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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Pakse to Hanoi?
The direct drive from Pakse to Hanoi is 587 mi (944 km), and should have a drive time of 11 hrs 45 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Pakse to Hanoi, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Ninh Binh and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, as well as top places to visit like Wat Tham Khuha Sawan and Pha Taem National Park, or the ever-popular Wat Sirindhorn Wararam.
The top cities between Pakse and Hanoi are Ninh Binh and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Ninh Binh is the most popular city on the route. It's 11 hours from Pakse and 1 hour from Hanoi.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park was recognized as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2003 due to its ancient karst mountains that date back approximately 400 million years. It is a paradise for speleologists with hundreds of cave systems, including the largest discovered cave in the world, Hang Son Doong. Aside from exploring the underground wonders, visitors can also indulge in forest trekking, learning about the area's war history and rural mountain biking.
This is one of the most beautiful places of Vietnam!Must visit!
paroma chakraborty — Google review
This is a must visit places for a vietnam trip. From here you can visit the Paradise cave, take a boat ride into the Phọng Nha cave, visit the Hien Lương bridge and the demarcation line which separated the North and South vietnam during the infamous Vietnam War.
You can reach phong nha by train, bus or plane. We took a flight from HCM city to Đồng Hới; the train and bus from different cities also end here. You should have contact your homestay or hotel, they will pick you up at the airport, train or bus station.
For food, there are a few options for western foods; Google is your best friend to search a place to eat. We stayed at the Sondoong homestay within walking distance to the boat ride to phong Nha cave.
Another good option is the Victoria Road homestay next door to Sondoong homestay. The Victoria is owned by an Australian with lots of experience exploring phong nha by bike.
The restaurant is pretty nice and cozy with some good western dishes and decent pizzas. There are also other places but this is the only places we ate during our time here.
There are a lot of places to stay in phọng nha, many tours are offered to fit your schedule. Overall, there is no 5 star accommodation and be prepared for the unexpected. But I can assure you this is a well worthy trip and enlighten your perspective.
The scenery is beautiful and truly reflect the live of the rural vietnam. This lifestyle has not changed for the last 60 years.
Life is still tough for a lots of local people, tourism brings some relief to this corner of the world and they are welcome and appreciated.
I also wanted to visit the demarcation line separated the north and south up to 1975. I have to say, for me at least, is a disappointment. The bridge is in shameful, neglected conditions with pealed paints, rotten wood planks on both sides of the bridges. I am not sure how to interpret the intentions here. Like it or not, this is a piece of history should be preserved. Either maintain it or tear it down !
For history bluffs, this city in right on the Ho Chi Minh trail, the road the north Vietnamese armies and supplies were moving south to attack the southern government. The old dirt roads are paved now but i can tell it is not a smooth road even today; small road barely fit 2 cars in opposite directions.
From here you can visit Khe Sanh, where some well known battle grounds took place during the so called American war. Sorry I can’t help to draw a comparison to the south Vietnamese situation then and the Ukrainian ones now; they all relied on the support of the American and at the mercy of the support of the American politicians who only cares about themselves and/or their idiotic party lines. They withholding the last aid in 1975 and eventually abandoned the South. I hope the Ukrainian will fare better this time.
Khe Sanh is now a city, I found virtually nobody has any knowledge about the war.
If you want to know more or feel adventurous, the owner of Victoria Road can help fulfill your quest.
I loved this trip. It is a bit rough for us, since she is wheelchair bound but we made it
phuong nguyen — Google review
Wharf for boating
Minh Hoang Le — Google review
Not that impressive as Paradise cave, but worth visiting. Almost all tour is on boat. Only at the very end they let you walk on small piece of land.
Pay attention, that to buy entrance tickets you need to go on boat station which is about 5 km away from cave. There is no way to buy tickets near cave!
Alex 123 — Google review
It’s a long hike to the cave, so bring good walking shoes and water. You can buy cheap hats there if needed. And I recommend taking the golf cart if you can afford it at 100k/two-way.
Le Parc Saigon Hotel — Google review
Ok
B?o Nguy?n V?n — Google review
Good way to spend a couple of hours walking to the jungle with great nature sounds. A nice viewpoint over the gorge and good waterfall. Footing tricky in places so not really suitable for flip flops. We biked there from phnom nha just a 500 metre stretch that was too steep without gears
Steve Briggs — Google review
Such an amazing place to visit. The cave is breathtaking and you will feel so cool inside.
Vineeth — Google review
Do yourself a favor and skip these caves. The place is really touristy. It’s no longer local anymore. It’s lost it’s beauty.
I did love the kayaking and sand bath experience. This place is family friendly too.
But i had a great time at Oxalis adventures. They take you to the caves that are really great and less touristy. I am sure they have day trips as well.
Arun Chidambaram (Arun) — Google review
Well, Phong Nha cave and Paradise cave are really stunning. But place as a whole is way too commercialized. You may not simply buy a permit and walk in the jungle, as this normally works in similar places around the world. You have to pay hundreds of dollars to authorized "travel agencies" for a guided tour. Boring and stupid.
Max Bel — Google review
Definitely worth hiring a moped to drive around the National Park! Was absolutely stunning!!
Zak Foster — Google review
One of the more beautiful caves I've ever been to. I got the boat from the tourism centre and travelled 1km into the cave. The tickets were 150,000 vnd per person to enter the cave.
The boat price was a little more tricky. Its around 500,000 vnd for a boat which can take 1-12 people, but the more people you have the cheaper it is because you can split the bill as the price is for the entire boat and not per person.
If you have the money I would recommend travelling there by boat as you get to see more of the cave and you don't have to walk a great distance, especially in the summer heat.
The boats also depend on the weather and the water level. The cave system is connected to Laos so if there was a lot of rain recently in Laos, it will travel through the cave system into Vietnam, making the water levels rise and the cave not accessible by boat. I got lucky 😄
Anita Owczarek — Google review
Breathtaking! I am really grateful to have seen the beauty of this nature.
Christiane von Festenberg-Pakisch — Google review
Preservation is possible without charging 1650000d for a simple hike of a few hours, and this is the cheapest option - the proper hikes for 2-3 days are available around 500 USD. Absolutely ridiculous pricing everywhere, and not a singele indipendend hike available, left that cashtrap called Phong Nha the next day.
This park is all about quick tourist money. The surroundings are beautiful though, what a shame i could only enjoy it off of the motorbike.
most404 — Google review
39% as popular as Ninh Binh
34 minutes off the main route, 55% of way to Hanoi
Ninh Bình is a province located in the northern region of Vietnam's Red River Delta. The area features the sprawling Cúc Phương National Park with its lush valleys, karst mountains, and conservation centers. Visitors can explore hiking trails and caves while encountering rare species like langur monkeys and pangolins. Meanwhile, the capital city of Ninh Bình serves as a gateway for those wishing to visit nearby temples.
Most popular city on this route
4 minutes off the main route, 91% of way to Hanoi
Best stops along Pakse to Hanoi drive
The top stops along the way from Pakse to Hanoi (with short detours) are Tam Cốc – Bích Động - Ninh Bình, Việt Nam, Paradise Cave, and Trang An Grottoes tour. Other popular stops include Huong Pagoda, Phong Nha Cave Gate Marina, and Kong Lor Cave.
1
Wat Sirindhorn Wararam
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Pavilion carved with pop culture characters, featuring painted florescent images on walls & floor.
Nice glow in the dark temple. Time to come should be before the sunset so you can see both atmosphere. It could be chilly during the sunset. And it can be crowded too.
P J — Google review
I rode my bicycle here for sunset. I arrived about 17:00 to walk around and take photos. The photos in my review were taken at 19:40 with a tripod as a reference. Definately show up befor sunset to enjoy the view. This is one of my favourite temples in Thailand now. I think you will enjoy it too 💟💯🇹🇭
Jeremiah Ell — Google review
Excellent temple 🛕 to revisit with friends and family. However the senior people should able to walk along the way there as per staircase many step. Also not family for wheelchair person.
The magnificent of landscape and atmosphere around were amazing memories. No cost to visit as per we were rental the car to be up there. Better to be there around 5PM onwards to join growth ✨️ in the drak.
Kwanchai Quinzy Yokto — Google review
Tips: come about 1 hour prior sunset then you would enjoy the beauty of both “light & dark” 😎
This place is a must!!
Pung Worawit — Google review
Beatiful location for reflection, enjoying sunsets and afterward the whole temple and courtyard glows in the dark. There are plenty of places to park and to sit inside and outside the temple. Remember to wear appropriate clothing when visiting.
Jonathan Wright — Google review
Glow in the dark temple, absolutely worth a trip if you are in the area.
The temple grounds and building itself are nothing special, but as soon as the sun starts setting it becomes magical. The tree of live on the east facing wall has luminescent paint that emits a turquoise glow as the sunlight starts to fade. There are also many decorative patterns on the ground surrounding the temple that are covered in blue and turquoise luminescent paint. The whole place just ‘shines’ at night.
Just to manage expectations, this is not LED lighting that is smack in your face, but rather subtle luminescent paint that emits a gentle glow and will gradually fade over time. If you are a photographer, bring a tripod (I forgot mine) to capture the glow in long exposure mode.
Definitely plan to stay until it’s completely dark to see the full magic. We were actually surprised how many Thai tour groups left shortly after the sun hid behind the horizon, while the skies were still illuminated - they missed the nicest part! Talking of tour groups, we visited on a Sunday night and it was quite busy, especially with people lining up to take pictures in front of the tree of life. Visiting on a weekday may be more tranquil. But as mentioned most tour groups left before it was completely dark.
Plan to arrive by 6pm and stay until at least 7:30pm
The Travelers — Google review
Very amazing for the fluorescent painting at the back of temple of the Unseen Thailand. Do not miss to visit one late afternoon and to wait till dark for the unforgettable experience.
Vipa Haetrakul — Google review
Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Prao Temple or Phu Prao Temple , another popular name is Wat Pho . This temple is located on a high hill. in Sirindhorn District Ubon Ratchathani Province It is a simulation of the environment of Wat Pa Himmaphan or Khao Krailas. On the top of the mountain, we can see the golden buddhist temple. It stands out beautifully. Behind the chapel is a green glow painting of the Kalapapruek tree. behind the temple at night It's really beautiful. Sometimes, if you're lucky, you'll see glowing stars around the chapel and I recommend you to go on a dark moon night. Because the darker it gets, the more clearly we can see the glow of the Kalapapruek tree and the stars.
The temple is located about 70 km from the city of Ubon Ratchathani if traveling from the starting point at the province. go straight to the path Phibunmangsahan District When reaching Phibun Mangsahan District, there will be a three-way intersection. Turn left to Sirindhorn District. Drive straight to that line, which can reach tourist attractions like Pattaya Noi. Inland Sea, people in Ubon or Sirindhorn Dam which is on the way And the temple is about 3 km before the Chong Mek immigration checkpoint. On the left hand side there will be a sign indicating the entrance to the temple on the main road. By turning left, go straight for about 2 km.
Namtoey wara — Google review
Top place to visit in this province. Must stay until dark to see glow of temple and outside flooring, children love it!!!
stephen boraston — Google review
Wow is all I can say.
One of the top 5 temples in Thailand. Went in the evening to watch the sunset.
Emrys Alf — Google review
My hosts bought me here as they know I am interested in temples. I was wandering why they were leaving it so late prior to going I realised the reason when I arrived The temple is simply remarkable and well worth a visit, but take my advice " wait till nightfall" ,😂👍
Ian Nicholson — Google review
❤️ Unseen Thailand! This temple is very impressed, especially in the evening after 5 pm, you will see glowing lights around the temple, it’s very beautiful. Driving to the temple is a little far, 1 hour 30 minutes from the city. Do not miss this place, Let’s go!
Nadear Cholticha — Google review
Amazing temple on top of a hill. You will have the view over the jungle and the Laotian border.
Peaceful temple during the week and worth to visit daytime.
Oliver K — Google review
My friend told me to visit the temple at night. So I chose to be there at 19.00 pm. Yes, the temple was so beautiful at night. It is glowing in the dark.
Prawaltong Tongyai — Google review
You need to visit here at night to see the glowing stone. It’s very beautiful designs. It will be glowing in the darkness.
Jamaliah Said — Google review
The most beautiful n peacefull temple I visit in Thailand .
Leslie Tan — Google review
One of the most beautiful temples I have been to. All the details are amazing and the light in the evening creates some magical atmosphere. I think they knew why they want to have a temple on top of the mountain. Didn't see it at night when the lights do some other magic. But the tree on the wall in the back and all the Naga, also the angels - it's special there!!
Definitely put this place on your list whn visiting Khong Chiam. It is above the town overlooking the Mekong river.
Dave Coppin — Google review
Interesting Wat close to the border of Laos. You can see the Mekong river from there.
There are several structures - one Stupa, one temple in a kind of cave and a traditional temple.
The particularity of the Wat is the Big Gong which was erected in 2016.
Oliver K — Google review
A breath taking place. A good pit stop to visit for photography. Pretty fun place and lots of things to see. With 5 baht, one can use the binoculars laid out the top of the viewpoint to look at Laos.
Jacob Goh — Google review
Nice temple with a few shop/cafe. Very atmospheric. Lots of parking as well. Not to busy
Ryu Wonkeaw — Google review
Worth a quick stop if you are in Kong Chuan. The white temple is beautiful and the huge gong is the largest I have ever seen, it’s 20m in diameter and 18,000 kg in weight. This gong is visible from all around the area. From here you also gave good views of the Mekong river and across the border into Laos.
Kevin Gove — Google review
This is one of famous temple at Khongchiam, Ubonratchathani. You can come to make merit and pay respects to " Luangpu Kamkaning". and see the Khong river from the viewpoint in here. If you come to Khongchiam this is the one of attraction in here.
Freddy Brown — Google review
A great Temple to see if traveling in N E Thailand, Ubon Province.
John Thompson — Google review
It's a nice tempel with a great view to Laos. The gong is super huge and amazing. There are also small stores selling drinks and food and souvenirs. Parkings is like in each temple for free.
Andreas Lang — Google review
A bit of a touristy temple with an enormous gong. Some nice views over the Maenam Kong towards Laos. There are several shops selling snacks and handicrafts.
Peter van Zanten — Google review
Easy to travel by car. Nice place to visit and take a photo.
Mink V — Google review
Lovely temple with great views of over the Mekong.
Peter McDermott — Google review
This is a pleasant surprise when you arrive at the gate. I think all the "buildings" around the parking lot are much more interesting (from a traveler's point of view) than the cave temple down below. Take time to walk around and enjoy this very nice temple.
Z William — Google review
It is a cluster of Buddhist temples including a temple inside the cave. To my eyes, the giant Gong with the flags of ten ASEAN countries was the point of focus. This Gong is the largest Gong that I have ever seen before. We can get inside to all the temples and offers our prayers and donations. There were lots of visitors during my visit but not crowded. Temple inside the cave is another point we should never miss. There were several Buddha statues of different sizes where we can pray and receive blessings. There are food stalls, gift shops, photography services, etc. It is also a good viewpoint for Laos, Mekong River and traditional houses along the Mekong River.
Entry fee: free.
Time of travel: August 2018.
Kinzang Wangchuk — Google review
Beautiful temples with rare crowds. Can have a look at two colour river with half of water in brownish colour and other half in serene blue. Across the river, you can see Laos on a clear day. The scenery is beautiful and and entire campus is spotless clean. There was a watch tower which can be scaled through stairs to have a nice view around.
Entire area may be covered in 30 min to an hour and keep some more time to breathe fresh air and get mesmerized with the beauty of the wats, beautiful buddha idols and the surrounding manicured gardens, river and river bank. They have put several huge logs in the garden which look grand though not sure of the reason, purpose or background story.
Pha Taem National Park is a stunning natural attraction in Thailand, named after a large cliff overlooking the Mekong River. It boasts ancient rock paintings that have become iconic in Ubon and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The park features unique rock formations and an impressive waterfall called Nam Tok Saeng Chan, which flows through a natural hole in the rocks during rainy season.
This is a beautiful national park with great views of the Mekong River on the border of Laos and Thailand. There is hiking opportunities here and great places to take some beautiful photos. There is a walking track with some ancient art works which is fairly easy to do. And some other walking tracks around the park. Be aware though it is only 40 bhat for thai people the entrance fee for non thai is 400 bhat. See my YouTube channel The Travelling Social Worker for the video on my visit here.
GREGORY EGAN — Google review
WOW!!! Amazing national park with huge pre-historic paintings. The place was well maintain make it easy to access and walk around. The track was easy to walk under the cliff to see the gigantic paintings and up along the edge of the cliff to see sceneric view of the great Mae Khong River. The staff at the park office was informative and helpful. However the parking lot is on a field of wavy rock.
TD — Google review
Very well oganized and still good nature condition
Pai Kub Jeab ?Pai Kub Jeab? ??????????? — Google review
For foreigners the entrance fee has been reduced to 200 baht. A couple things to remember: 1) It’s a very large national park with no paved inner roads connecting visitors to the various sites. You must drive outside the park each time on the two lane rural highway 2112 then drive on poorly maintained roads to get to the sites except for the “main entrance” which takes you to the Headquarters which has free maps and information ( Thai & English) of the park. There is also a small exhibit about the park and a nice coffee shop overlooking the Mekong The picturesque trail to the wall paintings is here. 2) The entrance & parking ticket does cover entrance to the other sites 3) Unfortunately the ancient wall paintings are eroding/ fading away ( not so spectacular) but the trail around the rock cliff is beautiful -worth the hike if you’re in physical shape 4) There are local vendors selling water & sodas at these 3 sites or along highway 2112. 5) Interesting this park was established in 1991. 6) Not much wild life to be seen
William Hartz — Google review
Come here to see sun rise, this trip is worthwhile as the scene is scenic and beautiful. Driving here can be tough on car absorber/suspension due to uneven ground when closer to destination. Many areas for amazing photoshoot but take precaution. Death is certain if fall over the cliff especially when wind is strong and too busy taking photo while not looking at footing.
Recommend to check out the exhibition area to get some idea before venturing into the wall drawing area. The total trip is about 4.3 km but the key visit area is just the first 3 spot which is around 850m walk from car park.
Wear comfortable shoe, bring food and drink water. The cafe opens only at 8am and doesn't serve food. On the day of my visit, there is not a single shop selling food so best bring your own food.
Photoshooting here is fun!
Jacob Goh — Google review
Great park with cliff and rocks.
Very big if you want to do all in the same day specialy if you ride a motobike.
I did it on 2 days. Rangers on 2nd day (North of the park) was so kind, he didn't ask me to pay again.
Marc Ooo — Google review
Very nice but too hot and in this period no waterfall
Best time to visit is October
Jaap Abrahamse — Google review
Pha Taem National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติผาแต้ม) located right by Mekong River has been one of the popular national park in Thailand, named after their unique geographic (the large cliff) and history of an ancient paintings on the rocks
Pha Taem also offers the nature loop trial approximately 4km that will take around 2hrs to complete. The trial will allow you to explore more than 300 paintings on the stone wall with difference shapes such as people, animals, utensils, symbols, and human palms
Being one of the most beautiful place to watch sunrise in Thailand, locals usually camping in the national park during New Year festival and celebrate their new beginning with a beautiful scenery right by Thai-Laos border
The rock formations at 3,000 Bok are truly awe-inspiring. They come in all shapes and sizes, from small, round pools to large, intricate canyons.
The contrast between the red sandstone and the turquoise water is simply stunning.
Banyapon Poolsawas — Google review
It's incredible place in countryside. if you come here in rainy season you wouldn't see anything. During the day it's too hot but I love to see all these rocks.
Chanyanit Thaenghin — Google review
Beautiful and unique view you can find there. There is a boat tour for river view. Best to come when river is at low level, in high water season you will see nothing.
Oak P — Google review
Amazing place
Like we are in a space.
Hot weather,u should
have hat or umbrella
for protect your skin
And don’t forget comfortable shoes.
Sang Ja — Google review
Truly one of the wonders along the Mekong!!! Highly recommend to take a longtail boat from Had Salung nearby (1,000 baht for the boat, up to 12 people) to really appreciate this part of the river and the different areas around. Come either really early in the morning (6am-8am) or after 4pm to avoid the scorching sun. A must visit!
Pimsirinuch Borsub — Google review
There is a choice of walking to the boulders or taking a ride in a pick up which will cost 200 THB for a round trip.
There is some climbing involved so be careful. Once at the rocks there are guilds for hire.
The famous formation are Mickey mouse which was easy to find, Heart and number 800.
David Tan — Google review
Entrance to Sam pan bok, plenty of carpark, restaurant, stalls and place to rent song thaew to bring you closer to the crucial sight seeing spot of this place. The little restaurant nearer to the toilet serve quite decent food.
Jacob Goh — Google review
This is one of those out of your way type attractions to go to. Out of all the views in Thailand, this one is just mediocre at best. Of course, I'm biased, but let me explain that this was one of the last things I did in Thailand before going back to Bangkok. Meaning, before I went here I was in Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Phang Nga, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
Let me get to the experience for you. We arrived via car, and immediately went to go get lunch at the only restaurant in the area. After lunch, we were joined by another family and rented a truck to go the ~1km down the cliff, and to the start of the hiking area.
The hike was guided, and the guide would explain to you the different pools and holes. S/he would take you to specific holes and tell you what they looked like. A heart, Mickey Mouse head and 800 shaped hole are to name a few.
If you choose to do so, you could also hire a boat to go on a river cruise through the canyon area.
