Exploring the Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang with Friends

Day 3: Delving Deeper into Phong Nha's Heart

Today was all about embracing the depths – both literally and figuratively. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park continues to amaze with its seemingly endless network of caves, each holding its own unique secrets and breathtaking beauty. Today, my friends and I ventured into two more of these subterranean worlds, followed by some well-deserved relaxation and a taste of local flavors.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Bamboo Chopsticks. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and I enjoyed the authentic Vietnamese cuisine made from locally-sourced ingredients. It’s amazing how a good bowl of Pho can set the tone for a day of adventure. Fueled up and ready, we headed towards our first destination: Tien Son Cave.


Discover the stunning formations and natural beauty of Tien Son Cave in Vietnam's Quang Binh Province, a must-visit for every adventure seeker.

The approach to Tien Son Cave was an adventure in itself. After a short boat ride, we tackled the climb up a winding staircase – all 500+ steps of it. It was a bit of a workout, but the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the entrance were more than worth the effort. I could see the convergence of rivers and the iconic Tien Son semicircular bridge, all framed by lush greenery.

Inside Tien Son Cave, it felt like stepping into another world. The cave, discovered in 1935, stretches almost a kilometer long and is filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have been forming for millions of years. The lighting inside highlighted the formations, casting shadows that danced across the walls. Some of the stalactites even resembled familiar shapes – Buddha statues, lotus thrones, dragons, and phoenixes. According to local legend, the cave was once a dwelling place for deities, which explains its nickname “fairyland”.

The earth has music for those who listen.

What I found particularly fascinating was the acoustics inside the cave. When we gently knocked on some of the stalactite columns, they produced sounds like gongs and drums. It was an ethereal experience, like the cave itself was singing. It's incredible to think that this natural wonder was created tens of millions of years ago when a water current carved through the limestone mountain. Although Tien Son Cave is located close to Phong Nha Cave, there are no connecting grottos between them.

After exploring Tien Son Cave, we were ready for our next adventure: Hang Va Cave.


Explore the enchanting Hang Va Cave, a natural wonder in Quang Binh, Vietnam, filled with breathtaking formations and rich biodiversity.

Getting to Hang Va was a completely different experience. It is known for its unique stalactites. This cave is located deep within the national park, about 50 meters from the exit of Son Doong Cave.

The trek to Hang Va was challenging but rewarding. We hiked over rocky terrain, waded through streams, and even crawled through narrow passages. It definitely required a sense of adventure and a good level of fitness, but the stunning scenery made it all worthwhile. The landscape was dotted with towering limestone mountains and dense jungle, creating a truly immersive experience.

Hang Va Cave is special because of its unique stalactites. Hundreds of cone-shaped stalactites reach over two meters in height, located within gour pools. Scientists aren't sure how these tower cone formations were created. The cave was discovered in 1992 and explored in 2012. It's part of a vast network of caves in the area, some of which are still being discovered and explored. As we ventured deeper into the cave, our guide shared stories about the local people who first discovered these hidden wonders. It was fascinating to learn about their knowledge of the jungle and their respect for the natural world.

After a long day of exploring, we were famished. We headed to The Rice House for lunch.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at The Rice House in Phong Nha - a culinary haven surrounded by breathtaking nature.

This restaurant is known for its authentic Vietnamese dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. I decided to try the Bun Cha, a local specialty of grilled pork with rice noodles and herbs. It was absolutely delicious. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff made the experience even more enjoyable.

As the sun began to set, we decided to unwind at Jungle Boss Pub and Restaurant.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Jungle Boss Pub and Restaurant in Quang Binh, Vietnam.

This place had a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of caving. We ordered some local beers and shared stories about our adventures. It was great to connect with my friends and reflect on the incredible experiences we've had so far. Hans would have loved this place, I am sure. I need to remember to bring him here when we come back to Vietnam.

For dinner, we decided to try Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Nhật Phong 3.


Experience the freshest seafood in Nha Trang at Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Nhật Phong 3 - where tradition meets taste!

Although I learned that the restaurant is actually located in Nha Trang, not Phong Nha, we still found a great seafood restaurant in town. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of fresh seafood. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, aromatic crab, and spicy shrimp salad. Everything was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The perfect way to end a day of exploration.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park with my friends. Each day brings new adventures and discoveries, and I'm constantly amazed by the beauty and diversity of this region. Tomorrow, we plan to explore En Cave, and I'm already excited to see what surprises await us. But now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure.

Before heading back to the hotel, we made a quick stop at a local market to pick up some snacks for the road. I couldn't resist buying some fresh fruit and some traditional Vietnamese sweets. It's always fun to try new things and immerse myself in the local culture.

Even though I had forgotten to pack insect repellent and swimwear for this trip, I'm making the most of it. I'll definitely need to buy some insect repellent tomorrow before we head out to En Cave. And maybe I can find a local shop that sells swimwear. You never know when you might need it in a place like this!

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm reminded of the importance of stepping outside of my comfort zone and embracing new experiences. Traveling with friends makes it even more special, as we share the thrill of discovery and create memories that will last a lifetime. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!