The incredible ancient city off the tourist trail surrounded by beautiful sites

This city is a hidden gem that should be on every traveller's bucket list.

By Alessandra Scotto di Santolo, World News Reporter

07:00, Sat, Jun 15, 2024

Aerial view of the beautiful Ban Gioc waterfall in North Vietnam

Aerial view of the beautiful Ban Gioc waterfall in North Vietnam (Image: Getty)

Tucked in the remote northeastern corner of Vietnam, Cao Bang is an ancient city that has been shrouded in mystery for centuries.

Despite its rich history and stunning natural beauty, Cao Bang remains a secret destination, off the beaten path for most tourists.

But for those who venture into this hidden gem, the rewards are well worth the journey.

Cao Bang is an ancient city with a history dating back over 2,000 years, with ruins of the ancient city walls, gates, and temples still standing today.

view of fishermen fishing on river in Thung mountain in Tra Linh, Cao Bang province, Vietnam with lake, cloudy, nature

Fishermen fishing on river in Thung mountain in Tra Linh, Cao Bang (Image: Getty)

Cao Bang temples

A host of temples are all within easy reach (Image: Getty)

The city's unique blend of Chinese, French, and Vietnamese influences is evident in its architecture, with a mix of traditional Vietnamese temples and colonial-era buildings.

One of the most striking features of Cao Bang is its stunning natural beauty. The city is surrounded by lush green mountains, rolling hills, and sparkling rivers, making it a nature lover's paradise.

The nearby Nho Quế Mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, while the Quây Sơn Waterfall is a picturesque spot to relax and soak up the surroundings.

But what truly sets Cao Bang apart is its cultural heritage. The city is home to a rich and diverse cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year.

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The transport with raft on the Song Quay Son River at Ban Gioc Detian Waterfalls in Vietnam and China

Cao Bang's history spans 2,000 years (Image: Getty)

The most famous festival is the Cao Bang Flower Festival, which takes place in April and celebrates the region's vibrant flowers and traditional crafts.

Despite its many attractions, Cao Bang remains a relatively unknown destination for tourists.

However, this lack of commercialisation is part of its charm. Visitors can explore the city's ancient streets and temples without being hassled by souvenir sellers or crowded by tourists. The city's laid-back atmosphere is also a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist destinations.

Getting to Cao Bang is relatively easy, with regular buses and trains connecting the city to Hanoi and other major cities in Vietnam. Once there, visitors can explore the city on foot or by bike, taking in the sights and sounds of this ancient and beautiful city.