Dau Tieng Lake, an emerald gem in the heart of Southeast Vietnam, has long been a captivating destination for travelers seeking unspoiled beauty, poetic scenery, and unique travel experiences. More than just the largest irrigation lake in Vietnam, it’s a “green paradise” for those wanting to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, reconnect with fresh nature, and discover fascinating things along its shores. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around the World) to explore everything about Dau Tieng Lake tourism in this article!
I. Overview of Dau Tieng Lake: The “Emerald Gem” of Southeast Vietnam
Before embarking on your journey to explore Dau Tieng Lake tourism, let’s review some important overview information to give you the most comprehensive understanding of this special destination.
1. Where is Dau Tieng Lake? Area & Geographical Location
Dau Tieng Lake is a massive artificial lake with a water surface area of up to 270km² and a water storage capacity of 1.58 billion m³. The lake stretches across the territories of 4 provinces:
- Binh Duong: Dau Tieng District
- Tay Ninh: Duong Minh Chau and Tan Chau Districts
- Binh Phuoc: Hon Quan District
With its impressive scale, Dau Tieng Lake is not only the largest irrigation lake in Vietnam but is also known as one of the largest artificial lakes in Southeast Asia. This special geographical location creates a diversity of landscapes and lakeside tourism experiences.
Map showing the location of Dau Tieng Lake spanning across Tay Ninh, Binh Duong, and Binh Phuoc provinces
2. History of Dau Tieng Lake’s Formation
Dau Tieng Lake carries a heroic historical story, associated with the construction and development of the country. The lake construction project was approved by the Government in 1979, and officially commenced on April 29, 1981, in Thuan Binh hamlet, Truong Mit commune, Duong Minh Chau district, Tay Ninh province.
After more than 3 years of urgent construction, Dau Tieng Lake began storing water from July 2, 1984, and officially went into operation on January 10, 1985. The birth of Dau Tieng Lake is a miracle, demonstrating the will and strength of the Vietnamese people in conquering nature, serving life and production.
3. Important Roles of Dau Tieng Lake
Dau Tieng Lake plays an extremely important role in many fields, not limited to irrigation but also extending to tourism and the socio-economic life of the Southeast region.
- Irrigation: Dau Tieng Lake has the task of regulating the water source of the Saigon River, providing irrigation water for over 100,000 hectares of agricultural land in Tay Ninh, Binh Duong, Long An, and Ho Chi Minh City provinces through the East Canal, West Canal, Tan Hung Canal, and more than 1,550km of branch canals.
- Tourism: The unspoiled natural beauty, diverse ecosystem, and fresh climate have transformed Dau Tieng Lake into an attractive Dau Tieng Lake tourism destination. Visitors can participate in many interesting activities such as camping, SUP paddling, fishing, watching sunrise and sunset, and exploring nearby ecotourism spots.
- Economy: Dau Tieng Lake is also a rich source of seafood, utilized by locals for aquaculture, contributing to local economic development and providing fresh food for the market.
4. Ideal Time to Visit Dau Tieng Lake
To have the most complete Dau Tieng Lake tourism trip, choosing the right time is very important. Here are a few suggestions:
- Dry season (December – April): This is the best time to visit Dau Tieng Lake. The weather is dry, sunny, and cool, very suitable for outdoor activities such as camping, picnicking, and exploring the lakeside.
- Avoid the rainy season (May – November): The rainy season often has heavy rain, and the lake water level rises, which may affect the tourism experience and outdoor activities.
- Note the flood discharge schedule: Dau Tieng Lake usually discharges floodwater at the end of the rainy season (October – December) to regulate the Saigon River’s water level. You should follow the flood discharge information before going to ensure safety and have appropriate plans.
Dau Tieng Lake scenery in the dry season with sunny weather, ideal for tourism
5. Dau Tieng Lake Entrance Fee
Good news for visitors is that Dau Tieng Lake does not charge an entrance fee. You are free to explore and enjoy the beauty of the lake. However, you will need to pay for some services such as tent rental, boat rental, canoe rental, or services at ecotourism areas around the lake. These fees vary depending on the service and time of travel.
