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Embark on a journey to Vân Long Lagoon to experience the pristine and serene beauty of Ninh Binh. Find solace with Klook!
In recent times, Vân Long Lagoon has become a captivating destination for travelers due to its breathtaking natural beauty. With its peaceful and untouched scenery, it offers a serene and tranquil space distinct from crowded tourist spots. More uniquely, Vân Long Lagoon featured in the famous movie 'Kong - Skull Island.' It's an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking to embrace moments close to majestic landscapes. Follow this Klook article for an exciting and budget-friendly journey!
About Vân Long Lagoon
Where is Vân Long Lagoon?
Vân Long Lagoon is located in Gia Vân commune, Gia Viễn district, Ninh Binh province, 80km from Hanoi. It's not a natural lagoon but was formed by a 30km-long flood embankment built by the locals at the lower reaches of the Đáy River. Since then, Vân Long has become the largest flooded area in the Gulf of Tonkin, featuring rocky islands, caves, diverse and pristine natural landscapes, along with a variety of wildlife, making it an impressive destination.
What Makes Đầm Vân Long Ninh Bình So Attractive?
Covering over 3,500 hectares, Đầm Vân Long is the largest natural flooded conservation area in Northern Vietnam, established in 1998. This tourist destination boasts a unique ecosystem, including flooded land and limestone mountain forests, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna. Notably, it's home to the largest population of the endangered Delacour's langur, a species native to Vietnam.
The landscape not only includes stunning natural beauty but also historical features like caves and unique cultural relics. Đầm Vân Long showcases a pristine, majestic beauty in its rustic landscape painting. For those seeking relaxation after busy days, Đầm Vân Long is undoubtedly an unmissable ideal destination.
Exploring Đầm Vân Long Ninh Bình Tips
Best Time to Visit Đầm Vân Long
With its diverse natural landscape and rich ecosystem, Đầm Vân Long is a year-round tourist attraction. Each season brings a different hue to the water, showcasing its unique and captivating beauty. However, for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers, Klook recommends visiting Vân Long during two specific periods:
From May to June is the captivating tourist season as Ninh Binh enters the blooming lotus season. Clusters of lotus flowers adorn the lush green waters, painting the area in shades of pink. During this time, not only the scenery is breathtaking, but the air is also infused with a gentle fragrance, providing tranquil moments. Simply taking a boat ride on the water allows you to capture picturesque scenes with pink lotus flowers, clear water, and green mountains.
If you can't visit Vân Long during the lotus season, you can plan your trip during the dry season - the animal gathering season. From November to April each year, various bird species migrate from the North to build nests, and animals come down from the mountains to forage, creating a vibrant scene. You can observe wildlife, capture beautiful photos of the wilderness, and enjoy the serene atmosphere here.
Additionally, to capture the best moments in Vân Long, try to arrange your visit during sunrise or sunset.
Guide to Travel to Đầm Vân Long Ninh Bình
Traveling From Ho Chi Minh City/Hanoi to Ninh Binh
From Ho Chi Minh City:
- By Plane: Opting for a flight is a time-saving choice from Saigon to Ninh Binh. From Tan Son Nhat Airport, you can choose to fly to Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) or Tho Xuan Airport (Thanh Hoa). From the airport, various transportation options like trains, buses, and limousines can take you to Ninh Binh.
- By Train: You can choose a train journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Ninh Binh or other stations within the province.
From Hanoi:
- By Train: From Hanoi station, you can choose destinations such as Ninh Binh, Dong Giao, Ghenh, or Cau Yen.
- By Bus: Many bus companies like Thuy Duong, Dong Chin, Minh Dung, An Phu Quy, provide bus trips from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Ticket prices usually range from 70,000 to 150,000 VND.
- By Limousine: You can also choose a Limousine from Hanoi to Ninh Binh for a comfortable and fast journey.
From Ninh Binh to Đầm Vân Long
From the train station or bus station, travelers can reach Đầm Vân Long by motorbike taxi or taxi. Depending on the starting point, it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to reach Đầm Vân Long.
