Exploring the Natural Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Beneath the Surface: A Journey into Paradise and Tien Son Caves

Today, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park revealed more of its stunning secrets. After yesterday’s initial exploration, I was eager to delve deeper into the region's famed cave systems. The anticipation was high as we set out to discover the wonders hidden beneath the surface, a stark contrast to the vibrant life above ground.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bamboo Chopsticks, a local restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and commitment to eco-friendly practices. Elke and Maximilian particularly enjoyed the *pho*, while I opted for a traditional *banh mi*. Fuelled up, we were ready for our subterranean adventure.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bamboo Chopsticks in Phong Nha – where every meal tells a story.

First on the agenda was Paradise Cave, and what a fitting name it has. Discovered in 2005, it's one of the most famous caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. After purchasing our tickets, we opted for the electric buggy to take us through the initial 1.6km stretch of pristine forest. The air was fresh, carrying the scent of the surrounding jungle. From the buggy drop-off point, it was a 500m trek to the cave entrance, a path that hinted at the marvels to come.

Stepping into Paradise Cave was like entering another world. The sheer scale of the cave is astounding; it stretches over 31 kilometers, making it the longest dry cave in Asia. The interior is a series of vast chambers, some reaching heights of up to 70 meters. A wooden walkway allows visitors to explore the first kilometer of the cave, and every step revealed a new vista of breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites. The formations were surreal, sculpted by nature over millennia into a gallery of otherworldly art. The lighting accentuated the natural beauty, casting shadows that danced across the cave walls, adding to the sense of mystery and grandeur.

Nature does nothing without purpose or uselessly.

I found myself lost in contemplation, marveling at the forces that shaped this subterranean palace. It was easy to see why the British cave explorers who first explored it in detail were moved to call it Paradise Cave. The scale and beauty of the cave are simply awe-inspiring. Maximilian was particularly fascinated by the shapes of the stalactites, imagining them as fantastical creatures and landscapes. Elke, ever the historian, was engrossed in reading about the cave's geological formation and the impact of the surrounding environment.

Leaving Paradise Cave, we made our way to Tien Son Cave, also known as the Castle of Stalactites. Situated close to Phong Nha Cave, Tien Son offers a different, yet equally captivating experience. To reach the entrance, we climbed a significant number of stairs, a small price to pay for the wonders that awaited us. As we ascended, the views of the surrounding landscape became increasingly impressive, a tapestry of green jungle and towering karst formations.


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

Tien Son Cave, while smaller than Paradise Cave, is no less impressive. It's a dry cave adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, sculpted into intricate shapes that spark the imagination. The cave stretches for nearly a kilometer, though only a portion is accessible to tourists. As we ventured deeper, we were struck by the serene atmosphere, a sense of tranquility that permeated the underground space. The play of light and shadow accentuated the natural sculptures, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. I tried to capture the beauty with my camera, hoping to share the experience with you all, but photographs can hardly do it justice.

After our exploration of Tien Son Cave, we were ready for a late lunch. We headed to Lotus Restaurant - Phong Nha, enticed by its reputation for authentic Vietnamese flavors. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to sample the culinary delights on offer. We enjoyed a variety of dishes, from fresh spring rolls to savory noodle soups, each bursting with flavor and local ingredients. Elke particularly enjoyed the artful presentation of the dishes, while Maximilian was a fan of the spring rolls.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Lotus Restaurant - Phong Nha in Quang Binh Province, where every dish tells a story.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to unwind at Jungle Boss Pub and Restaurant. It was a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. We enjoyed a couple of local beers, sharing stories and laughter as the sun set over the karst landscape. It was a fitting end to a day filled with wonder and discovery.


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

For dinner, we chose Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant, drawn in by its cozy atmosphere and the promise of traditional Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant was charming, decorated with colorful lanterns that cast a warm glow. We savored the *bun cha* and *banh mi*, immersing ourselves in the local flavors. It was a satisfying end to a day of subterranean exploration and culinary delights.


Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst the stunning landscapes of Phong Nha at Lantern Vietnamese Restaurant.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Phong Nha Cave and Hang Va Cave. I am particularly excited about Phong Nha Cave, with its underground river. We also intend to visit Harry's Coconuts, a local shop. Before that, we will have breakfast at The Rice House and try Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant for lunch. Dinner will be at ARTIST'S ZONE. It promises to be another day of adventure and discovery, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

As I sit here, penning these thoughts, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. It's a place that inspires awe and wonder, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature. And to share it with my family makes it all the more special. I'm also grateful that I only forgot the rain poncho and portable phone charger from our list of essentials. Hopefully, the weather will stay dry, and we won't have any issues with the phone. Now, off to bed, ready for another day of exploration!

I am also looking forward to the rest of our trip. I am sure that the next few days will bring new experiences and memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.