PHONG NHA TRAVEL: MUST – TRY PLACES AND FOOD

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park is one of the priceless and beautiful natural treasures in Quang Binh. It covers an area of about 201,000 hectares. The core zone of the national park is 85,754 hectares with a buffer zone of 195,400 hectares. In August 2013, the Prime Minister decided to expand the park to 1,233.26 km. The park spans across 5 communes: Xuan Trach, Tan Trach, Thuong Trach, Son Trach in Bo Trach, Thuong Hoa, Trung Hoa in Minh Hoa, and Truong Son in Quang Ninh.

The park is characterized by limestone mountain ranges with more than 400 caves, underground rivers, and a rich system of valuable flora and fauna listed in Vietnam’s and the world’s Red Book.

1. The Most Beautiful Phong Nha | Quang Binh Tourist Spots

1.1. Phong Nha Cave

Location: About 40km northwest of Dong Hoi city, located in Son Trach commune, Bo Trach district.

A World Natural Wonder: In April 1997, Phong Nha Cave was recognized by BCRA for 7 outstanding criteria: the best underground river, the largest entrance, the best and largest dry – caves, the most magical and magnificient stalactite, the longest water cave. On July 2, 2013, it was officially recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage.

You will ride a dragon boat upstream on the emerald Son River to the cave entrance. Most of the tour is by boat, so it’s less tiring and suitable for all ages.

Ticket Prices:

• Cave entrance: 150,000 VND/person
• Boat ticket: 550,000 VND/boat (12 seats)

Notes:

• Seniors 60+ get 50% discount.
• Children below 1.1m free; 1.1m–1.3m pay 50%.

Preparation:

• Comfortable clothes and shoes.
• Bring fully charged phone and accessories like hats, sunglasses, and scarves for great photos.

1.2 Thien Duong (Paradise) Cave

Location: In Sơn Trạch commune, about 70km from Dong Hoi on Ho Chi Minh Road.

Features:

• Paradise Cave is known as the “Underground Royal Palace” thanks to its magnificent and majestic system of stalactites and stalagmites, resembling a grand palace beneath the earth.
• It is a completely dry cave, with the entrance located at an altitude of 360 meters above sea level.
• Visitors will need to do a fair amount of walking. After purchasing tickets, guests take an electric shuttle to the site, then continue on foot by climbing 658 steps or following a gently sloping path about 600 meters long to reach the cave entrance. Inside the cave, sightseeing is done along nearly 1 kilometer of wooden walkways.
• The path leading to the cave entrance winds through the lush primary forest canopy of Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, offering a beautiful and cool atmosphere.
• The temperature inside the cave is consistently maintained at around 16–18°C, making it pleasantly cool all year round.

Ticket Prices:

• 1 km sightseeing ticket: 270,000 VND/person (includes electric car)
• 7 km exploration ticket: 2,000,000 VND/person

Preparation & Notes:

• Comfortable clothing and high-traction shoes; avoid slippers or heels.
• Bring a fan, hat, and water in summer.
• The steep walk requires stamina. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues.

1.3. Chay River – Dark Cave Tourism Area

Location: About 65km west of Dong Hoi, in Son Trach, Bo Trach district.

Features:

• Beautiful river scenery with zipline.
• Mud bath and kayak experiences inside Hang Tối.

Ticket Prices:

• Full package including mud bath: 450,000 VND/person
• Zipline (400m): 270,000 VND/person
• Water activities package (not included zipline 400m and mud bath): 150,000 VND/person (not in summer)

Preparation:

• Waterproof and floatable phone pouch.
• Women should bring plain bikinis without ruffles or decorative layers; men should bring plain swim trunks or shorts.
• Sunscreen, a hat, and mosquito repellent.
• Bath towel, comb, body soap, and shampoo.
• Waterproof bag for storing wet clothes after changing.
• Non-slip sandals with good traction to prevent slipping.

1.4. Mooc Stream

Location: About 60km from Dong Hoi into Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park.

Features:

• The spring features crystal-clear water with a stunning jade-green color, creating a unique and rare poetic landscape.
• Visitors can walk across wooden bridges to explore and enjoy activities at Nuoc Mooc Spring.
• Here, travelers are free to swim in the cool water while admiring the surrounding natural scenery. Exciting activities are also available, such as kayaking and jumping into the water from elevated wooden bridges, offering a truly thrilling experience.
• There is a separate bathing area designed especially for young children, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their time with peace of mind.

Ticket Prices:

• Full ticket: 280,000 VND/adult
• Children 1.1–1.3m: 200,000 VND
• Under 1.1m free

Preparation: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, water-proof phone case.

1.5. Hava Valley

Location: In Chay Lap village, requires about 45km drive from Dong Hoi, then 27km further.

Features: Hava Valley is a new tourist attraction in Phong Nha that has quickly become popular with travelers. Covering an area of nearly 16 hectares, the valley is surrounded by majestic limestone mountains and lush green forests. Hava Valley is also known as the “Jade Valley” thanks to its crystal-clear turquoise water. With its pristine landscape, fresh air, and cool climate, the valley offers visitors a refreshing and peaceful escape.

