Ban Gioc Waterfall is on the border with China. It is over 90 km from Cao Bang , equivalent with more than 2 hour drive each way. The echo of the falls can be heard some kilometers away from Trung Khanh. Its name comes from the Montagnard languages and sometimes spelt as Ban Doc. Though not the highest, Ban Gioc Waterfall is the largest fall in Vietnam. At the height of 53m and 300m wide, Ban Gioc Waterfall has 3 layers and water from the peak create spectacular scenery as well as merry booms and sounds that could be heard from distance. Half of the pleasure is walking across paddy fields to reach the base of the falls.
There is no official border checkpoint at this spot but a permit issued by the local police is required to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall. In fact, hotels in Cao Bang can help you to prepare this document.
when to go?
The water is enough any time year round to make your trip worthwhile. But its volume changes considerably between the dry and rainy season. And best time to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall is from May to September, when the falls are most impressive.