Thoong Dao Waterfall, Cao Bang – An Emerald Cascade in Phong Nam Valley
When people think of Cao Bang, many picture the majestic Ban Gioc Waterfall. But in the northern border region of Trung Khanh lies another, smaller and gentler cascade that few visitors know about: Thoong Dao Waterfall. Set amid scenic Phong Nam Valley, it has the simple charm of a highland village, with clear rivers, waterwheels, rice fields and rugged limestone mountains.
Where Is Thoong Dao Waterfall?
Thoong Dao Waterfall in Dinh Phong Commune
Thoong Dao Waterfall (also known as Thoong Sao Waterfall) lies near the boundary between Ta Pe and Na Hau hamlets, in Phong Nam Valley, now part of Dinh Phong Commune, Cao Bang Province.
The Beauty of Thoong Dao Waterfall
Emerald Waters Winding Through Rocky Rapids
Thoong Dao Waterfall may not be tall or grand, but it stands out for its emerald-green water, which winds through rocky rapids before curving out of sight behind green bamboo groves. Wide, level grassy banks line the stream, making a popular spot for families and groups of friends to picnic and relax.
Phong Nam Valley and the Quay Son River
Featured image of Thoong Dao Waterfall in Dinh Phong Commune
The road to the waterfall follows the clear blue-green Quay Son River, with fields stretching out on either side and villages tucked beneath the mountains. Along the riverbank, large and small waterwheels turn with the current, lifting water to the rice fields—a distinctive sight that sets Phong Nam apart.
Tay and Nung Culture
Most residents of the valley are Tay and Nung people, who continue to uphold the traditional way of life in Vietnam’s northern highlands. Visit the villages to experience the unhurried pace of daily life and the warm hospitality of the local people.
Best Time to Visit Thoong Dao Waterfall
- Autumn (September–October): The best time to visit. Golden glutinous rice fields fill the air with a sweet fragrance, set against the emerald waters of the Quay Son River. The weather is cool with gentle sunshine.
- Summer (June–August): Water levels are high, and the trees and rice fields are lush and green, but watch out for heavy rain.
- Spring (February–April): The weather is pleasant and the valley is fresh and green.
- Winter (November–January): The weather is cold, water levels are lower, and mist sometimes settles over the mountains.
How to Get to Thoong Dao Waterfall
From Hanoi to Cao Bang: Around 280 km via National Highway 3 through Thai Nguyen and Bac Kan. You can take a sleeper bus or drive yourself.
From Cao Bang city center to Trung Khanh: Follow the route toward Ban Gioc Waterfall for about 60 km.
From Trung Khanh to Phong Nam Valley: Around 6 km along a road that follows the Quay Son River. As you get close, ask locals for directions to Thoong Dao Waterfall (Thoong Sao), between Ta Pe and Na Hau hamlets, to make sure you find the right path.
Recommended transport: A motorbike offers the most flexibility on village roads; if driving, ask about parking in advance.
Things to Do
- Picnic on the grassy bank by the waterfall and listen to the water in the peaceful surroundings.
- Admire and photograph the waterwheels along the Quay Son River, a symbol of Phong Nam.
- Walk or cycle around the valley to take in the rice fields, limestone mountains and villages.
- Learn about Tay and Nung life in the hamlets beneath the mountains.
Where to Stay and What to Bring
Tourist services in the valley are limited, so:
- Stay in central Trung Khanh.
- Bring drinking water and food if you plan to picnic at the waterfall.
Suggested Itinerary Around Thoong Dao Waterfall
Day 1: Phong Nam – Thoong Dao – Ngoc Con
- Morning: Travel from Cao Bang to Trung Khanh (about 60 km), then have lunch in the town center.
- Afternoon: Head into Phong Nam Valley, see the waterwheels along the Quay Son River, and picnic at Thoong Dao Waterfall.
- Sunset: Head to Ngoc Con Panorama for sweeping views of the valley and the winding Quay Son River.
- Evening: Stay at a homestay in the valley or in Trung Khanh.
Day 2: Gioc Rung – Hoang Luc Temple – Co La – Ban Gioc
- 5:00 am: Watch the sunrise at Gioc Rung, where early morning mist blankets the valley.
- 8:30 am: Visit Hoang Luc Temple (Dinh Phong Commune), dedicated to an 11th-century Tay general. It is a provincial-level historic site, with its festival held on the 28th day of the second lunar month.
- 10:00 am: Stop by Co La Waterfall, a gentle three-tier cascade on the Quay Son River.
- 11:00 am: Visit Ban Gioc Waterfall, take a bamboo raft ride, and head up to Phat Tich Truc Lam Pagoda for a view of the falls from above.
- Afternoon: Explore Nguom Ngao Cave before returning to Cao Bang.
Tip: September and October are the best months to visit, when the rice is ripe. Bring a jacket for sunrise, dress modestly when visiting the temple, and carry identification as this is a border area.
Visitor Tips
- Do not swim in deep or fast-flowing water, especially after heavy rain.
- Wear shoes with good grip when walking near rocky rapids.
- Respect local fields and waterwheels; do not climb on the waterwheels.
- Take your rubbish with you to help preserve the waterfall’s surroundings.
- Carry identification, as this is a border area, and do not enter restricted zones without permission.
- Bring cash, as villages in the area rarely have ATMs.
Is Thoong Dao Waterfall Worth Visiting?
If Ban Gioc is the grand anthem of Cao Bang’s mountains and forests, Thoong Dao Waterfall is a gentle melody in the Phong Nam Valley. It’s a destination for those who want to slow down, sit beside emerald waters, watch the waterwheels turn, and admire the golden rice fields. In autumn, Thoong Dao Waterfall and Phong Nam Valley are among the most peaceful places in the Cao Bang border region.