For a convenient travel experience, you can explore Klook's transportation services:
- Limousine Tickets to Trang An, Bai Dinh, Tam Coc, Ninh Binh from Hanoi
- Rent Private Car to Trang An/Hoa Lu from Hanoi
- Self-Drive Car Rental
- Ninh Binh Tour from Hanoi with Airport Transfers
Đầm Vân Long Ticket Prices Reference
Entrance ticket prices:
- Adults: 20,000 VND/ticket
- Children (under 1m): 10,000 VND/ticket
- People aged 60 and above: 10,000 VND/ticket
Boat tickets:
- Adults: 50,000 VND/ticket
- Children (under 1m): 25,000 VND/ticket
- People aged 60 and above: 25,000 VND/ticket
Exploring Tourist Activities in Vân Long Eco-tourism Area
Rowing on Vân Long Lake
Vân Long Lake is known as the 'waveless bay,' where the water surface is as calm as a gigantic mirror. Sitting on small boats swaying on the water, you will feel the tranquility of the pristine space.
The 'color of the water' blends with the 'scent of the sky' in the surrounding landscape, creating an impressive scene like a painted masterpiece. The clear green color of the water highlights the beauty of moss and algae, resembling beautiful coral reefs. Playful rock formations like Mam Xoi Mountain, Meo Cao Mountain, Nghien Mountain, and Da Ban Mountain add vibrancy and interest to the natural picture.
During the boat ride, you will admire clusters of swaying grass and reeds. In the distant sunny sky, flocks of white storks, flame storks, and herons gracefully search for food. All of this blends together to create a majestic and poetic Vân Long, allowing you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty.
Explore Caves Near Vân Long
Vân Long Lagoon boasts around 1,000 enchanting caves awaiting your exploration passion. These caves are adorned with various sparkling stalactites, shimmering under the light. Not only visually stunning, but the caves also serve as shelters for numerous species. Among them, notable caves include Fish Cave, Balloon Cave, Turtle Cave, and Lime Cave.
Among the large caves, Fish Cave stands out as a remarkable spot. With both an above-water and submerged section, it creates a breathtaking scenery. You'll boat through to witness the cave's unique residents, characteristic fish swimming, a feature that gives the cave its name.
Visit Surrounding Temples and Pagodas
Beyond the pristine beauty of landscapes and mysterious caves, Vân Long Lagoon is also a spiritual destination with many historic temples and pagodas. These ancient structures bear the marks of time, displaying ancient architecture from bygone dynasties.
Temples with a long history, such as Thánh Mẫu Temple, Thanh Sơn Pagoda, and Địch Lộng Pagoda, eagerly await visitors to explore. Touring these temples and pagodas provides an opportunity for travelers to connect with the past and understand the development of spiritual culture through different historical periods.
Admire the Sunset at Vân Long
One of the remarkable landscapes you can't miss when traveling to Vân Long Lagoon is the water expanse under the sunset glow. As the sky is painted with hues of orange and thousands of white storks return to nest, it creates a magnificent spectacle in the sky.
Wisps of blue smoke waft from thatched roofs, blending with the graceful flight of storks over the river, forming a tranquil and pure ambiance. You'll enjoy the moments when the sun gradually sets over the lagoon, watching flocks of storks heading home, and listening to the harmonious symphony of chirping birds blending with the gentle sound of paddles. Together, they compose a beautiful natural masterpiece, offering you a memorable experience.
Marvel at Mèo Cào Mountain
An unmissable highlight at Vân Long Lagoon is Mèo Cào Mountain, a vibrant and prominent natural painting. Mèo Cào Mountain is one of the beautiful limestone peaks surrounding Vân Long Lagoon. The mountain has steep cliffs, with scratches resembling cat's claws on the surface.
Notably, on the mountain surface, you'll discover a unique painting created from laterite, a material used for ancient rock art. Just sprinkle water on the rock surface, and the vivid red lines of the painting will gradually appear, creating a fascinating effect.
The mural on Mèo Cào Mountain depicts the image of a fierce-looking man, accompanied by mysterious inscriptions. Come here to unravel the mystery behind this painting!
