1. Introduction to Nui Da Lake
1.1. Location and terrain of Nui Da Lake
Nui Da Lake is located right in the middle of the Ma Thien Lanh valley, a natural intersection point between three famous mountains of Tay Ninh: Ba Den Mountain, Phung Mountain, and Heo Mountain. From Ho Chi Minh City to the lake is about 100 km, and from the center of Tay Ninh city, it is only 9 km away, making it very convenient for tourists from any province to travel.
The scenery leading to the lake creates a very unique experience. The path winds through patches of green forest, with dense vegetation on both sides. On one side are towering cliffs, and on the other is a deep, dense forest. As tourists get closer to the Ma Thien Lanh valley, the space becomes quieter, with only the chirping of birds echoing in the canopy and the sound of wind passing through the mountainside.
The terrain here gives the lake area a cool atmosphere year-round. Whether you visit during the dry or rainy season, a pleasant feeling always prevails. Thanks to its deep location within the valley and being surrounded by large cliffs, Nui Da Lake becomes a rare natural painting, both mysterious and full of life.
Ho Nui Da Lake possesses a mysterious and wild beauty. (Source: Collected)
The special point is that the higher you go and look down, the more visitors clearly feel the unique heart shape of the lake. The jade-green water surface gently embraces the forest and mountain rocks, creating an overall scene that is both spacious and soft. For many people, the moment of seeing Ho Nui Da Lake from above is one of the most memorable moments of the journey.
1.2. Origin of the name Ho Nui Da Lake
Few people know that Ho Nui Da Lake was once a large-scale quarry. When quarrying activities stopped and this area was abandoned, rainwater gradually accumulated over the years, creating the current deep lake. The steep cliffs surrounding the lake are remnants of the previous quarrying process, while also becoming a highlight that makes the landscape here more majestic.
Locals call this place Ho Nui Da Lake because behind the lake are large rocks naturally stacked, creating a towering stone wall. The mountain's shape reflected on the clear lake surface further highlights the ruggedness of the terrain. Besides this familiar name, the lake is also known by other names such as Ma Thien Lanh Stone Lake or May Nui Lake, all evoking the sacred yet rustic landscape of the valley.
Unlike tourist destinations that are planned or renovated for tourism, Ho Nui Da Lake carries its own unique imprint of time. The deep blue water color is the result of rainwater accumulation along with the lake's characteristic depth. The surrounding cliffs retain their original pristine appearance, making anyone who comes here clearly feel the slow rhythm of nature.
2. Outstanding features of Ho Nui Da Lake
2.1. Scenery of mountains surrounding the valley
The scenery around Ho Nui Da Lake evokes a feeling of being lost in an isolated valley, where forests and mountain rocks blend to create a cool green space stretching to the horizon. Dense vegetation grows in layers, dotted with reeds swaying in the wind. Large mountain ranges such as Ba Den Mountain, Phung Mountain, and Heo Mountain appear majestically in the distance, forming a natural arc embracing the Ma Thien Lanh valley.
You will notice the gentle transition of scenery as you move from the main road into the valley. Sunlight filters through the forest canopy, the chirping of birds, and the cool, fresh air make the journey poetic. This is why many people choose Ho Nui Da Lake as a short trekking spot or a place to "reset" energy after busy days. The vast green scenery brings a feeling of touching the slow rhythm of the mountains and forests.
Beautiful, green scenery surrounding Nui Da Lake in Tay Ninh. (Source: Collected)
2.2. Impressive jade green water surface
The water surface of Nui Da Lake is the most impressive feature for visitors. The lake water is clear and has a gentle jade green color, changing with the daylight. When the sun shines down, the water surface sparkles like a flat mirror, reflecting the images of the surrounding forest and cliffs.
Viewed from above, the lake appears in a very clear heart shape. This unique lake shape is a natural result of the valley terrain and water accumulation over many years. This beauty makes Nui Da Lake one of Tay Ninh's most attractive natural check-in spots. Many visitors believe it is the "jewel" of Ma Thien Lanh, where the strength of the rocky mountains and the softness of the water surface are harmoniously combined.
