Things To Do
in Bắc Kạn
Bắc Kạn sits in the northeastern highlands of Vietnam, surrounded by limestone karsts, dense forests, and winding rivers. The province is known for Ba Bể National Park, its eponymous lake, and traditional villages of ethnic communities such as Tày, Nùng and Dao. It offers a peaceful escape with scenic hiking, cave exploration, and slow-paced rural life.
The climate varies by season, making it possible to visit year-round, with cooler temperatures in winter and lush scenery after the rains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing trek through the lush greenery of Ba Bể National Park. Marvel at the stunning landscapes, including the serene Ba Bể Lake, and enjoy the sounds of nature as you hike. Don't forget to capture photos of the unique flora and fauna that call this park home.
After a morning of exploration, take a leisurely boat ride on Ba Bể Lake. Revel in the tranquility of the water surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, and visit the picturesque An Ma Island. Savor a packed lunch on the boat while soaking in the breathtaking views.
Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner, with local specialties that showcase the region's flavors. As night falls, listen to the sounds of the jungle and reflect on the day's adventures.
Begin your day visiting the nearby ethnic minority villages to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Tày and H'mông people. Wander through the villages, greeting friendly locals and learning about their traditional crafts and way of life. Take part in a weaving workshop to create your own memory of this unique experience.
Enjoy a homemade lunch in one of the village homes, where you can taste authentic dishes prepared with local ingredients. Afterward, participate in a traditional dance or music session led by local villagers. This allows for an even deeper understanding of their cultural heritage.
Return to your base for a cozy evening filled with stories about your day. Relax by a fire while trying some local herbal teas and snacks. Reflect on the connections made and the experiences shared with the villagers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍡Local street snack | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi or motorbike taxi (per ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range dinner for two | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and national parks
- Affordable travel with rich ethnic culture
- Peaceful atmosphere away from big-city crowds
- Great boat trips on Ba Be Lake
- Limited nightlife and English-speaking staff in rural areas
- Some sites require local guides or long drives
- Infrastructure can be basic in remote villages
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Bạn có thể giúp tôi không?" - Could you help me?
- "Nước ở đâu?" - Where is water/where can I drink water?
- "Tôi muốn gọi món" - I would like to order
- "Ở đây có … không?" - Do you have … here?
Places to Visit in Bắc Kạn
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil lakeside vantage with mist over the water and limestone formations in the background.
A dramatic cave featuring stalactites and a river valley, ideal for long-exposure photography.
Traditional stilt houses lining the lake; golden hour light reflects on the water for warm portraits.
Forest trails with viewpoints overlooking the lake, karst scenery, and waterfalls.
Food in Bắc Kạn
Bắc Kạn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish porridge made with Ba Be lake fish, often served with fresh herbs and scallions.
Must-Try!
Stir-fried wild fern shoots with garlic, a traditional upland green connoisseur enjoys.
River fish grilled with local herbs and a squeeze of lime.
Sticky rice cooked in bamboo, typically served with grilled meats or dried fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering fresh produce, smoked meats, fish, herbs, and street snacks.
Local market days where ethnic crafts and seasonal foods are best worth a visit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Xin chào' and a light handshake; address elders with respect.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in homes or villages.
Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove shoes before entering homes; avoid loud behavior in public.
Safety
Tipping in Bắc Kạn
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service or guides; small tips for drivers or boat operators are common in tourist areas.
Most places prefer cash in Vietnamese dong; cards are only sometimes accepted in larger hotels or upscale venues; ATMs are common in Bắc Kạn city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flora, and lush green landscapes; expect light rain and comfortable hiking.
Warm to hot days with high humidity; afternoon showers are common; ideal for boat trips and lake activities.
Cooler, drier air and clear skies; great for photography and hiking with comfortable temps.
Cool to cold temperatures, especially in upland areas; crowds are lighter and scenery can be foggy or misty.
Bắc Kạn at Night
Hiking in Bắc Kạn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails around Ba Be Lake with viewpoints over karst landscapes and waterfalls.
Cave exploration routes complement lake exploration.
Accessible hills near the village for short hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Bắc Kạn by plane.
Main international gateway; roughly 170-200 km from Bắc Kạn; transfer by road to the city, typically 3-4 hours.
Small regional airport serving occasional flights; verify current schedules and ground transfer options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority ethnic group; urban and rural communities.
Significant minority groups with distinct languages and customs.
Smaller communities in upland areas, contributing traditional crafts and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular at schools, local clubs, and parks.
Common in community centers and schools; informal courts in towns.
Popular for exploring rural landscapes and hills around Ba Be and Na Hang areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bắc Kạn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are meat-based, but vegetarian options exist. Look for chay dishes, tofu, or vegetable stir-fries, and ask staff to avoid fish sauce.
Most meals are naturally gluten-free when avoiding soy sauce with gluten; confirm ingredients with the cook.