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Quang Binh Province

Quang Binh Province: An essential travel guide for tourists

12/08/2024 356 views

Quang Binh Province is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, featuring pristine beaches and dramatic caves. This province, nestled in central Vietnam, offers a unique blend of rich history and diverse landscapes, making it a must-visit destination.

Quang Binh Province

Where is Quang Binh in Vietnam? – It is located in Central Vietnam (Source: Collected)

1. Where is Quang Binh Province on the Vietnam map?

When talking about Vietnam travel, Quang Binh is a must-mention destination. Located in Central Vietnam, Quang Binh spans 8,065 square kilometers and blends northern and southern cultural influences.

Quang Binh is located about 500 kilometers from Hanoi and 1,200 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City. To the east, it boasts a 116.04-kilometer-long coastline, and to the west, it borders Laos with a 201.87-kilometer-long border. 

Quang Binh Province in Vietnam is renowned for its magnificent cave systems, which attract tourists from all over the world. The area is also part of the North Truong Son biodiversity zone, home to diverse and unique flora and fauna with many rare genetic resources. In addition to its cave system, Quang Binh boasts beautiful beaches and unique cuisine. On July 17, 2024, Quang Binh was proudly named one of the world’s most beautiful destinations by Travel+Leisure magazine.

Discover: Central Vietnam itinerary: Must-go places & travel guide

2. What is the weather like in Quang Binh Province?

Quang Binh weather

Quang Binh weather is influenced by both southern and northern Vietnam (Source: Collected)

As a prominent tourist spot, the weather in Quang Binh, especially Dong Hoi’s weather and Phong Nha’s weather, is a key concern for visitors. Situated in a tropical monsoon region, Quang Binh climate is a mix of the northern and southern regions and is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season from September to March and the dry season from April to August. The rainy season often brings storms and floods, while the dry season can cause droughts. 

Quang Binh is known for heavy rainfall, with annual averages ranging from 2,000 to 2,500 millimeters. This significant rainfall, combined with frequent rainy days spread throughout the year, creates ideal humid conditions for a globally significant tropical forest ecosystem on limestone mountains.

3. Must-visit places in Quang Binh Province

Visitors to Quang Binh will not be disappointed by the wealth of attractions and activities available, from natural wonders to historical sites.

3.1. Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, located about 50 kilometers from Dong Hoi City, is a top destination in Quang Binh Province in Vietnam. The park features over 400 caves with a total length of 220 kilometers and three main rivers, promising unforgettable experiences for nature lovers. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a chance to learn about the endemic flora and fauna, especially species listed as endangered, rare, and in need of protection in Vietnam. Visitors can enjoy a short walk around the botanical garden, visit Gio waterfall and wildlife care areas, explore the ecosystem, and enjoy the fresh, pristine atmosphere.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Explore the natural landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Source: Collected)

3.2. Caves in Quang Binh Province

Quang Binh is known as the “Kingdom of Caves,” with hundreds of beautiful, pristine caves, many of which hold world records. Visiting Quang Binh without exploring its caves would be a significant oversight.

3.2.1. Phong Nha Cave

A highlight of the Quang Binh Province cave system is Phong Nha Cave. Formed hundreds of millions of years ago, the cave is a natural wonder for its aesthetic and geological value, meeting seven criteria: the most beautiful underground river, the highest and widest cave entrance, beautiful sandbanks and underground beaches, a beautiful underground lake, the widest and most beautiful dry cave, an enchanting and magnificent stalactite system, and the longest water cave. One of the best things to do in Phong Nha is taking a 30-minute boat ride upstream on the Son River and admiring Phong Nha Cave’s mystical beauty.

3.2.2. Son Doong Cave in Quang Binh Province

Son Doong Cave, the world’s largest natural cave, is a dream destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Formed about 2-5 million years ago, the cave measures 150 meters wide, over 200 meters high, and nearly 9 kilometers long. 

It features diverse stalagmites that can reach heights of up to 14 meters and a 2.5-kilometer-long underground river. Its unique climate and ecosystem, including coral, fossilized remains, and two “skylights” creating a tropical forest, make visitors feel like they’ve entered another world.

Son Doong Cave

What to do in Quang Binh? – Conquering the impressive Son Doong Cave is a must-try (Source: Collected)

3.2.3. Paradise Cave

Paradise Cave is located about 70 kilometers from Dong Hoi City and 25 kilometers from Phong Nha Cave. It is a must-see destination for visitors to Quang Binh Province. After climbing over 500 steps to reach the cave, visitors are greeted by a vast space filled with multicolored stalactites and stalagmites in fascinating shapes. With a length of 31.4 kilometers, Paradise Cave is considered the longest dry cave in Asia.

3.2.4. Tu Lan Cave

Another prominent cave system in Quang Binh Province in Vietnam is the Tu Lan Cave system, located in the limestone mountains of Tan Hoa Commune. Covering an area of over 650 hectares, the Tu Lan Cave system consists of 25 large and small caves formed along the Rao Nan River, featuring both water caves (with streams inside) and dry caves. 

