The Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park stands as Vietnam’s premier natural wonder, holding the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed for its outstanding geological, geomorphological, and ecological values. Located in Quảng Bình Province, the park showcases the oldest and largest karst cave system in the world. Millions of years of erosion have sculpted a spectacular landscape featuring towering limestone mountains, pristine tropical forest, and an immense underground network of over 300 caves.
Geological Marvels: The Caves of Phong Nha
The park has earned global acclaim due to its vast, magnificent caves, including some of the largest on the planet.
Sơn Đoòng Cave (Hang Sơn Đoòng): This cave holds the title of the world’s largest, featuring its own jungle and climate. Only a limited number of extreme adventurers explore this massive chamber each year through multi-day expeditions.
Paradise Cave (Động Thiên Đường): Visitors often refer to this 31-kilometer-long dry cave as a “Heavenly Palace” for its breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations. Wooden walkways allow easy access to the first kilometer, offering spectacular views of the illuminated interiors.
Phong Nha Cave (Động Phong Nha): Travelers explore this flagship wet cave by taking a scenic boat ride along the Sơn River (Sông Son). The boat gently navigates the underground river for several kilometers, showcasing remarkable rock formations hanging from the ceiling.
Dark Cave (Hang Tối): This spot caters to thrill-seekers. Guests experience ziplining over the river, swimming into the cave entrance, and taking a rejuvenating mud bath inside.
Ecology and Conservation
Beyond its subterranean wonders, the national park preserves a critical area of biodiversity in the Annamite Mountain Range. The vast tropical forest harbors many endemic and rare species of flora and fauna. Conservation efforts actively protect endangered primates, unique reptiles, and rare trees, like the 500-year-old Green Cypress population.
Practical Visitor Information and Activities
The park offers a range of activities, from comfortable boat tours to challenging jungle treks. The best time to visit runs from March to August when the weather is mild and dry.
Getting There: The nearest city is Đồng Hới (Đồng Hới City). Visitors usually take a taxi or bus from Đồng Hới to Phong Nha Commune, which serves as the park’s main gateway.
Key Activities and Fees: You must purchase separate tickets for each primary cave you wish to visit. Fees typically cover entry and essential guide services.
Phong Nha Cave: Entrance fee applies, and you must also pay for a boat hire along the Son River (shared among passengers).
Paradise Cave: Entrance fee applies, which includes a shuttle ride partway up the mountain.
Dark Cave: You should purchase an all-inclusive package ticket for the zip line and mud bath experience.
Contact Information: For official inquiries, rescue, or detailed tour information, you can contact the park’s headquarters.
Park Tourism Hotline (Suggested): +84 985 523 333 (for general inquiries).
Website: https://phongnhakebang.vn/en/
