Nestled among mountains, lakes in the western part of Hai Phong city shimmer like emerald mirrors amid vast forests.
The hilly areas of Nguyen Trai and Tran Nhan Tong wards are home to more than 60 medium and small lakes. For years, these lakes have not only provided irrigation water for local fields but also served as scenic highlights, places where nature and people meet in harmony and tranquilityAmong them, eight lakes, namely Ben Tam Ngoai, Phu Loi, Suoi Gang, Lang Tre, Chin Thuong, Chop Soi, Ho Ven, and Trai Sen, are directly managed by Chi Linh Irrigation Works Enterprise. The remaining 60 smaller lakes are under the management of local agricultural service cooperativesThese lakes regulate irrigation water for over 543 hectares of farmland across Nguyen Trai and Tran Nhan Tong wards, playing an essential role in stabilizing agricultural production, maintaining ecological balance, and preserving the natural landscape in Hai Phong’s western mountain areaAt Ben Tam Lake, a nine-gate dam stands majestically amid the blue waters, regulating flows to the fields below. During the rainy season, the dam’s gates open gracefully, like the hands of a skilled craftsman adjusting the lifeblood of the highlandsIn the early morning, the lake’s surface lies still. A few figures cast their nets, oars softly dipping into the clear water. In the distance, houses peek through the trees, peaceful and familiar“These lakes not only support agricultural production but also help regulate the climate and protect the ecological environment. We regularly inspect and dredge them to ensure dam safety, especially during the rainy season. At the same time, we’re working to preserve the natural scenery so these lakes can become eco-tourism attractions in the future,” said Le Duc Cam, Director of Chi Linh Irrigation Works Enterprise (right)In recent years, alongside professional duties, the enterprise has collaborated with local authorities to plant trees, create walking paths around the lakes, and maintain environmental cleanliness, according to Cam. Thanks to these efforts, many lakes, such as Lang Tre, Phu Loi, Ho Ven, and Chop Soi, have become friendlier destinations, drawing locals for weekend relaxationMore and more young people start coming to mountaintop lakes for camping, exploration, and memorable weekend experiences. “On weekends, we go camping at Lang Tre lake. In the morning, mist drifts over the water, birds sing in the acacia forest, making the scenery look like a painting. The peace is unlike anything in the bustling city,” said Ngoc Anh, a local resident from Hai Duong wardAmid the vast mountain landscape, each lake has its own charm, some hidden in deep valleys, others stretching at the foot of hills or gliding along mountain slopes, all blending into a harmonious picture of natureBeside the lakes, water flowing through spillways forms small streams that wind around the hillsides, crystal clear and refreshing all year roundWith their beautiful natural setting, broad waters surrounded by forests and mountains, the lakes here have great potential for eco-tourism, outdoor experiences, and community-based tourism. If properly planned and connected with the Con Son–Kiep Bac spiritual tourism route and the Phuong Hoang range, this area could become an attractive stop for visitors exploring the poetic mountain landscape
