Kicking off the list is Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, renowned for its awe-inspiring cave systems and enigmatic underground rivers.
The compilation also includes Hang En Cave, Van Long Nature Reserve, Dark Cave, Trang An, Cuc Phuong National Park, Phat Diem Cathedral, Mua Cave, and Bai Dinh Pagoda, offering a diverse range of natural and cultural attractions.
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| Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park captivates visitors with its ancient cave systems and underground rivers. Photo: Lonely Planet |
As introduced by Lonely Planet, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park earned its stripes as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. This natural sanctuary boasts the oldest limestone mountains in Asia, formed approximately 400 million years ago.
It serves as a habitat for an astonishing array of wildlife, including over 100 mammal species, 10 primate species, tigers, elephants, the elusive Asian antelope (saola), 81 reptile and amphibian species, and more than 300 bird species.
Coming in at second place is Son Doong Cave, a subterranean colossus that holds not one but three world records. Its sheer size and unique ecosystem earn it a spot as one of the world’s most magnificent natural wonders. Tu Lan Cave and Thien Duong Cave round off the top four destinations on the list.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, located in Quang Binh, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts a vast network of caves, underground rivers, and unique flora and fauna.
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| Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a diverse ecosystem. Photo: Vinpearl |
The park is divided into three distinct areas: a strictly protected area spanning 100,296 hectares, an ecological restoration zone of 19,619 hectares, and a 3,411-hectare service subdivision.
Its cave system, the oldest in Southeast Asia, comprises two major networks: Phong Nha Cave and Vom Cave. The sheer magnitude and beauty of these caves have earned them the moniker, “Kingdom of Caves.”
Son Doong Cave
Son Doong, the largest cave in the world, is a subterranean wonder that holds three world records. Located in Quang Binh, Vietnam, this geological marvel boasts its own ecosystem and weather system. Its vast interior could accommodate an entire New York City block, making it a must-see destination.
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| Son Doong Cave: A subterranean masterpiece holding three world records. Photo: Vinpearl |
Beyond Son Doong, the national park is home to over 404 other caves, offering a plethora of exploration opportunities. Visitors can choose from various cave tours catering to different fitness levels and interests. The area also provides chances for jungle treks, boat rides, and cultural immersion with local communities.
Tu Lan Cave System
The Tu Lan cave system is a network of streams that have carved their way through the countryside over millions of years, resulting in a collection of strikingly diverse caves.
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| Tu Lan Cave System: A network of streams carving their way through the countryside. Photo: Phong Nha Caves Tour |
Comprised of over 10 caves, the Tu Lan Cave System includes Hang Ton, discovered in 1992 and further explored in 2012. Its dry entrance offers a panoramic view of the valley below, inviting adventurers to explore its depths.
Thien Duong Cave
Thien Duong Cave resides within the core ecosystem of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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| Thien Duong Cave: Discovered in 2005, it boasts a unique system of stalactites and stalagmites. Photo: The World and Vietnam Report |
Located about 70km northwest of Dong Hoi City, Thien Duong Cave was discovered by local residents in 2005. In addition to its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, it is one of the largest caves in the world.
Hang En Cave
Hang En Cave, the third-largest cave in the world, is a breathtaking cavern that has captured the attention of international media outlets such as National Geographic, The New York Times, and Lonely Planet. It even made an appearance in the Hollywood blockbuster “Pan: In the Neverland.”
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| Hang En Cave: The third-largest cave in the world, featured in National Geographic and The New York Times. Photo: Eviva Tour |
Hang En has become a popular adventure tourism destination since 2012, attracting visitors with its high cliffs and wide floor. It serves as a nesting habitat for hundreds of thousands of swifts, creating a spectacular sight during their nesting season.
Van Long Nature Reserve
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| Van Long Nature Reserve: A popular ecotourism destination in Northern Vietnam. Photo: TripAdvisor |
Van Long Nature Reserve, located in Northern Vietnam, is a haven for ecotourism enthusiasts. Its diverse ecosystem and rare animal species have attracted millions of visitors and the attention of researchers and nature preservation organizations worldwide. The reserve’s pristine beauty was also featured in the movie “King Kong – Skull Island.”
Dark Cave
Dark Cave is one of the most popular caves in Quang Binh province, Vietnam. Part of the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, it is located about 50 kilometers from the center of Dong Hoi City.
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| Dark Cave: A popular Vietnam cave with a hidden, unlit interior. Photo: Vinpearl |
Unlike other caves that are artificially lit, Dark Cave remains mostly in darkness. Its entrance is concealed beneath lush foliage, and the only way to access it is via a steep, rocky path through the forest.
Trang An Landscape Complex
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| Trang An Landscape Complex: A “Ha Long Bay on land” with its beautiful landscape and numerous caves. Photo: Di san Trang An |
Trang An, located in Ninh Binh Province, Northern Vietnam, is often referred to as a “Ha Long Bay on land.” This spectacular landscape features limestone karst peaks, valleys, caves, mountains, trees, and historic relics.
Trang An Eco-tourist Site is considered an outdoor geological museum, surrounded by bow-shaped limestone mountain ranges and a delta wetland area.
Cuc Phuong National Park
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| Cuc Phuong National Park: Vietnam’s oldest national park, established in 1962. Photo: Vinpearl |
Established in 1962, Cuc Phuong is Vietnam’s oldest national park. Located 120km southwest of Hanoi, it spans the provinces of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa. Cuc Phuong is renowned for its rich cultural and wildlife heritage, as well as its enchanting scenery. The park’s landscape, nestled on two limestone mountain ranges, boasts a diverse ecosystem and valuable paleontological and anthropological vestiges.
Phat Diem Cathedral
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| Phat Diem Cathedral: A unique blend of Eastern and Western architecture. Photo: Vinpearl |
Phat Diem Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in Vietnam, dating back more than 100 years, is a must-see destination. Its distinctive blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles draws tourists from far and wide.
The Phat Diem Stone Church complex, spanning 22 hectares, includes ponds, lakes, churches, and artificial caves, all constructed between 1875 and 1899.
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