II. Directions to Dau Tieng Lake
Traveling to Dau Tieng Lake is quite convenient with various means of transport, depending on your starting point and preferences. Here are 3 popular methods:
1. Motorbike: Preferred by Backpackers
Motorbike is an ideal choice for young people who love backpacking, exploring, and freedom of time. From the center of Tay Ninh city, you can easily travel to Dau Tieng Lake following these directions:
- Go along Boi Loi street towards the Northeast.
- Turn right onto Khedol – Suoi Da street.
- Turn left onto Nguyen Chi Thanh street.
- At Bo Ho T-junction, turn right onto DT 781 road.
- Go along DT 781 road, and you will reach Dau Tieng Lake.
Advantages:
- Cost-saving.
- Proactive about time and schedule.
- Suitable for young people who love exploring and experiencing.
- Can stop to admire the scenery along the way.
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable if carrying a lot of luggage or traveling in large groups.
- Can be tiring if traveling long distances.
- Need to ensure good health and steady driving skills.
Motorbike travel to Dau Tieng Lake is a favorite experience for many young people
2. Taxi: Fast & Convenient
Taxi is a suitable option for small groups or families who want to travel quickly and comfortably. In Tay Ninh, there are many reputable taxi companies such as Mai Linh, Sao Do, Tay Ninh,… you can easily catch a taxi in the city center or tourist spots.
Advantages:
- Fast, convenient, no need to find directions.
- Comfortable, suitable for small groups and families.
- No need to worry about driving.
Disadvantages:
- Higher cost than motorbike and bus.
- Less proactive about time and schedule.
3. Private Car: Comfortable for Families & Large Groups
Private car is the optimal choice if you travel in a large group or family, carrying a lot of luggage for camping or picnicking. The car route to Dau Tieng Lake is similar to motorbike, very easy and convenient.
Advantages:
- Comfortable, spacious, can carry many people and luggage.
- Proactive about time and schedule.
- Suitable for families and large groups.
Disadvantages:
- Fuel costs and car rental fees (if renting) are higher than motorbike and bus.
- Difficult to move and park in some crowded areas.
Private car is a suitable choice for traveling to Dau Tieng Lake with family and friends
III. Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Spots Around Dau Tieng Lake
Dau Tieng Lake and the surrounding area have countless attractive destinations, catering to all visitor preferences. Here are the top 10 Dau Tieng Lake tourism coordinates that you must visit:
1. Egg Rock Beach: Green Meadow by the Lake
Egg Rock Beach is a large, lush green lawn stretching along Dau Tieng Lake. The special feature of this rock beach is the large, round rocks like giant eggs scattered on the grass, creating a unique and impressive scene. This place is an ideal location for camping, picnicking, watching sunrise and sunset, or simply relaxing in the fresh nature.
Egg Rock Beach with lush green grass and unique egg-shaped rocks
Visitors checking in at Egg Rock Beach during a romantic sunset
Egg Rock Beach on a sunny day resembles a vast green meadow
Camping to welcome the sunrise at Egg Rock Beach is an unmissable experience
Positive review from a visitor about their experience at Egg Rock Beach
2. Truc Stream: Unspoiled Scenery by Cau Mountain
Truc Stream is a small stream flowing murmuringly next to Cau Mountain, surrounded by green bamboo rows. The space here is peaceful, quiet, bearing the unspoiled, rustic beauty. Truc Stream is an ideal destination for you to immerse yourself in nature, relax, and enjoy the fresh air. You can camp, picnic, swim in the stream, or simply stroll along the stream bank and check-in beautiful photos.
Truc Stream with unspoiled, poetic natural scenery
The clear water of Truc Stream flowing through the green bamboo forest
Visitors enjoying swimming at Truc Stream
The wide rocky area by Truc Stream is suitable for camping and sightseeing
Positive review from a visitor about Truc Stream
3. Dau Tieng Lake Lighthouse: “Super Cool” Check-in
Dau Tieng Lake Lighthouse is a unique architectural work, prominent with its sweet pastel pink color, located on a small peninsula jutting out into the lake. To reach the lighthouse, you need to walk across a pretty little bridge. This place is a virtual living check-in spot loved by young people, with a backdrop of vast lake water, majestic mountains, and a brilliant lighthouse.
