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Phong Nha Cave

Phong Nha Cave: Guide to an extraordinary natural marvel

28/08/2024 179 views

Nestled in the heart of Central Vietnam, Phong Nha Cave is a natural marvel that captivates visitors with its stunning subterranean beauty and rich geological history. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, this cave boasts some of the most impressive limestone formations in the world.

Phong Nha Cave

There are numerous things to do in Phong Nha, Vietnam (Source: Collected)

1. Where is Phong Nha Cave? How to get there?

Phong Nha Cave is located in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh Province, about 45 km northwest of Dong Hoi City. To get to Phong Nha – Ke Bang from Dong Hoi, you can either catch a taxi, take a bus, or rent a motorbike and ride there yourself.

The bus departs from Dong Hoi Bus Station, so if you have just arrived in Dong Hoi by air or train, you will need to catch a taxi from the airport or train station to the bus station first. The bus ride will take over 1 hour, and the fare is around 50,000 VND. The bus will drop you off in Phong Nha – Ke Bang, where you can take a boat ride to Phong Nha Cave.

For more flexibility, you can rent a motorbike from your hotel or a rental shop in Dong Hoi. From the city center, follow National Road 1A north for a short distance then turn left onto National Road 16. Follow this road to a big junction before the Con River Bridge, where you will turn left onto Road DT20. Follow this road for a bit to reach Phong Nha Tourist Site. The journey can take over 1 hour.

After arriving at the tourist site, you will take a boat down the Son River for about 30 minutes to get to Phong Nha Cave.

Phong Nha Vietnam

Refer to a Phong Nha Vietnam map to navigate effectively (Source: Collected)

Check out how to go from Hanoi to Phong Nha!

2. How was Phong Nha Cave discovered?

Phong Nha Cave was first discovered by the Cham people in ancient times, as evidenced by the inscriptions and stone statues here. Records about the cave were first written in 1550 by Duong Van An. After that, it was recognized by many feudal courts of the Nguyen dynasty.

In the late 19th century, French priest Léopold Michel Cadière named it the best cave of Indochina. 

In 1924, British explorer Barton, after discovering Phong Nha Cave, said that its beauty could rival the famous Padirac Chasm in France and the Drach Caves in Spain.

The origin of the name “Phong Nha” remains a topic of debate. Some believe it derives from the local language, which literally means “wind passing through teeth.” This name may have been inspired by the wind flowing through the cave and the stalagmites at the entrance, which resemble large teeth.

Additionally, the scholar Le Quy Don suggested that the name Phong Nha originated from the name of a nearby ancient mountain village, which is now known as Phong Nha residential group in Phong Nha Town.

Explore Phong Nha Cave

Is Phong Nha worth visiting? Absolutely! (Source: Collected)

3. What are the outstanding features of Phong Nha Cave?

Many tourists confuse Phong Nha Cave and the Phong Nha cave system. To clarify, the Phong Nha cave system comprises over 140 caves with a total length of over 103 kilometers, making it the largest cave system in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. Some notable caves in the Phong Nha cave system include Khe Ry Cave, En Cave, Thung Cave, Son Doong Cave, Va Cave, Nuoc Nut Cave, Hoa Huong Cave, and Phong Nha Cave. So, Phong Nha Cave is part of a larger cave system of the same name.

Phong Nha Cave consists of 14 smaller caves, stretching 7,729 meters in length. It has an underground river that extends 13,969 meters. The cave entrance measures about 10 meters high and 20 meters wide. From above, stalactites drip down like giant dew drops melting into the cave’s interior.

Phong Nha Cave can also be divided into two sections: the dry cave and the water cave. The dry cave, located at an altitude of 200 meters, was formed when the underground river dried up, leaving behind white stone arches and jade-green stone columns. Over millions of years, stalactites formed as rainwater dissolved the rocks and flowed down from the cave ceiling. These stalactites have taken on various fascinating shapes, resembling lions, thrones, and Buddhas. Rainwater also deposits calcium at the cave’s bottom, creating stalagmites.

