Paradise Cave (Động Thiên Đường) lives up to its name, captivating visitors as one of the most stunning, accessible caves in the UNESCO-recognized Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. Discovered by a local man in 2005 and later explored by the British Caving Research Association, the cave stretches for an astonishing 31.4 kilometers, solidifying its status as Asia’s longest dry cave. This natural wonder offers a breathtaking subterranean experience, often referred to as an “Underground Palace.”
A Journey Through Geological Time
Millions of years of water erosion created this immense cavern, resulting in a mesmerizing display of geological art.
Spectacular Formations: Visitors immediately notice the sheer scale of the chambers. The interior reveals colossal stalactites and stalagmites that glitter under expertly placed, non-intrusive lighting. These formations resemble fantastical shapes, including pillars, terraces, and figures, allowing your imagination to run wild.
The Wooden Walkway: A sturdy, 1-kilometer-long wooden path provides easy and safe access into the cave’s deepest publicly available section. This walkway allows guests of all ages and fitness levels to comfortably explore the vast space. You will find the cave’s temperature much cooler than the tropical exterior, providing a welcome respite from the heat.
The Skylight (Giếng Trời): For serious adventurers, organized tours venture beyond the public boardwalk for a 7-kilometer trek. This deeper journey features stream crossings and culminates at the Skylight (Giếng Trời), a doline where a shaft of natural light dramatically pierces the darkness, illuminating the pristine chamber floor.
Visitor Experience and Access
The process of reaching Paradise Cave itself makes for a memorable experience, combining mountain scenery and a short trek.
Getting to the Entrance: From the parking lot, visitors can take an electric buggy (for a small fee) along a 1.6-kilometer paved road through the lush forest to the base of the mountain. Then, a short, upward trek leads you up approximately 500 steps to the cave entrance. This final climb offers picturesque views before you plunge into the cool darkness.
Best Time to Visit: We highly recommend visiting during the dry season, generally from February to August. During this period, you will enjoy stable weather and comfortable trekking conditions. Conversely, the rainy season (September to November) can bring higher humidity and cooler temperatures.
Essential Visitor Information
Plan your trip effectively to ensure a seamless visit to this spectacular site.
Operating Hours: The cave is open daily, typically from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Ticket Prices (Standard 1 km tour):
Adults: Approximately 250,000 VND.
Children (1.1m to 1.3m): Approximately 125,000 VND.
Children under 1.1m: Free of charge.
Electric Buggy Fee: An additional return fee applies for the ride from the parking lot to the mountain base.
Contact Information: For booking specialized adventure tours (like the 7km trek) or for general park information, you can contact the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park’s official channels. We recommend you check the official website (https://phongnhakebang.vn/en/) for the most current pricing and operational details.
Helpful Tips: Always wear comfortable, grip-friendly walking shoes. Since the path involves many steps and walking, light clothing is advisable. Remember to bring sufficient cash for tickets and buggy fees.