Pink lighthouse standing out in the Dau Tieng Lake scenery
Small bridge leading to the lighthouse, creating a poetic scene
Visitors freely checking in at Dau Tieng Lake lighthouse
Visitors posing impressively on the bridge leading to the lighthouse
Visitor review about Dau Tieng Lake lighthouse
4. Dau Tieng Lake Dam: Admire the Great Irrigation Project
Dau Tieng Lake Dam is a massive irrigation project, playing an important role in regulating water and preventing floods for the area. Although you cannot enter the main dam area, you can still admire the panoramic view of the dam from afar, feel the majesty of the project, and enjoy the fresh, cool air here. Especially during the flood discharge season, you will witness the rolling water flowing down, creating an extremely impressive scene.
Panoramic view of Dau Tieng Lake dam from above
Lush green lawn and green trees covering both sides of the dam
Rolling water flowing through Dau Tieng Lake dam
Visitor review about the Dau Tieng Lake dam area
5. Nhim Island (Hedgehog Island): Camping Paradise in the Middle of the Lake
Nhim Island is a small island located in the middle of Dau Tieng Lake, belonging to Tay Ninh province. The island has unspoiled, peaceful beauty with wide land, green trees, and fresh air. To reach Nhim Island, you need to rent a boat or canoe from local people. This place is an ideal camping spot for those who want to seek privacy, get away from the noise, and immerse themselves in wild nature.
Peaceful scenery on Dau Tieng Lake seen from Nhim Island
Ba Den Mountain hidden in the clouds seen from Nhim Island
Beautiful sunset scenery on Nhim Island
Visitors camping and checking in on Nhim Island
Visitors excitedly checking in on a canoe to Nhim Island
Visitor review about the camping experience on Nhim Island
6. Phu Gia Farm: Green Ecotourism Area
Phu Gia Farm is a large ecotourism area, surrounded by green forests and clear lakes. This place offers an ideal resort space for families and groups of friends. Coming to Phu Gia Farm, you can participate in many interesting activities such as camping, swimming, SUP paddling, swan boating, cycling, fishing, and enjoying local specialties.
Rows of green trees providing shade at Phu Gia Farm
Lakeside huts at Phu Gia Farm
Visitors SUP paddling on the lake at Phu Gia Farm
Cycling on the green trails in Phu Gia Farm
Visitors camping under the green trees at Phu Gia Farm
Visitor review about Phu Gia Farm
7. Bang Lang Glamping: Romantic Lakeside Resort
Bang Lang Glamping is a high-class resort by Dau Tieng Lake, offering a unique and romantic glamping (glamorous camping) experience. This place is designed in harmony with nature, with pretty, fully-equipped tents, and many attractive entertainment activities such as camping, campfire, cycling, horse riding, SUP paddling, and enjoying music. Bang Lang Glamping is an ideal destination for couples, families, and groups of friends who want to enjoy a memorable vacation by Dau Tieng Lake.
Purple crape myrtle flowers blooming at Bang Lang Glamping
Visitors checking in under a crape myrtle tree in the evening light
Green lawn and crape myrtle flowers at Bang Lang Glamping
View overlooking Dau Tieng Lake and Cau Mountain from Bang Lang Glamping
Stone path by the lake at Bang Lang Glamping
Relaxation and sightseeing area of Dau Tieng Lake at Bang Lang Glamping
Horse riding experience at Bang Lang Glamping
Visitors checking in at Bang Lang Glamping with poetic scenery
SUP paddling on Dau Tieng Lake at Bang Lang Glamping
Visitor review about Bang Lang Glamping
8. Dot Champa Ecotourism Area: Traditional Vietnamese Architecture
Dot Champa Ecotourism Area is a unique destination, bearing the imprint of Vietnamese culture. The tourist area is built in traditional architecture, using rare wood materials, with works such as the Ho family temple, swimming pool, garden, and art exhibition room. Dot Champa is an ideal place for you to learn about Vietnamese culture, relax in a green space, and enjoy peace.