The breathtaking beauty of Phong Nha Cave

Phong Nha Cave photos showcasing its stunning beauty (Source: Collected)

4. What is Phong Nha Cave widely famous for?

4.1. Impressive records

Phong Nha Cave, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, holds several impressive records that highlight its unique features. These records contribute to its status as a must-see attraction for nature enthusiasts.

  • Highest and widest cave entrance: The entrance to Phong Nha Cave is 20 meters wide and 10 meters high, resembling a large bowl turned upside down on the water. This design allows boats to easily pass through.
  • Most beautiful sand stretch and reef: The reef inside Phong Nha Cave has countless formations. Their shapes are peculiar, inviting tourists to interpret however they see fit, like lions, unicorns, Buddhas, palaces, or temples.
  • Most beautiful underground lake: Phong Nha Cave boasts an underground lake with deep blue water. Tourists can enjoy rowing on the lake and exploring the enchanting surroundings.
  • Longest underground river: The underground river within Phong Nha Cave is 13,969 meters long. Traversing this river, tourists can witness the majestic beauty of the cave, where shimmering light intermingles with darkness.

4.2. Great values

Phong Nha Cave is not only a natural wonder but also a site of immense significance. Its value extends beyond its beauty, encompassing the resilience of its people and its vital role in the local economy. 

Central Vietnam was one of the most devastated regions during the Second Indochina War. In particular, Phong Nha Town endured repeated bombings as it was a crucial part of the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The brave locals kept their fighting spirit alive, using the vast caves of Phong Nha as shelters against relentless attacks.

By preserving and leveraging the natural beauty of Phong Nha Cave, the locals have significantly contributed to the development of tourism. Each year, millions of visitors from across Vietnam and around the world come to explore Phong Nha Cave, providing economic opportunities for the people of Quang Binh.

Majestic Phong Nha Cave

The value of Phong Nha Cave extends to the historical and economic facets (Source: Collected)

5. Itineraries and prices of Phong Nha Cave tours

5.1. Standard boat tour

You can buy tickets for this tour at the counter of Phong Nha Tourist Site. This standard boat tour of Phong Nha Cave will take you to the cave on a small boat along with fellow tourists. It explores the first 1.2 kilometers of Phong Nha Cave. After the boat stops, you can walk through the cave to experience more of its unique features.

The prices for this tour are as follows:

  • Entrance fee: 150,000 VND (free for children under 1.3 m tall)
  • Boat ride: 550,000 VND per boat (this price will be divided for each passenger, to a maximum of 12 people)
  • English tour guide service (optional): 300,000 VND
Phong Nha Cave boat

The Phong Nha Cave boat tour will take you through the cave with ease (Source: Collected)

5.2. Kayaking tour

If you want to explore Phong Nha Cave by kayaking and visit some other caves in the national park, this comprehensive tour offers a more adventurous option. It is a product of the national park’s dedicated travel agency, so you will need to book with them in advance. The agency is Phong Nha Tourism and their hotline is 091 884 1455.

The Phong Nha activities in this tour include kayaking, mountain climbing, and swimming. The agency will pick you up from your hotel in Quang Binh and take you to the entrance of Phong Nha Cave, where they will instruct you before your kayaking adventure inside. Once the kayak stops, you will continue your trip on foot, admire the cave’s majestic beauty, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the underground lake.

After having lunch in the cave, you will begin the return journey, walking and kayaking back out. The agency will take you to some dry caves in Quang Binh, including Tien Cave and Cung Dinh Cave. Here, you can learn about the ancient Cham script etched into the cave walls. The tour ends with a trip back to your hotel. 

The price for this tour of Phong Nha Tourism is 1,700,000 per person.

Phong Nha Cave day tours

These Phong Nha Cave day tours will also take you to other caves in Phong Nha – Ke Bang (Source: Collected)

5.3. Night kayaking tour

The night kayaking tour in Phong Nha offers a uniquely thrilling experience, allowing tourists to explore the cave in the tranquil darkness. This option aims to diversify services and ensure that even tourists coming late can enjoy the cave’s wonders. 