Interestingly, the lake's jade green water color comes entirely from its natural depth and the surrounding limestone geology. This clarity creates a feeling that the lake surface always maintains its pristine, calm appearance regardless of weather changes.
Stone Mountain Lake seen from above. (Source: Collected)
2.3. Diverse Natural Ecosystem
Besides the scenic beauty, Stone Mountain Lake also possesses a rich ecosystem of the Tây Ninh mountain region. The forests around the lake are home to many forest bird species, adding cheerful chirping sounds to the quiet space. In the lake, there are species of fish, shrimp, and crabs, making the landscape more vibrant and interesting.
This richness makes the lake area an ideal choice for fishing or simply observing nature. Visitors can leisurely sit by the lake, feel the gentle breeze, and hear the familiar sounds of various forest creatures. The diverse ecosystem, in harmony with the wild landscape, is the factor that creates the enduring appeal of Stone Mountain Lake.
2.4. Pristine Beauty at Different Times of the Day
Stone Mountain Lake possesses a beauty that is both majestic and gentle, changing with each time of day. In the morning, gentle sunlight pierces through the thin mist, making the lake surface brightly lit with a clear blue hue. At noon, when the sun slants down the rock faces, the water surface reflects a deep blue color, and the lake's outline becomes clearer. In the late afternoon, as the clouds and sky change color, the lake surface seems to put on a new coat, becoming more serene and gentle.
This very transformation makes visitors feel like they are discovering a vibrant painting. Regardless of when you visit, you will encounter beautiful moments of the landscape, from the light reflecting on the lake surface to the gentle breezes that lightly ripple the water's surface. This simplicity yet poetic quality is the factor that makes Stone Mountain Lake leave a strong impression on nature lovers.
3. The Best Time to Visit Stone Mountain Lake
3.1. Dry Season from December to April
The dry season is considered the most beautiful time to visit Stone Mountain Lake. From December to April, the weather in Tây Ninh is dry and airy, with gentle sunlight spreading evenly, making the jade-green lake surface even more captivating. This is also an ideal time for trekking and picnicking activities because forest paths are less slippery and easy to navigate.
When the weather is stable, the sky is usually very clear, and beautiful light helps photography enthusiasts capture the panoramic view of Stone Mountain Lake with its characteristic green color. The cool air spreads throughout the Ma Thien Lanh valley, making the trekking journey easier, even for those who rarely hike. This season is also suitable for setting up tents by the lake, organizing picnics, or exploring beautiful photo spots around the valley.
A big plus during the dry season is the excellent long-distance visibility. On days with light sunshine, the rock faces and forests appear clearly in the calm lake surface, creating a scene like a lush green painting. Therefore, the dry season is always chosen by many tourists to fully experience the beauty of Stone Mountain Lake.
3.2. Lotus Blooming Season from May to August
If you love the gentle and romantic moments of nature, the period from May to August will be a perfect choice. This is when the lotus ponds around the lake begin to bloom, bringing a gentle pink hue that stands out amidst the cool green of the mountains.
Morning is when the lotus flowers bloom most beautifully. In the early morning sunlight, lotus flowers stretch out on the water's surface, creating a poetic space for visitors to check-in or take photos. The pink hue of the lotuses reflects onto the jade-green lake surface, combined with the majestic stone mountains behind, making the landscape even more pure and gentle.
The lotus season brings a very different feeling compared to the dry season. If the dry season is notable for its majesty and clarity, the lotus season creates tranquility and lyricism. For nature lovers who enjoy gentle scenes, this is a time not to be missed.
4. Unmissable Experiences at Stone Mountain Lake
4.1. Trekking the Ma Thien Lanh Route
The trekking route leading to Stone Mountain Lake is considered one of the challenging yet attractive paths. The terrain here is rugged, with many large rocks and steep sections, requiring endurance and perseverance. Visitors must cross forests, following a small path leading towards the valley, where the babbling sound of streams, the rustling of leaves, and the chirping of birds blend into the characteristic natural music of the mountains.