Clear blue lake at Dot Champa Ecotourism Area
Swimming pool at Dot Champa Ecotourism Area
Unique wooden architecture at Dot Champa Ecotourism Area
Entrance gate to Dot Champa Ecotourism Area with a classic touch
Forest surrounding Dot Champa Ecotourism Area
Visitor review about Dot Champa Ecotourism Area
9. Thai Son Pagoda – Cau Mountain: Visit the Sacred Pagoda on the Mountain
Thai Son Pagoda – Cau Mountain is an ancient, sacred pagoda located on Cau Mountain, near Dau Tieng Lake. The pagoda has a large campus, unique architecture, and many prominent works such as the Nam Hai Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva statue, Nine-tiered Tower, Cau Shrine,… Coming to Thai Son Pagoda, you can visit the pagoda, pray for peace, and admire the majestic natural beauty from above. This is also an important spiritual destination in your Dau Tieng Lake tourism journey.
Tam Quan gate of Thai Son Pagoda – Cau Mountain with prominent yellow color
Rows of unique gilded Buddha statues in the pagoda
Impressive pagoda tower architecture at Thai Son Pagoda – Cau Mountain
12m tall Nam Hai Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva statue at the pagoda
Reclining Buddha statue and famous stupa at the pagoda
Visitor review about Thai Son Pagoda – Cau Mountain
10. Yen Ngua Range (Saddle Range): Trekking to Explore Wild Nature
Yen Ngua Range is part of Cau Mountain, with a unique shape resembling a saddle. This place still retains its unspoiled beauty with dense forests, clear streams, and many precious herbs. Yen Ngua Range is an ideal destination for those who love trekking, mountain climbing, exploring wild nature, and enjoying the fresh air of the mountains and forests.
Mieu Tho Cau Bay temple on Yen Ngua Range
Commemorative stele of Venerable Thich Dat Pham at Yen Ngua Range
Beautiful natural scenery on Yen Ngua Range
Visitors relaxing on a hammock amidst trees at Yen Ngua Range
Visitor review about Yen Ngua Range
IV. 10 Exciting Tourist Activities Around Dau Tieng Lake
Dau Tieng Lake tourism not only has beautiful scenery but also countless exciting experiences. Here are 10 suggestions that you should not miss:
1. Strolling and Sightseeing by the Lake: Relax Your Soul
Strolling along the shore of Dau Tieng Lake is a gentle, relaxing experience, helping you immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the fresh air. You can take a walk in the early morning to welcome the sunrise, or in the late afternoon to watch the romantic sunset. The peaceful lake scene, majestic mountains, and green lawns will bring you a wonderful feeling of peace and relaxation.
Strolling and sightseeing by Dau Tieng Lake to feel the peace
Visitors strolling and admiring Ba Den Mountain from Dau Tieng Lake
Visitors watching a romantic sunset by Dau Tieng Lake
Visitor review about the experience of strolling and sightseeing by Dau Tieng Lake
2. Welcoming Sunrise & Sunset: “Golden” Moments
Dau Tieng Lake is one of the most beautiful sunrise and sunset viewing spots in Tay Ninh. The moment the sun slowly rises or sets, dyeing the sky and lake surface red, creates a magnificent and romantic scene. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture these “golden” moments when traveling to Dau Tieng Lake.
Brilliant sunrise over Dau Tieng Lake
Fiery red sunset on Dau Tieng Lake
Romantic sunset at Dau Tieng Lake tourist area
Visitor review about the sunrise and sunset views on Dau Tieng Lake
3. Camping & Campfire: Bonding Love
Camping by Dau Tieng Lake is an activity loved by many visitors, especially groups of young friends and families. You can pitch tents on the green lawns, organize BBQ parties, campfire, and chat and sing together under the starry sky. This is a great opportunity to bond and create memorable memories.