When visiting Hava Valley, travelers not only get to admire breathtaking natural scenery but also enjoy a wide range of exciting outdoor activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), high-speed water slides, and cliff jumping. One of the highlights is the experience of the longest water-landing zipline in Vietnam, stretching up to 600 meters, promising an unforgettable adventure for thrill-seekers.

Tickets & Preparation:

All-inclusive ticket price: 250,000 VND per person

Included activities:

• 600-meter water zipline ride
• Kayaking to explore Sỏi Vàng Bay
• High-speed water slide
• River swimming and bridge jumping with three different levels

Sightseeing ticket (excluding zipline): 150,000 VND per adult

This ticket is for visitors who do not wish to participate in the zipline activity and includes access to the sightseeing areas and other non-zipline activities.

Children’s ticket prices:

• Children from 1 meter to 1.4 meters tall: 80,000 VND per ticket
• Children under 1 meter tall: Free admission

1.6. Ozo Adventure Park

Location: Ozo Park is located in Dong Giang Village, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province.

Features: Ozo Park is an attractive destination nestled within Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, and is highly favored by nature lovers. Covering an area of up to 5 hectares of pristine primary forest, it is currently one of the largest primeval forest parks in Vietnam.

With its fresh air, wide-open space, and untouched natural surroundings, Ozo Park is an ideal destination for travelers who love nature and outdoor physical activities.

The park features an 800-meter-long tree-top adventure system and is the first park in Vietnam to be built inside a primary forest. It is also the first to develop both water-based and tree-based games, offering a wide range of exciting experiential activities for visitors.

Entrance Fees:

• Adults: 200,000 VND per person
• Children (1m – 1.4m): 100,000 VND per person
• Children under 1m: Free
• Seniors (over 60 years old): 100,000 VND per person

Preparation:

• Comfortable, breathable clothing (sportswear, shorts, T-shirts for easy movement)
• Sports shoes or sandals with back straps; avoid high heels or flip-flops due to frequent movement
• Swimwear (if you plan to kayak, swim in streams, or join water-based activities)
• Wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection
• Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays
• Waterproof bag for phones and cameras when joining water activities
• Towel and a change of clothes after activities
• Personal water bottle to stay hydrated during outdoor activities
• Personal medication (if you have specific health conditions), along with insect repellent
• Power bank, as you may use your phone frequently for photos and videos

1.7. Vung Temple – Yen Island

Location: Vung Temple – Yen Island, the final resting place of Vo Nguyen Giap, is located in Tho Son Hamlet, Quang Dong Commune, Quang Trach District, Quang Binh.
The site lies about 3 km east of National Highway 1A and approximately 4 km from Ngang Pass.

Features:

• General Giap’s resting place is situated halfway up Tho Son Mountain, part of the Hoanh Son range within the Truong Son mountain system. Facing the vast East Sea, Yen Island appears like a small pearl rising from the ocean.
• This spiritual destination is known for its rare and beautiful feng shui setting in Vietnam: backed by mountains, facing the sea, and naturally shielded in front by Yen Island.
• The site is a spiritual and memorial destination, and visitors are not required to purchase entrance tickets.

Preparation:

• Visitors should wear modest and respectful clothing, as this is a sacred and spiritual site dedicated to commemorating a great national hero.
• It is also advisable to apply sunscreen and bring an umbrella or a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.

1.8. Nhat Le Beach (Dong Hoi)

Location: within Dong Hoi city — easy for swimming, beach activities, and seafood dining nearby. Beach amenities include changing rooms and freshwater showers.

Features

• Located right in the heart of Dong Hoi, Nhat Le Beach features a gently sloping and long coastline, making it ideal for swimming and beach activities.
• Seafood restaurants line the coastal road, offering great convenience for travelers. After swimming, visitors can easily step out and enjoy fresh, hot, and delicious seafood right by the beach.
• Nhat Le Beach provides services such as swimwear and life jacket rentals. There are also freshwater shower areas and changing rooms available, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for visitors.

Preparations:

• Beach essentials such as swimsuits, goggles, towels, and a comb.
• Sunscreen should be applied before entering the sea.
• Flip-flops or sandals for easy walking on the sand.
• A wide-brimmed hat and stylish sunglasses for stunning beach photos.
• A waterproof bag to carry wet items after swimming.

1.9. Bang Onsen Hot Mineral Springs & Spa Resort

Location: Kim Thuy commune, Le Thuy district — about 60km from Dong Hoi.

Features:

• Bang Mineral Hot Spring is a precious natural mineral spring. It currently has around 200 large and small natural outlets, with a stable water flow of approximately 15–19 liters per second. The water temperature reaches about 105°C. The total dissolved solids (TDS) of Bang mineral water range from 550 to 570 mg/liter, with a pH level of around 8.5–8.7. Bang mineral water belongs to the sodium bicarbonate mineral water group, making it ideal for bathing, relaxation, and health therapy.
• The site is invested, designed, and constructed in the style of a Japanese Onsen hot spring resort. It features modern facilities, lush green surroundings, and a peaceful yet luxurious atmosphere.

