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Hoa Binh Dam
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energy
The Hoa Binh Dam on the Da River was the largest hydroelectric power station in Vietnam and Southeast Asia until the completion of the Son La Dam. Construction began in 1979 with massive technical and financial assistance from the Soviet Union and was officially inaugurated in 1994. The power plant serves a triple purpose: generating electricity, providing flood control for the Hanoi region, and supplying water for agriculture in the Red River Delta. With eight turbines and a total capacity of 1,920 MW, it contributes significantly to the country's energy independence. The dam is also a major monument to Vietnamese-Soviet friendship, with a letter from the builders to future generations stored in a sealed monument on-site. The reservoir, Hoa Binh Lake, has evolved into a local tourist destination known for its scenic landscapes and island clusters. Despite newer and larger plants coming online, Hoa Binh remains a strategic reserve for the national power grid. Continuous technical maintenance and modernization of the facility ensure its long-term operational viability.
- Location: Vietnam
- Top sights: Bảo tàng di sản văn hóa Mường · Hmong-Museum · Đài tưởng niệm Thủy điện Hòa Bình
- Nearby: Vĩnh Yên (35 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 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 24 | 20 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 32 | 22 | 49 | 78 | 179 | 201 | 300 | 322 | 223 | 124 | 52 | 25 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
A monumental hydroelectric facility on the Black River that provides vital electricity and flood control for the entire Red River Delta region, supporting agriculture and local industries.
Visiting
The dam structure and its immediate surroundings are generally accessible to tourists, often featuring guided tours that explain its engineering, the construction history, and its socio-economic significance.
Where to view it
The best public vantage points are located along the riverbanks downstream or from the dedicated memorial sites on the hills overlooking the massive concrete spillways and the reservoir lake.
Local products
In the nearby city, visitors can typically find regional agricultural goods, fresh river fish caught in the reservoir, and traditional handwoven textiles made by local ethnic communities.
Active season
The hydroelectric operations run continuously year-round to support the grid, but the spectacular water release through the spillways is most likely seen during the peak rainy season.
Nearby
A visit to the dam pairs perfectly with exploring the scenic Hoa Binh lake reservoir via boat tours, visiting the caves, or experiencing the traditional culture of nearby Muong ethnic villages.
Geography
Facts
- The dam stands 128 meters high and has a total crest length of 734 meters.
- The power station is partially located within large artificial underground caverns.
- Hoa Binh Lake has a total storage capacity of over 9 billion cubic meters of water.
- The total construction period for the facility spanned 15 years.
- A letter is embedded in the structure, intended to be opened only in the year 2100.
- The average annual electricity production is approximately 8.16 billion kWh.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Hoa Binh Dam (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Hòa Bình dam?
A massive hydroelectric dam on the Da River, important for power generation.
Can you visit the dam?
You can view the dam from the outside and visit the nearby monument.
Is the area beautiful?
Yes, the Hòa Bình reservoir gives impressive mountain scenery.
How long does it take from Hanoi?
About 2 to 3 hours by car.
Is it safe?
Yes, it is a popular excursion spot for tourists.
Hoa Binh Dam: where is it located?
Hoa Binh Dam is located in Vietnam.
Hoa Binh Dam: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bảo tàng di sản văn hóa Mường, Hmong-Museum, Đài tưởng niệm Thủy điện Hòa Bình.
Hoa Binh Dam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
Hoa Binh Dam: why is it worth visiting?
The Hoa Binh Dam on the Da River was the largest hydroelectric power station in Vietnam and Southeast Asia until the completion of the Son La Dam.
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