The movie Di Giua Troi Ruc Ro has captivated audiences with its stunning visuals of Cao Bang’s mountainous landscape and romantic scenery. If you want to experience the same breathtaking views and indulge in unique local cuisine, here’s your ultimate guide to Pu and Chai’s homeland, also known as the “cradle of the Vietnamese revolution.”
Exploring Cao Bang: Top Destinations
Phan Thanh Grass Hill
Located about a two-hour drive from Cao Bang’s center, Phan Thanh Grass Hill sits at an elevation of over 1000 meters above sea level. It boasts a majestic landscape with lush green grass stretching endlessly.
On sunny days, the hill shines with vibrant green hues, a clear blue sky, and floating white clouds, creating a mesmerizing natural painting. With its vast expanse of large and small hills, this place offers a sense of tranquility, making it perfect for healing and peaceful getaways.
For adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, this spot is ideal for camping, photography, and breathing the fresh air of the highlands.
Ban Gioc Waterfall
Nestled in Dam Thuy commune, Trung Khanh district, Cao Bang province, Ban Gioc Waterfall is hailed as one of the four most beautiful and majestic waterfalls in Southeast Asia.
The waterfall is divided into two parts: the main section straddles the Vietnam-China border, separated by the Quay Son River flowing below, while the remaining part lies entirely within Vietnamese territory. The main waterfall spans about 100 meters, with a height of 70 meters and a depth of 60 meters. From a distance, the cascading waters create a stunning white foam against the green mountains, forming a picturesque and romantic sight.
The best time to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall is between September and October when the wild sunflowers are in full bloom. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a breathtaking rainbow formed by the sunlight reflecting off the tiny water droplets.
Pac Bo Historical Site
For history buffs, the Pac Bo Historical Site in Ha Quang district, about 50 kilometers from Cao Bang city center, is a must-visit. This place is steeped in the heroic historical milestones of the nation.
Pac Bo offers a serene atmosphere surrounded by mountains, clouds, caves, and gurgling streams. Here, you can sense the strong pulse of life that has endured through the ages. The Lenin Stream, with its perpetually clear waters, quietly flows through the rocky terrain, bearing witness to the early days of the independence war.
A standout feature of the site is Coc Bo Cave, where Uncle Ho (President Ho Chi Minh) once lived and worked. Despite its small size, the cave exudes a sacred aura, evoking memories of the beloved leader’s simplicity and strength.
Pac Bo is not only a place to delve into history but also a haven for nature lovers seeking to immerse themselves in the pristine and peaceful mountain scenery.
Tran Hung Dao Primitive Forest
The Tran Hung Dao Primitive Forest, located in Nguyen Binh district, Cao Bang province, is recognized as a Special National Historical Relic. It is one of the few remaining primitive forests that retain their natural beauty and pristine state. With an average temperature of 15-20 degrees Celsius, visitors to this forest will enjoy a cool and pleasant atmosphere.
This forest stands out for its diverse ecosystem, housing rare plant species and wild animals. The trees here are mostly ancient ones with centuries-old trunks and vast canopies, forming a dense green canopy. Beneath these trees, a rich variety of wildlife thrives, including rare birds, monkeys, bears, and endemic bird species of the Northeast region.
What sets the Tran Hung Dao Forest apart is not just its natural beauty but also its historical significance. It was the site of crucial events during the resistance war against French colonialism. Visitors can explore the untouched forest while learning about the country’s heroic history.
Cao Bang’s Culinary Delights
Seven-Spice Roasted Duck
When in Cao Bang, do not miss the Seven-Spice Roasted Duck, a dish renowned for its intricate preparation, from ingredient selection to marination. The duck is flavored with seven different spices: ginger, garlic, shallots, pepper, honey, tofu, and mac mat fruit, resulting in a distinctive and irresistible aroma.
Traditionally, this dish was prepared by the Tay ethnic group for important ceremonies. However, it has now become a popular delicacy offered in many restaurants across Cao Bang.
The secret to this dish lies in the preparation of the spices, which are stir-fried to release their aromatic flavors. These spices are then stuffed into the duck’s cavity to infuse the meat with their essence, after which the cavity is sewn shut. The duck is then brushed with honey and vinegar to give it a glossy, golden appearance when roasted over charcoal, ensuring that it doesn’t absorb any smoky flavors.
The roasted duck boasts a shiny, caramelized skin with a deep golden hue. Each bite reveals tender, juicy meat infused with the complex blend of spices. When paired with a dipping sauce, the flavors explode in your mouth, taking the dining experience to new heights.
Che Lam (Lam Cake)
Mention Cao Bang’s specialties, and Che Lam immediately comes to mind. This famous treat, loved by locals and tourists alike, is crafted from key ingredients such as glutinous rice flour, molasses, ginger, and peanuts. What sets Che Lam apart is the subtle blend of local specialty ingredients and the unique preparation methods.
Che Lam is often chosen as a gift for friends and family, as it embodies the distinct flavors of the mountainous region.
This traditional cake is best savored with a cup of green tea, awakening your taste buds and offering a delightful culinary experience.
Trung Khanh Chestnuts
Trung Khanh Chestnuts are a beloved snack and a precious gift from the highlands of Cao Bang. Grown on limestone mountains in the Northeast region, these chestnuts stand out with their hard outer shell, easily peelable brown skin, and large, evenly sized nuts, about five to six times bigger than wild chestnuts. The nuts have a white hairy layer, a thin inner skin, and a golden-colored kernel, delivering a delicious buttery taste.
Trung Khanh Chestnuts are not just a popular snack but also a cherished gift from the highlands, often presented by locals to their loved ones on special occasions.
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