Thach Lam Waterfall – A 120-Metre Silver Ribbon in the Mountains of Western Cao Bang
As you travel along the main road through the mountains of Bao Lam, you may suddenly spot a silvery white ribbon plunging from halfway up a mountainside, shimmering against the deep green forest. This is Thach Lam Waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in Cao Bang. Locals also know it by its familiar name, Pac Rang Waterfall.
Where Is Thach Lam Waterfall?
The waterfall is in Na Pan Hamlet, formerly part of Thach Lam Commune in the former Bao Lam District. Since July 2025, Thach Lam and Quang Lam communes have merged to form the new Quang Lam Commune.
The waterfall is about 10 km from the center of Pac Mieu, now part of Bao Lam Commune. The route is fairly easy: travel from Pac Mieu toward the former Thach Lam area and continue through Na Pan Hamlet. You can see the waterfall cascading down the mountain from the main road.
Bao Lam is about 150 km from Cao Bang City, so it’s best to include Thach Lam Waterfall in a trip exploring western Cao Bang rather than trying to visit on a day trip.
120 Metres Tall, Yet Surprisingly Gentle
At 120 metres, Thach Lam Waterfall is one of the tallest in Cao Bang. Surprisingly, its flow is gentle and calm. The secret lies in the rock ledges that cross the cascade, breaking the water’s force into smaller drops at each level.
The waterfall pours down to the foot of the mountain like a silver ribbon glittering in the sun. Large rocky ledges and fresh green grass dot the cascade, giving it a distinctive, unspoilt beauty. Lush forests surround the falls, making the white water stand out even more.
Things to Do at Thach Lam Waterfall
Admire the falls from a distance: Stop at a safe spot along the main road to take in the full cascade as it spills down the mountainside. This view best showcases the waterfall’s impressive height.
Get closer to the base: Travel through Na Pan Hamlet to reach the foot of the waterfall, where you can hear the rushing water and feel its cool spray. The large rocks nearby make a good place to rest and take photos.
Take photos: The white cascade against the green forest makes a striking photo. In the morning, soft light makes the waterfall seem to glow in the sunshine.
Learn about local life: As you pass through the hamlet, stop to chat with residents and learn about the local culture and daily life.
Best Time to Visit
The waterfall is at its best in summer, from June to August, when the abundant water creates its fullest and most dramatic cascade. During the dry season, the flow is lighter and more delicate, but the trails are dry and easier to navigate.
Explore More of Bao Lam
Bao Lam has several other attractions you can combine with a visit to Thach Lam Waterfall:
- Phien Muong Grass Hill (Quang Lam Commune): A vast open hillside, at its greenest in October when the grass grows tall.
- Bao Lam 3 Hydropower Reservoir: More than 10 km long, with striking mountain scenery on both sides.
- Doi Cave (Dinh Pha Cave): A cave filled with stalactite formations shaped over thousands of years.
- Bao Lam Bullfighting Festival: The largest bullfighting festival in Cao Bang Province, if your visit coincides with the event.
Visitor Tips
- Rainy season: The water runs fast and the rocks are slippery. Avoid climbing onto high rock ledges or standing close to the current.
- Do not swim at the base of the waterfall unless you know the water’s depth and current are safe.
- Wear shoes with good grip and practical clothing for walking on rocky dirt paths.
- Ask locals for directions when entering Na Pan Hamlet; they can point you to the safest route.
- Take your rubbish with you to help keep the waterfall clean and unspoilt.
Thach Lam Waterfall is neither noisy nor crowded, yet its beauty makes you stop and take it in: a 120-meter silver ribbon cascading quietly through the mountains and forests of western Cao Bang. If you love unspoiled places, visit Pac Rang, stand at the foot of the falls, and let the sound of the water wash away the fatigue of the long journey.