Preparations:

• Bring a few sets of clothes to change into after bathing.
• Accessories such as sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, scarves, or shawls for beautiful, photo-ready moments.

1.10. Son Doong Cave – World’s Largest Cave

Location: Son Trach commune, Bo Trach district. It’s the world’s largest natural cave, about 6km long with enormous dimensions. This is an adventure destination requiring prior booking and good physical health.

Features:

• Son Doong Cave is a cave located deep within the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. It is considered the most magnificent and beautiful cave in the world—a true jewel created by nature, featuring immense and mesmerizing beauty. Son Doong can truly be described as a masterpiece, a wonder of creation. Its breathtaking scale has astonished and amazed the world.
• The cave stretches over 6 kilometers in length, rises more than 150 meters in height, and reaches approximately 200 meters in width. Son Doong has officially broken the previous record held by Deer Cave in Malaysia to become the largest natural cave in the world.
• This is a high-end adventure tourism destination. Due to its exclusivity, visitors must book at least one year in advance, and participants are required to be in good physical condition to join the expedition.

Preparation:

• As the cave lies deep underground, temperatures can be cool and conditions are often damp. Travelers should bring warm clothing such as jackets, sweaters, or windbreakers. Pack 4–5 lightweight long-sleeve shirts or breathable shirts made of quick-drying materials for comfortable movement.
  If choosing leggings or yoga pants, they should be long, modest, and flexible to allow easy movement. Pants made from stiff materials or jeans are not permitted on the tour.
• Footwear must be professional hiking shoes made from durable materials suitable for rugged terrain. Waterproof shoes are not recommended, as they do not drain water well. Bring 4–5 pairs of thick, long socks (ankle socks or waterproof socks are not allowed).
• A small backpack to carry essential items such as a camera, video recorder, bottled water, sunscreen, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and biodegradable shampoo.

2. Must-Try Foods in Phong Nha – Quảng Bình

2.1. Phong Nha Carp

Carp from Phong Nha is well known for its naturally sweet, rich, and distinctive flavor. The fish has firm, fatty meat that makes it especially appealing to food lovers.

Phong Nha carp can be prepared in a variety of delicious dishes, such as grass carp porridge, steamed grass carp served with fresh herbs, and hot pot, each highlighting the fish’s unique taste.

2.2. Chao Canh

Quang Binh-style Chao Canh is rich and flavorful, especially when enjoyed with crispy ram.

Only by savoring a hearty bowl of chao canh can one truly understand the authentic taste of Quang Binh cuisine. Served piping hot, each bowl is fragrant and well-seasoned, with ingredients customized to the customer’s preference. When paired with a piece of golden, crunchy ram, the dish perfectly reflects the warmth and hospitality of the people of Quang Binh, who always know how to delight their guests through food.

2.3. Khoai Fish Hotpot

This tender, naturally sweet fish—soft from bone to flesh—is simply prepared in a rich hot pot filled with flavorful ingredients such as bamboo shoots, starfruit, tomatoes, and a variety of fresh vegetables. Despite its simplicity, the dish is deeply satisfying and easily wins over diners with its comforting and well-balanced taste.

2.4. Seafood

As a coastal province in central Vietnam, Quang Binh is best known for its cuisine made from the abundant local seafood. Dishes such as sea ram rolls, grilled or steamed scallops and mussels, along with fresh shrimp, fish, and squid prepared on the spot, are always warmly welcomed by visitors.

2.5. Eel and Oyster Dishes

Another signature specialty of Quang Binh is eel porridge, eel soup, eel vermicelli, or oyster porridge. The fragrant, naturally sweet pieces of freshwater eel, or the rich and plump oysters served in a steaming bowl of porridge, always awaken the senses and leave diners’ appetites thoroughly satisfied.

2.6. Ngheo Fish Salad

Ngheo fish salad (also known locally as nham fish) served with hot broth and fresh herbs offers a distinctive and unforgettable flavor. In addition, braised ngheo fish cooked with turmeric and ginger is rich, aromatic, and extremely satisfying, making it a perfect dish to enjoy with rice.

Another popular option is the simple ngheo fish porridge, which is widely loved for its light taste, cooling effect, and nutritional benefits.

2.7. Melaleuca Mushroom Soup

With a slightly bitter taste at first bite, this dish reveals a gentle sweetness that slowly spreads after swallowing, creating an addictive flavor for those who come to love it. After being carefully cleaned, melaleuca mushrooms are often cooked with sweet potato leaves or made into porridge, resulting in a light and wholesome dish that helps cleanse and refresh the body.

2.8. Banh Xeo

White banh beo are made from smooth rice flour batter, topped with a savory mixture of shrimp and pork, along with crispy pork crackling that look irresistibly tempting at first glance. Once you taste them, you’ll find yourself wanting more, completely unable to resist their delicious flavor.