Notable caves here include Rat Cave, Hung Ton Cave, Secret Cave, Song Cave, Ken Cave, Kim Cave, and Tien Cave. Visitors can admire unique stalactites, swim in underground rivers, and camp in the forest.

3.2.5. En Cave

En Cave, the third-largest cave in the world, spans 1.6 kilometers through a massive limestone mountain in Quang Binh Province. The cave impresses with its large entrance, measuring 120 meters high and 110 meters wide, a ceiling height of 145 meters, and a corridor width of up to 200 meters. 

Inside the cave, a winding stream leads to Son Doong Cave. Exploring En Cave is an unforgettable journey, with activities like trekking through forests, wading through streams, climbing slopes, and visiting Ban Doong, home to the Bru-Van Kieu people.

3.2.6. Dark Cave

Dark Cave

Chay River and Dark Cave are exciting spots for fun and relaxation (Source: Collected)

When visiting Quang Binh Province, tourists should not miss the opportunity to conquer Dark Cave. This cave is both a water and a dry cave, stretching nearly 6,000 meters long and 80 meters high. It retains its mysterious, pristine beauty, attracting visitors with its underground river system and thousands of uniquely shaped stalactites. 

In addition to swimming and enjoying natural mud baths in Dark Cave, visitors can engage in exciting water activities in the Chay River area, including ziplining, kayaking, river basketball, and various thrilling games.

3.2.7. Eight Ladies Cave in Quang Binh Province

Eight Ladies Cave is a well-known spiritual destination on the Phong Nha exploration journey. Located within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and along the route to Paradise Cave, Eight Ladies Cave is associated with the heroic sacrifice of young soldiers in their 20s during the struggle for national liberation. Visitors can come here to offer incense, pay tribute to the heroic martyrs, and learn about the glorious history of the Vietnamese nation.

3.3. Mooc Spring

Those looking to immerse themselves in nature in Quang Binh Province in Vietnam should not miss Mooc Spring, located in Bo Trach District, about 70 kilometers from Dong Hoi City. The spring is nestled in a valley surrounded by limestone mountains and lush greenery, offering moments of relaxation in peaceful natural surroundings. The spring, with its year-round turquoise water, is the perfect spot for activities like swimming, kayaking, fishing, and ziplining.

3.4. Nhat Le Beach

Nhat Le Beach

Nhat Le Beach stands out on the Quang Binh Province map for visitors (Source: Collected)

Quang Binh Province is also home to beautiful, tranquil beaches with clear blue waters. Selected as one of the most attractive beach destinations in Vietnam, Nhat Le Beach stretches along Dong Hoi City, about 2 kilometers from the city center. 

This stunning beach attracts locals, domestic tourists, and international visitors alike. The white sandy beaches, clear blue water, and gentle waves create perfect conditions for swimming, sightseeing, strolling along the sand, and participating in various beach activities.

3.5. The Duck Stop

The Duck Stop in Bo Trach District offers delightful and unique experiences with adorable ducks. Here, visitors can enjoy a massage from the ducks. Additionally, you can feed the ducks to learn more about their behavior and habits or take photos amidst the charming and unique setting of the white ducks. You can also try riding a buffalo and visit other attractions in the valley like Bong Lai Swing Nature Farm, Phong Nha Bamboo Village, O O Lake Silence…

3.6. Quang Phu Sand Dunes

Quang Phu Sand Dunes is a pristine dune area, ideal for fun and photo opportunities. Here, visitors will be overwhelmed by the desert-like landscape of endless white sand mountains, dotted with green and brown from wild shrubs or dry branches. In addition to taking in the views and capturing beautiful photos amidst the vast dunes, thrill-seekers can try riding all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) across the rolling dunes and sandboarding down the dunes – exhilarating and refreshing experiences.

Quang Phu Sand Dunes

One of the must things to do in Quang Binh Province is checking in at Quang Phu Sand Dunes (Source: Collected)

3.7. Dong Hoi City

Dong Hoi is the cultural, economic, and political center of Quang Binh Province, with many attractions that draw numerous visitors:

  • Quang Binh Gate: Built in 1639 to help the Nguyen Lords defend against the Trinh Lords, this fortress boasts grand architecture and retains historical traces from past wars.
  • Tam Toa Church Bell Tower: Located by the Nhat Le River, this historical site features a bell tower and a brick pillar, remnants of the church heavily damaged during wartime bombings.
  • Dong Hoi Citadel: Part of Dong Hoi’s historical military complex from the Trinh-Nguyen conflict, it still has about 1,100 meters with 15 sections remaining, offering insights into Quang Binh’s architecture and history.
  • Mother Suot Statue: This 7-meter-tall statue by the Nhat Le River honors heroine Nguyen Thi Suot for her bravery during the anti-American resistance, symbolizing local patriotism and resilience.
Dong Hoi Citadel

Visit Dong Hoi Citadel to learn about ancient architecture and history (Source: Collected)

4. Guide for tourists to Quang Binh Province

To have a complete exploration journey in Quang Binh, do not miss out on useful information about the best time to visit, transportation, accommodation, and more.

