1. Overview of Ke Go Lake
Ke Go Lake lies in Cam Due Commune, 20 kilometers away from the center of Ha Tinh. Stretching nearly 30 kilometers in length, it holds over 350 million cubic meters of freshwater - making it Ha Tinh’s largest man-made lake.
Constructed between 1976 and 1979, Ke Go Lake was envisioned not just as a reservoir but as a post-war nation-building project. It now supplies vital irrigation water for more than 17,000 hectares of farmland.
Surrounding the lake is Ke Go Nature Reserve, a protected area established in the 1990s. The reserve forms part of Vietnam’s Central Annamite ecological corridor and is home to an astonishing array of wildlife. It boasts nearly 400 species of vertebrates, 47 species of mammals, 300 species of birds, 100 species of reptiles and amphibians, and over 560 species of vascular plants.
Together, Ke Go Lake and Ke Go Nature Reserve form an integrated ecosystem that protects rare animals like the saola and white-cheeked gibbon, while offering a haven for migratory birds.
2. Historical events linked to Ke Go Lake
Before Ke Go Lake was made, the area was the site of Libi Airfield, a secret military runway linked to Route 22 - considered the closest base from North Vietnam capable of sending reinforcements to the Southern front. Built in late 1972 and early 1973, the airfield was nearly completed when it was discovered and relentlessly bombed by American aircraft. Despite immense effort and sacrifice from both Vietnamese soldiers and civilians, the runway never launched a single mission before being reduced to rubble by hundreds of tons of bombs.
After the war ended, plans to build Ke Go Lake were approved in 1976 as part of the post-war agricultural revival. When the dam was completed and the lake filled, the remnants of Libi Airfield and the battle-scarred ground around it were submerged. Although invisible today, this chapter of history lies just beneath the surface - an underwater warzone that few remember but should never be forgotten.
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3. Unmissable experiences at Ke Go Lake
3.1. Immerse yourself in pristine nature
Ke Go Lake offers a blend of tranquility and beauty that is hard to find elsewhere. The vast reservoir is framed by dense forests, gentle hills, and the deep greens of the Truong Son mountain range. Cruising across the lake by boat reveals a changing landscape of small islands, hidden coves, and glassy reflections. Camping along the banks is popular among young travelers seeking quiet nights under the stars, while fishing draws both locals and visitors thanks to the lake’s rich aquatic life. Early mornings here are especially magical - mist rising from the water, birds calling from the treetops, and the world momentarily stilled.
3.2. Stroll across Ke Go Bridge
One of the most iconic features of Ke Go Lake is the winding pedestrian bridge that curves gracefully over the water, connecting the shore to a small island in the middle of the lake. Known for its unique C-shape design, Ke Go Bridge is more than a crossing - it is a destination in itself. The bridge has become a favorite photo spot, especially for young travelers and content creators looking to capture photos with a scenic backdrop.
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3.3. Visit Le Duan Temple
Standing on a small island at the heart of Ke Go Lake, Le Duan Temple is a place of reverence, memory, and national pride. Built in 2011, this temple honors Le Duan - the former General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam who played a vital role in supporting Ha Tinh’s post-war development.
Architecturally, the temple is both elegant and symbolic: built in a two-tiered, octagonal structure with tiled roofs, carved stone railings, and solid lim wood columns. A striking bronze statue of Le Duan sits at the center, flanked by black-and-white photographs from his official visits to Nghe An and Ha Tinh.
To reach the temple, visitors will cross a 132-meter iron bridge. The walkway's tiered stone steps are designed to resemble a flowing waterfall, drawing visitors into a space that feels as serene as it is sacred.
3.4. Explore the Shrine of National Heroes and Martyrs
On the peaceful banks of Ke Go Lake stands a solemn tribute to those who gave their lives during wartime - the Shrine of National Heroes and Martyrs. It honors the memory of 62 martyrs who perished in the area during the fierce bombings at Libi Airfield. Initially built as a modest memorial in 2011, the shrine was expanded into a full temple complex in 2022-2023.
Now, the Shrine of National Heroes and Martyrs preserves the original small altar while adding a worship space with red lacquered wood, golden calligraphy, and stone inscriptions etched with poetry. At its heart hangs a plaque with the words To Quoc ghi cong (“The nation remembers”). The shrine also has historical displays featuring rare images of Ke Go Lake and traces of the airfield.
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4. Tips for your first trip to Ke Go Lake (Ha Tinh)
4.1. Directions
Getting to Ke Go Lake from the center of Ha Tinh is easy (roughly 20 kilometers to the southwest) and takes about 30 minutes by car. Follow National Road 1A southeast, then turn right onto Provincial Road 22 (DT22). Keep going straight onto Provincial Road 17 (DT17) and follow it until you see signs pointing to Ke Go Lake.
4.2. Best time to visit
Ke Go Lake is best explored between April and October when the skies are clear, the weather is warm, and the scenery is at its most vibrant - perfect for outdoor activities like boating, camping, and hiking. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in February or March, when the crowds are minimal.
4.3. Accommodations
For a comfortable stay in Ha Tinh, two excellent options stand out. In the heart of the city, Vinpearl Ha Tinh, Affiliated by Meliá offers upscale accommodations in a striking 36-story tower with a wide range of room types. Here, guests can enjoy in-house restaurants and rejuvenating treatments at YHI Spa. If you are drawn to the coast, Vinpearl Cua Sot Resort, Affiliated by Meliá is an exceptional choice. With 42 modern rooms and direct access to the unspoiled Xuan Hai Beach, it combines refined architecture with full comfort.
Book rooms in Vinpearl Ha Tinh, Affiliated by Meliá
Book rooms in Vinpearl Cua Sot Resort, Affiliated by Meliá
4.4. Notes
- The roads to Ke Go Lake are quiet, so drive carefully and consider traveling in a group for safety.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket - especially in summer.
- If you plan to camp, pack your own tent and clean up after yourself.
- Dress appropriately; opt for modest clothing when visiting temples.
- Follow all the regulations at the site - no littering, damaging plants, or lighting fires.
Ke Go Lake is the kind of place that sneaks up on you - not with noise or spectacle, but with depth. It’s where lush forests meet living history, where every ripple on the water carries a story. You will come for the scenery, but you will leave with something more: a sense of connection to a landscape that is both fiercely alive and deeply sacred. In a world full of fast travels, Ke Go Lake asks you to slow down - and stay a little longer.
