Exploring the Mystical Caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang

A Day of Discovery in Phong Nha

Today was another incredible day in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, filled with breathtaking sights and delicious tastes. It's amazing how much this region has to offer, from its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant local culture. Jean-Pierre and I are constantly finding new things to explore, and I'm excited to share our experiences with you all.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at ARTIST'S ZONE. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it the perfect spot to start our morning. I opted for a traditional Vietnamese coffee, which gave me the caffeine kick I needed to get ready for the day's adventures. Jean-Pierre, ever the fan of trying new things, went for a local herbal tea and a chicken salad. It's these little moments of cultural immersion that make our travels so enriching.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine amidst artistic decor at ARTIST'S ZONE in Phong Nha – where culture meets flavor.

After breakfast, we set off to explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The park itself is a marvel, a sprawling landscape of karst mountains and lush greenery. The weather in December is quite pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 23°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities. We decided to visit Hang Tra Ang, a cave known for its stunning rock formations and underground river.


Explore the captivating Hang Trạch Ang in Quang Binh, Vietnam - a natural wonder of caves and stunning landscapes for every adventurer's delight.

The drive to Hang Tra Ang was an adventure in itself. We passed through winding roads, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Along the way, we made a quick stop at a local shop, Shop Hoa Tươi Phong Nha, Bố Trạch, Quảng Bình, to pick up some fresh flowers. I thought it would be a nice gesture to leave them at a small shrine we planned to visit near the cave. It’s important to me to always show respect for the local customs and traditions.


Explore the vibrant floral artistry at Shop Hoa Tươi Phong Nha, where every bloom tells a story in the heart of Quang Binh's natural paradise.

Reaching Hang Tra Ang was like stepping into another world. The entrance to the cave is hidden amidst dense vegetation, and the air is filled with a sense of mystery. Before entering, we took a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of the surroundings. The hike to the cave was relatively easy, and the anticipation of what lay ahead kept us energized. I was so glad I remembered to pack my hiking boots; they were essential for navigating the rocky terrain.

Inside Hang Tra Ang, we were greeted by a mesmerizing sight. The cave is illuminated by natural light filtering through openings in the ceiling, creating an ethereal glow. The stalactites and stalagmites formed intricate patterns, resembling ancient sculptures. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer scale and beauty of nature's creation. Jean-Pierre, with his keen eye for detail, was busy capturing the scene with his camera. We spent a good hour exploring the cave, marveling at its hidden chambers and crystal-clear pools. I even took a refreshing dip in the underground river, the cool water a welcome contrast to the humid air outside.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

After our subterranean adventure, we were famished. We headed to Lotus Restaurant - Phong Nha for lunch. This place came highly recommended, and it didn't disappoint. The restaurant had a charming ambiance, with colorful lanterns and traditional Vietnamese decor. We ordered a variety of dishes, including fresh spring rolls, flavorful pho, and a hearty rice dish. The ingredients were incredibly fresh, and the flavors were authentic. It was a true culinary delight.


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

In the afternoon, we took a leisurely stroll through the town of Phong Nha. The town is small but full of character, with friendly locals and quaint shops. I couldn't resist buying a few souvenirs to take back home – a hand-woven scarf, a traditional conical hat, and some local coffee beans. It's always nice to have a little something to remind us of our travels. We also passed by the Tra Ang Bridge and Eight-Lady Cave. There were many historical stories about the Vietnamese independent war on Tra Ang Bridge. Eight Ladies cave presents a heroic period for the Vietnamese people.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant for dinner. Being a vegetarian, I was thrilled to discover this gem. The restaurant had a lovely setting, overlooking the river. The menu was extensive, with a wide range of vegan options to choose from. I opted for the lemongrass chili mushrooms, while Jean-Pierre went for the braised tofu. Both dishes were incredibly flavorful and satisfying. We ended our meal with a delicious coconut mango smoothie, the perfect way to cap off a wonderful day.


Discover delicious vegan cuisine at Phong Nha Vegan Restaurant - where local flavors meet healthy eating in beautiful Quang Binh Province.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Bờ bắc sông Son - Phong Nha Kẻ Bàng. I've heard it's a beautiful area, and I'm excited to see what it has to offer. We'll also be trying out The Villas Restaurant for breakfast, Bamboo Chopsticks for lunch, and The Rice House for dinner. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting Pub with cold beer in the evening for a relaxing drink.

Reflecting on today, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Each day brings new adventures and discoveries, and I'm constantly amazed by the richness of this region. From exploring the depths of Hang Tra Ang to savoring the local vegan cuisine, today was a perfect blend of adventure and culinary delights.

I am also grateful for Jean-Pierre's company. Traveling with my spouse makes every experience more meaningful. I am lucky to have him by my side as we explore the world together. His adventurous spirit and love for new experiences complement mine, and I know that we will create many more unforgettable memories together. Maybe we can even learn some traditional Malagasy dance together when we get back to Montreal!

As I sit here writing this blog, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement for what tomorrow will bring. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park has so much to offer, and I'm eager to continue exploring its hidden gems. Until then, au revoir from Vietnam!

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.