Plizio Visual Lab

Thác Bà Lake

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Thác Bà Lake is a remarkable feature of the geography and culture of Vietnam. One of Vietnam's largest artificial lakes, created by the construction of the Thác Bà hydroelectric plant. It's dotted with over 1,300 islands and is nicknamed 'Ha Long Bay on the mountain'. Created in the 1970s. An important producer of hydroelectricity. Home to many ethnic minorities, mainly Dao people. This natural area reflects the scenic diversity of Vietnam, from Ha Long Bay to the iconic rice terraces. Like many notable places in Vietnam, it combines regional character with the legacy of a millennia-old civilization and the French colonial era. Thus, this place contributes to the diverse profile of Vietnam, from the Mekong Delta and Ha Long Bay to the terraced rice fields.

Location: Vietnam
Nearby: Ha Giang (21 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	18	21	25	28	29	29	28	27	24	20	16
Rain mm	36	23	52	93	172	210	283	308	182	96	44	28

📋 Practical info

🧭

Getting there

Thác Bà Lake is located in Yên Bái Province and is easily accessible from Yên Bái city. Visitors often use boats from the Hương Lý or Thác Bà ports to explore the vast expanse of water and the reservoir's numerous islands.

📅

Best season

The best time for a visit is from September to April, when the climate is milder and the lake's water level is usually high enough for extensive boat tours. In summer, it can be very hot, making activities on the open water tiring.

⛰️

Terrain & paths

The terrain consists of a vast expanse of water dotted with over 1,300 green hilly islands. Along the shores, there are often gentle hills and villages of ethnic minorities, while the islands themselves are usually densely vegetated.

🎒

What to bring

Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential for boat tours on the lake. It is also advisable to bring a rain jacket for sudden showers and comfortable sandals or water shoes for getting in and out of the boats.

🅿️

Parking

Local parking options for motorcycles and cars are available near the boat ports in Thác Bà and Hương Lý. These parking spots are often guarded by private providers, and a small fee for the entire day is common.

⚠️

Safety

Always wear the provided life jackets while on the boats, especially during windy weather. During shore excursions on the islands or in the villages, watch for slippery paths and respect the local culture of the residents.

⏱️

Time needed

A boat tour across the lake typically takes 3 to 5 hours to visit some of the most interesting islands and caves. For a more immersive experience including visits to the villages on the shore, a full day should be planned.

Geography

Coordinates

22.15000, 105.05000

Facts

One of Vietnam's largest artificial lakes, created by the construction of the Thác Bà hydroelectric plant. It's dotted with over 1,300 islands and is nicknamed 'Ha Long Bay on the mountain'.
Located within the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
Plays a role in the local identity of the region.