That being said, perhaps my grading of 3 stars is a bit harsh in comparison to others that have been here, but I feel it realistic in the sense that if you were to ask, "Hey, I'm going to Thailand, should Ubon be high on my list?"
My response would be: "Only if you have enough time, like exploring and it is not your first trip to Thailand."
I do not feel that this is a place that you should really go out of your way for. But is it worth experiencing? Yes, that is the short answer.
Decide for yourself whether you like it or not. I would never say don't do something, if you asked if you should try it. The better question would be "Do you think I will like it?"
My answer to that is, the novelty of the place will wear away quickly.
Charlee Chay — Google review
4.4
(841)
•
4.5
(114)
Sam Phan Bok, Lao Ngam, Pho Sai District, Ubon Ratchathani 34340, Thailand
The Ho Kaeo Mukdahan is a heritage tower standing at 215-feet tall, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the area from its glass viewing deck. The ascent to the top involves roughly 250 steps until the rondel and another 50 steps until the dome. Although the elevator was out of operation, climbing up was worth it for the stunning panoramic view over Mukdahan and Laos across the river.
Good view on the top of building and can see Laos
nami oyamada — Google review
City tower to see the city from 360 angle. The tower has been built long time ago, it may not that fancy compared to other brand-new built tower but it is the symbol of the city and it is still worth to visit. Tucket to enter 30 thb per person, free visit for elderly aged above 60 years old with proof.
Ricky LK — Google review
A long way up 320 steps the lift not working, but worth it when you get to the top, also a small museum on the ground floor and half way up. If you in the town you must visit
Steven o donoghue — Google review
Great Views of Mukdahan from the observation deck. Sadly the 7th floor was closed , I walked up to The main observation deck, the lift has not been working for some time as I understand, however the walk up is really easy for your average person.
Interesting exhibits and information, sadly not all in English, google translate 📸 with camera , very helpful 😊
Even though it’s a bit of a tired landmark in Mukdahan in need of updating, still worth a look 😊👍
Thaiadzz — Google review
So it is not bad but you'll get a better view at the buddha statue nearby. The elevator was not working so that's also kind of a tough walk up. The top floor was also in works with nothing special but the sacredness of the statue is good reason for devotees to come. Free
florent magnoac — Google review
Lift was not working and the viewing area available is only until Floor number 2 . The rest of the tower is not open to public, as of writing, due to maintenance repair.
Emmy — Google review
Visiting the tower is worth a visit for a panoramic view of the Mekong River and countryside. There’s also some information of historical sites to see. On the main floor are some old artifacts and historical information. (80 baht for foreigners/ 50 baht for Thais.)
Sadly, old vacant buildings, debris and garbage surrounds the outside perimeter of the grounds which should be removed.
พนักงานที่น่าสนใจและเป็นกันเอง
William Hartz — Google review
It is a tower with a good view, if you go you can learn about the ancient heritage and their people
Moe Kyaw Aung — Google review
Nice view over area from top
About 250 steps until rondel and more 50 steps until dome (elevator out of work by the time we were there) - some stepper training but worth the view then! Get some nice view around the Mukdahan area over the river until Laos.
Christian Berg — Google review
Some interesting museum exists on both the ground floor and the first floor. Good views from the top. Sadly the lift was broken and I see from other reviews it was broken 6 and 7 months ago. Not too much of a problem for us as the exercise is welcome :)
Steve Whatnall — Google review
4.1
(1492)
•
3.5
(83)
GPGM+96P, Si Bun Rueang, Mueang Mukdahan District, Mukdahan 49000, Thailand
Variety stuff and can find some handmade products here.
Nicha Jeeyasak — Google review
Not at all packed with Chinese bus tours like pre-Covid. A few groups of Thai students wandering about. There are quite a few shops still run by Vietnamese refugees who immigrated to Mukdahan during America's most famous military blunder in Southeast Asia. After shopping for souvenirs drop by one of the temples near the market. Also take in the view of the Mekong River with Laos in the background.
fresh bundle — Google review
Not the busiest of markets and I was hoping for more goods from Laos and further afield but it seems the market is more for those coming from Laos and beyond. So Thai goods to take back home.
Was a nice walk up and down. Lots of snacks and food mixed in with clothing and other household items.
Found the racing long rowing boats at the north end down the stairs next to the river. Very nice.
Jamie Lewis — Google review
Great buy she can buy anything here
ken diment — Google review
Any time to kill in Mukdanan should include a walk through the Indochina Market. With the underground portion of the market currently closed, there are more shops on street level now. It's not a bad place to buy a sarong or some T's. Amulets are a bit pricy, especially if you're obviously not Asian. The small restaurants under canopies are cheap and excellent, and so is the restaurant next to the old immigration building on the north end of the market street. There are 3 temples along the market street that might be worth a peek.
Dave Eklof — Google review
Much like any weekend or night market in Thailand with a selection of foods, clothing, tools, etc. Always a little interesting to browse. Seems odd that the market blocks any view of the river and whatever structure was there that is now closed and blocked off.
Greg R — Google review
The Indochina Market is an interesting place. The market offers a great variety of products: jewellery, fruit and vegetables, clothing, kitchenware and many more. It is a nice stroll and a challenge to open negotiations. Beyond the high season it can be quiet. Shop open from 8:00 am onward, but in the early hours many shops are closed.
Ton Gerrits — Google review
The market spread in one street next to Mae Kong River. Shops are selling almost similar products. (Mainly from China or Vietnam) Good fabrics, imported snacks and kitchen tools can be found here. Some local garments are also interesting.
Hnung Hnungie — Google review
Walking around the Mekong River, a very comfortable market.
Jimmy Huang — Google review
Going through some work at the time of visit. Ships have been forcibly put into containerized, hiding the view overall then Mekong.
Wat Phra That Phanom is a renowned Buddhist pilgrimage site located in Nakhon Phanom province. The temple boasts an impressive and elaborate chedi, as well as an annual festival that draws visitors from around the region. It is considered by locals to be a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Nakhon Phanom. Additionally, the temple houses a fantastic museum featuring fascinating exhibits and English language displays for visitors to enjoy.
Do you know that there's an excellent museum within the temple grounds? It's well stocked with interesting items and there are a fair few English language displays
Steve Whatnall — Google review
One of the most beautiful Wat in Nakhon Phanom province and throughout the country.
It is considered that the Stupa shelters the most ancient Buddha's relics in the northeast of Thailand
This Stupa of 57 meters high is made of composite material. The Wat is highly frequented and respected by Thai people. It is considered as representing the essence of buddhism and an architectural wonder, with laotian influence.
Couples go to pray for <good love> at Wat Phra That Phanom.
Oliver K — Google review
The most famous temple in Nakhon Phanom province. Every buddhist has to go there once visit this province
Punyawee Intaraksa — Google review
Nice temple around the areas and pagoda.
Location. It was amazing for friends and family. However there are some businesses along there like take pictures and giving birds life.
We went there quite short periods as per heat of weather. Good for content and photos
Kwanchai Quinzy Yokto — Google review
A beautiful a wonderful monument to show a large part of the culture of Thai and Issan Buddhism. The reason for a 4 star is the pure amount of "sellers" of photos. As a western they asked me many many times for a photo. Luckily if you say no they walk away without too much difficulty. The bathroom is through the market to the back.
Timothy Morgan — Google review
This is different type of temple where Buddha’s born is mined at the top of tower where is is said. Beautiful tower and nice photogenic one.
Hidetoshi Iga — Google review
Was told by a local of nakhon phanom that you can't claim to have visited NP if you haven't visit this temple , and was very impressed by the beauty and the reverence the locals have for this temple
Rob Tan — Google review
Was there in the night time as Thai friend said it's cool and the place looks more beautiful with all the lights on.
Eric Teo — Google review
Very spiritual place, amazing sight, good bargain market, love a good bargain market.
Sonny Khlane — Google review
One of the most holy wats in Thailand, due to the presence of a Buddha relic, pilgrims come from all over. The grounds are therefore busy with photographers and hawkers, which gives a sense of the wat's importance. The buildings and grounds are nevertheless kept in pristine condition.
Vietem — Google review
Buddha relics.Who was born on Sunday pay respects.In Nakornpanom.
Natthadejo — Google review
The gorgeous temple in Thailand. A lot of people come to worship this temple. Praying to wish their good things. I have been here for three times, hopefully I will be there again🙏🏻
Jounee Dalavone — Google review
You can't have more of a religious experience than being here. History museum, and every Buddhist presented.
Kept very clean and tidy.
Don't let the sellers of raffle tickets annoy you, when no is said they leave you alone
MAT Burton — Google review
Amazing and very special you will be very lucky to visit this temple, and town. There are lots of special ceremonies throughout the year.
I would suggest spend an hour or so enjoying the temple and the surroundings, market, buildings and the community.
Don’t drive past this place.
Matthew Brady — Google review
Firstly this is a very large complex with many different areas. Parking is best found on the Western side. Parking in the complex is not allowed. Secondly allow many hours to visit as there a hundreds of Buddha statues in every form and colour, and worship places. Thirdly don't get lost - get a map and mark off the areas you have been and where you want to go.
Apart from many tourists and worshipers, there are many Monks available at places around the Temples and places of worship. Some speak good English.
The complex is very well maintained, clean and tidy. There are many sitting and walking areas through shaded areas. Feel safe here because there are police walking the area.
David Stark — Google review
4.7
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4.5
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183, 13 หมู่ที่ 13 Chayangkun Rd, That Phanom, That Phanom District, Nakhon Phanom 48110, Thailand
Pleasant place to visit, very well maintained. Make a visit if you visit Nakhon Phanom. Made a small donation for the upkeep of the temple.
Ramg Work — Google review
An amazing place that was well worth the visit. It's not a religious place but more a place of emotional attachment. It pays homage to 7 Thai Kings who defended thailand against warring threats over its history.
Les Napper — Google review
Interesting pink Stupa, good design. The temple is of an interesting design and featured outside walls. Locals and tourists come to worship. An active Wat with Monk and community keeping it clean and tidy.
David Stark — Google review
Cool area at Buddhist respect, Nakonphanom province is always look lovely and wonderful province.
Chinawat Nuchawong — Google review
Blessing place for people who borned on Monday
Smile Ja — Google review
Buddha relics.Who was born on Monday pay respects.In Nakornpanom.
Natthadejo — Google review
A wonderful temple to see
KEVIN ARRAND — Google review
Great pink Pagoda which match our birthday from our family members.
Nice and clean location and great idea to visit.
Should not miss what if you travel to NakornPhanom.
If you come as far as here then it's really worth taking the boat. The boat takes you in much deeper to the cave, fewer people come here so it's quiet. You can also walk to the other entrances, while the boat waits for you. There are bats too!
philip apsimon — Google review
30kp per person to enter and 100kp if you want to do the boat. It's nice for taking pictures with the different color of lamps inside. But the visit it's pretty short if you don't take the boat. There is a view point in the cave where you can see outside after passing some small "temple". Outside you have free toilet a small shop a bit empty and a small coffee.
Lucie — Google review
In a multitude of caves, and the limestone terrains of Laos abound in speleological objects, this is a cave that is perhaps most suitable for tourist purposes. Unlike, say, a couple of nearby ones, which are more in their original form. The biggest attraction is the quiet passage by boat on the underground river. Attractive lighting, but there is definitely more room for underground "performance".
@capriolobike
Zoran Zivlak — Google review
40,000 kip to only walk around the cave.
100,000 kip to take the boat into the cave.
We came too late the day before, so only explore the cave on the 1st day and then came back the 2nd day. Recommend taking the boat. Because the boat is the best part. And there's lots of cool things to say. Including gigantic caves, awesome river things, Stella mites and stomach tights and also stomach mites. Aurora borealis ceilings, massive cavans. The cave actually opens up to the sky on the other side. On the other end, suspended walkwayso if you are short on time. Maybe only do the boat ride and forget about the walking around the cave. Because it is definitely the best part.
I read another review on here that said, the lighting and staircases made the place like a carnival ride and garish. I truly disagree because I think the stairs and the lighting made this place really special as it was highly entertaining and beautiful.
If you are really fat, don't get on the boats. Because the boats are small and plastic. So I would say if you were maximum 2 people. And if you have 4 people that are fat, do not get on this as obesity has always been. The sinker of the boat just look at historical boats like the titanecdote that boat was obese, coincidence? 🙂
Finn Light — Google review
One of the best caves we have visited in all of Laos! I would highly recommend to go and to also book the boat ride inside the Cave! It is a little bit more expensive with 50.000 Kip p.p. but the price is absolutly worth it!
When you enter the cave you first come into an about 250 Meter long, dry part of the cave with some nice rock formations and stalactites. Thats all you're gonna see when you only book the entry without the boat ride. Although most people only book the entry, I would heavily recommend to also book the boat ride!
After this part you can enter one of the boats with a guide who will paddle you through almost one kilometre of underground river. The rock formations here are alredy stunning, with up to 70 meter high ceilings and house-sized rocks forming natural bridges above the river.
At the end of the boat ride you will exit the boat and walk up a hill into an gigantous, more than 300 meter long underground cavern that opens up to another entrance of the cave. There you will turn to the right and start walking deeper and deeper into the cave system. You can walk for almost 700 meters before the path stops. You will walk through tunnels as small as 1x1.5 meters and through caverns as big as 70-80 Meters high and more than 30 meters wide.
You have to have a bit of fitness to do the walk after the boat ride, so I would not recommend to do this with people older than 70 or with extremely small children, pretty much everyone else should be fine
Minozard — Google review
This is not my cave. It seems like it is carnaval themed with all the lights. I think you should just try it for yourself. It is very easy accesible with stairs and much lights.
Max — Google review
I highly recommend doing the boat tour! It has been the most amazing cave I have visited in all of Southeast Asia. It’s a 5-10 minute paddle through the cave and then you venture through suspension bridges and multiple stairs to explore the cave!
Cole Kanuga — Google review
Honestly a decent cave to stop at during the thakhek loop. It's prepared and well lit, but still worth it. The boat ride is awesome, and the pictures from the inside are really nice. Outside there is a mini mart and some restaurants and places to sit and eat or hang out.
Nicole Aridana — Google review
What an amazing cave! It has a great passage with manmade staircases, wonderful formations and limestone, accompanied by vivid lighting. Unfortunately, I regretted not paying extra for the boat ride (in addition to entrance fee) to go even deeper into the cave system or an abyss, which I heard taking maybe another 2 hours on the water+walking and also require some physicality.
Prakit — Google review
DO THE BOAT TOUR! I Absolutely 100% recommend doing the boat tour. It's really fun to drive a boat through the cave and you can CHOOSE between KAYAK and Boat. (Kayak you can drive yourself in boat you get driven around) It's a 500m river way into the cave and then you get off the boat and explore the cave deeper by foot. It's absolutely beautiful.
I take one star away because they increased the prices again. Now it's 40.000kip for entrance plus 120.000kip for the boat or kayak. And the guides spoke zero english so it was really difficult to get information about the tour before doing it.
Julia Müller — Google review
A really impressive cave and definitely worth a visit of you decide to pay the additional 120k kip for the boat trip.
You will experience a 15 min guided boat trip along a lake inside the cave and when you arrive you will hike around 45 minutes to the second ectrance of the cave.
The hike is really cool with two suspension bridges and a lot of impressive stone formations.
Entrance + boat trip are 160k kip per person and in my impionion worth the experience.
I wouldnt recommend to visit without doing the boat ride, you will only see a tiny part of the cave
Safe travels!
Markus Hofer — Google review
Beautiful cave, but rather a tourist destination. Many stairs inside of it, which took away the cave feeling but was still impressive. Entrance was 30.000 Kip. The restaurants around seemed empty, because of lack tourists since covid.
Paradise Cave is a renowned tourist destination known for its splendid limestone cave system, which has a towering height of up to 72 meters. The initial one kilometer section of the cave is open to visitors, and it is highly recommended that tourists include this attraction in their itinerary. To ensure that you secure your spot, it's advisable to book ahead and guarantee your spot on the tour.
Incredible 400M year old cave with beautiful formations all over. This was my second time here — did the 7km trek in 2018 and took my husband to do the 4km one (couldn’t do the longer one due to weather) in 2022, and was best as beautiful and awe-inspiring the next time around. The 4km trek is pretty flat all over, so can be done by anyone. Swimming the river for both treks is optional, so make sure to bring a change of clothes if you want. They also give you so much yummy food that you eat in the cave. Our guide Lac was very informative, nice, and funny, and made the whole experience over and beyond amazing :))
Jacklyn Chua — Google review
Huge cave which is really beautiful. We walked to the cave though you can get a little buggy car it’s not far. I don’t know what the 7km is ppl refer to it was just over 1km to the start of the climb and the buggy stops here anyway. The climb up was tiring so take water! In the cave you can explore another 1.5km or so it’s quite a way in which is amazing as at home we wouldn’t be able to do this without a guide! Lots of interesting features of weathering inside the cave. Really worthwhile and very quiet and peaceful when we were here.
Sarah Quick — Google review
The Asia's Longest Dry Cave, the spectacular scale and truly speak of its name, Paradise cave offer the art-like limestone formation, jaw-dropping beauty that you couldn't find elsewhere
We had to trekking uphill from the parking around 1.5km to reach the cave entrance, it was a little bit raining that day, the floor was quite slippery. So please be careful and prepare for all weather and conditions
Not a single regret.. I was walking down there in the wooden staircase to the cave, silently appreciate this nature-made beauty. It truly is magnificent !
saydoppa — Google review
Lovely wonderful experience.
1st km was well it and well-paved... many stalactites and stalagmites for viewing.
Highly recommended to take the exclusive 7km Hike package at 2million dong!
Our group consisted of 13 members with 3 additional guides.
Walk through the dark cave with only light on your helmet. Water bodies add to the fun!!
I was 56 years old, an older gentleman among us was 80+ years old and youngest probably at 13 years old.
Doable so long as you're able to walk well!
At end of trail, you'll be rewarded by rays of sunlight shinning through an opening on top of cave.
Kenny Goh — Google review
Quite a fun experience. The golf cart takes you up for most of the way, followed by a small hike up to the entrance and then into the actual cave itself which isn’t too big. The initial descent into the cave may be a bit alarming for those not used to the exercise but it flattens out pretty quickly.
Inside you will have a few small staircases so pack plenty water & comfortable shoes. Oh and it was quite cool inside compared to the hot and humid weather outside. Enjoy the cool setting and the unique scenery of this beautiful cave
Omar Haroon — Google review
Huge and long cave. You need to do a trek like 1 km before reaching the cave. The cave has many kind of stones, gems with various shapes and colors. There is under water river but shallow. The humidity inside the cave is high and the temperature inside the cave during end of April like 12 degrees celsius. The walk way inside the cave well made so you don’t need to prepare much for a walk. Make sure bring enough water for the trek. It’s wonderful cave like a paradise (in my imagination)
Dieu Linh Nguyen — Google review
We took the electric car to the ramp and found that the path was in very good repair. Washrooms were surprisingly quite clean. The inside of the cave was having some maintenance work done but it did not impede our experience at all. The cave was impressive, well lit, clean & a really cool experience.
The boardwalk can be a bit slippery as it’s very humid/damp but proper footwear allowed it to be totally manageable.
Amy Passafiume — Google review
AMAZING! DEFINITELY GO HERE
Park closes at 5:00 p.m.
They stop selling tickets at 3:30 p.m.
5K to park your bike at the only bike parking lot attendant at the beginning of the park
250k entry
100k for electric bus from the ticket counter to the stairs leading up to the cave. You also get a return ride.
You don't need to take the bus, if you walk it will take you between 10 to 20 minutes. There's tons of shade anytime of day
Lots of steps leading up to the cave, probably around 15 minutes
There's a little shop at the mouth of the cave where you can get snacks and drinks. Bathrooms available
No bathrooms inside the cave
We spent about 2 hours walking through the pathways to the back of the cave and had half the time by ourselves with no one there because we got there around 3:00 p.m. . A friend of mine said he was there around 10:00 a.m. and it was packed with tour groups and super noisy, they only spent about 30 minutes in the cave and he didn't really like it that much
So if you want a more peaceful cave experience go by yourself and go closer to the time around 3:00
The cave is incredible. If you like caves you will love this!
Also, if you take your time look carefully and don't make any noise and get away from groups you can see a lot of wildlife here. I saw some type of jungle squirrel a couple of times, some large rainbow skink looking creature a few times and my girlfriend found this ridiculous stick bug. It was very docile and you could just pick it right up!
Chris M — Google review
À must visit. Not expensive, can get there on your own or take a tour. Very manageable, and absolutely beautiful inside. I won’t add photos as you can discover if yourselves !
Neill Hobson — Google review
Incredible experience! Well worth the money for us personally. Especially if you rent a scooter and drive round the Phong nha national park, stop here by yourself and explore. Took us about 2 hours. 15 minutes hill before you enter the cave, with is a cool 22-23 degrees.
It’s so much bigger than expected and super interesting to explore on your own. Even more so with a guide I imagine.
They will try to scam you into buying a shuttle buss ticket. You CAN walk if you want to save the 20k. There were almost nobody there when we went midday during may
Svan — Google review
It's about 70 km from center of Dong Hoi, 35 km from Phong Nha cave. It's a great adventure if you travel by motorbike with your friends from Dong Hoi or Phong Nha to Paradise Cave. Tourist have to buy entrance ticket and ticket for electronic-car that run from gate to foothill. You have to walk on 500m dip road (but I think the road is nice, not difficult to walk) to the cave-door. There is a small store that sells water and ice cream outside the cave. After entering the cave, go along on 1 km wood bridge, you can enjoy the comfortable atmosphere and very cool temperature, you will be surprise about many spectacular colorful stalactites (the most beautiful stalactites I've ever seen), you will actually admire the wonder masterpiece of the Creator. It's a must visit when you travel in Quang Binh
Qu?c V??ng H? — Google review
Mesmerize with the cave. Even though I came during the rain, I do not regret it. If you ride using a motorbike, this place is quite far away and once you reach there you need to walk to the ticket counter and then walk around 1km to the base. But you can pay for the buggy. You need to hike to reach the entrance of the cave.