Spacious lawn area by Dau Tieng Lake ideal for camping
Visitors can bring personal tents or rent them on-site
Many families choose to camp at Dau Tieng Lake on weekends
Visitor review about camping activity by Dau Tieng Lake
4. SUP Paddling: Explore the Lake from a New Perspective
SUP paddling (stand-up paddleboarding) is an interesting water sport, helping you explore Dau Tieng Lake from a completely new perspective. Gliding gently on the clear blue water, admiring the surrounding scenery, and enjoying a feeling of relaxation and refreshment. You can rent SUPs at lakeside tourist areas and experience this activity with friends or family.
SUP paddling on Dau Tieng Lake – a popular water sport
SUP paddling and watching a beautiful sunset on Dau Tieng Lake
Visitors happily SUP paddling with friends on Dau Tieng Lake
Admiring the fresh nature while SUP paddling in the middle of Dau Tieng Lake
Visitor review about the SUP paddling experience on Dau Tieng Lake
5. Canoeing to the Island: Adventure in the Vast Lake
Canoeing to Nhim Island is an unmissable experience when traveling to Dau Tieng Lake. The feeling of speeding across the water, wind blowing through your hair, admiring the vast lake scenery and rolling mountains will make you extremely excited. You can rent a canoe at the pier and drive yourself or hire a driver to explore Nhim Island and other areas on the lake.
Visitors canoeing to Nhim Island on Dau Tieng Lake
Admiring the poetic landscape while canoeing on Dau Tieng Lake
Canoeing to Nhim Island even on a rainy day offers an interesting experience
Visitor review about the canoeing experience on Dau Tieng Lake
6. Recreational Fishing: Relaxation & Peace of Mind
Fishing on Dau Tieng Lake is a relaxing, peaceful activity loved by many visitors. The lake has a variety of fish species, peaceful water surface, and quiet space, very suitable for you to de-stress and enjoy moments of relaxation. You can fish in many lakeside locations or rent a boat to go to the middle of the lake to fish.
Fishing in the sunset on Dau Tieng Lake
Fishing helps to relax and relieve stress effectively
Many locals and tourists fishing together on Dau Tieng Lake
Visitor review about the fishing experience on Dau Tieng Lake
7. Enjoying Acoustic Music: Chill with Melodies
If you are a music lover, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy Acoustic Night at Campsite Dau Tieng Lake, held on Saturday evenings every week. Immerse yourself in the melodious acoustic tunes, enjoy drinks, and blend into the warm, romantic atmosphere by the lake will be a memorable experience.
8. Cycling Along the Lake: Exercise & Sightseeing
Cycling along the shore of Dau Tieng Lake is a great activity to exercise, explore the scenery, and enjoy the fresh air. You can rent bicycles at lakeside tourist areas and cycle on the lakeside roads or within the premises of ecotourism areas.
Visitors cycling by Dau Tieng Lake at Bang Lang Glamping
Cycling on the green trails in Phu Gia Farm
Visitors cycling to Dau Tieng Lake
Visitor review about the cycling experience along Dau Tieng Lake
9. Capturing Dam Water Discharge: Majestic Moments
If you are a photographer or simply want to have unique photos, come to the Dau Tieng Lake dam area during water discharge. The rolling water flowing down from the dam will create a majestic and impressive scene, definitely bringing you “lifetime” photos.
10. Trekking/Mountain Climbing: Conquer Natural Peaks
Cau Mountain near Dau Tieng Lake is an ideal destination for those who love trekking and mountain climbing. With winding trails, green forests, and many mountains over 200m high, Cau Mountain will bring you interesting challenges and opportunities to explore wild nature.
Visitors resting on the trekking trail of Cau Mountain
Stairway on Cau Mountain – a familiar check-in spot
Beautiful natural scenery on the trekking trail of Cau Mountain
Visitor review about the mountain climbing experience on Cau Mountain
V. Top 5 Delicious Restaurants Around Dau Tieng Lake
Dau Tieng Lake tourism is incomplete without experiencing the unique cuisine. This area is famous for fresh and delicious fish and chicken dishes. Here are 5 popular restaurants that you can refer to:
| Restaurant Name | Overview Information