Thoong Rung Waterfall – a refreshing stop in the heroic homeland of Be Van Dan
In eastern Cao Bang lies a place named after a national hero: Be Van Dan Commune. Amid its hills and mountains, Thoong Rung Waterfall flows quietly over the rocks, carrying the cool air of the forest. It may not be a famous attraction, and few people know about it, but Thoong Rung is the kind of place that makes a trip feel complete: a waterfall to admire, a home-cooked meal to savor, and a land rich in stories to explore.
Where is Thoong Rung Waterfall?
The waterfall is in Be Van Dan Commune, Cao Bang Province. There is a restaurant right beside it, so you’ll find the spot on maps under the name “Thoong Rung Waterfall and Restaurant.” That’s the easiest way to get directions.
Be Van Dan Commune was established in 2020 from Trieu Au Commune and part of Hong Dai Commune in the former Phuc Hoa District. It lies within the Non Nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark, where limestone mountains, grassy hills, streams, and waterfalls create the distinctive landscape of the east.
A waterfall among the hills of eastern Cao Bang
“Thoong” means “waterfall” in the Tay and Nung languages. Waterfalls in eastern Cao Bang are rarely tall, but each has its own charm: water flows over layers of rock, white spray rising amid green foliage as its sound carries throughout the day.
Thoong Rung has the same appeal. Set amid peaceful hills and still largely unspoiled, it’s ideal for anyone looking to step away from the bustle of town, listen to the water, and breathe in the fresh air. Visitors who have been here rate it highly.
What to do at Thoong Rung?
Enjoy the waterfall and unwind
Find a dry spot by the water and let the sound of the falls and the mountain breeze wash away the fatigue of a long journey. It’s the simplest and most relaxing way to enjoy Thoong Rung.
Enjoy a meal by the waterfall
One special feature of Thoong Rung is its restaurant right beside the waterfall. Stop for lunch along the way and enjoy your meal to the sound of flowing water. Cao Bang cuisine is known for dishes such as roasted pork, roast duck, khau nhuc, wild greens, and stream fish. Ask the restaurant what local specialties are available that day.
Take photos
White water against the rocks and greenery makes a beautiful backdrop. The colors of the water and foliage come through best in photos in the soft morning light or late afternoon sun.
When to visit
Summer (around May to August) is usually when Cao Bang’s waterfalls are at their fullest, with the strongest flows and most dramatic views. In autumn (September to November), the weather is drier, the sun is gentler, and roads are easier to travel, making it a great time to explore other nearby sights as well. After heavy rain, water levels can rise quickly and the water may turn murky, so plan your visit accordingly.
The homeland of martyr and national hero Be Van Dan
When you visit Thoong Rung, take time to learn about the area’s history. Be Van Dan, a national hero and martyr of the Tay ethnic group, was born in 1931 to a poor family with a revolutionary tradition in Quang Vinh Commune, now Be Van Dan Commune. He is remembered for his courageous sacrifice in the resistance against French colonial rule, and his story appears in history books and school textbooks across generations.
To honor him, local Party and government officials, residents, and businesses contributed funding, donated land, and helped build a memorial site and memorial house in his homeland. On December 8, 2023, the Cao Bang Provincial People’s Committee recognized the Be Van Dan Memorial Site as a provincial-level historical site.
Pair a visit to the waterfall with a stop at the memorial house for a trip that brings together natural beauty and history.
Nearby sights to add to your trip
- Be Van Dan Memorial House: a provincial-level historical site within the commune.
- Luoc Dac Plateau: a stretch of grassy hills across Be Van Dan and neighboring communes, ideal for trekking and taking in the scenery.
- Nung Tri Cao Temple and Bach Linh Shrine (Quang Uyen Commune): historical sites associated with the early-spring festival of firecracker-head snatching.
Visitor Tips
- Avoid swimming in deep or fast-moving water if you’re unfamiliar with the terrain, especially after heavy rain.
- Watch your step on slippery rocks around the waterfall, and wear shoes with good grip.
- Keep an eye on children when they’re playing near the water.
- Call the restaurant ahead if you’re traveling with a large group or would like to order a special dish.
- Take your rubbish with you; don’t leave litter in the waterfall.
- Please be respectful and keep the area quiet when visiting the Be Van Dan Hero Memorial.