Nurul Hidayah Sahudi — Google review
The most beautiful cave I have ever been to. It is truly awe-inspiring. The images speak for themselves, but like always, the photos do it no justice. This cave is huge once inside and is also a really nice temperature, especially after the uphill walk before you reach the entrance.
We visited around 4pm and were either lucky or picked the perfect time to visit as it was just us inside the cave. I heard it gets extremely busy around midday so perhaps best to avoid this if you’re wanting to minimise the crowd and noise whilst in the cave.
Super glad we visited this cave all round, however, do be cautious of the various restaurants based at the bike parking area as I’m pretty sure I’ll be coming down with food poisoning soon! Also, don’t pay for the buggy ride that’s offered to reach the cave, it doesn’t take you to the entrance and only saves you about 10 minutes of walking.
Jessica — Google review
Mesmerizing cave with very well ventilated and cool weather within the cave while it was hot and humid outside.. the electric buggy rides saves u time and effort to walk all the way to the cave. The cave starts after about 1 km of slope hike.. and then stairs within the cave to go down and you can cover about a 1 km of the cave in all..the cave is much bigger than that.. a lot of native vietnamese people would want to click pictures with you so be a sport and smile for the pic!
Meenaz Khoja — Google review
We visited this cave on our second day of our stay (July 2023) and I can describe the cave spectacular. It is by far the largest cave I have visited and a major tourist attraction for locals and international visitors.
Note that the ticket office is located at the base of the mountain and there is 1.6 km walk to the switch back pathway that leads to the cave entrance at the top of the mountain. If you have elderly or young children in your group use the shuttle between the ticket office and the ramp in both directions.
At the top of the ramp is a shop that sells ice creams and drinks which is great after the long and thirst climb
The entrance to the cave is via a steep set of steps but once at the cave floor there are well constructed boardwalks throughout the cave. The cave is described as the longest dry cave in Asia and as such has an amazing collection of formations and colours. Allow half a day for this trip which includes tranfers to and from the cave.
Stephen Smith — Google review
Beautiful cave. But you don't need a guide or package to go there . Just book one scooter and travel and buy your ticket. It works out much cheaper.
Kabita Kumari — Google review
Amazing cave! Takes a little time to get up to it (a little hike and stairs while coming down). You can still take a buggy to reduce the time of walking (you'll still have to hike a bit). Totally worth it!
Anshuman Swain — Google review
It's an awsome ride just to get then pay your ticket about 265k, then take group golf cart 2km to base of mountain where you walk up 600m of steep walkway where the cave starts. Inside you will have many levels of staircases and a decent walk inside about 1km so pack plenty water & comfortable shoes.
Enjoy the unique scenery of this beautiful cave
Rob the Philanthropist — Google review
This cave is located in Dong Hoi, Vietnam and was around 1.5 hrs away from the place we were staying at. The drive to this place is exquisite and really peaceful. Surrounded with green mountains all around, and takes about 30 mins to trek to the entrance of this cave. This cave has an entry fee of 250000 VND (~ ₹800). This is the longest dry cave in Asia, around 31 kms long. The trek to the entry of the cave is quite painful frankly, but trust me, that seems worth when you reach the entrance of the cave. The construction inside the cave is done really well which will help you to move inside the cave easily. The view inside the cave is surreal and calm.
Definitely recommend this to anybody who visits Vietnam.
Saptasree Basak — Google review
Incredible!
I was in complete awe from the moment I entered until the moment I left. I spent atleast 3 hours in here. I am positive that this is the single most beautiful cave in the world. It looks so much bigger than it does on the pictures, the cave is giant. It takes half an hour of walking just to get to the end, every time you turn a corner thinking it will be the end but it just keeps on going. This has been the most amazing thing I've seen this year backpacking Asia and I'm sure I will never see another cave like this again.
Even with the relatively high entry price of 280k đồng, just visit it.
You will never forget this cave.
Trevoid — Google review
250k entry if you pay on arrival! I’d recommend this over paying 1.5 million for a tour. You do not need a tour here. Just turn up yourself. Steep walk to the entrance so bring water. Caves inside are cold so it’s a nice relief. About 10 minutes walking inside to reach the last point for people. Cool caves just not worth the expensive price.
Jarrod McTeggart — Google review
A great cave experience where the interior of the cave has had significant lighting and walkways installed to allow a straightforward explore.
The walk up to the cave, even with the electric car is still quite a way, but there is a continuous ramp path so it's relatively easy. The views that peak through occasionally are excellent.
There are cafes at the top and the bottom.
Sam Yeates — Google review
The motorbike ride there is even better than the cave. It is a 20 min walk from the ticket counter and then a 15 min walk upstairs or through a slope. The visit itself inside the beautiful cave takes 1 hour. Don't take a tour, the motorbike is a must to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Jordi Albatross — Google review
OH MY GOD! What a beautiful cave . It's really paradise 💖. Most beautiful and photogenic. 20-25 minute bike ride from Phong nha town. We didn't go through any tour company, just us. Truly you don't need it. Just ride and reach. Only remember download Google offline map.
530k price for the tickets per person including buggy , and after 650meters beautiful walking. They build beautiful comfortable wood steps to go inside the cave. I think 200 steps you have to walk and then all flat but very very beautiful and incredible sinrey. Trust me go after 11 so very less crowded because all groups are coming early here in morning so it's big rush but after 11 so quite and nice .
Water available at the main entrance of the cave. So don't carry from down or outside.
love it❤️
Dhruv Sharma — Google review
Amazing cave, and so extremely long! Very cool to see all the rock formations, the stalactites and stalagmites! But the cave is a bit touristy being many people there, so much late and built platforms everywhere, so you don't get the feeling of exploring caves
Mathias Skjæran Landrø — Google review
Paradise Cave was unlike anything I'd ever seen. It wasn't just a cave with a bunch of stalactites hanging from the ceiling (although there were definitely plenty of those!). This place felt like a whole other world, like stepping into a giant, glittering cathedral carved by nature.
The walk through the cave was incredible. They have these wooden paths that snake throughout, so you can really get up close to all the formations. Some of them were these massive, towering columns that reached all the way up to the ceiling, and others were these delicate, translucent curtains that looked like they could melt in your hand. The lighting was perfect too - it wasn't harsh and artificial, but soft and subtle, which really let the natural beauty shine through.
It's not the easiest place to get to - it's a bit of a drive from Dong Hoi, and the walk up to the entrance involves a fair amount of stairs. But trust me, it's worth it. Paradise Cave is a must-see for anyone visiting Quang Binh!
Thanh Hảo Lê — Google review
Paradise Cave is truly exceptional, a masterpiece crafted by nature itself. I was in awe as I entered the cave after a challenging climb to reach the top of the ramp, but the effort was absolutely worth it. If you find yourself in Phong Nha, visiting this cave is a must. I also recommend exploring it on your own, perhaps by moped or bicycle, to fully appreciate the beauty of the surrounding countryside, though this is a personal preference. While there were some loud visitors, most people were respectful and treated the cave like a museum exhibition, which enhanced the overall experience. Nevertheless, the breathtaking views inside the cave were simply unbelievable and made the visit unforgettable.
Ben — Google review
4.7
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4.5
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Km 16 Đường Hồ Chí Minh, Nhánh Tây, Bố Trạch, Quảng Bình, Vietnam
Hang Son Doong is a colossal cave located in Southeast Asia, close to another impressive cavern. It can be reached through a challenging trek that takes travelers through dense jungle, valleys and remote tribal settlements. The government has allowed limited access to the cave system since 2013, with only one specialized operator permitted to lead tours. This operator is Oxalis, based in Son Trach.
Hang Son Dong Cave is the largest cave in the world
Hang Son Dong Cave is a wonder of nature. This cave is located in Vietnam, with a length of 4 kilometers, a width of about 100 meters, and a height of about 240 meters.
Hang Son Dong Cave is one of a network of 150 caves that have been discovered so far, as well as a large number of caves that have yet to be discovered.
What is interesting is that this cave does not meet the specifications of other caves, such as the darkness and the fact that it contains bats and other terrifying atmospheres. On the contrary, you will not find anything of this at all. Rather, what distinguishes it is its amazing size to the extent that it contains a large forest inside it and a running river, and the exciting thing is that the humidity inside the cave is so high that the condensation of water vapor leads to the formation of what looks like clouds in the sky of the cave!!
Surprisingly, despite the huge size of these caves, but the explorers say that you do not pay attention to them unless you are directly in front of them.
Discover this amazing cave in the Phong Nha-Keh Pang National Park in Vietnam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in north-central Vietnam, about 500 km south of the capital, Hanoi.
It is said that it was discovered by a local man in 1991 but in 2009 the British speleologists announced their discovery of this cave.
"The World of Traveler" conveyed to you some pictures of this amazing cave. The pictures were taken by German photographer Carsten Peter in 2010, and Karsten had participated in a campaign to discover these amazing caves with the aim of documenting them scientifically and in the media:
Mahmoud Habeeb — Google review
For some reason, this reminds me a lot of that dragon sanctuary in the second how to train your Dragon movie. It’s amazing and it’s beautiful and I really love it.
renee Machuca — Google review
Hang Sơn Đoòng, awe of its breathtaking beauty. As the largest cave in the world, Hang Sơn Đoòng offers an unparalleled experience for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Descending into the cave, one is greeted by colossal stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years, creating a surreal underground landscape. The sheer magnitude of the caverns is awe-inspiring, with some chambers large enough to house entire city blocks. The cave's unique ecosystem, complete with its own weather system, adds to the mystique of the journey through its depths.
Exploring Hang Sơn Đoòng requires a guided tour, ensuring both safety and an educational experience. Knowledgeable guides share geological insights, highlighting the significance of the cave's formations. The trek also involves navigating through underground rivers and witnessing stunning subterranean landscapes.
While the adventure is not for the faint of heart, the reward is a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the sublime beauty of nature. Hang Sơn Đoòng stands as a testament to the Earth's extraordinary geological history, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable exploration of our planet's wonders.
ajleeblog — Google review
My best friend and I have been to this cave. It was undoubtedly among my top three most incredible experiences. And I've scaled Mount Everest, so that speaks volumes. Your quest takes you through a network of caves and introduces you to a degree of difficulty. I believed it couldn't get any worse every day and every night, but it did. There are extensive underwater swims and vaulted tunnels here, creating a unique habitat. Definitely a fantastic adventure.
Ms Bil — Google review
Unreal experience.
I highly recommend people put this on your list; it is fantastic. It is not for everyone; you will sweat profusely, not shower, get muddy, scramble through tight spaces, and ascend a large wall with ropes. I loved every minute of it.
The Son Doong Cave is nearly 9 km long, and the volume is up to 38.5 million cubic meters, making this cave the largest natural cave on the planet 🌏. It has many complex and giant stalactites (over 80m high), ancient rain forests 🏞 growing inside the cave, its own ecosystem, weather, or a mysterious underground river that no explorer has yet discovered to the end of it. It was indeed an adventure that is like nothing else in this world.
Christopher Chan — Google review
Amazing place . The largest natural Cave in The world. Sơn Doong is the pride of VietNam.
Good service, good guide. Everything is
excellent !!!
Haiuyen 267 — Google review
Hidden beneath the lush jungles of central Vietnam lies a deep subterranean labyrinth that holds three of the world’s four biggest caves.
Caves of central Vietnam’s Quang Binh province. Not when they’re big enough to fit a 40-storey building.
Three of the world’s four biggest caves are in this skinniest part of the slender nation. Hundreds of other limestone caves housing deep grottoes and underground rivers are here too, with new caverns discovered every year. They’re welcome news for this area, just north of the demilitarised zone that split North and South Vietnam from 1954 until 1975. The US bombed here extensively during the Vietnam War (one crater is used as the site of an outdoor bar), and poverty hit hard for more than a decade afterwards.
Now Quang Binh is the world’s hot new caving destination, home to a 126,000-hectare Unesco-protected national park whose lush tropical forests hide a vast 104km subterranean world – making it one of the most spectacular limestone karst ecosystems on the planet.
Think Wisely — Google review
Amazing place . Never imagine to experience this kind of thing. I didn't know this really exist untill now that im seeing it. Superb experience .. one of a kind moment.
Aileen C. Almajar — Google review
Did the 4 day hike through the cave with the company Oxalis. Unbelievable scenes in/amongst the caves. Pictures can't capture the scale of these formations.
sobmogx — Google review
Stunning landscape on another planet.
The tour is well organised, 10/10.
Tony Bui — Google review
We did the tour today and it was fantastic.
We had so much packed into the day, from touring caves in the mud baths on foot, to zip lining, to water slides, a prepared lunch, a visit to the botanic gardens and waterfall and then a second d cave tour which was other worldly. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable.
To top it off, we did the duck tour on the way home which was a delight.
Would do it again
Fiona I — Google review
the experience is out of this world, truly amazing. It got better and better everyday, this is the place where you want the time to stop to be able to enjoy more. The vaulted cavern swim is a chef kiss, i wont further explain to save the real experience for your own. $3000 for full on package from your first step out off plane/train, totally s worth it. for cheaper option, consider Tu Lan 4!
Anh Ho — Google review
The world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong is so big it’s even got its own localised climate and clouds, a rainforest and a river. Only properly discovered in 2009, the cave is so large a 40-story skyscraper could fit at its highest point and at the widest point a Boeing 747 could glide through easily. Located in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, less people have seen the inside of this magical cave than have stood at the summit of Mount Everest.
Son Doong, the largest cave in the world, only opened to the public in 2013. The vast expanse could house a 40-floor skyscraper with room to spare. But if you want to explore this cave, located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, be prepared to shell out the big bucks: a four-day expedition costs nearly $4,000.
Rajesh Mondal (Devy Jones) — Google review
One of the best things I’ve done in Vietnam! Would highly highly recommend. A great way to make friends whilst travelling alongside some amazing views of Ha Giang
Ciara Bassett — Google review
I’ve visited this cave with my best friend. It was by far on the top three most amazing adventures I’ve ever taken. And I’ve climbed Mount Everest so that’s saying a lot. The adventure takes you through the cave system introducing you to level a pain level of adventure. Every day and every night I thought it couldn’t get better but it did. Vaulted caverns extended under water swims and an environment that you can not find it anywhere else in the world. Truly an epic adventure.
Wow! What a beautiful temple (wat) on the river in the heart of this nice town. You can circumnavigate the main Chedi or practice meditation in the ubosot. A very friendly place with an amulet booth. Be sure to stop by! #travelthailand
William “บุญ” Sparks — Google review
Easy to commute to. Great architecture, nice and clean. Sit right by the river, great location. Many ritual well being, people in the city pay respect and visiting quite often. Should dress more politely, but i just went to morning exercise along the bank, then just stop by to pay respect. A bit awkward with shorts in the temple. Do not do like me!
Pavee Totawiwong — Google review
The worship place for those who was born on Friday
Songsi Wichaidit — Google review
Nice temple with holy pagoda and Mekong river view and you can see Laos just in front of the temple. Good place of worship especially the people who were born on Friday. Even I wasn't born on Friday but I can come to worship just to feel at peace.
Pali789 — Google review
To see this Buddhist temple 🏯 with all the riders 🚴♂️ of Hands Across The Water and Business Blueprint was truly special. If you are close, it is worth the visit to Wat Phrathat Tha Uthen in Thailand ✅
Anthony Simon — Google review
Worth a visit. Mekong River, Laos Mountains and Pagoda. Some buildings not open but area used by locals and tourists. Some nice statues to study.
David Stark — Google review
Great pagoda close by the river and opposite side from Laos 🇱🇦.
Nice location for praying merit.
The location really neat and quite.
Kwanchai Quinzy Yokto — Google review
Located just about 2 km from the main highway. The temple has a chedi stupa monument constructed in a Lao fashion storing holy relics of Burmese monks. Looking across the Mekong river is Laos.
Sailor Wong — Google review
If you're born on Friday, this is the Prathat that you should come and pray for blessing.
A zip line brings visitors to this 6km-long cave with a beach, restaurant, swimming & boating.
Good place for a good fun, water really clean and cool, many games kids and adult friendly with the water including Zipline(longest zipline in Indochina at the time I write this 400 meter) you can jump to the water from 5-7 meter height if you can ) and many more fun games. I had a really great time hear. Be careful if you do drop from rope to hammock, don’t hold the rope too tight because it can harm your hands when you drop of the rope to the river
Dieu Linh Nguyen — Google review
Was fun but I would have liked more water activities. We paid for the option that included everything except for the cave 270k I think. You can do zip line, Kayak, slide, zip line swing into the water, and rope bridge (although this one is close to impossible for most people so it doesn’t even count).
There’s another company next to this one that offers other water activities too & seemed like they have a little bit more to offer but maybe their zip line isn’t as long?
Lauren — Google review
After entering the cave, our guide requested us to turn off the head lamp, it was completely dark and silent. We were walking through the water, on the stone and thick mud floor to reach the other side of the shore.
The cave consist of Basalt, the black hard rock.. I think that's why they called 'The Dark Cave'
I had to admit I was scared at first, but once you let yourself be inline with the cave.. it was calm
Nice experience !
saydoppa — Google review
Great experience. Cave was a little underwhelming but the”mud bath” was funny. It’s a small area at the back of a dark damp cave with a puddle of muddy water.
The zip line into the cave entrance and the water park however were amazing. Really good fun and would spend most of the day there just hanging around the water
Perkins L — Google review
Amazing place with many activities, turquoise water, super cool zipline to the entrance of dark cave, special experience to go deep inside the cave and get mud bath. In general I just love this place so much !!!
An Nghiem — Google review
Dark cave expedition was very awesome experience.
- Zip line to cave entry
- Swim or Kayak around 100 m
- Walk for around 1 km
- Take a mud bath
- Return to the cave entry and kayak for around 500m to reach the starting point
- Then you can do some water activities
Gaurav Neema — Google review
Dark cave is must go experience if you planning to visit the Phong Nha National Park in Vietnam.
We reach the cave by zip lining, followed by swimming in the blue lagoons, explore the cave with helmets and headlights followed by a mud bath inside the cave. Which is a wonderful experience, I was skeptical about the mud bath when I booked the tour but it turned out to be amazing in all senses. You finish the cave exploration by a kayaking back to the starting point.
I don't have many photos as it was a wet cave and we kept all our phones in the locker storage.
nandana satheesh — Google review
Ticket discounts for Chay River- Dark Cave 30% and 50% for Mud Bath
There are so many activities for the kids to adults.
Zipline must try
The restaurant next to entrance is good too.
400k-1000k-1200k - many choices with different prices for you guys to choose
Hè tháng 7 đang có chương trình giảm giá 30% cho Vé sông chày, hang tối. 50% tắm bùn.
Xi Nguyen — Google review
Did not go into the cave, because we didn’t have swimwear and it was quite cold. But we had a lovely kayaking experience and zipping across the river was fun! bought tickets on the spot - 150k, deposit 50k for a locker
Elizabeth Addinall — Google review
Literally so much fun, the zip line the kayaking and the cave exploration were really fun and all of this in one day is perfect. It was a nice touch to swim and enjoy the slides after the other activities by yourself 💪
Erik Schop — Google review
Really enjoyed this trip, the dark cave was unique due to having no lighting and the mud bath was freakishly cool. The guide didn't say anything so we were left following the group and guessing what was happening, but it worked. Is very touristy with water activities out the the river near by. Overall we really enjoyed ourselves.
Karl Thomas — Google review
Very adventurous and fun! Good equipment was provided and the guide at the cave was so nice and took pictures for us since we didn’t/ couldn’t bring our phones. Definitely do the zip line.
We went without a tour, and just drove there ourselves. It was 450k and they provided all gear, and a guide since the cave is dark
Emma Corstorphine — Google review
Well worth the 450k for all the activities. The cave do give some pretty awsome photo opportunities
Johan Engberg — Google review
At Dark caves one can do Zipline, kayaking, boat ride and can take mud bath inside dark cave.
It is mandatory to wear swim suit before you get inside the dark caves for mud bath.
There are lockers available to keep your belongings at the price of 50k dong/locker.
To reach to dark caves , you can take the zip line and reach the others end and from there ther is small trek for mud bathing. You need walk bare food inside the cave.
They give you headlight before getting inside the cave. As name suggests there are no lights inside the cave.
Mud is supposed to be very good for your skin.
After mud bath you can go back either by kayaking or take a boat or swim.
You get good food there.
Pallavi Anantwar — Google review
If you're coming for the cave, it was really disappointing. It cost 450k.
The added things like ziplining, kayaking, and the slides are okay but they aren't as good as other places that we visited (eg Laos). If you skip it, you won't miss much.
Ciarán Ó Brannagáin — Google review
The cave itself was great, the guide was very funny and took a lot of photos for us.
The only problem is that in order for you to go in the cave you have to buy a package that includes zipline and kayaking that costs 450k VND/person.
The kayaking and zipline is nice although it is extremely short.
Nur Sharlin — Google review
This was so much fun. To get into the cave you zip lined across the river, although if you didn’t want to you could get a boat. Once in the cave you used head torches to walk to a mud pool where you could float in the mud. After you could pay about in the river with kayaks, slides etc.
