Ban Viet Lake: An Emerald Mirror and Autumn Colors in the Mountains of Trung Khanh
Among the forested mountain ranges of eastern Cao Bang lies a tranquil lake, its glassy surface reflecting the sky and surrounding peaks. When winter arrives, the sweetgum trees along the shore turn shades of red and gold, creating a scene reminiscent of a European forest. This is Ban Viet Lake, one of the most peaceful spots in Trung Khanh.
Where Is Ban Viet Lake?
The lake lies between Ban Viet and Tan Phong hamlets. It was formerly in Phong Chau Commune (the former Trung Khanh District) and is now in Dam Thuy Commune, following the 2025 administrative reorganization.
Getting there: From central Trung Khanh, drive straight for about 10 km along the road toward the district’s main waterfall tourism area, then turn and continue about 3 km toward Ban Viet Hamlet to reach the lake. The road along the shore is flat and wide, and accessible by car.
You can also reach Ban Viet Lake from Doai Duong Commune. A road crossing the fields by the Lonely Rock in Cao Thang 3 Hamlet leads straight to the lake.
A Lake with Four Inlets
Ban Viet Lake is a freshwater lake covering about 5 hectares. It branches into four arms and is surrounded by hills, mountains, and pristine vegetation. Interestingly, the lake is man-made, yet over time it has blended so naturally into the landscape that it seems to have always been here.
The water is emerald green and still. On clear days, the lake mirrors the sky and surrounding peaks. In the early morning, a thin veil of mist drifts across the water, cloaking the landscape in an otherworldly stillness.
The Red-Leaf Season: The Most Special Time to Visit
Ban Viet Lake is best known for its red-leaf season. From December through late January, the sweetgum trees along the shore, also known locally as sau sau, turn yellow and red, setting the forest ablaze beside the emerald lake.
Sau sau trees grow wild throughout the mountains and forests of Cao Bang. Their oval leaves have pointed tips and turn a brilliant red around late December. Many red-leaf tree species grow in Trung Khanh, but the most beautiful scenery is found around Ban Viet Lake.
The sight of red leaves reflected in the clear lake on a crisp day has led many visitors to call this a little corner of Europe in the heart of Cao Bang.
A Different Kind of Beauty in Every Season
- Winter (December–January): Red-leaf season, at its most beautiful and romantic.
- Spring: Trees put out new shoots, the mountains turn fresh green, and the lake is crystal clear.
- Summer: Deep green forests and cool, fresh air make this an ideal spot for camping and escaping the heat.
- Autumn: Clear blue skies, gentle sunshine, and golden rice fields ripening across the area.
You can visit Ban Viet Lake any time of year, with each season offering its own distinct scenery.
Things to Do at Ban Viet Lake
Take a Raft Out on the Lake
Drifting on a raft across the still lake, taking in the surrounding mountains and forests, and listening to birdsong is one of the most relaxing experiences at Ban Viet. People come here to slow down and enjoy nature, far from the noise of everyday life.
Camp and Trek
Ban Viet Lake is a popular destination for camping and trekking. Its open surroundings and beautiful scenery make it a lovely place to pitch a tent for the night and wake to mist drifting over the lake.
Photograph the Red Leaves
In winter, bring your camera to capture the vivid red sweetgum forest beside the lake. One of the best views is from the shore, looking across to the red leaves reflected on the water. Early morning and late afternoon offer soft light that brings out the leaves’ brilliant colors.
Explore the Lake
Walk or cycle along the lakeside path, taking in the inlets winding through the hills. Stop by Ban Viet and Tan Phong hamlets to experience the peaceful pace of local life.
Add These Stops to Your Eastern Cao Bang Itinerary
- Lonely Rock (Cao Thang 3 Hamlet, Doai Duong Commune): A solitary limestone boulder rising from a sea of rice fields, along the road from Doai Duong to the lake.
- Thoong Cot Panorama: A viewpoint overlooking the Quay Son River winding through ripe rice fields. It is also in Dam Thuy Commune.
- Nguom Ngao Cave: A famous cave in Dam Thuy Commune.
- Thoong Loc Waterfall and Cho Waterfall (Thoong Ma): Waterfalls along the Bac Vong River.
- Temple of Duc Thanh Pho: In the center of Trung Khanh.
Visitor Tips
- Wear a life jacket when riding a raft and never stand, run, or jump on board.
- Do not swim without caution: The lake is deep in many places.
- Bring warm clothing if visiting during the red-leaf season; December and January can be quite cold.
- Camp only in designated areas and do not light fires near the forest. Make sure all fires are fully extinguished before leaving.
- Do not break branches or pick leaves when taking photos during the red-leaf season.
- Take your rubbish with you and leave the lake as clear and clean as you found it.
Final Thoughts
Ban Viet Lake has no noisy attractions or grand facilities. Instead, it offers emerald waters, pristine forests, and brilliant red foliage each winter. If you visit Trung Khanh at the end of the year, set aside an afternoon for Ban Viet. Sit by the lake and watch the red leaves of the fragrant maple trees reflected on the water. You may find your mind settling into the same stillness as the lake.
