Ban Sop Waterfall (To Thien Waterfall)

Ban Sop Waterfall (To Thien Waterfall), a hidden beauty on the Vietnam-China border

When it comes to world-class beautiful and grand waterfalls, Ban Sop Waterfall, locally called “Tat Ban Sop” or “Tat Ban Sab,” is one of the top picks that mr.hotsia highly recommends you see with your own eyes. This waterfall is located in Cao Bằng province in northwest Vietnam, about a 3-hour drive from Cao Bằng city. Here, you will find pristine nature and the grandeur of the fourth largest waterfall in the world, after Niagara Falls, Victoria Falls, and Iguazu Falls.

Ban Sop Waterfall is 208 meters wide and drops about 70 meters high. The pool depth is around 60 meters. When the water cascades down, it creates a stunning scene of water hitting rocks and spraying mist beautifully. This is an image I, mr.hotsia, have never forgotten since the first time I saw it in person.

The Charm of Traveling to Ban Sop

From Cao Bằng city, traveling to Ban Sop Waterfall is not difficult. I chose to take a bus, which costs about 120 baht and takes around 3 hours. The route is filled with high mountain ranges and lush green rice fields on both sides, allowing me to experience the lifestyle of the Tai people living in this area. Interestingly, some of the local language in Cao Bằng is quite similar to Thai and Isan dialects. When I visited markets or talked with locals, they often greeted me in a warm language that felt like home.

At Ban Sop Waterfall, I stayed at a hotel right next to the waterfall called “Saigon Ban Sop,” which costs about 1,800 baht per night. It is the only accommodation adjacent to the waterfall, allowing me to wake up early and enjoy the beauty of the waterfall at first light conveniently. When I visited, the water flow was still low, but it had its own charm, especially when riding a bamboo raft along the river that marks the border between Vietnam and China. Here, you can clearly see the difference between the two sides of the river; whichever side the raft docks belongs to that country.

Ban Sop Waterfall: Must-See Viewpoints and Activities

Besides the beautiful waterfall, there are small caves around to explore. I recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes and a good camera because there are many beautiful angles to capture, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when sunlight passes through the waterfall mist, creating a beautiful rainbow like a painting.

For tourists who visit as a day trip, it is possible, but I, mr.hotsia, recommend staying overnight at the waterfall to soak in the atmosphere of frogs croaking at night at the resort and waking up to a peaceful, crowd-free waterfall. There are also guesthouses in the Tai village about 500 meters from the waterfall, which are much cheaper. However, if you dislike dust and noise, I recommend staying at the hotel next to the waterfall for better value.

Cao Bằng Province: A Small Town Full of Charm and Local Flavors

If you plan to visit Ban Sop Waterfall, don’t forget to stop by Cao Bằng city. The city lies in a plain surrounded by high mountains and a large river flowing through the center. It is home to many Tai people, which Mr.Hotsia has mentioned in previous articles.Cao Bằng Province, VietnamThe language and culture here are surprisingly close to those of Thai people.

There are various accommodation options here, ranging from budget hotels at 400 baht to luxury hotels likeSunny Hotelwhere I have stayed and was impressed by the cleanliness and city views from the upper floors. These hotels usually offer wifi, hot water, air conditioning, and Vietnamese-style breakfast, making your stay comfortable and worthwhile.

Local Cao Bằng Cuisine Recommended by mr.hotsia

Besides the beautiful nature, the local food in Cao Bằng should not be missed, especially the Cao Bằng sausage, called “lạp sườn” in Vietnamese, which has a unique taste and preparation method. I have described it in an article.Cao Bằng Sausage or Vietnamese SausageHere, sausages are smoked in the kitchen for about three months before being grilled or fried and served with sticky rice. The flavor combines the aroma of spices and a distinctive smoky scent.

Besides sausages, the Cao Bằng morning market is another place I, mr.hotsia, enjoy visiting to find delicious food such as hot roast duck, rice porridge, boiled offal, or bánh mì sold at street stalls. The market is clean and lively, with local food vendors who speak good English, making communication and asking for food and travel advice smooth.Cao Bằng Morning MarketIt is another recommended stop for those wanting to experience authentic local life.

Summary of Impressions from mr.hotsia

Ban Sop Waterfall is one of the experiences I, mr.hotsia, am proud of and want to invite you to visit at least once in your life. Not only because of the grandeur of the waterfall, the fourth largest in the world, but also because of the simplicity of local life, the warmth of the community, and the perfect blend of nature’s charm. This waterfall is ideal for those wanting to escape the hustle of big cities to enjoy peace, refresh the eyes and mind, and recharge with pure nature.

If you are interested in more details about travel, accommodation, or local food, you can read additional information in the articlesHotels in Cao Bằng Province, VietnamandFood of the Cao Bằng People, VietnamI, mr.hotsia, guarantee this trip will be one of your most memorable travel experiences.