Shuttle — Google review
The wheels on the bus go round and round, but your western butt may not fit on the bus seat or the zip line.
We did a garden and two cave tour. The dark cave was definitely the highlight. The blue water, dark cave and mud at the end was fun.
The zip line is good but you need to be within 40-90kg to go on. I was 93, so I kayaked to the cave (which was pleasant, but less fun).
The play time after on the slide and zip line etc was good.
This area was the highlight of the tour and worth a visit.
G T — Google review
Its mesmerising. We went here through a day tour package. Its an experience of a life time. We did the half to 1 km trek inside the cave where it was completely dark. We were given life jackets and helmets with light. At the end, we had an area for mud bath, which made our skin so soft. We did other activities outside the cave like kayaking, swimming and water sports in the river water. We also did zipline here. There are rooms and washrooms to shower and to change clothes.
We also had lunch here, it was included in our tour package.
Do carry swim wear, a mobile cover if you wish to carry it with you. Or you can buy mobile covers there. There are lockers to keep our belongings.
Also it’s recommended to wear ocean/waterproof shoes, so that you can easily walk in the dark cave.
Phong Nha Cave Gate Marina is a must-visit destination in Vietnam, offering an epic display of stalagmites in Paradise Cave. The surrounding countryside is stunning and can be explored through activities like trekking, cycling, or motorbiking. To reach the cave, visitors need to purchase a standard boat ticket from the Tourist Center in Phong Nha city. The boat ride costs $550,000 and can accommodate up to 12 people.
Amazing experience! You cannot get here without buying the standard boat ticket. To come to the cave, you have to go to the Tourist Center in Phong Nha city, and then the boat brings you here. The boat is $550,000 regardless of how many people go in it, and can take up to 12 people, so try to make friends at the ticket office to split the price, and the ticket office will let each individual pay their split price.
John Gobin — Google review
Beautiful cave which is definitely worth a visit. Make sure to wear good shoes - it is slippery inside and sometimes you walk on sand.
Annie A — Google review
Pradise cave, it's amazing cave
Thang Tran — Google review
Nice cave to visit, would advise to take a tour guide. They will take you through the cave, tell you the history behind it and you get to do some kayaking as an extra. Great fun
Tú Làn Caves is a stunning location with dry and wet limestone caves, featuring impressive caverns, rock formations, and pools suitable for swimming. Recently took a one-day excursion with Oxalis and was immensely pleased with everything. The region is awe-inspiring; the lunch location was extraordinary, and swimming in the caves was an unforgettable experience. The food provided during the trip was excellent, while our guide was amiable and attentive to every detail.
Absolute amazing experience. I did the Ha tien cave 1day/1night. The Oxalis guide spoke very well English and they will teach you a lot about the jungle and local culture. Oxalis is the only company who organizes high quality (but expensive) tours in this area.
Rik Limpens — Google review
I took a 1 day trip with Oxalis and was generally very happy with everything. The area is spectacular, the place where we had lunch was out of this world and swimming out of the caves is an unforgettable experience. Food was great, our guide was very friendly and took good care of everything. I hope they will manage to spare this beauty from mass tourism and damage by keeping the prices high and the numbers low
Andre Schoch — Google review
Wonderful time traveling with Oxalis. There were so many fun activities on my TL4 trip. Highly recommend this to any adventure seekers out there.
Uyen Ho — Google review
Great trekking experience for amateurs, combining mountain trek, caves exploration and swimming.
Whilst Son Doong tour is more extreme and requires good investment (strength, time & money), Tu Lan tours are much more reasonable for majority enthusiasts.
Tu Lan caves have both dry and wet caves, so you can balance between climbing, swimming and trekking.
There’re many tours ranging from 1-4 days with these caves, operated by Oxalis. We chose the 3D2N tour, cost VND 8M.
Oxalis team could be ranked 5* with all their considerate services. Schedule is clear & managed well, guide & life guards have good experience and food are more than enough :)
We felt quite safe, enjoyable and of course, the scenery is fabulous.
If you want to have some me-time in the middle of the jungle, sleep in tent and no hassle of phone, mails or chaos.. book a tour and enjoy!!!
HuyenTrang Nguyen — Google review
I took a 4 days tours in Tu Lan cave system. It such an awesome journey. We'd been through various cave and enjoy the peaceful moments durinv the trip. Worth to try and come back again soon.
Truc Nguyen — Google review
Tu Lan cave system has both dry and wet caves which make it very unique and stunning inside.
Jen N — Google review
Best ever caving
Shujan Suntharalingam — Google review
Great caving adventures
Thang Huynh — Google review
4.9
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5.0
(138)
Vietnam, Quảng Bình, Tuyên Hóa, Cao Quảng
17
Kong Lor Cave
Nature & Parks
Caverns & Caves
The Cave itself is simply beautiful. It is so nice and fresh air inside the cave and greenish vegetation around the mount. As it's 7.5 km long so it takes around 25 minutes boat ride till the other end of the cave, over there you can do trekking, biking to another village like Nakay and others. And the boat ride fee is only 65.000 kip per person (7 April 2022). 3 people per one boat that will take you inside and it's so icy wind so, bringing a shawl or jacket is helpful. The art of dripped rock from above is so fantastic how incredible is it built up so, good place to to visit when coming to Kammoun Province among other places.
Pasan Sensouk — Google review
Amazing cave. A local rides the boat for a time through the cave. Bring a torch and don’t bring items you are scared of getting wet or bring a waterproof bag. Once you get though the cave, you have 2 hours to explore the village and area on the other side. Then you go a different route though the cave which is much shorter. All and all a must see but would set aside at least 3 hours or more :)
Nicola Stevenson — Google review
A wonderful and relaxing five hours enjoying this ancient cave and 6 km walking to two nearby villages. Had a delicious lunch at the nearby Natane Resort with my boat guide before returning. Stopping 2x times to explore the cave was an unexpected, yet pleasant surprise.
Robert Ebers — Google review
More of a cavern than a cave. This was by far the coolest “cave” we saw in our 4 month long trip through Southeast Asia. 200k is a fair price considering you will be exploring the caves and village for roughly 3 hours. Our guide was an incredible driver and kept us safe through the small rapids. We chose not to take our bikes through the cave as it didn’t seem worth the headache and cost! To each their own.
Matt Neudorf — Google review
Kong Lor Cave in Laos 🇱🇦 was definitely a highlight of my trip to South East Asia My expectations here were completely blown away.
Though Kong Lor is not the easiest place to get to and it will take a little bit of research.
Considered one of Southeast Asia’s geological wonders Kong Lor Cave certainly has quite a reputation to live up to.
It is approximately 7 kilometers in length, running straight through the massive karst mountains which line the countryside.
The height of the cave itself is nearly 100 meters in parts, covered in impressive stalagmites and stalactites.
The best time to visit Kong Lor is during the dry season from November- March. The earlier in the dry season you visit the higher the water levels will be within the cave
Giuseppe Bucca — Google review
An amazing beautiful cave!
110 000 kip for entry with boat trip to the other village!
If you're scared of the dark, don't do it! Haha but if not it's an amazing surreal experience!
In the village, you can get food, rent a bike, stay the night and buy their weaving hand made products!
Katie Lomas — Google review
This was a great visit and was the biggest cave that i've visited in Laos so far. The guides provided you headlamps to see in the dark. You take a boat ride into a cave and stop at two destinations with rock structures. The boats were wooden speed boats and the guides used a gas powerered propeller. You then take boat rides inside of the cave that took us around 20 minutes of us boating inside the cave. The end of the cave led to a river and we stopped at a village. Our guides then brought us back into the cave so we can see more of it. In total, it almost took an hour of us just going around the cave and exploring it which is quite a longtime exploring a cave. This was a huge cave that I thought would never end and a very cool and adverturous visit.
Brandon Phetlasymongkhon — Google review
While everyone (locals and tourists) said “don’t put your motorbike on the boot through the cave but turn around and drive the 170 km back because it is more safe” we decided otherwise and did it. And it was the COOLEST experience ever!! (Take note; end of rain season)
1 motor bike per boat and it is just you with your guide and a little light on your head in the pitch black cave for over an hour until you reach the other side.
The road on the other side was SO worth it! We were the only tourists doing this route and we saw waterfalls, children playing in the river and the most beautiful views and towns.
We would not recommend to drive this road with two people on one motorbike or after it rained or in the dark, so leave in the morning and take your time for this part to enjoy it.
We did read on the internet that the 60 km would take you 5 hours, but we did it within 2,5 hours with 3 water stops. The road is comparable (probably even better) to every road that you drive on to a waterfall or viewpoint on the Takhek loop.
Also; this was our very first motor loop. We are not experienced drivers so in our opinion; if you are a little adventurous everyone can do it.
Iris — Google review
The biggest and most impressive cave I've saw so far in Laos. It is breathtaking.
Get a good headlight before entering as youll enjoy much more.
If you have a small scooter like a click or waves, you might be able to go through the cave with it and make the nice unpaved dirt road at the end and skipping the big road back to takhek
Pierre Cailler — Google review
Amazing cave price is really clear when entering (paid 300k for one person private 2 hour cave tour) possibility to bring in your motorbike. Takes about 1 hour from entrance to the the otherside was able to do the tour at 15:30 so that’s really nice.
Art Lau — Google review
We really enjoyed Kong Lor Cave and we are NOT cave people!!! For 135,000 kip for both of us - 65,000 each for entry and boat trip, and 5000 for parking - it was definitely worth it. It was only us 2 and another family of 3 at the caves the whole day. We stayed at the other side for around 30 mins - time for a nice cold beer and a wonder around. The village was pretty quiet due to the pandemic , but this was perfect for us as it was our last day on the Thakhek Loop and we wanted to make our way back to Thakhek via the Limestone Forest Viewpoint. Great experience at the caves. Watch your step on the bamboo bridge - if fell on my backside... my wife enjoyed it possibly more than the cave itself!
I'd also recommend taking a torch or light with you. You get given headtorches... but our LED bike light we brought really did help see a lot more!!
Huw Bryant — Google review
One of the best caves I’ve been to and it’s the highlight of our Thakek Loop! Our guide was super nice. We took the boat through the cave and came out the other side and we were able to explore the local village nearby
Karl Acosta — Google review
I was surprised there weren't many people during my visit. I came with family on Lao's Labor Day on a Monday. Multiple recreational activities to choose from. We were limited on time, so we came for a short visit. I'd definitely return by myself, hopefully with a good friend or two if that can happen!
Being in the water with that type of view is breathtaking. The cave was magnificent as well.
Amina V. — Google review
The highlight of the Loop. Friendly boat drivers. The cave is 7km connecting two villages. A Resort with 20 rooms is on the other side overlooking race paddies and has a restaurant. Cave is now 110.000 kip per person, prices per boat have stopped. This includes head lamp.
David Allan — Google review
Possible to go through the cave with your motorbike for 600.000 kip.
Once on the other side there are multiple villages with guesthouses on the way back to Thakhek. You will ride a dirt road in medium conditions according to locals, manageable with a semi auto bike.
Courtaux Olivier — Google review
10/10 and so worth the price. Beautiful nature, absolutely insane cave, the prices for all different activities are posted at the entrance. Definitely wear shoes and clothes that you can get wet. Head torches provided for the cave. 2 stops to check out inside the cave. Life jackets also provided.
mash — Google review
The best cave on the Thakhek loop.
The ticket entry was 200k kip but for that we got a boat ride through the cave, dropped off at points to view cave features and exited the cave on the other side. There's a village at the exit where further exploring or bicycle rides are available.
Its well worth the drive to the cave as the views are special, just drive slowly and safely.
Ciarán Ó Brannagáin — Google review
One of my highlights of Laos! A stunning cave at a more than reasonable price. Everyone needs to quit yapping about taking bikes through the cave and start talking about how BEAUTIFUL this cave is! 7.2km of pure beauty - all for the small price of 200k Kip (10USD). In general I am a cheap traveller and don’t pay much for tours but this is a must do!
Ian Forbes — Google review
Nice cave experience.
Took 2.5 hours.
7.2km on a boat with 4 stops.
200,000 kip per person.
Nicole — Google review
Difficult to get to kong lor from the more touristy towns in Laos, but an incredible experience! If you have the time, and don’t mind 8 hours on a bus from Vientiane, it’s worth it! The driver stops twice within the cave to let you get out and explore some of the cool stalagmite / stalactites, which was our favourite part
Flo Baker — Google review
I’ve been to a lot of caves in SE Asia and this one was at the top for sure! The cave itself doesn’t have the craziest rock formations. But the experience of riding on a boat in complete darkness was incredible.
The boat drivers are really friendly! I paid 300,000 for my ticket since I was solo. If you have more than one person it’ll be 200,000 per ticket! I opted not to bring my motorbike along as I was heading towards Vientiane after the loop (and was not heading back to thakhek). If you’re also motorbiking the entire country, I’d highly recommend driving from Kong Lor to Paksan and then Paksan to Vientiane!
I went on the 2day trip with my friend . We really enjoyed it! The waterfalls we visited were wonderfull. The Thai people we went to were very friendly and the food was delicious. We had a very nice stay there. They learned us a traditional dance, which was soo much fun. The next day we went to their rice fields, and we went swimming in a little pool. In the afternoon we made a boat tour, very beautifull! The guides were very friendly, we had lots of fun with them.
Du K? Ms Dory — Google review
I arrived spontaneously in Vinh looking for an option to go to Pu Mat national park. The employee off Vinh Guru tours was super kind and willing to help me with organizing the trip. She has a wide web of contacts to arrange a safe travel and is open to discuss the best options for travellers with various budgets.
Would certainly recommend this business to anyone looking for an activity around vinh, but might be good to contact the company in advance to assure a nice trip
H.F. van der Weide — Google review
Vinh may seem very overwhelming when you arrive, but Vinh Guru Tours is a refuge amongst that chaos. The staff are really friendly and speak great English. Although the tours into Pu Mat were a little out of our budget unfortunately, the staff were able to help us book a train onward to Ninh Binh which we didn’t even know was an option! If you are worried about onward travel/need to book a tour in Vinh, use Vinh Guru Tours!
A side note: they are attached to the ‘serviced apartments’ at the Google maps location, their office is on the bottom floor. When you arrive they may seem closed but go to the left gate, shout hello, and you will be warmly welcomed!
Jacob Tremain — Google review
Very helpfull and conveniet! They help me a lot and gave information for free! Thank you vor helping me in Vinh!
If someone need a tour or information around Nghe An Province, should go there!
B M — Google review
Been using their transportation service couple of times for my business trip around Vinh. The driver Andy speaks fairly good English, helpful and reliable. Highly recommended.
Benjamin Tan — Google review
(Translated by Google) We were able to enjoy the warm welcome from the team and the great guide Andy to help us discover the heights of Pu Mat. They were able to adapt their offers to our specific needs and Andy was absolutely brilliant as a guide and then to help us continue our stay in complete peace of mind. I recommend 100%!
(Original)
On a pu profiter de l'accueil chaleureux de l'équipe et du super guide Andy pour nous faire découvrir les hauteurs de Pu Mat. Ils ont su adapter leurs offres à nos besoins spécifiques et Andy a été absolument génial en guide et pour nous aider ensuite pour continuer notre séjour en toute quiétude. Je recommande à 100% !
Thierry Tou — Google review
(Translated by Google) Lots of kindness and professionalism.
(Original)
Beaucoup de gentilesse et professionnalisme.
Serge tintin — Google review
(Translated by Google) Enthusiastic consultants and professional implementation team. Dedicated customer care, professional tour guide team
(Original)
Nhân viên tư vấn nhiệt tình, ekip thực hiện chuyên nghiệp. Chăm sóc khách hàng tận tình, đội ngũ hướng dẫn viên chuyên nghiệp
Gia Như — Google review
(Translated by Google) A wonderful, exciting experience with great guides and great services!
(Original)
Một trải nghiệm tuyệt vời, lý thú với những hướng dẫn viên tuyệt vời và những dịch vụ tuyệt vời !
Phong Lê Hồng — Google review
5.0
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5.0
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110, đường Phan Chu Trinh, Đội Cung, Thành phố Vinh, Nghệ An 460000, Vietnam
A wide sandy beach is the draw to this scenic locale, which also features seaside cafes & a resort.
Very nice beach to relax and chill out in western Nghe An
Nguyen Thanh Hoa — Google review
beautiful beach
Trần Báu — Google review
Very nice, clean and cozy beach with a lot of seafood restaurants
Indochine Cruises — Google review
(Translated by Google) The beach is gentle, the water is clearer than other beaches in Thanh Hoa...
(Original)
Bãi biển thoai thoải, nước trong hơn so với các biển khác ở Thanh Hoá...
Nguyễn Thanh Ngọc — Google review
(Translated by Google) Beautiful sea, black sand and very clear water! Little service, mainly pubs. In the evening, there is a children's play area and a sidewalk cafe in the square. There are no nice cafes. Swimming is great for children and the elderly!
(Original)
Biển đẹp, cát đen và nước rất trong! Dịch vụ ít, chủ yếu là quán nhậu. Buổi tối có khu vui chơi cho trẻ em, quán nước vỉa hè ở quảng trường. Không có quán cafe đẹp. Tắm biển thì tuyệt vời cho trẻ em và người già!
Do Manh Ha — Google review
(Translated by Google) Quynh Beach - Pristine place and many interesting experiences!
Immerse yourself in the clear blue water, watching the waves come and go with the wind. Enjoy the taste of fresh seafood - gifts from the Sea. Don't forget to check in some sparkling virtual photos🙈.
If you have time, you should visit the wild caves here, including Dragon Eye Cave located in Dragon Mountain. To get to Dragon's Eye Cave, you have to float on fishing boats along the rocky mountains, before seeing the amazing cliffs appear clearer and more unique as you get closer. The rocky "walls" in the cave have beautiful lines that are very unique and impressive. Looking out from the inside, the two entrances to the cave resemble the glowing eyes of a dragon and perhaps this is the reason the cave has such a name. The large cliffs in front of the cave are also the perfect place to take check-in photos. Behind Dragon Eye cave is Mui Trau cave located not far away at Lach Quen estuary, Tien Thuy commune. Looking from a distance, the mountainside looks like a buffalo diving with its head to drink water. On rough sea days, waves bounce out from the cave like a diving buffalo spitting water out its nostrils. Mui Trau Cave is fondly named "The miracle of Quynh sea". Besides, you can also visit Ga cave, Ong island, Ba island... by road.
Quynh Beach, a place worth going❤️
(Original)
Biển Quỳnh - Địa điểm hoang sơ và nhiều trải nghiệm thú vị!
Đắm mình vào làn nước trong xanh, ngắm nhìn những con sóng vào ra theo cơn gió. Thưởng thức hương vị Hải sản tươi ngon - những món quà từ Biển mang lại. Cũng không thể quên check in vài kiểu ảnh sống ảo lung linh🙈.
Nếu có thời gian bạn nên ghé thăm đến các hang động hoang sơ ở đây, trong đó có hang Mắt Rồng nằm ở núi Rồng. Để vào tới hang Mắt Rồng, bạn phải lênh đênh trên những con thuyền đánh cá men theo các rặng núi đá, trước khi thấy các vách đá kỳ thú hiện ra rõ nét hơn và độc đáo hơn lúc lại gần. Những “bức tường” núi đá trong hang có đường vân đẹp mắt rất độc đáo và ấn tượng. Từ phía trong nhìn ra, hai lối cửa vào hang giống như đôi mắt phát sáng của con rồng và có lẽ đây là lý do để hang có một cái tên như vậy. Các mỏm đá lớn trước cửa hang cũng là địa điểm hoàn hảo để chụp ảnh check-in. Sau hang Mắt Rồng là hang Mũi Trâu nằm cách đó không xa ở cửa Lạch Quèn, xã Tiến Thủy. Nhìn từ xa, sườn núi như con trâu ngụp đầu uống nước, ngày biển động sóng từ hang dội ra như trâu lặn phì nước ra hai lỗ mũi. Hang Mũi Trâu được ưu ái đặt cho cái tên “Điều kỳ diệu của biển Quỳnh”. Bên cạnh đó, bạn cũng có thể ghé thăm hang Gà, hòn Ông, hòn Bà… bằng đường bộ.
Biển Quỳnh, một nơi đáng để đi❤️
Quỳnh Anh Nguyễn — Google review
(Translated by Google) The long, wide beach is very beautiful
(Original)
Bãi biển rộng dài rất đẹp
Hiếu Lê Hồ — Google review
(Translated by Google) The beach is empty and clean. The sand is a bit black but the sea water is clear. Food service combined with bathing right next to the beach. Accommodation services are not many, there are no high-end resorts.
(Original)
Bãi biển vắng, sạch. Cát hơi đen nhưng nước biển trong. Dịch vụ ăn uống kết hợp tắm tráng ngay cạnh bãi biển. Dịch vụ lưu trú chưa nhiều, chưa có khu nghỉ cao cấp.
Chi Lang Nguyen — Google review
(Translated by Google) Not Cua Lo, Quynh Nghia is the most beautiful beach in Nghe An <3
When mentioning Nghe An, people often think of Cua Lo without knowing that in Nghe An there is also a beautiful Quynh Nghia. Quynh Nghia Beach has not been exploited too much for tourism, so it still has its inherent wild and natural features.
- Quynh Beach is not as noisy and crowded as other places, but is extremely attractive because of its romantic, primeval, peaceful and poetic beauty. The charm of Quynh beach makes visitors surprised by the unique beauty of rocks and caves as a massive artistic architectural system that nature bestows on this sunny and windy land.
