Ban Gioc Waterfalls | A natural wonder by the border

Bản Giốc Waterfall

Bản Giốc Waterfall, also known as Detian Falls or Bản Giốc Falls, encompasses a series of cascades that straddle the border between China and Vietnam. In a stunning show of power and grandeur, water flows endlessly through pools, down tiers, and over cliffs in a unique horseshoe shape.

By VnExpress | Wikipedia | Travel+Leisure

It's hard to explain exactly why waterfalls are so enchanting, but there's no denying their effect. People traverse the globe just to witness the magnetic power of water pouring over a cliff's edge and plummeting to the earth below. Waterfalls top many travelers' lists and are often protected by parks or UNESCO designations. And while these wonders exist all over the world, from the lush hills of Hawaii to the rugged coast of Iceland, there's no denying that some falls are more spectacular than the rest.

Ban Gioc Waterfalls, Vietnam | Photo by Le Minh Phat | Wikipedia
Ban Gioc Waterfalls, Vietnam | Photo by Le Minh Phat | Wikipedia

From those heralded as the largest, tallest, or most powerful to little-known cascades with enticing swimming pools at their feet, these are some of the best and most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Bản Giốc Waterfall, also known as Detian Falls or Bản Giốc Falls, encompasses a series of cascades that straddle the border between China and Vietnam. In a stunning show of power and grandeur, water flows endlessly through pools, down tiers, and over cliffs in a unique horseshoe shape.

Ban Gioc Waterfalls, Cao Bang, Vietnam
Ban Gioc Waterfalls, Cao Bang, Vietnam

Ban Gioc Waterfall in the northern mountainous province of Cao Bang has been named among the 21 most beautiful waterfalls in the world by U.S. travel magazine Travel Leisure. According to the magazine, the Ban Gioc Waterfall encompasses a series of cascades that straddle the border between Vietnam and China. «In a stunning show of power and grandeur, water flows endlessly through pools, down tiers, and over cliffs in a unique horseshoe shape.» it described.

Ban Gioc Waterfalls Cao Bang Vietnam Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels
Ban Gioc Waterfalls Cao Bang Vietnam Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels

The recognition comes after sightseeing tours of the Ban Gioc (Vietnam) - Detian (China) Waterfall scenic area officially opened to both countries' visitors in September 2023. Ban Gioc is also among the largest waterfalls in Southeast Asia and one of the world's four largest waterfalls lying on a border of countries. The list of the Top 21 includes Victoria Falls of Zambia and Zimbabwe; Havasu Falls of Arizona in the U.S.; Angel Falls of Venezuela; Dudhsagar Falls of India; Yosemite Falls of California in the U.S.; Seljalandsfoss of Iceland; Akaka Falls of Hawaii in the US; Iguazu Falls of Argentina and Brazil; and Plitvice Waterfalls of Croatia.

Ban Gioc Waterfalls | A natural wonder by the border
Ban Gioc Waterfalls | A natural wonder by the border

Tucked away in a remote area of Northern Vietnam, Cao Bang Province is bursting with beautiful geo-cultural sites. With five major river systems and 47 lakes, water plays a vital role in shaping the landscape and local life. Much of Cao Bang is protected as UNESCO Global Geopark. The province's extraordinary diversity makes it a spectacular place to explore, especially for adventure travellers. Here are seven stops in Cao Bang you must not miss.

Located on the border between China and Vietnam, Bản Giốc is the fourth largest waterfall in the world. Measuring 300 meters wide, the falls are absolutely breathtaking in size. The vast area and range of different falls and pools within the park is captivating. Set in a striking valley and surrounded by lush jungle, Bản Giốc feels like a paradise of its own.

Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of Vietnam's most impressive natural sights.
Ban Gioc Waterfall is one of Vietnam’s most impressive natural sights.

The best time to visit is during the dry season from October to April. At the end of the dry season, a daily release of water from the dam-controlled Quây Sơn River takes place between 10:30am and 1:00pm, bringing the falls up to their full flow.

Discovering Cao Bang's Bản Giốc Waterfall | Vietnam Tourism
Discovering Cao Bang’s Bản Giốc Waterfall | Vietnam Tourism

The distance from Hanoi to Cao Bang City is around 280 kilometres. Travel time can be around eight hours depending on type of transportation. Day and overnight buses are available from Hanoi to Cao Bang. Buses leave from the My Dinh Bus Station. Private charter and group tours to Cao Bang are also available. Local and online travel agencies can help you book your trip.

Ban Gioc is one of Vietnam's best-known waterfalls
Ban Gioc is one of Vietnam’s best-known waterfalls

The best time to visit Cao Bang is during the dry season, from October to April. It’s worth noting that North Vietnam can get quite cold during the winter months, from November to February, so pack accordingly. Rainy season — from May to September in North Vietnam — can be beautiful, just be prepared for hot and humid weather.

Nguồn VnExpress | Wikipedia | Travel+Leisure

Ban Gioc Waterfalls Cao Bang Vietnam Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels
Ban Gioc Waterfalls Cao Bang Vietnam Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels

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