During the trekking journey, you will encounter many interesting scenic spots: light filtering through the tree canopy, imposing rocks like gates leading into the tranquil space of the lake, or sections of forest opening up with vast stretches of lush green trees. This is the part of the experience that many people love when visiting Stone Mountain Lake, because each step takes you deeper into the pristine beauty of Ma Thien Lanh.
For those visiting for the first time, preparing suitable clothing, water, and trekking gear will make the journey more comfortable. As you get closer to the lake, visitors will clearly feel the change in the air: cool, pleasant, and faintly scented with the forest.
Trekking route at Ma Thien Lanh. (Source: Collected)
4.2. Sending wishes at the wishing tree
Amidst the majestic beauty of the rocky mountains, the wishing tree area by the lake is a gentle and emotional stop. Visitors can write their wishes on red silk ribbons and hang them on the tree. Whenever the wind blows, the ribbons sway, creating a poetic scene between the green of the forest and the jade color of the lake surface.
The moment of standing by the lake, looking up at the ribbons gently flying in the wind, makes the space more magical. For many, this is a place to send hopes, wish for peace, and also an opportunity to leave a small mark on the journey to Ma Thien Lanh valley.
Send wishes at the wishing tree. (Source: Collected)
4.3. Camping and picnicking by the lake
The flat lakeside areas are quite suitable for setting up tents and organizing a relaxing weekend camping trip. The spaciousness and cool atmosphere make resting amidst nature a very pleasant experience. You can set up tents with family or friends, enjoy a simple BBQ party, chat, or listen to the wind blowing through the cliffs.
Camping at Nui Da Lake is an opportunity for visitors to enjoy the tranquility of the Ma Thien Lanh Valley. As the afternoon shadows lengthen, patches of forest turn to a gentle, deep hue. The pale yellow light reflecting on the lake surface creates a poetic scene. This is a favorite experience for many visitors as you can detach yourself from the daily hustle and bustle and dedicate time to peaceful moments.
4.4. Fishing by the lake
Nui Da Lake boasts a rich natural ecosystem, providing favorable conditions for fishing activities. There are many beautiful spots along the lake where you can leisurely cast your line and wait for small movements on the water's surface. This is not just an entertainment activity but also a way to connect more deeply with the quiet rhythm of the mountains and forests.
Visitors often bring equipment such as fishing rods, floats, bait, fish baskets… to prepare for their fishing session. Moments spent by the lake, listening to the wind glide across the water and feeling the stillness of the space, will bring an unforgettable sense of relaxation. When you catch small fish, you should release them back into the lake to maintain the balance of the ecosystem here.
4.5. Check-in and take beautiful photos around the lake
Nui Da Lake offers countless beautiful photo spots for photography enthusiasts. From high rocky outcrops, a mirror-like flat lake surface, to reeds swaying in the wind, all create a very photogenic natural background. The combination of blue water, mountain rocks, and the open sky helps each photo carry the breath of pure nature.
The best time for photos is usually in the morning or late afternoon, when sunlight covers the valley without being too harsh. However, during check-in, visitors should be careful to avoid standing too close to the lake edge or on slippery rocks. Areas with moss or dampness can be slippery, so you should choose flat areas and always have someone accompanying you to observe.
A "virtual living" corner so beautiful you forget the way back at Nui Da Lake. (Source: Collected)
4.6. "Chasing" the season of blooming lotuses on the lake surface
From May to August, the area around the lake enters the lotus blooming season. Gentle pink lotus flowers stand out against the blue water, making the space softer and more poetic. In the morning, when the sun just rises, the lotuses open their petals wide, creating one of the most beautiful scenes of the year.
For tourists who love nature and photography, this is the time to capture pure and emotional photos. The pink of the lotus flowers blends with the blue of the water surface and the light gray of the mountain rocks, creating a gentle, balanced, and vibrant picture. This is one of the most anticipated experiences when planning to explore Nui Da Lake in the summer.