Coming to Quynh beach, visitors will have the opportunity to explore Dragon Mountain cave located adjacent to Tien Thuy and Quynh Nghia communes, Quynh Luu district (Nghe An) - one of the attractive tourist destinations in the Quynh beach tourism system. This place has beautiful, pristine caves, all cave entrances are open to the sea, so we can take a boat right into the cave. In the cave, there is a skylight that is both airy and has enough light for visitors to admire and explore. break.
Surprised by the beauty of Quynh beach
(Original)
Không phải Cửa Lò, Quỳnh Nghĩa mới là bãi biển đẹp nhất Nghệ An <3
Nhắc đến Nghệ An, mọi người thường nghĩ ngay đến Cửa Lò mà không biết rằng ở Nghệ An còn có một Quỳnh Nghĩa đẹp nức lòng. Biển Quỳnh nghĩa chưa bị khai thác du lịch quá nhiều nên vẫn mang trong mình nét hoang sơ tự nhiên vốn có.
- Biển Quỳnh không ồn ào tấp nập như những nơi khác, nhưng hết sức hấp dẫn bởi ở vẻ đẹp lãng mạn, nguyên sinh, bình yên và thơ mộng. Sự quyến rũ của biển Quỳnh làm du khách ngỡ ngàng trước vẻ đẹp độc đáo của thạch đá, hang động như một hệ thống kiến trúc nghệ thuật đồ sộ mà thiên nhiên ban tặng cho vùng đất nắng gió này.
Đến biển Quỳnh, du khách sẽ có dịp khám phá hang núi Rồng nằm giáp ranh với xã Tiến Thủy và Quỳnh Nghĩa, huyện Quỳnh Lưu (Nghệ An) - một trong những điểm du lịch hấp dẫn trong hệ thống du lịch biển Quỳnh. Nơi đây có hang động đẹp, nguyên sơ, tất cả các cửa hang đều thông ra biển, nên chúng ta có thể đi thuyền vào tận hang, trong hang có giếng trời vừa thông thoáng vừa đủ ánh sáng cho du khách chiêm ngưỡng, khám phá.
Ngỡ ngàng vẻ đẹp biển Quỳnh
Men Tran — Google review
(Translated by Google) Quynh Beach and the sea squid fishing season
(Original)
Biển Quỳnh và mùa đánh bắt moi biển
Noi Nguyen Van — Google review
4.3
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5.0
(12)
Quỳnh Nghĩa, Vietnam
20
Ho Citadel
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Imposing arched stone gates remaining from an imperial stronghold constructed in 1397 CE.
Definitely worth a visit. The historic site listed in UNESCO's world heritage has been constantly improved both in services for tourists and surrounding landscapes.
Tram Nguyen — Google review
Women selling sesame seed bars / tea is great, really friendly lady. Would recommend the bars, tasty.
Security guy is 'overly familiar', put a phone in my face on video call with his friend... Something to keep in mind if you're a foreign traveller (can attest to being solo), annoying but otherwise harmless.
Bike parking is fine.
If you read everything there thoroughly (signs have some english text) , it's about 2 hours of content at a stretch. Feels like the back of beyond, bring your imagination, good view of some farmland if you climb up on the grassy mound beside the gate.
Account W — Google review
It's an intruding historical place. An old Royal Palace like the citadel in Hanoi but in a more raw condition. But really there isn't much left there to see, except the massive, 3 arched, old gate.
Haggai Be'er — Google review
Designated a World Heritage site in 2011, Ho Citadel still doesn't receive many foreign visitors. Built at the end of the 14th century, the inner walls and four main gates of the citadel are still standing. Called Thành Nhà Hồ in Vietnamese, the complex is surrounded by a fertile rural landscape. The walls are overgrown with creepers and grass, but still make an impressive sight rising from the rice fields. Vietnamese farmers go about their work, both outside and inside the citadel grounds; sitting down to rest in the shade of its arched gates during the hottest part of the day. The grand royal ruins and the agricultural work going on around it, remind me of sketches by Piranesi of Rome in the 18th century, when Italy was rediscovering its past, just as Vietnam is doing today. Located near the town of Vĩnh Lộc in Thanh Hóa Province, Ho Citadel can be reached by several rural back-roads. Although the enclosure is very large (close to 1km2) it's not immediately visible, especially if you arrive at either the north, east or west gates (the south gate being the main entrance). From some positions the wall is so overgrown it's almost indistinguishable from the farmland it abuts. The main entrance (10,000vnđ) is through the south gate, where there are guides available and a small museum. The latter tries very hard – with English language labels and information boards – but doesn't amount to much more that bits and pieces of pottery, cannonballs, bricks and tiles. The other gates also have small ticket offices, but most of the ticket inspectors seem to be either asleep or drunk and drowsy. If you avoid weekends and public holidays chances are you'll have the whole citadel to yourself, making you feel as though you're the first foreigner to have stumbled upon these imperial ruins.
Ngo Hai Anh — Google review
My mother’s hometown is here. The citadel was built in the 15th century when Thăng Long Hanoi was attacked by Ming dynasty (old name of China) at that time. UNESCO had recognized this place as one of its heritage in Vietnam
Trung Lê Quang — Google review
UNESCO site, it is free to visit, it can be visited in one hour, required to walk a bit to see the 4 doors.
Brice Pissard — Google review
It is a great historical place to visit. Hoping in the next few years the local gov shall rebuild the wall and castle etc.
Huy Pham — Google review
Ho Citadel is the world heritage UNESCO in Thanh Hoa province
Mr Thang - Dusit Tran — Google review
4.2
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4.0
(21)
Vĩnh Tiến, Vĩnh Lộc, Thanh Hoá, Vietnam
I'll never travel to Hanoi without this trip planner again
Phat Diem Cathedral, a 19th-century stone cathedral located in Kim Son district of Ninh Binh, is an impressive blend of traditional European and Vietnamese architectural styles. Built over a span of 24 years using stones and wood by priest Tran Luc and local followers, this massive cathedral showcases a beautiful amalgamation of eastern and western influences. It is a fine example of Sino-Vietnamese architecture, surrounded by picturesque canals and rice paddies.
Very nice cathedral built with stone and timber. The architectural style is a mix of vietnamese and european which makes it unique and interesting. It is hard to reach from Ninh binh or from hanoi.
I took a guide from Ninh binh to go there for 500k. But it is worth a visit. There are few small churches in the complex which are closed. The main church had a mass when I went and we were not allowed to enter until the mass is over. Better check the time in advance.
Pasindu Kithmina — Google review
It was a cold, windy day in October when i visited and it was just me and the sleepy security guard. It was a fittingly peaceful as i wandered the grounds for about an hour before stepping inside to pray. I never found out why such a nondescript town as Phat Diem has such an impressive cathedral or how they came up with such a seamless mix of intricate Asian architectural style with traditional catholic functional layout. Everything was familiar and at the same time exotic/foreign. It has been maintained well with only a few areas needing repair and no rubbish.
Andrew Monos — Google review
I think it's a nice temple. There are guides you can hire to tell you about the history of the place. There are souvenir shops in front of the temple. I think the architecture is beautiful. I believe that when there are holidays, there will be some other shops or markets and the atmosphere will be much better. However on normal days the place is soulless. It would need at least some benches to sit on and need to plant plants and trees around the temple. It would definitely make the place look more beautiful and friendly.
Le Ngoc Anh Ninh — Google review
Very interesting place, you can see the heavy influence of traditional Buddhist temple repurposed into a Catholic church. The main cathedral is the biggest attraction, of course, but the 2 side smaller ones is just as richly in history but clearly could use some restoration works. The nearby civilian house along the way in has some interesting design trends too, the older ones, that is.
Do Thanh Long — Google review
A very special Catholic cathedral with Vietnamese architectural style. It took me about 90min to drive a scooter from Ninh Binh to there. Unfortunately the inside of the cathedral is not opened for visit — just like many churches in Vietnam.
Beware there isn’t any restaurant but only cafes near the cathedral.
Tony Wong — Google review
This church is pretty unique. I would recommend any tourist to visit this, especially who are interested in architecture and history. This church was built on 1875 when it was hard for Christain to spread their religious in Vietnam. However it was successful. The church was finished on 1899 which is 24 years. The architecture is the combination of both Vietnam and Western (especially French). This church is considered as one of the oldesr church in Vietnam. I would recomended visitor who are fond of eating at the church to register to eat at the eating hall. They also sell special food of the region near the hall. A little piece of advise is that you should contact the administor tỏu fỏ a free tỏu around the church and listen to the history along with the amazing architect of the church
Duy Vu — Google review
Beautiful place but smaler than expected ☺️
Romain Gouttefangeas — Google review
Worth to visit. Mix of Chinese and Christianity.
Pranske A? — Google review
Free as in beer just a bit of a journey to get there. World renowned and well worth a visit. Main cathedral is open only on scheduled Mass services. Very much still in use in this very catholic part of Ninh Binh.
If you are done with buddhist pagodas and Confucius temples see the same type of architecture applied to a different, perhaps more familiar God.
Still very much intact. A few coffee houses, souvenir stalls and restaurants around (and a great ice cream.palour on the main street of town!) but nothing pushy about it.
A truly magnificent monument to God, whatever belief you might hold.
Paul Ryan — Google review
One of the most beautiful ancient church ever been builded in Vietnam!
Gio Tran — Google review
Aka the Stone Cathedral. It's a very unusual building, looking more like a Buddhist temple.
If you go early afternoon you may find it closed.
It will re-open about 14:00. In the meantime you can visit the 4 smaller chapels in the same compound.
Alun Evans — Google review
Phat diem catheral is situated in phat diem township. Approximately 29 kilometers southeast Ninh Binh and 121 kilometers from Ha Noi
anh tuấn hoàng — Google review
We visited the cathedral and the nearby square on the night of the 24th of december. There, they were celebrating a Catholic event: so many beautiful decorations, incredible music, and many many people awaited us - it was the best thing ever! Sadly, we couldn't visit the inside of the Cathedral, but I appreciated a lot the mix of Christian and Buddhism elements. I had never seen a church shaped like a Pagoda, I recommend it a lot. Especially if you happen to get here near Christmas :)
Karamell Art — Google review
Beautiful cathedral. Gorgeous. The most serene, kind soul of a nun told us about its history. What a lovely soul she was. The place is definitely worth a visit.
M Diamond — Google review
This church is very historical. Very unique build in ancient way. Doubt modern technology can build in similar way. Have big solid tree trunks column which is very heavy to support the structure of the church. Firmly built and aesthetic. Visiting the church perhaps gives you many blessings, peace and love. A small quiet town.
BEN TAY — Google review
An architectural work with many historical and cultural significance. The architecture of churches in Europe is cleverly integrated with local architecture and culture to create closeness and familiarity with the people. thanks to that the church becoming more familiar to people here.
The large stone works crafted and transported by hand also show how the power of determination and belief can give people great strength.
Hoang Tran Dinh — Google review
4.6
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4.5
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75 Phố Phát Diệm Đông, TT. Phát Diệm, Kim Sơn, Ninh Bình 430000, Vietnam
Located on a mountainside, the ancient tiered pagoda called Bich Dong Pagoda is nestled close to three natural caves and can be reached by boat. When visiting Ninh Binh between April and November, one can witness breathtaking panoramic views of the landscapes in northern Vietnam. Observe how the rice paddies transform from flooded mirrors and vibrant green shades to the golden hues of autumn during this time.
We liked this place a lot! Arrived around 16:30 and paid 40k to park our 3 bikes. With only a few people on site, it was very nice and quiet. We went through all the hidden passages and the cave and the kids were really excited to explore the area. Been there for about an hour or an hour and a half with a very slow moving pace.
Evgy — Google review
Amazing temple that's in a cave and has another chamber with bats. I'm pretty sure the parking is a scam so just park away from "parking sign" and walk in. It's a regular Buddhist temple with no ticket booth or anything. They tried charging 30k (2 people) but when I said take 20k or I'm leaving they said okay.
Anthony Rice — Google review
There are two routes you can take after parking your scooter and paying them the $25k parking fee. The one at the entrance leads to a very dark silent cave with very slippery steps inside while the other path where you park your scooter leads to a much nicer, secluded spot for some amazing pictures next to a lake. Would be careful of the guy working next to the lake who wants you to look inside a little cave at the end.
Richard Z — Google review
Cool to visit I guess. But no info on what this place is about at the actual site. Also, I left my bicycle in a random empty space near nobody. When I came back, a guy had stolen it and charged me 10,000 for parking. This should obviously be illegal.
Tom James — Google review
It’s an interesting temple, I believe it is slightly unique but fairly simple. If you like temples I’d say it’s worth a visit. It is very pretty and fairly quiet. Free entry but it’s a 10k charge for parking, including bicycles. There’s some interesting posters displayed at the temple, I haven’t seen anything like these before. Funny and also an interesting concept.
cameron holmes — Google review
Nice temple and buddas, but this is not free: they charge you to park (normal in most of vietnam) + ‘entrance free’ 100k vnd which looks like a total scam…one lady got really upset because we refused to buy her incense…
Borja Elorriaga — Google review
Worth visiting if you're in the area as its free entry, you just need to pay 20k for parking.
DO NOT stop anywhere along the way, there are people shouting at you to stop and pay them a bike fee, it is a scam. Do not stop. Do not pay anyone except at the gate to the pagoda!!
Also the people outside and inside can be pushy salespeople - you do not need to buy anything, just laugh along at how pushy they are and say no thanks and theyre absolutely fine. We had spoken to one girl who felt intimidated - don't, they will do you no harm.
Also unfortunately this just goes for ladies, cover up shoulders and knees. I was in a vest and shorts and they said nothing - But Natalia was in shorts and they said something.
For more free travel advice, reviews and inspiration, check us out on u tube, 'Escape With Us'. Peace out!!
Escape With Us — Google review
The temples are beautiful and peaceful. But the Cave is more special I must say. Don’t miss it!
When you go to the view behind the main temple complex (You have to get out of the gate, and follow the path of the lake outside, just go through the motorbike parking). You will see the house of this women.
She don’t speak English, she only says, “boat to motorbike” or some kind of that. I paid her 120k in the end because the cave was beautiful with different kinds of rocks too see.
Nhật Anh Trần — Google review
Beautiful area, free entrance. Our hotel was nearby so we just walked. Arrived 4.30 pm and only few people there. If you happen to be close by, well worth the visit! (From far maybe not so much?)
The cave was amazing, we loved to stay for a short while watching (kind) bats!
We left around 5pm and there was a lady locking the gate, some people didn't get in anymore. I'm not sure if there are opening times.
Nea Kivekäs — Google review
Got there at around 10:00, less crowded than expected,free of charge to enter,beautiful religious music from hidden speakers while strolling the temples -worth the visit.
Pro tip -nice egg coffee in front.
עדי גרינשפן — Google review
Bich Dong Pagoda is a unique pagoda located in a unique cave in Vietnam, possessing an unmatched land and mountain position, built around 1707. The special feature of the pagoda is The harmonious combination of mountains, caves and pagodas, hidden among giant trees, creates a beautiful natural picture. Coming to Bich Dong Pagoda, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the beautiful scenery and learn about the unique cultural values of this place.
Thiep Mai Phuc — Google review
This was a true treat, you will have to pay to park your bikes but worth it! After wandering across the bridge and through the initial gateway often photographed I was surprised that there are three different levels, which included hikes through the rock mountain behind the temples and alters set into the actual rock. Truly magnificent, simple yet stunning!
Katie Kennedy — Google review
Beautiful pagoda. Nice that it’s free to enter. You can park your bike for free if you park it a bit earlier in the street. The ladies do keep bothering you about eating at their restaurant.
You can walk the stairs, but It’s not really a viewpoint.
Leona van Diest — Google review
Everything has already been said about this cute temple located in the mountain, by a lake. What you see is what you get and it’s truly very pretty.
Expect some stairs if you want to go all the way up and some good shoes (stairs are old and slippery).
A lot of people come here for selfies (like everywhere these days) and ignore the basic rules of being quiet in sacred places like this one - it’s definitely a shame.
Last but not least bring a lighter if you plan on burning incense at the numerous alters, I couldn’t find any at the site.
S?bastien Aurillon — Google review
Great place. It's too old on the botton to top of the hill. It's really tough to get on to the top temple. I met a family over there who came from the Netherlands. But enjoed much with enthusiasm.
Badal Chandra Rajbangshi — Google review
I visited the Bich Dong Pagoda during my trip to Ninh Binh. The entrance to the temple grounds was free, which was very nice. I climbed up the mountain and enjoyed the view of the temple, which is located at the top of the mountain. To enter the temple, you need to follow a dress code - your clothing should cover your arms and legs.
I also visited a cave where I could see bats and an altar. It was very interesting and exciting, like in a movie.
However, I must admit that the Bich Dong Pagoda is not the most impressive place in Ninh Binh. If you are planning to spend a few days here, I would recommend visiting other places in the region.
Nadya Levina — Google review
Despite us not being able to enter the structures because of improper clothings, I’d still give 5-stars given the highly spiritual atmosphere of the temples.
I’d like to say the serenity of the place is somehow disturbed by some tourists’ loud noise. Well, anywhere, really, there are these kind of tourists.
Ian Dungganon — Google review
It was a lovely bike ride to this interesting pagoda. The last coffee shop, called Lakeview, looked after my bicycle for free when I bought a drink. They also have a very clean toilet and are generally nice people, so here is a photo to help you find them. Built into the rock, the pagoda is definitely worth a visit. Free entrance. Tour groups move on quickly so just hang back to get the place to yourself. Feels peaceful, especially at the top level.
Sam Millichap — Google review
When you arrive at the end of the street, you will see a giant cul-de-sac open up to your right. This is where you will want to go for free parking. You can either park to the left of the giant green "Bich Dong Parking Area" sign attached in this review, or at Gao Restaurant (where you can grab a coffee or tea or smoothie and then leave your bike there). Most people miss the giant green parking sign because it is poorly placed. You will need to turn right (and then look immediately right).
And why don't most people turn right? Because an official-looking man with a hat, whistle, and armband will try to direct you to go straight instead. This way, you will be led into his little tin shack parking lot where you will be charged a parking fee. If you do end up here, please note that you can still just keep driving (past the tin shack) and park for free anywhere else.
The pagoda itself is nice, but it is frustrating to see these parking scams in Ninh Binh. I don't mind supporting the locals, but would much rather do it in an honest way, which is why I opted to park my scooter at the restaurant mentioned above and order a ginger tea. Hope this review helps!
Arthur Kopec — Google review
Gorgeous pagoda built into the mountain. The Shrines and details on the buildings were gorgeous and the caves made it even more spectacular. It is quite touristy however. There is another staircase behind the pagoda that leads to a family’s rice fields where they offer to take you into a small but long cave for 30k per person. This was a brilliant experience with lots of shells and fossils in the walls and really interesting rock formations
Lauren Volpe — Google review
A beautiful pagoda complex with caves and is free to visit . This is an easy walk or bike ride from Tam Coc.
The bottom area has temples with interesting posters that explain beliefs around karmic repercussions for specific behaviours. You can climb up stairs into a cave and enjoy the shrines inside. It’s really quite lovely.
Just outside the complex is another staircase up a hill. This will take you passed a family dwelling with a rice paddy and grazing goats. The family has a private cave they give tours to - it’s by donation and we made a point of being generous. The grandmother turned on the lights of the cave and showed us the unique structures - one looks like a giant woman. The cave has lots of fossils and some sections of the wall are actually ancient coral.
You can walk a path around the rice paddy, but eventually the path ends. If you push on you’ll find yourself walking through very tall grasses and some very muddy spots. Worth doing just be prepared for what’s to come.
The goats were adorable, they are very human habituated and the babies like to be pet.
There are a couple of little restaurants,, spots to purchase water, and tourist kitsch just outside the entrance. They also sell big beautiful water lilies to leave at the shrines as an offering.
Culinary Slut — Google review
Went early (before 8 AM) and had the place to myself for half an hour. It was brilliant to walk among these revered places that have such beauty.
When you go, (1) do wear pants and cover shoulders (or borrow skirts (men too) from the kiosk in the parking lot (2) do buy incense from the ladies outside (about 10 K) and leave it on an alter (3) do get coffee or a drink from one.of the cafes outside the temple - my fave is the farthest from the gate. Besides great Ca Phé, the owner makes bonsai and little temple miniatures that you must see.
Daniel Dugan — Google review
Lovely spot to visit. Temple is very unique with a large main one and then you climb through a cave behind it to two more temples. Nice view at the top. Also nice surprise that there is no entrance fee.
Josee M — Google review
Nice Pagoda with lovely garden.
If you go the other way from the parking space you will find stairs beside the Pagoda that will bring you to a little valley with super qute goats and a little river with boats and even a small cave, that you can explore with a guide.
It cost us 20.000 per person and it was kinda scary and on the other side really interesting. The guide just spoke vietnamese and that really fast while describing everything in the cave. The tunnels from cave to cave are a bit small and tight - so nothing for people who don't like small rooms. It was an experience, but I wouldn't recommend the cave tour.
Lasse P. — Google review
An ancient temple in Ninh Binh area. Very interesting chinese influenced architecture. The entrance has a stone bridge. There are two main pagoda buildings in the complex. You can climb up the steps and see the upper building which is built on a face of the massive limestone rock. The cave is interesting too. The roof of the building is nice with two segments. There are not much people in this compared to other attractions in the area
Looks like the guides discourage people going there, for some reason. Even my guide said nothing to see, but I insisted that I want to visit. Entrance is free and has ample parking space in front.
