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River Ngô Đồng – Majestic landscapes of Tràng An
Located in Hoa Lư district, Ninh Bình province, the Ngô Đồng River is a tributary of the Sào Khê River, flowing from the low-lying areas within the limestone mountain system of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tràng An.
Originating from the temple area of Suối Tiên, winding through cliffs and rice fields to pour water into the Vạc River system, this river is one of Vietnam's heritage rivers that travelers simply cannot overlook.
River Ngô Đồng, a tributary of the Sào Khê River. Photo: Dulichninhbinh
The Ngô Đồng River, with no banks visible from above, appears merely as a small stream. However, surrounded by fields and ponds, it presents a picturesque landscape.
Travelers can visit the Tràng An scenic complex in general and the Ngô Đồng River area in particular during the ripe rice season. During this time, the charming scenery of mountains and water emerges amidst the tranquil golden hues, enchanting many.
River Ngô Đồng during the ripe rice season. Photo: dulichninhbinh
Photography enthusiasts suggest that to fully enjoy the beauty of the Ngô Đồng River, travelers should visit during the early morning and sunset, when the sunlight creates sparkling golden streaks on the river, capturing incredibly beautiful landscape photos.
For a panoramic view of the Ngô Đồng River, one needs to climb to certain high spots. Alternatively, a less strenuous way is to sit on a boat from Tam Cốc pier to the Ngô Đồng River.
During the approximately 2-hour journey, travelers can admire the fleeting golden rice fields, hear the gentle sounds of paddles cutting through water, and enjoy the rare fresh air here.
River Ngô Đồng seen from above. Photo: Dulichninhbinh
Visiting Ninh Bình during the harvest season, travelers can witness the locals harvesting rice firsthand. In other seasons, they can observe indigenous people fishing on the river every peaceful morning.
Around the Ngô Đồng River area are Bến Thánh, Đền Thái Vi…, favored destinations among many travelers. If time allows, travelers can rent bicycles to experience leisurely rides on rustic concrete roads, admire the scenery, and relax in the vast natural environment.
Enjoying a boat ride on the Ngô Đồng River. Photo: dulichninhbinh
River heritage of Phong Nha - Kẻ Bàng National Park: Son River
Son River originates from the eastern Trường Sơn, is one of the few heritage rivers that still retain their original pristine beauty. The river resembles a soft silk strip, embracing villages and shores along its length.
Flowing through a system of caves, branching out into small underground streams before rejoining the Chày River, meandering gracefully. Son River is also an impressive Vietnam heritage river.
Son River originates from the eastern Trường Sơn. Photo: tago
The water of Son River remains intensely green throughout the year, only turning deep red like anger during stormy days. Its surface reflects the giant limestone mountain ranges and the majestic Xuân Sơn Bridge.
Son River remains cool throughout the year, widening as it flows downstream, providing cooling irrigation for the fields on both sides. Near the end, before merging into the Gianh River, it becomes saline, creating a favorable environment for shrimp and fish.
Son River remains cool throughout the year. Photo: tago
Life along the banks of Son River is incredibly peaceful. Early mornings are bustling with excitement as locals gather to harvest shrimp, while during the rice season, they work together to reap the harvest. Travelers can take a boat ride along the Son River to admire the scenery and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere.
Evenings on Son River present an indescribably serene and beautiful scene. The sun sets its last rays behind the mountains, casting a golden glow on the picturesque river.
Travelers can sit on the grassy banks or at riverside eateries, enjoy a few beers with friends, sample some enticing specialties of Quảng Bình province, and admire the mystical beauty of Phong Nha's forests and mountains.
Son River exudes serene beauty. Photo: tago
River Perfume – Ancient capital Huế
River Perfume originates from the Trường Sơn mountain range, flows through the city of Huế and many other districts and towns in Thừa Thiên province. It combines two rivers, Tả Trạch and Hữu Trạch, with lengths of 67 km and 60 km respectively, meeting at the Bằng Lãng junction.
River formed by the confluence of Tả Trạch and Hữu Trạch rivers. Photo: baodulich
Legend has it that Perfume River has existed since the time of Hùng Vương. In the book Dư địa chí (1435), it is mentioned that back then, Perfume River was called Linh River. In the book Ô châu cận lục (1555) under the Mạc dynasty, the river was referred to as Kim Trà River. After several name changes and abbreviations, the river was eventually called Perfume River as it is known today.