5. How to get to Nui Da Lake
Moving from Tay Ninh center to Ma Thien Lanh: Nui Da Lake is about 9 km from Tay Ninh center. From the center area, follow Tran Phu street or provincial road 785 towards Ba Den mountain. When you reach the management area of Ba Den Mountain Tourist Area, turn right and continue for about 1 km, you will see the entrance to Ma Thien Lanh valley. This is a relatively easy road, suitable for both motorbikes and cars.
Moving from the valley to the lake: From the valley, follow the signs to Nui Da Lake. After traveling about 500 m to the area with houses by the lake, you should park your vehicle and continue walking to get closer to the lake. This path is narrow and bumpy, so parking your vehicle and walking is the safest option to access the lake surface area.
Suitable means of transport: Among the means of transport, motorbikes are the optimal choice because the road to the lake is narrow and has rocky slopes. Motorbikes help you easily handle uneven sections and be flexible in finding parking spots. If traveling by car or taxi, you can stop at Tay Ninh center and then rent a motorbike to continue the journey.
6. Suggested attractions near Nui Da Lake
6.1. Sun World Ba Den Mountain Tourist Area
Located about 13 km from Nui Da Lake, Sun World Ba Den Mountain is a prominent destination in Tay Ninh with majestic scenery and long-standing spiritual cultural value. Ba Den Mountain is 986 m high, nicknamed the "Roof of the South", and is an important spiritual center for the local people.
Here, the system of pagodas and temples such as Ba Pagoda, Linh Son Tien Thach, along with sacred caves create a serene atmosphere. Tourists can take the cable car to admire the panoramic view of the mountains and forests and worship the 72m-tall statue of Lady Buddha Tay Bo Da Son – a work recognized with an Asian record.
Visitors experience at Sun World Ba Den Mountain (Source: Collected)
Besides spiritual value, this place also preserves traces of war, offering an emotionally rich exploration journey and is suitable for all tourists who love nature and local culture.
6.2. Dau Tieng Lake
About 22 km from Nui Da Lake, Dau Tieng Lake is the largest artificial lake in Vietnam with a water surface area of 27 km² and a storage capacity of up to 1.58 billion m³. Built from 1981 and completed in 1985, the lake plays a role in regulating water for the Saigon River and is an ideal resort for nature-loving tourists.
Experience stand up paddleboarding on Dau Tieng Lake. (Source: Collected)
The space around the lake possesses a peaceful beauty with calm waters, lush green grass, and distant mountains. Sunrise and sunset at the lake are considered by many to be the most beautiful moments, when the water surface is gently dyed in orange-yellow hues like a watercolor painting.
The wide areas along the lake are very suitable for camping, barbecues, or relaxing fishing. Visitors can also explore the small islands by boat or canoe to fully experience the fresh air of this vast lake area. This is an ideal stopover after a trekking journey around Nui Da Lake.
6.3. Nhim Island
Located in the heart of Dau Tieng Lake, Nhim Island is an ideal place for those who love green spaces and tranquility. Previously, the island was home to many wild animals such as porcupines, squirrels, wild boars, and various bird species, thus retaining its characteristic wildness. From Ho Chi Minh City or Tay Ninh center, visitors travel to Dau Tieng Lake and then continue by boat or canoe to the island for about 15–20 minutes.
Camping and immersing yourself in nature on Nhím Island. (Source: Collected)
The island has large open areas suitable for camping, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature, admire the lush green forest, and enjoy the tranquility. Trekking through the forest from one side of the island to the other offers an interesting experience, allowing you to fully appreciate its rustic beauty. Another attractive activity is visiting the small local farms, where deer and livestock are cared for in a friendly manner. The lotus season in the small pond on the island is also a great time for photography.
Núi Đá Lake is one of Tây Ninh's precious green gems with its pristine landscape and fresh atmosphere. Whether trekking, camping, or simply relaxing amidst the mountains and forests, this place offers a memorable experience for all visitors. Spend a day exploring Núi Đá Lake and its surrounding destinations to make your trip complete and inspiring.