Pasindu Kithmina — Google review
Nice pagoda built on the side of a mountain. You can go behind the temple and up some more steps. Unsure what’s up there. Ride there is pretty nice. Ignore the people who will tell you to park in their lots. Just keep going straight until you reach the bridge to the gate. A few big steps just don’t go in the middle of the day when it’s too warm.
Flor Urbina — Google review
4.3
(3545)
•
4.0
(755)
6W99+C23, Ninh Hải, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình 430000, Vietnam
The sightseeing tour agency Tam Cốc offers a Ngô Đồng River boat tour through rice fields. The entrance fees include sightseeing tickets and boat tickets. Children under 1.40 meters are free when accompanying an adult.
What a fabulous place to stay and visit. Lots of lovely family run homestays and restaurants. Stunning scenery. A great place to cycle around the waterways and karsts. Very friendly locals. Gets busy especially at weekends with boat tours.
Chris Sutcliffe — Google review
Bad services, you have to pay VND150K (~$6.5) for boat and additionally VND 120K (~$5) per person for sightseeing but there is only one option of going by boat. Besides, the ferry man always ask for money!!! Street vendors (or river vendor) were so annoying
Luong Nguyet — Google review
Well: it feels bad to rate a place this low, because it’s a nice place and all but:
1. You can park outside for free. Local women will try to persuade you to park and tell you the entrance fee is included. I assure you the temple visit is free, so this is a well-dressed lie.
2. Be sure to bring something with sleeves and proper trousers. The temple etiquette demands it and the women outside use this to force you into buying long sleeves there.
3. It’s a simple temple. Nice, but simple.
I read you can do boat rides but why would you, really?
Stefan Bussels — Google review
Interesting spot, but a little over the top on tourism. Strange to see so many tourists getting paddled along the river by boat operators using their feet to navigate and propel their crafts. Seems a bit unseemly.
Would be a nicer spot without all the wholesale tourism and related infrastructure. Beautiful scenery, regardless.
Good during rain or shine. And no mosquitos, in March anyway.
Greg Angevine — Google review
Not well organized, here the rower was not happy with our tip and was rude to us, the caves are pitch black, lots of garbage in the water and its the same way go and back. But still we enjoyed it as we were a long time in Ninh Binh, but if you stay short time, go to Trang An! Trang an also has 3 routes
Esteban Bourguignon — Google review
The place looks nice but I was quite disappointed.
It is super small and beyond the lovely entranceway the rest is rather disappointing in relation to a lot of things there are in Vietnam. Perhaps it'd be different if going with a guide.
To go to third pagoda you also need to go through a cave. Whilst it is interesting as an experience, the cave has bats and it absolutely stinks.
Worth going there if you have extra time. Otherwise not.
Also, the ladies at the bike parking place tried to charge us 100D arguing there was an entrance fee. We had read it was free and ended up paying 10D only for the parking but that was very annoying too..
Samanta Boero — Google review
It's a shame I didn't explore everything. However it's a very nice and peaceful place to visit. I personally think it's alright, not really having a big feeling towards this spot. However , please be aware that if you're visiting this temple, make sure you wear appropriately (no short shorts or tank tops or whatever that exposes too much of your skin )
Erique Chong — Google review
To go here, you must buy an entrance ticket, especially to take a boat on the small river through three caves and then enter Thai Vi temple to worship the Tran kings. The scene is very beautiful, majestic nature mixed with ancient features. The entrance ticket is also cheap, including tickets to visit 3 points, take a boat through 3 caves to Thai Vi temple, then enter Tien Cave and finally enter Bich Dong pagoda (the temple is located on the top of the mountain, facing outward and the back is inside). mountain cave... very beautiful).
Thiep Mai Phuc — Google review
It was a good place to visit in Ninh Bing. Although there was some vendors on the boat asked you to buy some food the boatman made me feel uncomfortable. Overall it was a good experience.
Amy Chang — Google review
Very commercial. Beware of the guys who take photos. They say it's
$1 but will end up taking ton of your pictures and sell it to you. M vendors selling stuff if u don't buy they will ask you to top ypur rower. Rowers negotiating tips with you. Overall place is excellent beautiful but this commercialization makes experience bitter. Hence two stars deducted
Raj De — Google review
Amazing place ! Super peaceful! I highly recommend. You can stay here for 5/7 days easy! Specifically if you are looking a place to chill!
At same time you have a lot of places to go and things to see.
Definitely One of my favourite places!
Navegador de Mundos — Google review
Still under-crowded gem a bit out of Nin Binh. Day trippers do crowd the visiting sites but it’s a wonderful place to stay. Recommend the lake trip through the caves and the Mua Cave. Definitely grab yourself a bike or a scooter for easy access everywhere
Andy Karemani — Google review
The Tam Cốc area was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Being surrounded by the limestone cliffs we were in awe. The inside of the caves was gigantic, and felt like they went for miles. The talented boat rowers added more to this experience as we were amazed by their rowing skills. 2 hours - all by their feet! Their leg muscles must be crazy.
Make sure to tip the rowers. This is how they make their living. Our driver was a sweetheart, and kept us smiling - despite the language barrier. Although this attraction was touristy it was relaxing and beautiful.
Erica C — Google review
During my visit to Hanoi in February, I had the opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of Tam Cốc – Bích Động in Ninh Bình, Vietnam. This hidden gem left me in awe and provided a truly memorable experience.
Tam Cốc - often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land" - is a scenic landscape filled with limestone karsts and winding rivers. The boat ride along the Ngo Dong River was the highlight of my visit. As we glided through the serene waterways, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush greenery, I felt like I had entered a tropical paradise.
The area is famous for its caves, and Bích Động was a standout attraction. Climbing steep stone steps and exploring the cave complex was an adventure in itself. The intricate network of pagodas and temples nestled within the natural caves added to the mystique and spiritual atmosphere.
What made this destination truly special was its peacefulness and tranquility. The absence of crowds allowed for a more intimate experience, and I was able to fully appreciate the natural beauty and surrounding serenity.
The local people were friendly and welcoming, and their hospitality added to the overall charm of the place. They were eager to share their knowledge and stories about Tam Cốc, enhancing my understanding and appreciation of this unique destination.
Visiting Tam Cốc – Bích Động in Ninh Bình was an unforgettable experience that showcased the natural beauty and cultural richness of Vietnam.
Marco — Google review
Good experience on the boat - they use leg paddles! Amazing view around the caves and padi field
Zheng Wei Tan — Google review
Not sure if this true, they said the movie “Kong the Skull Island” was shot here. One of the best boating ride. It mostly the starting point for most of the Vietnam Visitors.
We went in the month of August. Temperature was a bit hotter.
There is a trekking as well. Unfortunately we could not do it as it was not included in our itinerary. We missed the top view of the river because of this. If people reading this review before booking and a fan of trekking then please add that in itinerary too.
We get biscuits, fruits sellers and photographers on the way. They try to loot you so please be careful. Take cash in smaller denominations and give them. If given a higher denomination then the right amount might not come back 😅.
Ajay Managaon — Google review
Great experience in a boat ride by hand and not by machine.. The view was spectacular and the greenery and the nature.. It was just wow.. If you wanna have a short ride in the boat then go for this.. Timing is one and a half hours...
Chenghun Phukon — Google review
Interesting couple of small temples nested under a cliffs with a cave/tunnel connecting the two.
If you clash with a coach trip it gets difficult as you have to file across a narrow bridge through narrow gaps.
The Hang Múa Ecolodge is a mountain lodge with pleasant cottages, a restaurant and bar, and an outdoor terrace. It is situated in the lush countryside of Ninh Binh province, Vietnam and offers great views of the limestone mountains. The resort also has facilities for hiking, biking, and kayaking.
The room was nice, with an outdoor shower and bathtub that provides sufficient privacy. Inside was well air conditioned, comfortable bed, ample storage and a decent bathroom.
The breakfast was good, not out of this world but a good non crowded start to the day.
The location is great as it avoided the craziness of downtown and is inside the gates to the caves and lookout. The ability to start the climb before the public was allowed in was great as the steps got crowded later in the morning. As an added bonus there are bicycles to use around the area. We rode on paths in the middle of rice fields, not something I see at home.
Christopher Roth — Google review
Stayed here twice, and it has unfortunately declined seriously since it first opened. Back in the day, it opened with great ambition and was a jewel of a property, building on centuries of rich history in the area. Unfortunately, as happens in this country, it has declined to another very average resort with medeocre food being served onsite and tacky amenities that render it lame.
Keith A. — Google review
I loved this place. It's very nice, and really has everything that you could need. My room was nice, included with mosquito nets and great A/C. The staff was very helpful, from my late night check-in to organizing taxis to various other nearby attractions. Also, the Mua Caves Viewpoint hike and lotus ponds are part of the property, and entrance fees as waived as part of the stay (both are incredible, I highly recommend exploring them). I would easily stay here again.
Nathan Marcellino — Google review
Accessible for toddlers! My 3 and 5 year-old made it up there! Just make sure you bring lots of water! And plan on 1h to get up there. Then you can spend a lot more time: go to the other peak (if they follow), walk across the rice fields when back down, stop at a Cafe, etc
Marjorie Carr Zippert — Google review
You should be here around 3-4 pm, that's good time to hikking and seeing sun set
Drift backpacker — Google review
some how Google is referring to the hotel, BUT actually this is a beautiful landmark/ tourist attraction without having to stay at the hotel. You have around 500 steps truly worth the climb. We were there when, unfortunately, the weather wasn't great and still it was a fabulous place to be and look around. very much recommended!!!!
?? ??? — Google review
Beautiful place. Easy to get to on bicycle or motorbike or car. Park at the lot closest to the entrance no matter what the locals on the street say. Beautiful scenery and if at the right time, the lotus are mesmerizing. Wear non slip shoes if you want to climb to the tail of the dragon.
Sierra Stein — Google review
Very nice place with stunning attraction combination to explore. challenge ourselves to climb up the Flying Dragon Mount to see top-down views are yellow fields and amazing lotus lake.
the best season to visit here is summer since the fields are yellow and lotuses are blooming.
highly recommend to visit this place at sunset 5PM to climb easily without hard sunshine.
Ty Pha — Google review
So I am writing this while staying here and the experience is pathetic. Staff is not very cooperative. Room is infected with cockroaches and bugs , its like the room has not been cleaned in ages. Bedsheets smell of sweat. Hygiene is neglected. Even my toddler understands that the room is not good and hasn’t slept whole night. There are management issues. Overall this ecolodge either needs to shutdown if they are not able to manage properly or they need a full renovation from scratch. Have been to a lot of places and hotels and by far the worst place to stay ever considering the hype.
Highly disappointed. 👎
Aayushi Agarwal — Google review
Un hôtel dans un très beau cadre au cœur de la Baie d’Halong Terrestre. L’hôtel est au sein même d’un site populaire qui permet l’accès à un joli point de vue (accès gratuit pour les résidents).
De superbes balades à proximité. Service de location de vélo (50k/jour) ou location de scooter mais plus cher qu’ailleurs (200k/jour).
La chambre était plutôt agréable et très propre dans l’ensemble. Mais loin d’être aussi idyllique que les photos laissaient paraître (traces d’usures et un peu dans son jus).
Il y a une piscine mais très froide (séjour en avril) et pas super propre.
Bonus pour le restaurant et le buffet du petit-déjeuner, rien à redire et le personnel est super agréable et aux petits soins pour les clients. Attention peut-être à éviter de servir les jus de fruit dans des gobelets en plastique jetables.
Bon séjour globalement mais peut-être un peu cher la nuit à mon goût.
(Translated by Google)
A hotel in a beautiful setting in the heart of Terrestrial Halong Bay. The hotel is within a popular site which allows access to a lovely viewpoint (free access for residents).
Superb walks nearby. Bike rental service (50k/day) or scooter rental but more expensive than elsewhere (200k/day).
The room was quite nice and very clean overall. But far from being as idyllic as the photos made it appear (traces of wear and a little in its juice).
There is a swimming pool but very cold (stay in April) and not super clean.
Bonus for the restaurant and the breakfast buffet, nothing to complain about and the staff is super pleasant and takes great care of the customers. Perhaps be careful to avoid serving fruit juices in disposable plastic cups.
Good stay overall but perhaps a little expensive at night for my taste.
Maxime Visticot — Google review
Just fantastic. Wish we spent more time here. The location is brilliant, set amongst the mountains and forest, the only noise coming from the wild animals in the forest. Lovely spa pool, huge rooms with private terraces, great food and drinks offers. Would highly recommend.
Andrew Mucha — Google review
Really enjoyed our stay here. Our room was huge but a little hot because the air con couldn’t cool the size of the room! Perfect setting after you get over the fact you’re basically staying in a tourist attraction. Very peaceful once all the tourists leave after dark and means you get the caves and viewpoint all to yourself first thing in the morning. The restaurant was actually really good food too.
Rebecca Prince — Google review
We stayed at the ecolodge. The room was fine, enough for 3 adults. facilities overall were quite dated including the surrounding. The restaurant dinner was good and cheap. Staff were friendly.
It’s good to stay here if you want to get to the top first. Less crowded that way. Really nice view. Nice climb. 500 steps so quite steep. Some slippery rock so be careful
Tu Linh Nguyen — Google review
Nice place with a garden and a little cave, but more importantly a big Lotus plantage and an even bigger stair which will exhaust you quite a bit, but also will reward you with a great view over the area. The price was okay, not much for a tourist from Europe or America
Robin H?wener — Google review
Went here for the hike.
Well worth the steps but here's the figures (from the bottom)
462 steps total to dragon
278 to the turn point / decision between left (higher) and right (lower) peak
184 after turning left to temple and dragon
It was hard work, I wouldn't recommend those not mobile, or young kids, it gets really hard with large steps and not much shade.
Nathaniel Freeman — Google review
This,place us amazing..
Definitely the best break from all the hustle and bustle.
There's so much greenery and the air feels fresh.
The hike and bike rides a must aswell.
Zee Cav — Google review
Rooms are smelly due to humid of the environment, it doesn’t look ‘fresh’ as it does in the pictures. Blue looking pool is actually turned to be green and unhealthy. Coffee and juices is way below the Vietnamese standards. Open buffet breakfast ended up to a plate of what they offer to you. Staff in general wasn’t helping with difficulties we had. Only good side is beauty of surrounding which you can just visit on the day time, no need to pay for accommodation to dream of a quiet place because it’s filled up with tourists visiting the area. Plus, they have new construction going on, therefore be ready to hear lots of noise and dust.
Ömer Gökçe — Google review
Great place to stay very close to Hang Mua. I loved it to explore the resort by night with all the laterns and the ponds, beautiful! The rooms are very clean and pretty with comfy beds. Breakfast is huge and they make great pancakes fir you. In the winter there will be constructions going on so be ready to wake up at 7:00. The WiFi was very slow and often disconnected. Take care when taking a taxi outside the resort. There is a little Mafia guy in a black car who will chase away your grab driver and tell you that he is grab. He is a little cheater. You can get a cheaper taxi down the street on the left hand in an homestay (see the TAXI sign outside) while the weird guy in the black car will follow you of course ;)
Graf Starkall — Google review
Great location but the WiFi connectivity wasn’t great and the bathrooms are clean but not very modern or well equipped with the fittings. Highly recommended for the views.
Parinita Das — Google review
The Mua Cave Ecolodge in Ninh Binh, close to the Lying Dragon Mountain area, is often likened to a "Ha Long Bay on land." Situated about 100km south of Hanoi and 200km southwest of Ha Long, reaching this serene retreat is convenient, whether by a simple 2-hour drive or a train journey from Hanoi. Spanning across 40,000 square meters, the Ecolodge is embraced by verdant rice fields and breathtaking limestone mountains, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting.
suyogya parasar — Google review
Perfect location and landscapes. Avoid possible agglomerations in mua cave. At night will be a quiet place, dont expect parties or drinks.
Manuel G.Romero — Google review
Tried to leave the lodge at 11:30pm to try and get some food and go watch some sport at a bar but the gate was closed. The security guard in front told us that we cant leave even though we had rented a motorbike from the lodge so we had our own transport. We tried calling the lodge but no one picked up so basically we were stuck inside like prisoners even though we paid to stay here and could not leave. This is unacceptable. Rooms are tiny for what you are paying for. We had no hot water during the first night of our stay. Overall would not recommend a stay here as its overpriced and you do not get treated well.
Erin Solomon — Google review
Really wasn’t for us so we left 2 nights early to go to another lovely wee homestay in Tam Coc. In Tam Coc taxi/ scooter rental was more than half the price than the hotel for the day and we found it more suiting with a bit more of a buzz about the place and more to do.
The hotel and room was not quite as advertised. The photos are a bit misleading and the discretion was wrong. “The fire place is a top feature of this double room” we never had or seen any fire places. The heating didn’t work (we had to ask twice for an extra duvet) and the hot water doesn’t fill the bath. The place is extremely busy with visitors during the day. And is a bit of a weird theme park.
If going by moped be aware that there are a lot of fake parking attendants jumping in front of you with whistles trying to make you stop and pay to park. Just drive to the end through the gate. It was fine.
The Mua caves viewpoint was nice.
LoveLiveRun — Google review
The best place to stay in Ninh Binh! The location was fantastic and if you stay here, you get free entrance into Mua Caves. our stay was excellent and so convenient. we got a nice variety for breakfast which is included in the price. the room was spacious and had a bathtub and an extra bed! Super clean and our highlight was the lotus garden infront of our room! We had a great view of the mountains and the Mua Caves as well. The hotel itself was not crowded and we even saw some mountain goats. we took their bicycles (which come free with the hotel too) and roamed to nearby coffee shops! Great overall! Highly recommend staying here as it also accessible to other activities like Tam Coc River and cafes
Trang An Grottoes, located 7km northwest of Ninh Binh, offers a captivating experience for visitors. This region, known as Trang An, boasts stunning limestone caves that can be explored by renting rowboats along the Sao Khe River. The area is abundant in natural wonders such as mountains, rocks, and caves. Surrounding these formations are beautiful religious structures set amidst canals and lakes.
A beautiful, and very professionally organised 3 hour boat tour through a UNESCO world heritage site. Through caves and grottoes, with occasional stops at some stunning temples and gardens along the way allowing you to stretch your legs. For 250,000 VND I haven’t found a better value tourist experience in Vietnam like this yet. Don’t forget to tip your guide. Unlike the Tam Coc tour, they won’t ask for it but they definitely deserve it. Unless you want to tan, I definitely recommend bringing a hat/sunglasses.
Tim F — Google review
Boat ride through mountains and caves in a river that full of healthy grass that’s a treat itself. World heritage site that’s well maintained. The stunning nature around limestone caves are truly impressive. The boat ride provides umbrella, yet the weather in November is just perfect. For older folks is hard to sit in the boat for that long though. Maybe bring some cushion as you are sitting on the hard surface the entire ride. Flowing alone with river is so peaceful and relaxing. The only bad part is too many tourist. We actually had traduce inside the cave.
The Foodie Architect — Google review
This place is seriously heaven on Earth! It is definitely not expensive, given that the boat tour takes 3 hours and the scenery is breathtaking throughout! We visited in October and took route 1. Going through the caves was great, the guide was super friendly, and the place is INSANELY beautiful. Would visit again in a heartbeat!
Desiree Chetcuti — Google review
The Trang An Grotto Tour was amazing experience and definitely a must do if visiting Ninh Binh. The price of 250,000 vnd is more than fair for 3 hours of river boat sightseeing. There are three routes all of which have their pros and cons. Route one offers the most sights and is the longest, which makes it in my opinion worth it over the other two. Unlike the river tour at Tam Coc you will not be harassed to buy things or forced to buy trinkets in order to continue the tour.
Konrad — Google review
We bicycled from Tam Coc to Trang An, it took about 35 minutes using the walking directions on Google (enter through a large gate and proper road). Don't use the driving directions, you'll end up on the highway.
We arrived around 3:45 and were one of the last tours out. We opted for #2 and weren't disappointed. It was a bit shorter but the temples and caves didn't disappoint. If you want your own boat for two people you have to buy four tickets, we opted for 2 tickets and had two great boat mates from Canada and Thailand. We had a great time, no one trying to sell us anything, no scams, no hussles, no line ups and were one of the last boats of the river so it was very peaceful. Highly recommend. And if you don't mind biking in the dark, go late in the day. They close/stop selling tickets at 4pm
JAD Bermuda — Google review
If I could sum this place up in one word, it would be: Stunning. But one word is never enough. If you get a chance, make sure you come and see this place. It's calm and serene and majestic all at the same time. Hire a boat to take you around to all the temples and through the caves and mountains. There are lots of people visiting, but there are lots of times when you're away from the big tour buses. We managed to ask around in town and get a car to bring us, so it is possible to get here on your own.
Michael Davidson — Google review
17th October 2022 selected route 3 . Superb views. Covered all three caves and temples. Great experience. Boatwoman was very nice
bilu koshy — Google review
We did tour 1 on an early December morning and loved it. We were just under three hours exploring the caves and temples. Every corner we turned we were blown away by the scenery.. a must if you are in this area
Julia Wood — Google review
Really beautiful boat ride of 2 hours going through the lime stone river system and caves and you visit some moderately nice temples. Major downside is that it is extremely touristy at every moment of the day it seemed
Bjorn Rispens — Google review
Boat ride experience is amazing. We went for route 3 where we stop at 2 pagodas and went in 3 caves. There was 1 cave which was 1000m long. We needed to sit low since the cave is kinda low also. We went at 14:00hr and it was extremely hot! I recommend you wear tons of sunscreen or hat and long sleeve because it’s extremely hot!! The view is just breathtaking. It was a total of 4hrs boat ride including the stops. An unforgettable experience. 💖
HaVen HeaVens — Google review
Absolutely amazing boat ride!! Go in the morning otherwise it gets too hot. We were worried it was too touristy when getting tickets (250k each), but after 10 minutes, you are separate from the other boats and forget other people are there. We did route one, which went through 9 caves and 3 temples. At the first temple, buy some fish food for 10k (see video). The middle temple is up (then down) about 100 uneven rock stairs. Overall, it was an amazing experience and was the best part of our trip to Ninh Binh.
