Cao Bang is the star destination of Northern Vietnam, full of rich and lush natural wonders that continue to be a major tourist draw. Additionally there are some sensational historic landmarks here as well as ancient pagodas that are frequented by historians and design enthusiasts. Not as crowded as Sapa and Ha Giang, this more remote destination gives an accurate example of rural life in Vietnam. It is a welcome change in pace from the nonstop energy of the major cities and towns. Visitors frequent this place, which has a more relaxed vibe, one that revolves primarily around nature. Here are some of the most visited tourist places in Cao Bang.

A stunning natural wonder and one of the best places to visit in Cao Bang, the Ban Gioc Waterfall continues to attract thousands of local and international visitors every year. It is the 4^th largest waterfall in the world and is nearly 30 meters high. The waterfall divides into multiple smaller falls that make it even more unique. This is a must visit place for all nature lovers and young families.

The first of its kind in the Northern Province of Vietnam, this pagoda virtually neighbours the Ban Gioc Waterfall. Influenced by Vietnamese design, the pagoda offers visitors stunning panoramic views of not just the waterfall but the entire countryside. This is a great place to catch the sunset as it offers great photo opportunities.

Discovered by humans only in 1921, this legendary cave is filled with limestone rocks and stalactites formed over millions of years. The cave is another one of the best places to visit in Cao Bang and is frequented by tourists, historians and archaeologists alike. The sheer historic significance of this natural landmark is not to be missed.

The Thang Hen Lake System is made up of 36 interconnected smaller lakes. These lakes very popular tourist spots as they give visitors a chance to get a true sense of rural life in Vietnam. Fishermen and farmers can be observed going about their daily routines here. Visitors tend to hire boats and have picnics on this lake making it a great way to spend the day with family or loved ones.

A unique historical relic, it was graced by the revolutionary Ho Chi Minh himself many years ago. The surrounding landscape is breath-taking with the turquoise Le Nin pond situated in the middle. There are several smaller historical relics here like the Coc Po Cave and Khuol Nam Shed where Ho Chi Minh lived for many years. It gives visitors a fascinating insight to one of Vietnam’s most prominent historic figures.

This village is a slightly offbeat but equally popular tourist destination. It serves as the go to place to discover the art of forging everything from jewellery and statues to weapons. This dying art is rarely observed in most of the western world but has become the key attraction of this village. Visitors can get a chance to observe and on occasion partake in this forging process.

Another tourist favourite, this ecosystem attracts thousands of visitors due to its rich and diverse forests, natural parks and reserves. Historically the mountains surrounding this area used to be holiday homes for the French colonizers many years ago. Now deserted, they still add an eerie charm to the surrounding area.