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Truc Bach Lake: The Scenic Gem of Hanoi

Truc Bach Lake, a hidden gem in Hanoi, offers a perfect blend of serenity and cultural charm. Whether you want to stroll along its scenic pathways or discover its historical significance, this picturesque lake is a must-visit on your Vietnam Discovery Travel journey. Learn more about the best things to do here.

Truc Bach Lake is a favorite spot of many visitors (Source: Collected)
Truc Bach Lake is a favorite spot of many visitors (Source: Collected)

1. History and Significance of Truc Bach Lake

Located in the Ba Dinh District of Hanoi, Truc Bach Lake holds a fascinating place in Vietnam’s history. Formed in the 17th century, the lake was originally part of the famous West Lake. It became its own entity after locals built a dyke, which today is known as Thanh Nien Street. During the reign of King Le and Lord Trinh, the lake became notable for its lakeside palace that once served as a reformatory for rebellious royal concubines who were sentenced to weave silk. The lake thus offers a blend of historical depth and serene natural beauty.

Truc Bach Lake was part of West Lake in Hanoi until the 17th century (Source: Collected)
Truc Bach Lake was part of West Lake in Hanoi until the 17th century (Source: Collected)

2. Geography and Key Features of Truc Bach Lake

Covering an area of 22 hectares, Truc Bach Lake boasts a well-maintained stone-paved bank and charming walking paths lined with bamboo and willow trees. The gardens are dotted with flowers like roses and daisies, creating a tranquil environment for leisurely strolls. Visitors can take in the view of two small islets in the lake, adding to its charm.

3. How to Get to Truc Bach Lake

Truc Bach Lake is conveniently located about 3 kilometers from Hanoi’s city center. There are several transportation options to choose from:

The bus in Hanoi is a cost-effective means of exploring the capital city (Source: Collected)
The bus in Hanoi is a cost-effective means of exploring the capital city (Source: Collected)
  • Motorbike: Ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek offer affordable motorbike taxi services to easily navigate Hanoi’s streets.
  • Public Transportation: Buses including numbers E05, E09, 33, 50, 143, and 145 will take you to the lake. Be sure to check the bus schedules for timely travel.
  • Taxi: Reliable taxi services such as Mai Linh, Taxi Group, and G7 can take you directly to the lake. A ride from the Old Quarter to Truc Bach Lake will cost around 50,000-100,000 VND (~2-4 USD).

4. Activities to Enjoy at Truc Bach Lake

There’s no shortage of exciting activities around Truc Bach Lake. One of the most popular pastimes is renting a swan pedalo. For a price of 200,000 VND (big boat) or 100,000 VND (small boat) per hour, you can paddle around the lake and enjoy its scenic surroundings. Bicycle rentals are also available, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air while exploring the lakeside paths.

Getting around in a swan pedalo is worth a try at Truc Bach Lake (Source: Collected)
Getting around in a swan pedalo is worth a try at Truc Bach Lake (Source: Collected)

Additionally, the area is known for its street food, including local favorites like Tay Ho shrimp cakes and delicious ice cream, perfect for a quick snack as you explore.

5. Best Cafes with Scenic Views around Truc Bach Lake

Truc Bach Lake is surrounded by several charming cafes, each offering a unique atmosphere and picturesque views of the lake:

  • Havana Café: As the only Cuban-themed café in Hanoi, Havana impresses with its spacious interior and vibrant decor. Sip on a cool iced latte while enjoying the view of the lake from its prime location right on the lakeside.
Come to Havana coffee shop to have a cool iced latte (Source: Collected)
Come to Havana coffee shop to have a cool iced latte (Source: Collected)
  • Santorini Vibes Café: Inspired by Greece’s famous Santorini Island, this café attracts a young crowd with its blue-and-white aesthetic and relaxed vibe. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon drink with a view of the water.
Santorini Vibes Cafe is located near Truc Bach Lake (Source: Collected)
Santorini Vibes Cafe is located near Truc Bach Lake (Source: Collected)
  • Manzi Art Space and Café: Manzi offers more than just coffee; it’s a dynamic art space where visitors can view exhibitions or even participate in creative workshops. This café offers both art and tranquility with its lakeside location.
Manzi Art Space And Cafe is a famous art space in the capital city (Source: Collected)
Manzi Art Space And Cafe is a famous art space in the capital city (Source: Collected)

6. Travel Tips for Visiting Truc Bach Lake

  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon is the ideal time to visit Truc Bach Lake to witness the sunset and cooler weather. If you’re planning to rent a pedalo or bicycle, this is also when the lake is at its most peaceful.
  • What to Wear: Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore the lake on foot. Hanoi is generally casual, so wearing shorts is perfectly acceptable.
  • Currency and Expenses: Most places around the lake accept Vietnamese Dong (VND), so make sure to carry some cash. Currency exchanges are available in the Old Quarter, which is a short distance away.

7. Nearby Attractions to Explore

Truc Bach Lake is located near several other famous Hanoi attractions:

  • West Lake (Ho Tay): Just a short walk from Truc Bach Lake, West Lake is the largest lake in Hanoi and is home to numerous temples, pagodas, and scenic viewpoints. Don’t miss the Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Vietnam.
  • Hoan Kiem Lake: A bit farther from Truc Bach but well worth a visit, Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most iconic spots in Hanoi. Take a stroll along its shores and visit the Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in the lake.

8. Conclusion

Truc Bach Lake offers a perfect retreat for those looking to enjoy both natural beauty and cultural history in Hanoi. From pedalos to cafes, this tranquil destination has something for everyone. For a personalized experience, book a tour through Vietnam Discovery Tours on WhatsApp to make the most of your Hanoi adventure. You’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime!

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