Nestled next to West Lake in Hanoi, Ho Truc Bach is a quiet, historic retreat, with new ways of perceiving the beauty of the city. Once part of West Lake, Ho Truc Bach is now an independent body of water and the tranquil venue of Hanoi paddle tours. A small, peaceful lake invites travelers into the waterway lined with lush greenery and ancient pagodas to explore by paddleboard or kayak. Unlike more hustle-and-bustle lakes, Ho Truc Bach is a very up-and-coming, private haven for any person seeking a Hanoi Tour that combines history, nature, and some cooling-off. History-augmented individuals, nature enthusiasts, and paddlers all across the board cannot afford to miss this lake.
Ho Truc Bach
Ho Truc Bach Lake, in the Ba Dinh District of Hanoi, is not only a picturesque site for Hanoi paddle tours but is also enriched with an interesting history that puts interesting depth into any given Hanoi Tours experience. Nestled along the bustling Thanh Nien Road just north of Quan Thanh Ward, Ho Truc Bach was actually a part of Hanoi’s iconic West Lake. Centuries ago, an embankment separated its southeastern section, creating such a lake as exists today, and forming what is now the famous Thanh Nien Road. This division enabled Ho Truc Bach to develop a unique character all of its own: a calm, peaceful atmosphere that quickly became ideal for local fishing and traditional silk-making, thus leaving a forever mark on Hanoi’s history. Its prime location between West Lake and famous sites such as Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple places Ho Truc Bach among the more accessible yet quiet retreats, ideal for travelers who seek both nature and history.
In former times, Ho Truc Bach was favored by the local fishers for its sheltered waters, finding this area of the lake ideal for rearing and catching fish. The lake soon became famous for its beautiful silk, made by the palace maidens confined in Truc Lam Palace after breaking royal rules. The fishes thus obtained such fine and glossy silk that it was soon called “Truc Bach," meaning “white silk." Indeed today, this lineage is preserved in the lake’s very name: a reminder to visitors of Hanoi’s ancient artisanal heritage and its dedication to craftsmanship.
One of the most interesting historical events associated with Ho Truc Bach Lake is related to the Vietnam War. In 1967, a U.S. Navy pilot, John McCain, was shot down over Hanoi and fell into the lake by parachute, after which he was captured by people in the area. This dramatic moment is marked on the shores by a plaque-a strong reminder, even today, of how steadfast Hanoi had once been during challenging times. The plaque acts as a landmark for those touring the lake on Hanoi paddle tours and offers insight into both local and international history.
Rich and multi-layered, Ho Truc Bach is much more than a serene destination for Hanoi Tours. It is a lake shaped by Hanoi’s past, which offers visitors a closer affinity with the rich cultural heritage of the city. While you paddle along in its tranquil waters, you will hardly be gazing at anything but a haven where stories about resilience, artistry, and transformation continue to reverberate.
Ho Truc Bach
The first thing that strikes you about Ho Truc Bach is its serenity. Unlike the hustle and bustle of, say, nearby West Lake, Ho Truc Bach is a quiet haven lined with some beautiful willows and charming lakeside flower beds. Sceneries are perfect for those seeking to get away from the fast pace of the city to soak in the natural beauty of Hanoi at a more peaceful rhythm. These quiet settings form a background where Hanoi paddle tours are set up, where guests take a tour in quiet charm across this lake, with trees rustling softly and skies reflecting in the water.
Ho Truc Bach Lake is tranquil, with its waters calm and a more modest size than the last two lakes mentioned. This forms an ideal setting for several Hanoi paddle tours: it’s gentle water, through which both novice and expert paddlers find easy to navigate, whether in paddleboarding, kayaking, or even fun swan paddle boat rentals. It is, therefore, a perfect destination for beginners who wish to experience paddling for the first time; the waters of the lake offer a tranquil and safe environment. Small wonder that Ho Truc Bach is rated by Hanoi Tours as among the best places for outdoor water sports!
Among the most outstanding things that could be tried during any paddle tour on Ho Truc Bach is the exploration of its two scenic islands: Chau Chu and Ngu Xa. Chau Chu Island is small but charming, with the influence of a peculiar place called Cau Nhi Temple, where one can get in touch with the spiritual side of Hanoi. Then there is Ngu Xa Island, which is said to have a long history based on bronze making. This is a craft passed down the generations, and the place called Ngu Xa today is a cultural landmark-one that paddlers can view from the water. Another layer of discovery also comes from both islands, making the paddle tour on Ho Truc Bach an experience with depth in history and discovery.
Ho Truc Bach Lake
Ho Truc Bach offers rentals of swan paddle boats and kayaks to visitors who would like to experience Hanoi paddle tours. In the form of swans, the paddle boats are a hilarious option for couples, families, or friends, while kayaks promise an even more interactive and hand-operated adventure across the lake. The prices are reasonable: swan boats cost around 100,000 VND per hour for the small boats and about 200,000 VND for the larger family boats. The other best times to enjoy paddling here are early mornings and late afternoons when the light is soft and the waters perfect for an outing across the lake.