River O'Neill — Google review
We did the route 3 boat tour, which goes through 2 caves and stops at multiple pagodas. The route took just under 3 hours in total. The scenery is spectacular and going by boat is an ideal way to take it all in. Just make sure to put on plenty of sun cream if it's a sunny day.
Eoin G — Google review
A must do in Vietnam! Best activity we did by far. This is the Ha Long Bay on land (and I thought it was even more beautiful).
Bai Dinh Pagoda, located 12 kilometers from Ninh Binh center or 5 kilometers northwest of Hoa Lu, is a significant pilgrimage site featuring an original Buddhist temple and newer pagodas set in an open courtyard. Covering a vast area of 539 hectares, including both old and newly constructed sections, this temple complex holds many records and boasts impressive Vietnamese architecture.
Enormous sanctuary of pagodas. If I recall, one of the largest pagoda communities in SE Asia. Very clean and detailed in all the structures. I recommend paying extra for your own driver and electric car to shuttle you around. Its too large to walk it all.
Daniel Do — Google review
Absolutely epic in scale and beauty. The temple are grounds are meticulously maintained and the individual temples are gorgeous and peaceful. Worth every dong to see it all including the pagoda which has breathtaking views of the valley around.
Pants and sleeved shirts really are expected, and while no one will get after you for wearing shorts or a tank top - know that it is really rude to do so on these hooly grounds. Please don't be that tourist.
Jeremy Brochue — Google review
[🇺🇸 - 2023]
A beautiful stop on my Vietnam tour, this was a high climb so wear good shoes but it was quite an experience as you can feel the feeling of peace and quiet.
You can purchase a shuttle ticket to take you up to the temples if you don’t want to hike up.
Please be aware the staff do ask you to be quiet while walking up the stairs.
Fun fact black marks on the statues are made up of hundreds of people touching the hands, stomach, knees, and feet are a gesture of good luck. Please be respectful when in major temples and take off your shoes!
emma lam — Google review
Beautiful to see but honestly it's not worth the stress and confusion buying the 220 ticket. The whole thing is not numbered or named as is the map so it's hard to follow and go back to cars. Your better off paying 60 ticket to entrance and walk everywhere as all the corridors are shaded between each spot. Honestly faster to walk it than car.
shanade o — Google review
Very impressive place. You see more if you don’t take the electric shuttles but walk from sight to sight. Schedule the tower for the sunset!! You have a great view over the pagoda and the whole valley. This is one of the places which is not overrun by tourists. We spend almost 4 hours there but can be done in less time.
Matthias Schulze — Google review
This was a fun experience! We went with a guide from Cozy (tour company) which we enjoyed. I think going without a guide would have been overwhelming, given the size of the place!
I enjoyed the hundreds of Arhats statues (rows and rows of statues of followers of Buddha).
Note that in some temples, women need to put on a wrap skirt (provided) if you're wearing shorts.
Elise Biancardi — Google review
You have to park a long way from the ticket place for some unexplained reason, and it's a massive car park. Price list next to ticket booths. To enter you have to pay 60k for the electric car, which takes you to the south end of the park next to the lake. You then have to walk north through some temples and up lots of steps. If you want to visit the pagoda pay an extra 40k at the entrance. There is an elevator up most of it. But to get there you need to navigate the temples, steps and grounds. The buildings are spectacular and there are lots of Buddhas and gold. Great views from the top of the pagoda. To pick up the electric car back to the car park you have to walk further north through more temples and pagados, and up more steps. Alternatively, you can pay more for shuttle bus which takes you to each temple along the route. The site is vast and worth a visit. It will take at least 2 hours to see everything. Much more if you take lots of photos and stops. Plenty of places to buy food and drink along the way. It's all very new and still being built.
Mary Clarkson — Google review
Must visit, beautiful and peaceful pagoda with mountains, cave temples and numerous Buddha statues. Probably takes 4-6 hours to visit every part!
View from the top of the tower is worth it. Recommend buying the electric car ticket which will make it easier to travel inside the premises. Costed us about VND 150,000 per person.
Vanshika Bagdy — Google review
Beautiful complex of temples! We had an amazing time there. You can easily spend a couple of hours walking around. The atmosphere is very calm and relaxing. The entry fee is 60,000 dong. Don't pay the 200,000 since it's a trap. The 60,000 ticket includes the entry and the electric car to and from the complex. They try to sell you the 200,000 ticket which includes going up the Stupa, but in reality you can get tickets inside the complex for 50,000 (so 110,000 in total 🤷♀️ ). Parking is 15,000 dong.
Kate Vasileiou — Google review
We went after sunset and had the most amazing and surreal experience. The whole complex was almost deserted and we had a blast visiting the lit up pagodas.
The lady at the scooter parking initially turned us away at 6.30pm saying it closes at 7pm but we parked closer to the ticket office and stayed until 8pm.
Yu-Lan Scholliers — Google review
Well worth the visit. This temple complex is huge, we didn’t even see everything. The temples were beautiful, we liked the 500+ statues of monks over the centuries, the pagoda was impressive (thank God it had an elevator), and the bell and drum in the bell tower were enormous, the biggest in the country.
Although we are fairly fit, we purchased the combo ticket which includes electric car shuttle around the complex and pagoda entrance fees. We were glad we did, as it was summer and we were exhausted after several hours walking up/down all the stairs and through the various buildings.
Arlene Lum — Google review
Be aware that parking lot is guarded by locals ( not sure if legal), you pay 15000 for scooter.
Then 60k for electric car to go to the complex , thought on the way back from big tower they said to take other route, while those who paid 220k were picked up directly back to parking lot. Not sure if we would be returned back at all, or if they wanted us to walk all the way back to where they initially brought us, which is at least 40mins walking.
What we did, we used google maps and used old pedestrian road to walk down the hill to the parking lot!
Antanas Balbata — Google review
What an incredible site, rich with culture and natural beauty. The pagodas were absolutely stunning and exquisitely ornate. We went in the evening and saw the pagodas beautifully lit under the moonlight. I cannot recommend this enough if you are in the area and wanting to experience a burst of culture! The site is very well organised with drivers in electric cars to take you between landmarks as they are slightly spread out around the grounds, but this form of transport for us, was incredibly efficient as there were always drivers around for pick up and drop off when we required it.
Karina O'Flynn — Google review
Came on a rainy day, soured the experience a bit. This isn't just the original pagoda, it is actually located in the caves near the temple. However, there is a lot to see inside, with a bell tower and large temple with many statues where people pray. There are a lot of stairs, so be prepared to walk. The pagoda is an additional cost to enter. Would probably look best at night when lit up. For those interested in Buddhist temples this would be a good stop in Ninh Binh.
K L — Google review
Definitely underestimated how long we needed here it’s huge. There are 3 ticket options. One is just an entrance fee of around 60,000 but you’ll be walking for days, second and most common option is the combo shuttle which is 220,000 per person where you get an electric shuttle between places with some walking as well. It’s not confusing at all like some other reviews have said and they explain the tickets to you when you arrive. 15,000 for motorbike parking for the day. Would definitely recommend visiting it is very impressive.
Dads — Google review
Don’t miss it. This place is huge and beautiful. You can easily spend 2 hours here. We walked between all the temples for a better experience. Loved it
Louise granger — Google review
A very interesting and huge place to visit.
Make sure you get the electric car ticket that allows you rides to all the different sites within the area.
The views from the top of the Pagoda are the best in the region and allow for great photo opportunities.
Kristian Blackhall — Google review
Since they're open until 2200, I'd recommend coming around dusk and seeing all the temples when they're lit up. We weren't able to stay past 1800, but I wish we had more time because it's the perfect place to meditate and be surrounded by beauty. We only gave ourselves an hour and we felt rushed. If you can, allocate a couple hours, that way you can take everything in and enjoy the temples. Be aware: there are lots and lots of stairs!
Motorcycle parking was 15K and admission cost was 60K (pricing was posted at the desk and was transparent).
Courtney G — Google review
If you're looking for a truly enchanting experience, I highly recommend visiting this temple at night - and trust me, you won't be alone in that recommendation! As soon as I arrived, I could see why so many people rave about it.
To make the most of my visit, I opted for the 200k VND option that includes electric car transfer. However, if you're visiting in the morning or afternoon, I'd personally recommend saving your money and going for the 60k option instead.
The night view of the temple is simply mesmerizing. The stupa is definitely a sight to behold, but what really took my breath away was the water Pavilion - it was truly breathtakingly beautiful. I couldn't get enough of the stunning views and spent hours just taking it all in.
One thing to keep in mind if you're visiting at night is that getting a taxi can be a challenge, so I recommend arranging for transportation in advance. But trust me, the magical experience of visiting this temple at night is definitely worth the extra effort.
Kuan Hing — Google review
Little bit hard to find the entrance when coming without a tour or vehicle. The areal is huge and you can spot it from far but we were close to change our plans as we couldn’t find a sign for the entrance and all gates, which look like main gates were closed. The only way is from the car park, where you get the tickets and then take a small electric shuttle to the main area. The pagodas and whole area are stunning beautiful and nice to walk through. Bring time and long clothes, when willing to see the inner temples.
Nina Eifler — Google review
A big buddhistic temple with some great structures, like a big pagoda, some massive statues und a great garden around it. Takes quite some time, like easily 2-3 hours, to explore it all.
Sadly we went on a really hot and sunny day, so we had to skip some parts because of the lag of shadows. But overall a nice place to visit.
The price is 60k (2.5 Euros/Dollar) to visit and if you want to go up the pagoda, which we did not but surely the view from there is amazing, you pay an additional 140k (~6 Euros/Dollar, a bit less)
Robin H?wener — Google review
Very nice place to visit with an affordable price. If you want to see everything you’ll probably need 3 to 4 hours. The price is cheap for what you can see in my opinion. I took the 60k electric cart ride which is mandatory, and the 50k entry to the pagoda. What I liked the most was the peaceful atmosphere and the temples. They’re huge and it’s impressive to see how big the status are. Not much to see inside the pagoda, you want to go to the top to have a nice view of all the complex. I highly recommend visiting there if you get the chance.
Perpetual Health — Google review
Worth to see, but designed to take your money. Of you are in good shape and like walking, it's okay without the electric car option. You will actually see more, as the car routes are quite strange and leave out interesting things.
If you want to see everything, plan for ~4 hours. Snacks and drinks are available everywhere, but the only restaurant has horrible reviews
Roland G — Google review
Went here during the summer, it was 35 degree.
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The site is quite large. You need a shuttle to drive you to the temple.
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It was divided into two sites, if I am not mistaken. One for tourist, another one for prayers. Worth to visit!
Krissindhu Pramudita Liemanto — Google review
Amazing place, it is very big so be sure to have enough time to do it. 2-3hours are a minimum in my opinion.
Many beautiful and huge temples and the view from the Stupa is stunning!
Camille CROS — Google review
To be upfront on this: most of this is a theme-parkesque experience, with all but one of the pagodas built in early 2000s. So if you expect some historic significance this isn’t it, as it’s more Disney than anything else. Even the scale of the parking lot and shuttle speaks to that. There’s also virtually no one around that seems to be a practicing Buddhist if that’s your cup of tea.
Having said all that, the park looks great for what it is and it makes for a nice landscape and view from the top of the stupa.
Bastian Greshake Tzovaras — Google review
A modern monument to Buddhism covering a whole valley. Electric shuttle takes 10 mins to get to first building.from the massive car park area and 20 queue entrance building.
This is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site, one of the biggest. The tallest pagoda in Asia, the largest this, the highest that. I’m an atheist and it all seems as far from original Buddhism as I think you can get. No humility here.
Graduated larger and more massive temples with bigger Buddhas with info on how many kg of gold leaf required. A hotel in the middle of the site and piped music throughout. Spirituality, the claim, seems entirely lacking in this marble palace of bling. I don’t get it.
You will need to purchase hop on and of ticket and stick to the standard route to get around in 2 hours and lift access to the 100m high pagoda.
The small original old temple is an extra 1 km of the route on a 3km walking circuit with a many many stepped climb.
There is major construction work to excavate a semi circular lake covering several acres with island arcs, and to extend the car park.
Andrew Rixom — Google review
The 2nd time you go and experience this huge place, you will be glad you went the first time.
We had our 9 year son with us and we couldn't finish the entire area, there are many, many steps! The corridors house hundreds of Buddha statues (all very beautiful), there are multiple things to see. The main Pagoda is absolutely stunning (not free entry) and the temples, the temples are large, wonderfully decorated and plentiful.
There is a strong feeling of tourism box ticking (here and in the local area in general and as many have reviewed, it is very confusing to be told its free entry, yet you require a ticket for the electric (sustainable) carts to take you from the parking lot to the start line.
You can easily spend the day here, it is still under development and therefore food/eatery options are limited. The Bai Dinh Pagoda is an impressive place, a lot to take in and doesn't feel busy due to its size.
This attraction does need investigation and preparation because confusion can ruin the experience.
Sam Courton — Google review
really beautiful temples and complex to walk around. you will need to purchase a ticket to get an electric car there, and make sure to keep the ticket as you need it for the return ride home. I would suggest having at least an hour to hour and a half here. remember that it is respectful to cover shoulders and not wear short skirts and shorts.
Kristy Robinson — Google review
Best to visit with a guide to understand importance of the place to Vietnamese people. Really interesting pagoda with 500 Vietnamese Buddha’s - people who were important for history of Vietnam and become Buddha after. Also try to find Lady Buddha temple.
Oskar — Google review
You have to take the electric car to access the complex of pagodas. The returned electric car gives you one way to the site and one way back, but you have to walk inside the site (which is a nice thing to do). The shuttle allows you to hop on and off the electric cars that drive inside the site (I would have not taken them even if I had the ticket to do so).
The Herbal Foot Soak and the Dam Thi Boat are traps (the boat is ok if you’ve never done anything similar before). The best ticket in my opinion is the 100k one (#2) because the Stupa is 100% worth a visit (there’s an elevator inside) and I didn’t mind walking inside the site. (If you visit everything it’s supposed to be about a 5km walk, it felt less honestly).
I took my time and I explored every place, I entered at 10:30am and I was back at the office at 14:30 after 4 hours. This place is massive and the view from the tower is the only way to really embrace the immensity of this complex.
Andrea — Google review
Couple of caveats to my review.
1. I visited in VERY low season.
2. I am not religious.
All I read online was that the entry is free. Whilst this is “true” in the sense there is no entry fee. You are REQUIRED to pay for an electric shuttle bus to take you from the parking lot where all transport goes, to the complex. The shuttle is 60K (3$, 2£, 2,5€).
The complex is huge. So it will take you 2 hours to visit the most important areas, or even more if you want to visit everything.
That being said, we had the complex all to ourselves. So it was well worth it.
I recommend getting there 3 hours before sunset. This way you will see everything with natural light, and you will have time to see also at nighttime.
For nighttime, if you like photography, go to the water temple last. You’ll thank me later.
This is 100% a tourist place. It does not feel a religious complex. Rather a gathering of religious looking buildings built for tourists.
I’ve seen more Buddhist monks walking around in any streets of Sri Lanka than in the 500ha of this complex. Just saying.
Valentin Diaz — Google review
This site is much more worth visiting than Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, although it's quite huge; we, two thirty-somethings, were tired after exploring everything on foot. You can also visit the site with an electric bus that stops at almost every building. It's a shame that there are hardly any guides available, and the information at the buildings is limited. I would recommend leaving early for the visit to avoid the heat.
Juul — Google review
What a stunning place when the sun goes down.
We got a prepaid entrance through the Trang An boat tour combo 5. We decided not to take the electric car tour. It allowed us to walk alone in some empty parts, enjoy quietly the sunset and the potential of this religious site.
Val Bon — Google review
Out of all our temple/pagoda visits, I really enjoyed this one. The large statues were quite impressive.
We read it was *free entry* but they have it set up where you pay to park, and the parking is far from the area you explore so they charge you for the electric car ride to the areas with the pagodas. It was 60k/person round trip when we went.
We went later in the day, and could’ve used a little more time to see everything - but also recommend going later in the day to see it light up at night!
Ashley Ann — Google review
Beautiful place where you can easily spend 4-5 hours or even more.
You can get there by car or motorbike but if you are using your own you have to pay 15.000 for parking, the woman at the motorbike parking was very rude, same as some women at the ticket office where they try to sell themselves as guides, I wouldn't take them, I saw one of the rude woman guiding a group and she was making them rush.
I recommend you take the first combo as with this you can take the electric car as a hop on and hop off so you can enjoy each temple at your own leisure.
Bear in mind that if you combine this tour and Trang An boat you will be saving some money.
Understanding the ticket's price was a bit difficult, I read that you don't even have to pay if you want to walk, but we never saw that option (however, I wouldn't recommend walking it, it's a massive complex!)
Go late afternoon to see the buildings lighted up, it's magical
The Temple of Emperor Le Dai Hanh is a well-preserved and beautiful building that served as the capital for two important dynasties in Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. The temple complex is extensive, with a garden featuring a lotus pond, and visitors can find statues of the king and his consort. While not particularly large, the temple offers interesting historical significance for those who are interested in Vietnamese history.
When you get an entrance ticket you gain access to both tombs and the stair temple… don’t know if you actually need tickets or if you can just walk in. We were stopped and had to pay but another couple walked in a few hours after us when we were a bit to leave and they didn’t pay. Anyways i think it was 30.000 total including the 10.000 bike parking fee.
There were a bunch of kids there practicing their English and it was fun to talk to them for a bit!!
kaylara benfield — Google review
A bigger temple to the first king temple. Much nicer. The king’s altar is locked but u can view it through the door grilles.
Adrick Loh — Google review
The temple is not too big, but has interesting history behind it. The is garden with lotus pond, and you can find the King’s statue with his wife.
Randy Chandra — Google review
Quite similar to Dinh Temple.
Embrace Travel — Google review
A serene setting. Shady compound.
Not much too see.
There is minimal English signage.
KH Wong — Google review
It is really awesome to explore in here. But it would be more better if they allow us to rent a bicycle. The temple is quite far from each others.
๖TiênღĐồng — Google review
very nice and old temple
Phạm Thành Trung — Google review
This temple and the second one are very nice, well kept. There are toilets in here for 2k. We enjouedy sirtongy with the koi carps pond.
Cuc Phuong National Park, situated in a lush jungle area, is an extensive nature reserve renowned for its abundant wildlife and captivating scenery. This expansive park offers various activities such as hiking and biking trails, wildlife viewing, and exploration of caves. Additionally, visitors can partake in ecotourism programs that promote conservation and research while immersing themselves in the park's historical culture.
We came here by bikes, the services and the facilities are not great but we are not here for these things, the forest itself is magical at night with fireflies and enchanted with beautiful plants and butterflies. Trash is in a lot of places sadly, hopefully it will be better protected in the future.
Deion Russel — Google review
Absolutely beautiful canopy forest with over 300 bird species.
We did a day visit, I won't stay here more than a day, except if you want to camp for one night in the forest with a guide. Other than that there is only so much you can do in the park as there is only one road with limited trekking routes. Bathrooms are filthy and restaurants in the area are limited and over priced. I do hope they upgrade the facilities in the future.
Some activities, which include visiting the primate and carnivore conservation centres, which include additional costs. It is definitely worth it and the information is very insightful into how these animals were rescued and to see how they rehabilitate them to be released back into nature.
Beautiful trekking routes, but please note they are +-20 kilometers from the entrance of the park which you have to travel either by car, scooter or bicycle - it is a dangerous narrow road, as the cars speed around the corners. The road is wet which makes it easy for the scooters to slide. Also, unfortunately the "Thousand Year Old Tree" is said to be rotten but there are other beautiful trees in the forest.
Bicycles - I have read previous posts, they have since upgraded their bicycles with new ones.
The botanical garden has a bird hide which you can climb up to (a bit technical, please see last photo).
Arnoldus Pistorius — Google review
We visited Cuc Phuong by bike. We brought our own bikes as there were no rental facilities. Most park visitors seem to come as parts of organized tours which is a good thing because, as annoying as the tour busses are, it does limit the number of vehicles in the park. Otherwise, there's only a single road in and out which will become clogged with vehicles. (They are widening and improving the road right now.) We found bikes to be a good option (for people who are in shape.) The park is quite hilly but going at a bike pace allowed us to really enjoy the natural beauty of the place. Cave of the Prehistoric Man is well worth a stop. Take care on the ladder as it's a bit shaky. The thousand year-old tree is dead - but is still impressive.
