Hien Nguyen
Google
Cao Bang left me genuinely amazed from the moment I arrived. Tucked away in Vietnam’s far north, this land feels untouched, pure, and breathtakingly beautiful. The journey itself was already a delight – winding mountain roads, fresh cool air, and endless views of rolling hills fading into the horizon. But nothing prepared me for the sight of Ban Gioc Waterfall. Standing before it, I was overwhelmed by its sheer size and power. The water cascaded down in layers, white and foamy, into a jade-green pool, surrounded by lush greenery. It was like stepping into a scene from a dream.
Everywhere in Cao Bang seemed to hold its own magic. The Quay Son River flowed calmly through golden rice fields, reflecting the towering limestone mountains like a giant natural mirror. Villages dotted along the way felt peaceful and welcoming, with traditional stilt houses and warm smiles from the locals. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of fresh earth and blooming flowers.
What surprised me most was how raw and untouched everything felt. There were no crowds, no rush – just nature in its purest form. I spent hours simply sitting by the river, watching the sunlight dance on the water, feeling a deep sense of peace I rarely find elsewhere.
Leaving Cao Bang, I couldn’t help but feel grateful to have witnessed such beauty. It’s the kind of place that stays with you, not just in photographs, but in your heart – a reminder that some of the world’s most stunning treasures are found where few have yet to wander.