Van Long lagoon- A beautiful scenery
Van Long Lagoon has been a quiet, untamed area so far. Van Long Natural Reservation is in the area of Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh and stretches out in the area of 7 communes. It is only 80km from Hanoi with accessible roads for tourists who wish to explore.
There is a rich ecosystem here: aquatic species, terrestrial flora and fauna. The water is clear and fresh and no ripples found. Standing on a boat, visitors can see mosses and algae under the water. Scientists said there is a species of algae that makes the water clean and clear.
The lagoon is beautiful in all seasons of the year: in spring in the green color of newly grown leaves; in summer is the pink color of lotus flowers; in fall is the white color of reeds on the sides; in early winter is the yellow color of leaves.
In addition, this is the habitat of many species of birds and animals, some are in the World Red Book as white shorts langurs with over 40 individuals. The limestone terrain has been safe shelter for many rare and precious species. Every afternoon, thousands of white storks flying as a soft silk over the water, making it a natural masterpiece.
There are beautiful caves in the area as Hang Ca or Hang Rua... However, they are in accessible in rainy seasons: they are flooded. And it is mostly cloudy in the seasons so that tourists cannot enjoy all natural beauty as in dry seasons.
Am Tien Cave
The cave is located in Truong Yen Town, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh, belonging to the complex of Hoa Lu ancient capital. Only 400 meters from the temple of Dinh Tien Hoang- the first king of the Dinh Dynasty.
It is beautiful in all seasons. But in winter, the thick fog covers the place and accessing road like it is in a fairy place.
To reach Am Tien cave, after passing the gate, tourists have to go up around 200 steps to reach Am Tien Cave, which is located in the middle of the mountain.
In the cave, there are many stalactites with all different shapes and sizes such as lotus shape, teardrop shape, rice tree shape... Am Tien cave is also known as Dragon Cave by locals because the cave is shaped like a dragon’s mouth.
Am Tien Pagoda in the middle of the mountain is also a spiritual tourist attraction. With the architectural style of cave pagoda of the ancient Hoa Lu, the pagoda has different worshipping section in the cave. Tourists here can forget all burdens of life. There is only the beauty of the nature and the peace in mind left.
There is also a section of solid fortress wall- an ancient architectural work- which seems to be a witness of time. It is a place for couples taking their wedding photos and it is also the place that offers tourists the best view from above.
Mua Cave - Vietnam's great wall
Mua Cave is located at the feet of Mua Moutain, in the eco-tourism complex in Khe Dau Ha village, Ninh Xuan commune, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh.
To reach the cave, tourists have to go up 486 steps. And the award for the effort is a chance to see the beautiful view of the vast area of reeds below. The road to the top of Mua mountain was built in style of a citadel architecture, which made it earn the name ‘Vietnam’s Great Wall’.
In Ninh Binh, tourists should not meet a chance to try local specialties... Restaurants are usually located on hillsides where tourists can enjoy their good meals and see beautiful sceneries around.