Phong Nha Cave (or Phong Nha – Ke Bang cave) is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Vietnam. Located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quang Binh Province, the cave is a wonderful place for Indian tourists who love adventure and nature. Here is a guide to help you plan your visit to Phong Nha Cave.
Brief information
- Location: Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam
- Length: 7,729 metres
- Opening hours: 07:30 AM – 4 PM
- Best for: family, group of friends, or couple.
Historical Values
Phong Nha cave system was formed by geological formations within the limestone mountains. These karst formations originated over 400 million years ago and are considered to have the oldest history in the Asia region.
Phong Nha Cave has a rich historical value to Vietnamese as well. It was used as a shelter and a hospital by the Viet Minh during the First Indochina War. It also witnessed the fierce battles between the North Vietnamese Army and the US forces during the Vietnam War.
Until today, Phong Nha-Ke Bang region still preserves many historical and cultural relics. These are ancient Cham and Vietnamese relics such as Cham altars, Cham inscriptions carved on cliffs, stone statues, Buddha statues, ceramic fragments, tablets and many archaeologically valuable relics.
Natural Values
Naturally, Phong Nha Cave is a masterpiece of nature, with stunning rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites that have been shaped by millions of years of water erosion.
With over 300 caves and a system of underground rivers, hundreds of rare species of flora and fauna, many of which are listed in the Red Book of Vietnam and the world, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has been recognized twice by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site.
The cave has many records, such as the longest underground river, the highest and widest entrance, the most beautiful and widest dry cave, the most beautiful sandbank and reef, and the most spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Additionally, Phong Nha cave is also home to many rare species, such as bats, birds, fish and reptiles.
The Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Phong Nha Cave is from June to August when the weather is dry and sunny. You should avoid visiting from December to January when the water level is too high and the cave is closed to visitors.
How To Get There
From Quang Binh
You can take a bus or a taxi from Dong Hoi, the capital of Quang Binh Province, to Phong Nha Town, which is about 45 kilometres away. The journey takes about an hour. From there, you can hire a Phong Nha boat tour to take you to the cave entrance, which is about 5 kilometres upstream.
From Ha Noi
- By plane: Book a flight from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi to Dong Hoi Airport (VDH). Multiple airlines operate flights on this route with a duration of about an hour. From Dong Hoi Airport, take a taxi or shuttle service to Phong Nha Cave for 45 minutes
- By train: You can take a train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, the nearest railway station to Phong Nha. Once in Dong Hoi, hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Phong Nha Cave. The journey from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha takes approximately 45 minutes.
Ticket Fee
| Entrance fee | $7/pax |
| Boat hire | $15 (shareable among 12 passengers) |
| Combined boat fee for Phong Nha and Tien Son Cave | $16 (shareable among 12 passengers) |
| Tien Son Cave | $4/pax |
What To See During Phong Nha Boat Trip
You can explore the first 1500 metres of the cave by taking a boat trip along the Son River, which flows through the cave’s mouth. During the boat trip, you will see many amazing sights, such as:
Entrance Arch
The first thing you will notice when you enter the cave is the massive arch that is a natural gateway that welcomes you to the mysterious world of Phong Nha Cave. You will feel a sudden drop in temperature and hear the sound of water dripping from the ceiling.
Bi Ky Chamber (Royal Court)
One of the most impressive chambers in the cave is the Bi Ky Chamber, also known as the Royal Court. This chamber is about 400 meters long and 100 meters wide and resembles a grand hall with a high ceiling and ornate columns.
Cung Dinh Chamber (Palace)
Another majestic chamber in the cave is the Cung Dinh Palace. This chamber is about 300 meters long and 80 meters wide and features a large dome-shaped ceiling that resembles a palace roof. It features various stalactites and stalagmites that look like chandeliers, curtains, and furniture.
Tien Cave and Dai Cave
Two of the most beautiful grottoes in the cave, with delicate and colourful shapes that look like fairies and dragons. These caves are ideal for swimming and relaxing after exploring the rest of Phong Nha Cave.
Ceiling Patterns
These patterns are formed by millions of years of water erosion, mineral deposition, and biological activity. Some of these patterns look like animals, plants, stars, clouds, or abstract art. You can use your imagination and creativity to interpret these patterns as you admire them from below.
Thien Duong Cave (Paradise Cave)
Thien Duong Cave is renowned for its colossal stalactites and stalagmites that create a surreal landscape inside the cave. Many tours combine a visit to Paradise Cave with the exploration of Phong Nha Cave.
>> Read more: 9 Spectacular Caves in Vietnam
Things To Do When Visiting Phong Nha – Ke Bang Cave
Trekking through the jungle
Joining a hiking trip in the forest is an ideal choice for eco-tourism enthusiasts. You can explore the unique vegetation as well as visit the Phong Nha Animal Rescue and Conservation Center to learn about endemic and rare animal species.
Cycling around Bong Lai Valley
With just a map and a bicycle, you can spend a whole day exploring Bong Lai Valley. Follow the trails that are just wide enough for mountain bike tires, discover local villages, and enjoy the picturesque, peaceful scenery of the mountains and forests. After hours of continuous cycling, savoring traditional grilled chicken and a glass of beer will conclude your exciting day.
Kayaking on Chay river
After a long day of various activities, visitors should take a moment to peacefully enjoy the beauty of the Chay River or the streams that run through the forest. Bamboo bridges will guide you across the riverbanks. Kayaking or swimming are suitable activities for visitors, or simply enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the forest.
Tips For Visiting Phong Nha Cave
- Book your tour in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak season.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that can get wet, as you will need to walk through some shallow water inside the cave.
- Bring a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the stunning scenery inside the cave.
- Respect the natural environment and do not touch or damage the rock formations.
- Pack a customized tour package with Vietnamtour.in for a perfect trip.
Phong Nha Cave is a unique and unforgettable destination that will make you feel like you are in another world. Don’t miss this chance to discover one of Vietnam’s most amazing attractions with our customizable Vietnam tour packages.