Just imagine having a cup of coffee while floating on the lake! Highlands Coffee has introduced a brand-new lakeside coffee experience with a ‘boat café’ right on Ho Truc Bach. This café has become one of the favorite places both for the locals and tourists with unbeatable sunsets. You can see both Ho Truc Bach and West Lake from its second-floor seating. From here, it’s an ideal place for those who need to relax after an active day or just want a quiet moment with nature. This is, no doubt, a must in your Hanoi Tours for any sunset lover.
To mix things up, why not take in Ho Truc Bach from Two Wheels? Bike rentals can be found in the vicinity, which will let you tour around the lake and even hook up with the stunning 20-km bike trail that goes around West Lake. The route is seriously a great way to experience both lakes and see a more laid-back side of Hanoi. Cycling here offers a different outlook, lets one feel the breeze, and allows stops at any time for photos or refreshments. This is for those who love both Hanoi paddle tours and cycling; hence, this is the best day out completely.
One of the most thrilling things in a paddle tour at Ho Truc Bach is to reach its two islands, Chau Chu and Ngu Xa. It is around Chau Chu Island that the cozy nook of trees with Cau Nhi Temple passes by, excitingly hinting at mystery and spirituality while paddling up its side. Further ahead, Ngu Xa Island is the land that has borne the rich heritage of bronze making on its shoulders for centuries. Paddling around these islands gives visitors certain unique vantage points and showcases Hanoi’s cultural past in ways rarely experienced. Hanoi paddle tours on Ho Truc Bach are hence experiences imbued with history and wonder.
Ha Noi
For Families: Kick off the day with a casual tour of Ho Truc Bach’s peaceful waters via swan boat or kayak. Kids have so much fun on the swan paddle boats! Follow that up with lunch at a lakeside café or Highland Coffee’s café on the boat and just chill. Watch the time slip away in the afternoon at Cau Nhi Temple or take an easy walk along Thanh Nien Road.
For Couples: Begin with a quiet morning paddleboarding session while the lake is sparse, and the light is perfect for romantic photos. Later, have a cozy brunch at a lakeside café with views over both Ho Truc Bach and West Lake. Round off one’s day with a peaceful visit to Ngu Xa Island and appreciate together the rich heritage and history of bronze casting.
For Solo Travelers: Relish the serenity with an early session of paddleboarding to savor the isolation. Have coffee from Highlands Coffee’s boat café and take in some people-watching or journaling while having a great view. Finally, end your day with a bike ride around the lake, seamlessly connected with the West Lake cycling trail for a complete loop and ample time to take in the peaceful scene.
To have the best light and most picturesque scenes, visit Ho Truc Bach early in the morning or just before the sun sets. These are generally great times for photography, as the sun reflects into the lake perfectly, and the light is soft and golden. Sunrise and sunset paddling sessions are extremely popular among people who would like to capture such special moments on their Hanoi paddle tours.
Each temple, for example, Cau Nhi Temple, should be treated with due tranquility as well as religious customs when visiting any cultural locus on Ngu Xa Island. Dress modestly during a visit to any sacred site, make minimal noise, and be respectful of your surroundings. Conforming to local etiquette will help you better appreciate the serene environment that you may want to connect yourself with regarding Hanoi’s cultural heritage.
On your Hanoi paddle tours, think of the nature around you by not littering and keeping the lake clean. On every stand-up paddleboard or kayak tour, use the proper safety gear: a life jacket, especially if you are an unconfident swimmer. With such thoughts in mind, one is guaranteed a safe experience in Ho TrucLikee any other person who will also be coming back for more of its beauty.
Ho Truc Bach Lake deserves to be a must-visit in every respect for Hanoi paddle tours, combining tranquility with historic aspects and natural scenes. It will be the perfect unfit for any Hanoi Tours with paddling on the tranquil waters to sightseeing of cultural stardom in nearby locations. For an unforgettable experience, contact Impress Travel to help you plan your visit and make the most out of this charming destination.
Day 1: HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)
Day 2: HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)
Day 3: HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)
Day 4: HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)
Day 5: HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)
Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi
Day Inclusions: Transfer, breakfast, lunch, tour guide, rowing boat, entrance fee, bicycles, hotel in Hanoi.
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, shuttle bus A/C transfer, English speaking tour guide on CRUISE only, entrance fee, full board, joint Cruise in Halong bay with private cabin (2 persons share 1 cabin)
What’s included in this trip :
4 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
| City | Hotel | Room |
| Hanoi | Silk Path/ La Siesta Premium | Deluxe with windows |
| Halong Bay | Paradise Sail/Bhaya cruise | Deluxe with windows |
5 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
| City | Hotel | Room |
| Hanoi | Peridot Hotel/Apricot | Deluxe with windows |
| Halong Bay | Paradise Elegance/Au Co | Deluxe with windows |
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Impress Travel offers daily tours to attractive destinations in the capital of Hanoi as well as package tours to explore the most popular destinations in North Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa, or adventure tours to explore the Northeast & Northwest regions such as Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Mu Cang Chai. Our products focus on providing travel services for private tours, small groups, family groups, and couples who need to make special requests for the trip. For the trip to Hanoi & North Vietnam, your submission to Impress Travel & Destination Management Company (DMC), which will bring the greatest value to your trip.
To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).
