, and wild herbs
•  Visit Ethnic Markets (held weekly) to see traditional costumes and handmade crafts
•  Capture Sunrises and Sunsets over the lake or rice fields

When to Visit Bac Kan

Best Time: From September to November for the perfect mix of pleasant weather and stunning landscapes.

How to Get to Bac Kan

 By Private Car or Tour Transfer from Hanoi

• Most convenient and time-efficient
• Around 5–6 hours via National Highway 3
• Option to stop at Thai Nguyen for tea plantations or museums

 By Public Bus

• Buses to Bac Kan City depart from My Dinh or Gia Lam Bus Station in Hanoi
• Costs around 150,000 – 200,000 VND
• You’ll need local transport (xe ôm or taxi) from the station to destinations

 Nearest Airport: Hanoi (Noi Bai Airport) – about 200 km away

Where to Stay in Bac Kan

• Homestays in Pac Ngoi & Bo Lu Villages
  Great for cultural immersion and budget travelers.
• Lodges & Eco-Resorts near Ba Be Lake
  Mid-range options with views, private rooms, and guided tours.
• Hotels in Bac Kan City
  Suitable for business travelers or overnight stays before heading to the countryside.

Travel Tips for Bac Kan

•  Pack light but bring trekking shoes, insect repellent, and a raincoat
•  Mobile signal is limited in remote areas; download offline maps
•  Learn basic Vietnamese or bring a phrasebook (locals may not speak English)
•  Hire a local guide for multi-day treks or ethnic village visits
•  Bring cash; ATMs are scarce outside the city

Why Visit Bac Kan?

•  Off-the-beaten-path adventure
•  Authentic cultural experiences
•  Lush natural beauty and clean air
•  Ideal for slow travel and nature connection
•  Great alternative to over-touristed destinations

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking an escape from the bustling cities and over-commercialized tourist spots, Bac Kan is your answer. With stunning lakes, mysterious caves, rich ethnic heritage, and warm local hospitality, this province invites you to explore the untouched soul of northern Vietnam.

Whether you’re kayaking on Ba Be Lake, trekking through forested mountains, or simply sipping tea with a local Tay family, every moment in Bac Kan is a memory waiting to be made.

Ready to explore Bac Kan?
Plan your trip with a private car from Hanoi, or book a custom tour including homestays and guided trekking. Contact us for personalized travel packages!