4.1. When is the best time to visit?

Each season in Quang Binh Province offers its unique beauty with poetic and charming natural landscapes. However, the ideal time to visit Quang Binh is from March to September. During this time, the city enters the summer season with cool weather, sunny skies, and no rain, allowing visitors to enjoy exciting activities like swimming, cave exploration, and mountain excursions.

4.2. How to get there?

With its central location, Quang Binh Province is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. 

  • By plane: Direct flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Dong Hoi cost 2,000,000-3,000,000 VND and take 1-2 hours.
  • By train: Dong Hoi Station, a stop for North-South trains with SE or QB numbers, connects the region. Ticket prices range from 450,000  to 1,400,000 VND/one-way.
  • By coach: To travel from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to Phong Nha, visitors can also choose to travel by sleeper bus. The Hanoi to Quang Binh Province route takes about 8-9 hours, costing from 300,000-500,000 VND, while from Ho Chi Minh City, it takes around 20 hours and costs 400,000-800,000 VND.
  • By cars: Visitors can drive there via National Highway 1A or the Ho Chi Minh Trail, using Google Maps for directions.
go to Quang Binh Province by plane

The Quang Binh Vietnam map shows its easily accessible location from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi (Source: Collected)

4.3. What to eat?

While in Quang Binh Province, don’t miss the chance to savor local specialties, including:

  • Banh loc: A specialty cake with a delicious aroma, featuring a flavorful filling of shrimp, pork, bamboo shoots, and a soft, chewy crust.
  • Banh beo: A dish with an unforgettable taste, characterized by its soft, chewy outer layer and flavorful shrimp and meat filling.
  • Banh khoai: A crispy delight with a rich filling of shrimp and pork, served with fresh herbs.
  • Banh nam: A Central Vietnam specialty with a delicious rice flour crust and a savory shrimp and pork filling.
  • Banh cuon ruoc tom: A traditional Quang Binh Province breakfast dish made from soft rice flour rolls served with shrimp floss, cucumber, fresh herbs, and broth.
  • Roon River blood cockles: Known for their delicious taste and nutritional value, these cockles can be prepared in various dishes like porridge, lime-marinated,…
  • Son River fish: Known for its aromatic and rich flavor, the fresh fish can be prepared in many ways, including grilling and steaming.
  • Steamed crab with winter melon: A refreshing and delicious dish combining the coolness of winter melon with the sweetness of crab.
  • Chao canh: A simple yet comforting dish of Quang Binh Province made with rice noodles, lean meat, snakehead fish, and a flavorful broth.
  • Grilled chicken: A delectable dish of chicken served with sticky rice and cheo salt – a unique type of salt from Phong Nha.
  • Seafood: Nhat Le Beach promises to be a culinary paradise for seafood enthusiasts, offering a variety of fresh seafood like shrimp, crab, and oysters.
Chao canh

Chao canh is a simple dish with flavors of home for every Quang Binh person (Source: Collected)

4.4. Where to stay?

Accommodation services in Quang Binh Province are well-developed, offering various options from hotels and guesthouses to homestays, farm stays, and camping. In Dong Hoi, hotels are mainly in the city center on streets like Ly Thuong Kiet and Tran Hung Dao, or near Nhat Le Beach, with prices from 600,000 to 2,000,000 VND per night. In Le Thuy, Quang Trach, Bo Trach, and Minh Hoa districts, tourist facilities and accommodations are available, ranging from 400,000 to 2,000,000 VND per night.

4.5. What to bring home?

After exploring Quang Binh Province, do not forget to buy local specialties as souvenirs for your friends and family. A simple yet famous food souvenir from Quang Binh is khoai deo – dried sweet potatoes with a sweet, chewy taste. You can also purchase crispy sesame rice paper or flavorful banh bot loc as gifts. 

Other local specialties to consider include mam ruoc (fermented shrimp paste), purple garlic, and peanut oil. Dried seafood like squid, shrimp, and fish also make great gifts. These specialties can be found in traditional craft villages, markets, or reputable shopping centers in Quang Binh.

Khoai deo Quang Binh

Khoai deo is a Quang Binh specialty you can buy as a souvenir (Source: Collected)

Quang Binh Province is a hidden gem in Vietnam, offering stunning natural beauty and unique experiences. From its breathtaking caves and lush forests to its serene beaches, Quang Binh promises a memorable adventure for all travelers. Whether you are exploring its scenic landscapes or immersing yourself in local culture, Quang Binh Province is sure to captivate and inspire.

After your journey in Quang Binh, continue your memorable adventure in Vietnam through beautiful cities across the three regions like Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Ha Long, Danang, and more.

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