Discovering the Sacred Fish Stream of Thanh Hoa a Legendary Wonder Amidst the Mountains

Nestled at the foot of Truong Sinh Mountain, in Ngoc Village, Cam Luong Commune, Cam Thuy District, Thanh Hoa Province, the Cam Luong Sacred Fish Stream is a truly unique destination that never fails to spark curiosity and wonder. Though the stream is just over 100 metres long and less than 4 metres wide, it is home to thousands of colourful fish of all sizes including giant carps and grass carps weighing up to 20–30 kilograms.

Beyond its pristine natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, the Sacred Fish Stream is steeped in ancient legends and local spiritual beliefs that embody the rich cultural identity of the Thanh region. This is a place where nature, mysticism and folklore intertwine, leaving every visitor with a lasting impression.

1. The Legend of Cam Luong Sacred Fish Stream

According to local Muong folklore, Cam Luong used to be plagued by droughts, famine and disease. One day, a mysterious old man arrived, teaching the villagers how to irrigate their fields, farm, and raise livestock. Once the village prospered, he transformed into a dragon and flew into Truong Sinh Mountain, promising to protect the village forever.

From the depths of the mountain, a spring emerged, accompanied by schools of large fish that the villagers came to revere as sacred. The locals believe these fish are divine beings, incarnations of the protective spirit, and strictly avoid catching or harming them. Any attempt to do so is said to bring misfortune. As a result, the stream has remained unspoiled and preserved for centuries.

2. How to Get to Thanh Hoa’s Sacred Fish Stream

2.1. Location and Distance

The Cam Luong Sacred Fish Stream is located about 80 km northwest of Thanh Hoa City. It can easily be included as part of a trip exploring western Thanh Hoa or along a route from Hanoi to Pu Luong and Cam Thuy.

2.2. Transportation

• From Hanoi: Travellers can take National Highway 6 or the Ho Chi Minh Road through Cam Thuy, then turn onto Route 217 and continue for about 10 km to reach the stream.
• From Thanh Hoa City: Both National Highway 45 and Route 217 offer convenient access with well-paved roads.
• Popular options: Motorbikes, private cars, or coaches (alight in Cam Thuy Town and take a motorbike taxi or taxi to the site).

3. Exploring the Enchanting Beauty of the Sacred Fish Stream

3.1. A Mysterious Stream

The water is cool and crystal-clear all year round, surrounded by lush, forested mountains. The surface remains calm and mirror-like, only occasionally disturbed by the gentle ripples of thousands of fish swimming below. Remarkably, despite the high concentration of fish, there is no fishy odour – a detail that surprises many visitors.

3.2. The Unique Sacred Fish

The stream is inhabited by species such as grass carp, carp, and rockfish, all adorned in shimmering, vibrant colours. Some fish are over a metre long and show no fear of humans, often gathering near rocks or eddies. Visitors are allowed to feed them from a distance but are strictly forbidden to touch or catch them.

3.3. The Sacred Fish Cave and Truong Sinh Mountain

At the base of Truong Sinh Mountain lies a deep and mystical cave believed to be the source of the stream and the resting place of the sacred fish. The cool interior features naturally-formed stalactites in fascinating shapes. This sacred cave plays an important role in local spiritual beliefs and is thought to be the home of the fish deity.

4. Experiences Not to Miss at the Sacred Fish Stream

4.1. Offering Ceremonies and Prayers

At the beginning of the year and during special occasions, the local community holds ceremonies to worship the fish deity, praying for favourable weather, abundant harvests and peace. Visitors during this time can witness traditional Muong rituals and join the vibrant and sacred festivities.

4.2. Scenic Photo Spots Amidst Untamed Nature

The emerald waters, pristine mountain setting and radiant fish make for a perfect backdrop. Highlights for photography include the stone bridge spanning the stream, moss-covered boulders and ancient forest canopies  all favourites among young travellers.

4.3. Tasting Local Specialties

Don’t miss the chance to try authentic Cam Thuy dishes such as:

• Grilled hill chicken with mac mat leaves

• Charcoal-grilled stream fish

• Jungle fern soup (green vegetable soup)

• Bamboo-tube sticky rice (laminated rice)

• Traditional ruou can (fermented rice wine)

Visitors can also purchase local products like wild honey, handwoven brocade, or herbal rice wine as souvenirs.

5. Travel Tips for Visiting the Sacred Fish Stream

• Do not harm or disturb the fish this is both culturally offensive and considered sacrilegious.
• Help preserve the environment by not littering, especially in and around the stream.
• Wear sports shoes, long sleeves and bring water if you plan to explore the cave or hike around Truong Sinh Mountain.
• Avoid visiting during the rainy season (July to September), when paths become slippery and water levels rise.
• You can also visit nearby sites like Ngoc Temple , Pu Luong Nature Reserve, or Que Phong Sacred Fish Stream in Nghe An for a longer itinerary.

6. A Journey into Nature and Spirituality

In the midst of modern life’s hustle and bustle, a trip to Cam Luong Sacred Fish Stream offers moments of tranquillity and reflection. Visitors not only witness a natural marvel but also immerse themselves in age-old legends, discover the unique Muong culture, and experience a profound connection between people and nature.

7. Suggested One-Day Itinerary to the Sacred Fish Stream

• 07:00 – Depart from Thanh Hoa City or Hanoi
• 09:30 – Arrive at the Sacred Fish Stream: Explore the site, admire the fish, and take photos
• 11:30 – Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with specialties like grilled hill chicken and stream fish
• 13:00 – Visit the Sacred Fish Cave and Ngoc Temple
• 14:30 – Shop for souvenirs and prepare for departure
• 17:00 – Return to the starting point, concluding the journey

The Sacred Fish Stream in Thanh Hoa is a destination rich in cultural and spiritual significance, as well as a captivating eco-tourism site. Though modest in scale, it is a place filled with natural wonders and local mystique. Visit once, and you’ll find yourself enchanted by the sound of flowing water, the sight of sacred fish, and the sense of sacred serenity in the heart of the Truong Sinh forest.

Some other tourist attractions in Thanh Hoa that visitors can refer to: 

• Top Must try Specialities of Thanh Hoa Famous Flavours You Shouldn't Miss
• Pu Luong Nature Reserve the Emerald Gem of Thanh Hoa’s Northwestern Highlands