Perfume River has been formed since ancient times. Photo: baodulich
Perfume River exudes a gentle and serene beauty, a must-visit attraction for travelers to Huế. The water of Perfume River remains azure all year round, flowing slowly, only changing color when flooded.
Perfume River is most beautiful at sunset, as the sun gradually sets to create sparkling beauty on the water's surface. At this time, the space seems tranquil, adorned with a characteristic light purple hue.
Perfume River exudes a gentle and serene beauty. Photo: dulichhue
As night falls, Perfume River becomes somewhat contemplative, quiet, with echoes of folk songs and the shadows of boats gliding smoothly on the water. When Tràng Tiền Bridge lights up, the entire river area will shine brightly.
This is when travelers can take a boat ride and admire the beauty of Perfume River. Listening to Hue folk songs on a dragon boat on Perfume River is also a delightful experience for culture enthusiasts. Hue court music is a traditional genre of music with high artistic value, originally a refined pleasure of the royal family in the past.
Perfume River at night. Photo: travelaroundvietnam
Here, travelers should not miss the opportunity to explore Tràng Tiền Bridge. The bridge is 402.6 meters long, built in Gothic architectural style, in the shape of an ellipse. From the bridge, travelers can gaze far and wide to admire the panoramic view of the ancient and serene city of Huế and Perfume River.
Exploring Tràng Tiền Bridge. Photo: tago
While in Huế, don't forget to visit Thiên Mụ Pagoda - a temple with a legend closely associated with Perfume River's name. The pagoda was built on Hà Khê hill hundreds of years ago, casting a peaceful shadow over the surface of Perfume River. The pagoda has a 21-meter-high Phước Duyên tower, with 7 floors all dedicated to Buddha statues.
Exploring Thiên Mụ Pagoda. Photo: tago
Mount Ngự is also an impressive destination not to be missed by travelers. Mount Ngự, or Ngự Bình, standing 105 meters tall, is located southeast of Huế city. Mount Ngự and Perfume River are two majestic and harmonious natural symbols of Thừa Thiên province.
Mount Ngự is also an impressive destination not to be missed by travelers. Photo: baodulich
Thu Bồn River – Ancient Town of Hội An, Quảng Nam
Thu Bồn River is one of the largest inland rivers in Vietnam, with a basin area of 10,350 km2. The river originates from Ngọc Linh Mountain (Kon Tum) and flows into Cửa Đại Sea, Quảng Nam. It flows through the Ancient Town of Hội An, becoming one of the rivers adjacent to Vietnam's world heritage sites.
Thu Bồn River is one of the largest inland rivers in Vietnam. Photo: baodulich
Thu Bồn River exudes a gentle beauty, complementing the charm of the ancient town, creating a serene and enchanting watercolor painting. In the area of Thu Bồn River, travelers can sit on a gently gliding boat on the water, admire the romantic sunrise/sunset, or gaze upon the vast sky and land, witnessing the daily life of the people living on both banks.
Thu Bồn River exudes a gentle beauty. Photo: baodulich
Thu Bồn River stretches nearly a hundred kilometers, once a crossroads between two ancient cultures of Chăm and Vietnamese. As dusk falls, the sunlight casting on the water creates a mystical beauty. Silhouetted on the river are the boats of fishermen, serene and tranquil.
As dusk falls, the sunlight casting on the water creates a mystical beauty. Photo: travelaroundvietnam
Along Thu Bồn River, travelers can visit Trung Phước Market - a bustling and lively marketplace, yet very down-to-earth and simple. Sitting down for a bowl of Quảng noodles in this atmosphere is also a memorable pleasure. Photography enthusiasts can also visit Hội An Ancient Town at night to capture the illuminated streets and the shimmering reflection of Thu Bồn River.
Hội An Ancient Town at night. Photo: tago
Sông Ngô Đồng, Son River, Perfume River, and Thu Bồn River are 4 of Vietnam's heritage rivers, offering serene beauty for nature enthusiasts to explore. Once the Covid-19 situation stabilizes, travelers should plan a visit.
Cẩm Luyến / Vietnam Tourism
