God’s Eye Mountain (Holed Mountain)

1. God’s Eye Mountain – A One-of-a-Kind Holed Mountain

God’s Eye Mountain, known locally in the Tay language as Phja Piot (Holed Mountain), is a striking highlight within the Thang Hen Lake complex of the UNESCO Global Geopark Non Nuoc Cao Bang. The mountain’s most distinctive feature is a perfectly rounded hole, approximately 50 meters in diameter, piercing straight through its limestone body. Seen from afar, this opening resembles a giant “eye” of nature gazing silently over the valley below.

1.1. Decoding a Rare Geological Phenomenon

The formation of God’s Eye Mountain is the result of geological processes spanning millions of years. According to geologists, the mountain was once home to an ancient cave deep underground. Over time, tectonic uplift combined with erosion from subterranean water caused the cave’s ceiling to collapse, leaving behind the dramatic hole visible today. The lush green grassland at the foot of the mountain is also influenced by the surrounding limestone terrain, where mineral-rich soils support fertile land and create verdant pastures year-round.

1.2. Nam Tra Valley and Its Diverse Lake System

God’s Eye Mountain rises at the heart of the expansive Nam Tra Valley, home to a system of 36 lakes interconnected by underground channels. The scenery transforms magically with the seasons: during the rainy season, rising waters turn the valley into a vast reflective lake mirroring the mountain’s silhouette; in the dry season, receding water reveals a velvet-like green grassland dotted with grazing horses, evoking the peaceful charm of the Mongolian steppes.

2. Legends Surrounding the Birth of the Holed Mountain

Beyond scientific explanations, local communities in Cao Bang pass down a powerful folk legend about the origin of this extraordinary mountain.

2.1. The Strength of the Giant

According to legend, there once lived a giant who built stone steps to help villagers travel more easily across steep mountains. One day, while hurriedly carrying stones, his shoulder pole snapped, and the broken end pierced straight through a limestone cliff, creating a massive hole. From then on, the mountain took on its unusual form and became a symbol of strength and nature’s guardianship over the local people.

2.2. Spiritual Significance in Local Life

For the Tay communities living around Nam Tra Valley, God’s Eye Mountain is not merely a scenic landmark but a sacred presence. They believe the mountain’s “eye” watches over the land, bringing favorable weather, abundant harvests, and protection to their villages.

3. Location Guide and Access Routes

God’s Eye Mountain is located about 50km from Cao Bang City and only a few kilometers by forest trail from Thang Hen Lake.

3.1. Routes to the Valley

From Cao Bang City, travelers head toward Ma Phuc Pass. Near Thang Hen Lake, a turn-off leads into Nam Tra Valley. While much of the road has been upgraded, a section of red-soil trail remains, winding through the landscape and requiring confident driving skills, especially on rainy days when the surface can become slippery.

3.2. Choosing the Right Transportation

Motorbikes remain the most popular option thanks to their flexibility, allowing visitors to venture deep into the grassland and admire God’s Eye Mountain up close. For those traveling by car, high-clearance vehicles are recommended to navigate the rough tracks leading into the heart of the valley.

4. Must-Try Experiences at God’s Eye Mountain

This area is often described as a “haven for free spirits,” offering nature-based experiences in an untouched setting.

4.1. Camping and Picnicking on the Grasslands

With its wide open space, fresh air, and flat grassy terrain, the meadow at the foot of God’s Eye Mountain is one of the best camping spots in Cao Bang. Waking up in the mist-filled valley, with the holed mountain rising majestically in the distance and horses grazing nearby, is an experience unlike anywhere else.

4.2. Kayaking and Artistic Photography

During the high-water season (typically from June to September), visitors can enjoy kayaking on Nam Tra Lake, gliding through partially submerged trees. For photography enthusiasts, sunrise light streaming through the “Eye” or sunsets casting golden hues across the grassland are prime moments to capture truly unforgettable images.

5. Tips for a Complete and Responsible Adventure

To ensure a safe journey while preserving the pristine beauty of the grassland, visitors should keep a few practical tips in mind.

5.1. Clothing and Personal Essentials

As the valley is open and offers limited shade, hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential during the day. If you plan to camp overnight, bring a sleeping bag and warm jacket, as nighttime temperatures in the valley can drop significantly compared to surrounding areas.

5.2. Preserving the Valley’s Natural Greenery

God’s Eye Mountain remains a largely untouched destination, with no centralized waste management in the valley. Therefore, the principle of “leave nothing but footprints” is essential. Collect all trash after your picnic or camping trip and avoid damaging the grassland, helping ensure that Nam Tra Valley remains a pure green haven for future visitors.