Mermaid Cave (Động Tiên Cá): An Enchanting Underground Journey in Thung Nham Bird Garden
Mermaid Cave, known locally as Động Tiên Cá, offers a spectacular subterranean experience within the Thung Nham Bird Garden eco-tourism complex. Unlike the water-based cave tours of nearby Tràng An or Tam Cốc, this cave requires visitors to venture deep inside the earth on foot. It rewards explorers with dazzling geological formations and a unique local legend that captures the imagination.
Address: Thung Nham, Nam Thành, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình 430000, Vietnam (Located inside Thung Nham Bird Garden).
I. Geological Features and Local Legend
Mermaid Cave is a dry cave that stretches approximately 500 meters into the heart of a limestone mountain. The interior features a complex system of stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years.
Nature’s Sculptures: As you walk along the winding pathways, you will see massive limestone structures that locals say resemble a grand underwater palace, complete with curtains, coral reefs, and sea creatures. This comparison inspired the cave’s romantic name, Mermaid Cave.
The Atmosphere: The cave maintains a cool, humid temperature, providing a refreshing break from the tropical heat. Subtle colored lighting illuminates the path, enhancing the mysterious beauty of the ancient rock formations and creating an ethereal glow.
II. Visitor Experience and What to Expect
To explore Mermaid Cave, visitors generally follow a bamboo bridge or stone path, which navigates the various chambers and formations. The experience is a perfect balance of adventure and geological wonder.
Walk, Not Boat: Crucially, access is typically by walking, not by sampan boat, setting it apart from other famous Ninh Bình caves. The path is usually well-maintained, though some sections might require you to duck or traverse slightly uneven terrain.
Part of Thung Nham: The cave is only accessible through the Thung Nham Bird Garden complex. This means your visit naturally combines cave exploration with bird watching, beautiful landscapes, and other attractions like Bụt Cave and the Vái Giời Cave.
III. Essential Visitor Information
Plan your visit to Mermaid Cave as part of your overall exploration of Thung Nham Eco-tourism Park.
Entrance Fee & Tickets: Visitors must purchase an entrance ticket for the Thung Nham Bird Garden complex to access Mermaid Cave.
Thung Nham Entrance Ticket (Adults): Approximately 150,000 VND.
Thung Nham Entrance Ticket (Children 1.0m to 1.3m): Approximately 100,000 VND.
Mermaid Cave Ticket: A small separate fee (usually around 15,000 VND) may apply for entry into the cave itself, depending on the current management policy.
Opening Hours: The Thung Nham Eco-tourism area generally opens daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Specific cave hours follow the park’s operating schedule.
Travel Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for slightly damp and uneven surfaces. Though the cave is lit, a small flashlight can enhance your view of the higher stalactite formations. Combine your cave visit with a late afternoon boat ride to the bird garden to witness thousands of birds returning to their nests at sunset.