Lorenz Keebler — Google review
I visited this place in May. I rent a stilt house inside the national park and stayed there for 2 weeks. It is an interesting and peaceful place. If you want to escape from the world or seeking a refuge or want to back to your island " island of the self", I would like to recommend this place. Some places you can visit inside the national park:
- Botanic garden
- Observation hide
- A spring (between observation hide and Mac lake)
- Mac lake
- Prehistoric cave
- Ancient tree
- Palace cave
- 1000 years old tree
- Cuc Phuong museum
There are a few places that need a tour guide like: Silver cloudy peak, Muong village (I have still not gone to these places yet). The national park will be the most beautiful in April and May because there are many butterflies, flowers, insects and many things to see in these months. In the early morning, you can take a walk in the botanic garden, listen to the little birds singing, enjoy fresh air and nice breeze, and see everything sparkling in the sunlight. In the evening, you can walk around and see the fireflies. Or you can climb to the observation deck and have a sightseeing. I had peaceful days and a peaceful life there for 2 weeks. Hope you all enjoy this place.
Han Nguyen — Google review
Very big National Park, with some guided tours that you can do at the beginning of the park. (Primates, turtles, botanical garden) The loooong road that cuts the park in half will give you a glimpse of its beauty. The cave and several trees you can visit help with that while you’re exploring this park.
The part at the end of the road gave us the best birding experience. That’s still a 30 min drive on motorbike after you entered the park, so keep that in mind when you want to go birding early and you’re not staying inside the park.
John Dean — Google review
Beautiful national park! A must in Ninh Binh if you're renting a scooter. Just drive to the main gate to buy your ticket, and then drive another 20 min inside the national park. There you can have lunch and do a self-guided hike through the jungle (about 2 hrs). You can also buy an additional ticket to visit the different parts of the conservation centre; we really enjoyed learning more about monkeys.
Beatrice Alducci — Google review
Had a really great time doing the over night camping with the guide and ranger from the national park, this includes transfers from Hanoi. They set up our tent in the middle of the jungle, we are food and drank rice wine by the fire it was excellent. We did a night walk seeing snakes, frogs , lizards and lots of other wildlife. We also stayed at the accommodation at the lake for a couple of nights. This was pleasant. You have to be in to the outdoors and nature, and enjoy local basic food but it was very good. Don't be like many of the less well informed tourists and expect posh restaurants, organized fun. Or to see the mostly nocturnal wildlife during the day. The jungle is great. Get a guide do a night walk. Proper conservation work is going on , more about nature than tourism.
George Sewell — Google review
We came here by bikes, the services and the facilities are not great but we are not here for these things, the forest itself is magical at night with fireflies and enchanted with beautiful plants and butterflies. Trash is in a lot of places sadly, hopefully it will be better protected in the future.
Jonathon King — Google review
Truly a wonderful place to see, a must visit for nature lovers. I went there on a misty day where there was light rain, however this only added to the grandeur of the reserve. I would have liked to see more wild animals. Once you reach the reserve, you will be driving by car/bike until you reach the center where there is a walkway in the forest, allowing you to contemplate one of Vietnam's most beautiful green spaces. And before you even get there, you will cross many attractions such as a beautiful lake, a prehistoric cave etc... Be ready to walk A LOT.
I personally drove from Tac Coc to the reserve by motor bike, a highly recommended experience.
Erika Pacillo — Google review
A day at Cuc Phuong National Park is an experience of tranquility and natural beauty. The peaceful sound of birds singing and leaves rustling in the wind accompanies visitors as they wander through lush green forests, surrounded towering trees, rare flora, and fauna. As night falls, the park is illuminated by the twinkling lights of fireflies, creating a magical and unforgettable scene.
Mai Pham — Google review
Cuc Phuong National Park is a nature reserve and special-use forest located on the border of 3 regions: Northwest, Red River Delta and North Central in 3 provinces: Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, Thanh Hoa . Area 222.00 km². Coming here, you will visit turtle, primate, and plant conservation centers, you can walk 8-10km, the ticket price applies to them now 4/24/24 conservation tickets 50,000VND: 1 winner scene 60,000VND. You have to be careful when entering Cuc Phuong forest because there are many snakes..LE ANH TUAN INTERNATIONAL TOUR GUIDE. thanks.
Lê Tuân — Google review
This is the first Vietnamese national park of all national parks. The first fact I was already glad to learn in the beginning. The location of it is however quite the ride with a scooter, but public transport is possible from all angles. When you are probably staying somewhere in Nin Binh or Tam Coc.
The park is amazing and holds beauty and nature together. A lot of alive noises from the black dense forest while driving the 20 km through it. Only part what we as a group highly underestimated is that you really need a minimal of 4 hours to walk through the park and get through all the activities. They even got Pangolins, but I had to miss them due time shortage. Would be an improvement to show the immense size of the national park or the amount of driving time on an improved website or something. However, it's still good old fashioned Vietnam. So thanks for protecting all the animals and wild flora in the area. Not all has been eaten yet!
Monkey thing was amazing by the way. They help reintegrate monkeys from all over to make sure the species doesn't die out. We really need them!
Stijn Zaalberg — Google review
My experience at Cuc Phuong National Park was nothing short of unforgettable. Nestled amidst lush greenery, it offers a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in nature and breathe in the crisp, fresh air.
Guided by knowledgeable forest rangers, our journey through the park was enriched with captivating stories and valuable insights into the surrounding nature, local life, and the daily realities of forest conservation efforts. Their passion for the environment was evident as they shared anecdotes about their tireless efforts to protect the forest and its inhabitants.
Walking through the trails, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of connection with the natural world. From towering trees to vibrant wildlife, every moment spent in Cuc Phuong was a testament to the beauty and importance of preserving our natural heritage.
Overall, my time at Cuc Phuong National Park left me with a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature and a renewed commitment to environmental conservation. It's an experience I will cherish for years to come.
Trang Nguyen Minh — Google review
We enjoyed coming here from Ninh Binh. We walked to the Prehistoric Cave and the first Ancient tree. The other walks are far away and take a long time. Our entrance fee included entry to the primate and turtle sanctuary. Keep a hold of your mask you’re given! I thought it was for the taxi but you need it around the primates. Entry was 150k per person, we could have spent much more time here than we did. Well worth the trip.
Alice Johns — Google review
Cuc Phương Natl. Park was a beautiful park. We rented a scooter to drive from the entrance into the park. The park rangers/ gate attendants were not to helpful as far as helping us understand that the primate sanctuary, turtle place & bear sanctuary would close at 4:30. And our trip into the park would take quite a while to do the hikes we wanted to do. Consequently, we missed out on the animal sanctuaries. But we hiked to the ancient tree- something I would not recommend if it’s wet.our shoes got trashed with clay mud! We climbed up to the cave of pre- historic man, which was very cool. However, it should be marked as a bit of a challenge for older people ( us) as the stairs are very steep, wet, & not many hand- holds or railings. Luckily, we are agile & in good shape & did fine!! It is a neat park in a rain forest jungle & very beautiful. I would recommend.
Debra Nusbaum — Google review
Beautiful national park. It's so peaceful to be surrounded by all the nature. Along the way inside the park, you should stop by the Cave of the Ancient Man - super interesting to know that Vietnamese ancestors lived there thousands of years ago. Bit frightening because of the dark, so bring a torch. The restaurant at the centre was decent, and cheap, and good before you set off on the two hour walking trail which will take you through bundles of ancient trees and another cave. Very pretty.
Taylor Cameron — Google review
Amazing nature! Need to come back spending more time to explore the park and forest.
Davide Gallasso — Google review
Large national park with multiple different locations where you can stay overnight. We stayed at park HQ, which had a whole range of accommodation options (upto 1.000k per night). Bookings can be made via the website. You can rent bicycles (150k per bike per day) and motorbikes at the national park hq. All available activities can be seen on the map.
The conservation centers require an extra ticket. 50k per person per conservation center.
Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, located in Ninh Binh province, is a picturesque nature preserve known for its endangered Delacour's langur monkey. It boasts the largest wetland area in northern Vietnam and features a stunning limestone outcrop amidst swampy surroundings. The reserve offers boat tours that allow visitors to witness the rare monkeys roaming on the mountain slopes. Additionally, Van Long attracts numerous migrating birds during winter months, creating a breathtaking scene reminiscent of the movie "Kong: Skull Island.
Loved the wide open space and the views so much. It was very serene. The cave was abit underwhelming, but the views were amazing.
We weren’t pressured to tip the boat man but after tipping him, I think he seemed to expect more 😅 but other than that he was really nice.
Korrine Koh — Google review
A pleasant experience. Very tranquil and doesn't take up too much time. An hour and a half or so for 120k VND (70k ticket price + 50k tip - this is requested by the boat person). The nature is typically Ninh Binh - beautiful! There is a cafe on site that is very cheap with great service.
Brandon Lakin — Google review
This will be my 2nd best attraction site after Trang An. A calm and relaxed boat ride, the rower even let me ride the boat and taught me nicely. We were blessed to witness the wild monkey from very far distance. Definitely will go back in winter time.
Danny Nguyen — Google review
(September 2023)
Someone from the restaurant near the parking area pointed us to the point where you could buy the tickets for the boat, it was a few meters away from the “pier”. Back then it cost 100k per person and at the end of the ride after cca 80 minutes, we gave our guide a tip but we absolutely weren’t pressured to. We got very lucky with the weather, we wore hats because it was extremely sunny and some ladies were selling umbrellas nearby. We didn’t get to see monkeys but the scenery was stunning nevertheless. I was mad at myself for not being able to speak Vietnamese more because our guide was lovely and tried to tell us about the formations in caves, animals and plants, I just couldn’t understand him 🥲 It’s a shame that there is a language barrier in most of the touristic places in Vietnam.
Michaela Lan Nguyenová — Google review
Little bit disappointing in this area where i expect it will be nice trip. Ticket is 60,000 vnd for boat trip and 20,000 vnd for sightseeing. boat trip is quite short and not much to see on the side of the river, the cave is tiny and look average. The rower did their job but keep pushy about tips. Overall I wont be back.
h? th?o (Winter madness) — Google review
Beautiful scenery, but the reserve is next to a quarry. Pollution from the runoff has killed most of the fish, so we saw more dead fish than anything else. A prime example of a developing nation prioritising natural resource plundering over precious local ecology. You can hear the explosions from the quarry. Lots of egrets and dragonflies though which was nice to see.
Thomas Winward — Google review
A fantastic landscape, worth a trip even in the rain. If you like peace and simplicity, this is the right place for you.
My boat captain gave me time to take photos and pointed out the monkeys in the trees and various water birds.
As the sole participant I paid 200k. I think a tip of 100k is definitely appropriate.
It was a wonderful trip!
Christiane von Festenberg-Pakisch — Google review
Astonishing natural reserve. We took the boat trip trough the limestone krasts... The trip is very beautiful and we even get inside a cave. Unfortunately we didn't saw any delacour lingurs there as they are a very endangered specie and not so many of them. The place is really peaceful and it does worth the visit. Great experience.
Filipe Pires — Google review
Beautiful Vietnamese Countryside! Great scenery, great food, great people.
R B — Google review
Beautiful scenery- we visited early December and were lucky to see beautiful pink lotus flowers!
Pay for a boat ride (1.5 hour) to be taken around the wetlands and go into a cave.
I was sceptical about doing this boat ride after visiting trang an, but it really was worth it! A lot less touristy and more peaceful- adds to the beauty of the landscape!
Also visiting later in the day was well worth it as the sun starts to set and the birds start to fly back to their nests (we only saw a small flock but it was worth holding on for!)
Sarah — Google review
We were lucky enough to have the wetlands to ourselves. We were there, 11.00 am in January. We saw several different types of birds as well as the monkeys, who were moving around the cliff face with ease. A lovely quiet spot. Well worth a visit early. 🤙
Jon Gooderham — Google review
A lovely spot in the heart of Ninh Binh's lush nature. We paid 100baht per person for the boat ride and had the boat to ourselves. Tickets are just down the road from where you get the boats.
We did not have to tip the driver and at no point was tipping mentioned or pressured like other reviews say. It seems they had a new system where you pay more upfront for the ticket than before but no more aggressive tipping culture. I hope this means more overall money to the drivers.
The boat ride itself was lovely, it's rowed so as to not make any noise and disturb the wildlife. So quiet and peaceful as you weave through the reeds. We went in the afternoon and still saw a lot of birds, including two Kingfishers, many Storks and a Marsh Harrier. Earlier morning would be very good I imagine. The lady driver stopped to collect some plants off the water which was a cool experience.
We saw maybe one other boat during our time, the boat trip was 1 hour 30. We also drove our motorbike around the whole reserve afterwards which was a nice drive with great views.
Jonathan West — Google review
King Kong was filmed here!!! But tbh there’s not much to see here. Maybe because we came in the hot afternoon so it was hard to spot any animals, I found it pretty boring, Trang an is a better place to look at. But still no regrets 👌🏻 it’s way less crowded than Trang An, the tickets are cheaper and you still get to see pretty amazing views ❤️
To find the ridiculously unassuming ticket booth you gotta ask the locals for directions. Tickets were 100k dong/pax, boats can fit up to 3 people. The locals are incredibly nice and friendly, my group not only got to row with our little paddles, but our rower let us row the boat with the big main oars too!
All of us took turns to try, carefully getting up from our seats to slowly move into position. the boat was dipping quite a bit into the waters due to there being three of us :) I was lowkey scared the whole time that the boat would flip 😂 it didn’t
Rowing was fun! But we… basically failed 😂 the boat went into the banks quite a lot and went straight almost never 😊
Sentoria Potato — Google review
Great experience. We were the last boat (330ish), didn’t see too many birds (what we came for), but saw more the 12 of the Delacour Langur across 2 different parts of the park. Also the landscape was probably more striking than Trang An or Tam Coc. With the reeds and the karsts in the grey of the evening, it was just superb.
Shane Williamson — Google review
Such beautiful scenery, and a great boat trip that was more quiet than the tam coc one. When we went we were the only ones there which felt super serene
Lois Graham — Google review
Beautiful area, not that many tourists comparing to Tam Coc.
If you ask your hotel they all recommend to go to Tam Coc. Van Long is a little further, but it works out cheaper with the taxi included and much better without the overcrowding.
The Huong Pagoda is a massive collection of Buddhist shrines, grottos and temples constructed within the limestone mountains of Huong Tich. It serves as the location for an important religious festival that attracts numerous pilgrims throughout Vietnam. The main temple lies in My Duc District's Huong Son Commune, formerly Ha Tay Province, now Hanoi. The complex's heart is located in the Inner Temple or Perfume Temple situated within the cave of Huong Tich.
The Perfume Pagoda (Vietnamese: Chùa Hương, Chữ Hán: 香寺) is a vast complex of Buddhist temples and shrines built into the limestone Hương Tích mountains. It is the site of a religious festival which draws large numbers of pilgrims from across Vietnam.[1] The centre of the Hương Temple lies in Hương Sơn Commune, Mỹ Đức District, former Hà Tây Province (now Hanoi). The centre of this complex is the Perfume Temple, also known as Chùa Trong (Inner Temple), located in Hương Tích Cave.[2]
Hoang Tran — Google review
The boat ride to Hương pagoda is magnificent if you don’t mind the old boat ride typically for about 1 hr.
Along the way to the pagoda, you’ll see many local vendors, do not stop and buy anything there.
One thing to remember, they don’t have proper public restrooms at this time.
So just keep that in mind.
Alynn Nguyen — Google review
Amazing. The whole experience was fantastic. From the boat to the temple and the beautiful smell of jasmine throughout. Must see if you want to experience the spiritual and historical side of Vietnam
mathew brown — Google review
The cave is beautiful! Others? Not so special. Kinda lame.
Toan Nguyen — Google review
Astounding place . Must visit But please carry your umbrella as you will have to travel by rowing boat
joe chen — Google review
Chùa Hương, also known as the Perfume Pagoda, is a celebrated spiritual site near Hanoi, drawing thousands of pilgrims and tourists annually. The journey to the pagoda is an adventure in itself, involving a serene boat trip followed by a hike or cable car ride up the limestone mountains.
The tranquility of the river, the verdant rice fields, and the towering karsts set the stage for a profound experience. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the striking sight of the Huong Tich Cave, the heart of the complex, where incense smoke fills the air, and the sound of prayers echoes against the stalactites and stalagmites.
The Perfume Pagoda festival, held in the spring, is the peak time to visit, offering a glimpse into Vietnamese culture and religious practices. However, the site's natural beauty and spiritual ambiance can be appreciated year-round.
For a fulfilling visit, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and arrive early to avoid crowds. The Perfume Pagoda is not just a destination; it's a spiritual journey that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
Ha Dao Ngoc — Google review
The pagoda is beautiful, the Yen river is beautiful. There is lot of food. The car parking is available. The boat driver is frendly. It is easy to go there through 21B road. But the service is bad. The ticket counter is not at the gate, it is somewhere on the road, about 3 km back from the entrance gate. You will find it is hardly to get the boat only with the ticket. Tourism have to pay more money to have boat. Some local have the action of threaten the boat driver if they allowed you to reach the boat before pay the extra money. With the experience like that, I will not go there again if they don't change they way of service. I hope they will change in the future like Trangan.
tung tran.thanh — Google review
Spiritual Place , Many Visitor , Beautiful View..First you will go a boat ride about 1 hrs and then walk up to the cable car to the top temple cave . You will walk down few steps in to the cave . It seem it a yearly pilgrimage for the locals
Hari Dass Kumar Ratna Kumar — Google review
Decent place....not recommend for sunny day....boat ride will not have any cover and it takes atleast 1 hr each side.
Peaceful place,good cave,pagoda
Cable car👍
abc def — Google review
Spectacular. One of my best memories in Vietnam.
There was never a dull moment the entire day. We started out in boats, and headed up river to the temple. It was raining the day we went, but was beautiful nonetheless.
Spectacular views; really an experience out of this world.
Cafeteria/restaurant is massive and open-air.
Great day!
Neal Irvine — Google review
Very impractical set up. Standard let's walk up a mountain temple. Nice temple complex. What is bad is the people who run the site. You need a 30-minute rowboat trip to get to the site which is romantic and beautiful in nice weather in the rain not so much . You pay according to the amount of people in a little row boat and they will make you wait until the boat is full or charge you extra. When we arrived cold and damp we walked up the mountain to go to the cable car to bring us to the temple complex. Very slippery in the rain. Unfortunately, as signs are in Vietnamese we missed that tickets were not available at the cable car but back half way down the mountain. Also we would have to wait to get enough people in the cable car we weren't allowed to go by ourselves??. Being tired wet and cold we decided to just call it a day and go home. On return to the docks to get the boat back. We saw that there were motorboats going up and down the river and asked if we could take one as we were not looking forward to another wet uncomfortable trip. This was not possible not only did they not want to help us we had to pay extra to leave early. Very unfriendly staff and hardly any English spoken.
Dirk de Vlaam — Google review
A major pilgrimage place for the Vietnamese people. The pilgrimage goes on in January February March.
Praying there is believed to be able to overcome conception issues. If you have a baby you have to come back every year for 18 year ;)
Yves-Emmanuel Jutard — Google review
Worthy visit, do not go on the festival days to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Use the boat to reach the Thien Tru pagoda, it will be better to trekking to Huong Tich caves if you have strong health and trekking hobby, if not you can use cable to reach there.
hanna nguyen — Google review
Good to see old and new extended temple. Worth to go on boat, cable care as well as walking around. However, a lot of rubbishes in the way to go and on the river. Also dont agree with the shop owners to sell wild animals, birds for releasing. The more people buy it, the more people demand to catching wild animals.
Dinh Hong Thom — Google review
This is from my travel diary: We had arranged to go on a tour out to the Perfume Pagoda which is about 120 km outside of Hanoi. On the way there we had a really good look at villages. Then to get to the Perfume Pagoda, known as Huong Pagoda, we had to take a long ride in a dugout canoe. This is a very impressive site. The Perfume Pagoda, known locally as Chua Huong or ‘inner temple’, is at the centre of a very revered and sacred site featuring a maze of mainly Buddhist temples built into the limestone cliffs of Huong Tich. At the heart of this complex lies the Perfume Temple or Perfume Pagoda in the Huong Tich Cave. It is believed that the first temple was built here in the 15th century, although legend declares that the site was actually discovered over 2,000 years ago by a Buddhist monk who was meditating nearby. The mountain foothills are an area of great natural and spiritual beauty filled with streams, tropical plants, and temples. We basically spent the whole day there.
Ross Daniels — Google review
Very interesting place to visit, unique history, set in a remote location, surrounded by beautiful vistas.
To get to any of the 15 pagodas in this area you must travel by boat. The Huong Pagoda was 3km upriver and you must visit the local temple as part of the journey. It's a very tranquil way to start.
The Pagoda itself is set up a short but steep walk up from the shore, and is maintained by a group of working monks. Unique to this Pagoda, is that is a monk dies here, they are given their own tomb on the grounds, and they're cast as a statue, and after 200 years the statue will be painted gold, as it is believed they have achieved enlightenment as a Buddha.
The star attraction is the cave at the top of the nearby mountain, said to be the restimg place of a king's daughter. You can walk to the summit (3,400 steps) but unless you are very, very fit you'll want to take the cable car. There is still another 200 or so steps to the summit, before you decend into a very stunning and tranquil cave.
Overall I'd say it's well worth the visit, however there are a few things to be aware of:
1) There is a festival here Jan-Mar, that attracts 2mil worshippers. The river is choked with boats, and it is shoulder to shoulder walking room. This in itself would be an experience.
2) The place is step up to sell to those visitors during the festival - everywhere the path is lined with makeshift shops and restaurants all the way to the summit. Outside of the festival time period the majority of these are closed, so you are walking past walls of tarps.
3) The heat - there is nowhere to hide from it. Especially on high humidity days. There are no air-conditioned buildings, just fans and refrigerated drinks. A number of our group suffered heat exhaustion, and there was little relief until we were back on the bus.