Paradise Cave, a natural masterpiece hidden within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, has long been a dream destination for adventurous travelers. Not only does it possess magnificent and majestic beauty, but Paradise Cave also holds unique geological and ecological values, promising visitors unforgettable experiences. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” to explore this “underground palace” and plan your perfect trip to Paradise Cave.
Paradise Cave: An Emerald Gem in the Heart of Phong Nha – Ke Bang Heritage
Located approximately 70km northwest of Dong Hoi city center, Paradise Cave is situated in Son Trach commune, Bo Trach district, Quang Binh province. Discovered accidentally in 2005 by a local resident and subsequently surveyed by the British Royal Cave Research Association, Paradise Cave quickly gained prominence in the scientific and tourism communities due to its outstanding beauty and immense scale.
Spanning over 31km in length, with a width ranging from 30 to 100m, reaching a maximum of 150m, and a height of about 60-80m, Paradise Cave is known as the longest dry cave in Asia. Stepping into the cave, visitors will be overwhelmed by the vast, magical space adorned with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years.
Stalactites and stalagmites formations inside Paradise Cave, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam
Paradise Cave is not only a natural wonder but also a grand sculptural artwork of creation. Stalactite formations of various shapes and sizes are illuminated by mystical light, creating a shimmering, magical picture. From familiar images like terraced rice fields, Cham towers, and the Bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara statue to unique symbols such as the celestial palace, the milky way waterfall, and the gathering of fairies, each stalactite and stalagmite in Paradise Cave carries its own story, stimulating imagination and evoking emotions in visitors.
Journey to Explore the Beauty of the “Underground Palace”
To reach Paradise Cave, visitors will embark on an exciting journey through winding roads amidst the lush green Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. From the center of Dong Hoi city, you can easily travel by motorbike, car, or tourist bus along the Ho Chi Minh Highway West branch.
After arriving at the Paradise Cave gate area, you will travel by electric car for about 2km to the foot of the mountain. From here, you can choose to walk approximately 500 stone steps or use the buggy service to reach the cave entrance. Conquering Paradise Cave is not just a sightseeing trip but also a journey to explore nature, improve health, and enjoy the fresh air of the mountains and forests.
Stepping into the cave entrance, you will immediately feel a clear difference in temperature and atmosphere. The space inside the cave is cool and pleasant, in stark contrast to the hot and humid conditions outside. The artificial lighting system is installed delicately, not only ensuring safety for visitors but also enhancing the magical beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites.
During your visit to Paradise Cave, you will admire prominent areas such as:
- Terraced rice field stalactite area: A familiar image of Vietnam vividly recreated in the heart of the cave.
- Cham Tower: Stalactite blocks resembling ancient Cham Pa architecture, showcasing a unique cultural intersection.
- Celestial Palace (Thach Thien Cung): The high cave ceiling area with stalactites hanging down like magnificent chandeliers.
- Milky Way Waterfall (Thac Thien Ha): White stalactite streams flowing like an endless waterfall.
- Gathering of Fairies (Quan Tien hoi tu): A collection of stalagmites with bizarre shapes, reminiscent of fairies gathering.
Close-up view of intricate rock formations in Paradise Cave, Quang Binh, Vietnam
Each step in exploring Paradise Cave is a moment to immerse yourself in the world of magical stalactites and stalagmites, to listen to the echoes from the depths of the earth, and to feel the majesty of nature.
Useful Paradise Cave Travel Tips
To have a complete and meaningful trip to Paradise Cave, you should note some of the following tips:
- Ideal time to visit: The dry season (from March to September) is the best time to visit Paradise Cave. During this time, the weather in Quang Binh is dry, with little rain, which is favorable for travel and sightseeing.
- Clothing: Choose comfortable, sweat-absorbing clothes and shoes suitable for walking.
- Personal items: Bring drinking water, hats, sunscreen, and a camera to capture memorable moments.
- Entrance fees:
- Paradise Cave entrance ticket: 250,000 VND/adult.
- Electric car ticket: 100,000 VND/person (round trip).
- Choosing a tour: If you want a well-prepared and time-saving trip, you can choose 1-day Paradise Cave tours or combine visits to Phong Nha Cave.
Combine a Trip to Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave
To fully explore the beauty of Phong Nha – Ke Bang heritage, you should combine visiting Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave on the same day. These are the two most famous destinations in Quang Binh, offering visitors different and unique experiences.
After exploring the dry, magnificent beauty of Paradise Cave, you can move to Phong Nha Cave to experience the feeling of sitting on a boat on the romantic Son River and discover the mysterious beauty of the longest water cave in Southeast Asia.
Phong Nha Cave is famous for its unique underground river system, elaborately formed stalactite blocks, and fascinating historical and cultural stories. Visiting Phong Nha Cave, you will explore Co Tien Cave, Cung Dinh Cave, and admire the magnificent beauty of the “First Wonder”.
Combining a trip to Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave will give you a memorable day of experience, exploring unique natural wonders and feeling the majestic beauty of Phong Nha – Ke Bang heritage.
Local Cuisine near Paradise Cave
After a long day of exploration and experience, don’t forget to enjoy Quang Binh’s specialties. The Phong Nha – Ke Bang area has many restaurants and eateries serving local specialties such as:
- Grilled chicken “nuong moi”: A rustic, delicious dish with the distinctive flavor of the mountains and forests.
- Grilled stream fish: Fresh fish grilled over charcoal, retaining its natural sweetness.
- Khoai fish hotpot: A special hotpot with the rich, delicious flavor of khoai fish and wild vegetables.
- Quang Hoa Pancake (Banh xeo Quang Hoa): Crispy pancakes with the rich flavor of Central Vietnam.
Enjoying local cuisine not only helps you recharge after a long day but is also an opportunity for you to explore the unique culinary culture of Quang Binh.
Conclusion
Traveling to Paradise Cave is an unmissable experience when visiting Quang Binh. With its magnificent, majestic beauty and unique values, Paradise Cave deserves to be one of the most attractive destinations in Vietnam. Plan your trip to Paradise Cave today to explore the “underground palace” and enjoy the wonderful things that nature has bestowed.