Quang Binh province, known as the “Cave Kingdom” of Vietnam, has further solidified its position with the recent announcement of 22 newly discovered magnificent caves. This discovery not only enriches Vietnam’s tourism map but also opens up opportunities to explore hidden beauty, creating unique experiences for both domestic and international tourists. This is great news for Quang Binh’s tourism industry, promising significant growth in the near future.
Quang Binh: “Cave Kingdom” Continues to Expand the Map of Wonders
From March 1st to 15th, the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park Management Board collaborated with a Vietnamese-British expedition team to conduct a large-scale survey. The results were astonishing; in addition to surveying three known caves, the expedition team discovered 22 new caves, affirming the boundless potential of this region. These caves are scattered throughout Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park and adjacent areas in Minh Hoa and Tuyen Hoa districts.
Entrance of a newly discovered cave in Quang Binh with lush green vegetation surrounding it
The newly found caves range in length from 30m to 572m, with entrance heights varying from 46m to 550m, and depths from 32m to 154m. Among them, notable caves include Va Cave (516m), 12/2 Dry Cave (404m), Vuc Hung Cave (430m), and Ong Dau Cave (572m). These discoveries are not only scientifically significant but also unlock great potential for developing new tourism products in Quang Binh.
Tourism Potential and Value Conservation
Mr. Pham Hong Thai, Director of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, emphasized that these newly discovered caves are currently in the initial stages of access and location identification. Therefore, in-depth surveys and research are necessary to further clarify their hidden values. This will help provide accurate assessments for conservation and sustainable exploitation of the cave landscapes.
Inside a newly discovered cave, showcasing unique stalactite formations illuminated by light
The Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park Management Board plans to conduct detailed surveys to assess the tourism potential of each cave. Caves that meet safety criteria and possess exceptional scenic value will be considered for tourism development. However, the top priority remains the conservation and preservation of the natural beauty of these caves.
A member of the expedition team exploring a newly discovered cave, highlighting its scale and magnificence
Scientific Significance and Tourism Development Potential
The discovery of 22 magnificent caves holds significant scientific value, contributing to the understanding of the outstanding geological, geomorphological, and hydrological values of the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park area. These are important pieces of evidence for a better understanding of the formation and development of this land.
A cave with a unique structure, creating a vivid and impressive natural scene
Simultaneously, this discovery opens up significant potential for developing new tourism products in Phong Nha – Ke Bang in particular and Quang Binh province in general. With the diversity and uniqueness of the caves, tourists will have the opportunity to experience exciting and appealing exploration journeys.
Quang Binh – Vietnam’s Premier Cave Tourism Destination
Quang Binh has long been renowned as one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Vietnam, especially for its rich and magnificent cave system. Thanks to its continuous limestone mountain ranges with minimal fractures, Quang Binh is known as the “Cave Kingdom” with over 500 discovered caves, mainly concentrated in Bo Trach and Tuyen Hoa districts.
Clear blue water flowing through a cave, creating a peaceful and poetic scene
Among them, about 40 caves have been put into tourism operation, including world-famous caves such as Son Doong, En, and Pygmy, which are the first, second, and fourth largest caves in the world, respectively.
A corner of a cave with many strangely shaped stalactites
The discovery of 22 new caves will undoubtedly increase Quang Binh’s appeal to tourists. The diversity in size, shape, and structure of the caves will offer different exploration experiences, meeting the needs of various tourist demographics.
Previous Discoveries and Sustainable Development Potential
Previously, in 2023, the British Royal Cave Association also conducted surveys and discovered 22 new caves in Quang Binh, with a total length of up to 11.7km. These caves are mainly wet caves, small in size but possessing distinct characteristics compared to many previously discovered caves.
Son Nu Cave with its shimmering beauty
Also in 2023, a new cave with a length of over 1.5km was discovered in Diu Do village, Truong Son commune, Quang Ninh district, and named Son Nu Cave.
An area of broken stalactites inside a cave
These discoveries demonstrate Quang Binh’s endless potential in cave tourism. However, for sustainable tourism development, strict management and rigorous conservation of the natural values of the caves are necessary.
Stalactites with strange shapes in a cave in Quang Binh
Quang Binh is facing a great opportunity to become a world-leading cave tourism center. However, to achieve this goal, close coordination between functional agencies, scientists, and the local community is needed in preserving and promoting the values of the “Cave Kingdom.”
A narrow passage in a cave, requiring dexterity and caution when moving
Conclusion
The discovery of 22 new caves in Quang Binh is great news for Vietnam’s tourism industry. This is an opportunity for Quang Binh to affirm its position as the “Cave Kingdom” and attract tourists from all over the world. However, for sustainable tourism development, strict management and rigorous conservation of the natural values of the caves are necessary. What do you think about the cave tourism potential of Quang Binh? Share your thoughts!