Overall, the night kayaking tour remains the same as its daytime counterpart. Tourists will also get to explore Phong Nha Cave by kayak, where they can enjoy the serene atmosphere and the sound of water dripping from the cave ceiling. There can be BBQ parties inside or outside the cave, depending on the tour option.

Unlike the day kayaking tour, this night tour is a product of a third-party travel agency. Their itineraries and prices can vary, so you should contact them in advance. Two recommended agencies are:

  • Quang Binh Travel: 0912 356 056
  • Phong Nha Tourist: 098 750 3456
Phong Nha Cave kayaking

Phong Nha Cave kayaking offers a unique way to explore the cave’s stunning waterways (Source: Collected)

Explore: Best things to do in Phong Nha: Top 15 epic adventures

6. Frequently asked questions about Phong Nha Cave

6.1. When is the best time to visit?

Phong Nha weather is characterized by two distinct seasons: the rainy season (September – December) and the dry season (January – August). The best time to visit Phong Nha Cave is during the dry season, when the weather is ideal for sightseeing. However, Phong Nha weather during the rainy season also offers a unique charm, with enhanced cave beauty and vibrant surrounding landscapes.

6.2. When does Phong Nha Cave open?

The standard boat tour of Phong Nha Cave operates from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. The schedules of kayaking tours will depend on the travel agency, so you should contact them in advance for information.

6.3. Are Phong Nha Cave tours suitable for children and the elderly?

Phong Nha Cave accommodates visitors of all ages, including children and the elderly. Only the first 1.2 kilometers of the cave are open for tourists, which has an accessible path that will pose no problems to anyone.

6.4. Is it allowed to take photos or film in Phong Nha Cave?

Yes, tourists are welcome to take photos and film in Phong Nha Cave. The cave is equipped with several resting spots that feature wooden floors and adequate lighting, making it easier and safer for visitors to capture beautiful moments.

Visit Phong Nha Cave

Phong Nha Cave is a family-friendly attraction (Source: Collected)

6.5. What should I note before visiting Phong Nha Cave?

There are a few other things that you should note to better plan your upcoming trip to Phong Nha Cave:

  • Respect the local culture: Phong Nha Town is home to various ethnic groups. It is important to respect their culture by being mindful of your behavior, dressing appropriately, and being considerate when taking photos.
  • Protecting the environment: Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is a special place that needs to be preserved. Don’t litter, disturb wildlife, or break the stalagmites. Let’s all do our part to keep this natural wonder pristine for everyone to enjoy.

*Note: The Phong Nha cave tour prices mentioned in this guide are for reference purposes only and may be subject to change over time.

Phong Nha Cave stands as a mesmerizing testament to nature’s grandeur, offering a breathtaking glimpse into one of the world’s most remarkable subterranean landscapes. With its stunning formations, diverse tours, and great significance, Phong Nha Cave is a must-see attraction for anyone seeking to experience Vietnam’s beauty.

When visiting Quang Binh, be sure to explore not only Phong Nha Cave but also the stunning Paradise Cave, the serene Mooc Spring, the scenic Nhat Le Beach, and the dramatic Quang Phu Sand Dunes. Each of these attractions offers a unique glimpse into the diverse experiences that Quang Binh has to offer.

Beside Quang Binh, you should consider extending your Vietnam travel to other destinations such as Hanoi, Ha Long, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. For a truly unforgettable trip in these destinations, it is suggested to indulge in the entertainment complexes of VinWonders, where thrilling games, immersive activities, and captivating shows provide endless fun for visitors of all ages.

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Numerous thrilling activities await tourists at VinWonders

After an exhilarating day, it is ideal to unwind at one of the luxury hotels or resorts under Vinpearl. From stunning pools, rejuvenating spas, and gourmet cuisines, Vinpearl offers a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, ensuring a memorable stay.

 

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