Experience convenient and budget-friendly travel with Klook tours:
- Tour to Bai Dinh - Trang An - Mua Cave from Hanoi
- Tour to Bai Dinh - Trang An Co - Tuyet Tinh Coc from Hanoi
- 2D1N Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, Mua Cave, and Trang An Tour from Hanoi
Food and Souvenir Shopping Tips at Vân Long Lagoon
Vân Long Lagoon Ninh Binh Specialties
- Rice Crust: A renowned specialty of Ninh Binh. The golden crispy rice crust, fragrant and often served with mountain goat sauce, creates an unforgettable taste. Additionally, there's a version with shredded pork, suitable as a light snack or gift for loved ones.
- Grilled Banana Fish: Fragrant and delicious grilled banana fish with crispy skin, tender flesh, and a rich flavor from spices. The fish is usually grilled over open flame, creating a crunchy shell and an enticing color.
- Yen Mac Fermented Pork Roll: Yen Mac fermented pork roll is a unique specialty made from lean pork butt, pork skin, and rice husk. The delicious taste of fermented pork combines with raw vegetables and fish sauce, creating an unforgettable dish.
- Mountain Goat Meat: Ninh Binh's mountain goat meat is a must-try delicacy. Sweet, tender goat meat is prepared in various delicious dishes such as hotpot, grilled, and stir-fried, providing a unique culinary experience.
- Nhech Fish Salad: Nhech fish salad is a unique dish made from fresh nhech fish and various raw vegetables. This dish is often served with rice paper and distinctive sweet and sour fish sauce.
Places to Buy Souvenirs at Vân Long Lagoon Ninh Binh
- Rong Market Ninh Binh: Rong Market is an excellent place to explore the unique culture and cuisine of Ninh Binh. Here, you can discover a range of specialties from Ninh Binh goat meat to Kim Son sticky rice wine and Vân Long shrimp. Additionally, choose memorable gifts from traditional craft villages like Phuc Loc carpentry and Kim Son bamboo. Address: 71 Van Giang, Thanh Binh, Ninh Binh City.
- Van Giang Street: This area is not only a bustling commercial center but also home to numerous diverse specialty stores and large handicraft shops. With modern infrastructure, Van Giang Street, located on the route from National Highway 1 to National Highway 10, is an ideal starting point to explore Ninh Binh's wonderful tourist destinations. Address: Van Giang, Thanh Binh, Ninh Binh City.
Hotel and Resort Recommendations near Vân Long Lagoon
1. Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh
Situated in the magnificent landscape, Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh offers a traditional Northern Vietnam ambiance. With spacious and modernly equipped rooms, this resort provides an impressive experience with a swimming pool, spa, and a diverse restaurant serving various cuisines.
- Address: Van Long Conservation Area, Gia Van Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh
- Reference Price: From 2,131,000 VND/night
2. Vân Long Green Hotel
With a convenient location near Vân Long Lagoon, Vân Long Green Hotel offers a comfortable space and quality services. The cozy, private rooms come with amenities such as wifi, a restaurant, swimming pool, BBQ, and more.
- Address: Van Long Conservation Area, Gia Van Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh
- Reference Price: From 800,000 VND/night
3. Vân Long Homestay
If you want to enjoy a warm and close-to-nature atmosphere, Vân Long Homestay is an excellent choice. With traditional style and full amenities, it's an ideal place to experience the local lifestyle.
- Address: Noi Village, Gia Lap Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh
- Reference Price: From 355,000 VND/night
4. Memorina Ninh Binh Farmstay
Nestled in a lush green landscape, Memorina Ninh Binh Farmstay offers an enjoyable experience of peaceful living. Engage in activities such as gardening, crab hunting, and savor traditional cuisine.
- Address: Hamlet 1, Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh
- Reference Price: From 805,000 VND/night
5. Minawa Kenhga Resort & Spa Ninh Binh
This is an excellent choice for a relaxing and luxurious stay near Vân Long Lagoon. Minawa Kenhga Resort & Spa offers premium spa services, a restaurant serving delicious dishes, and rooms with modern amenities.
- Address: Kenh Ga Hamlet, Gia Thinh Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh
- Reference Price: From 2,960,000 VND/night
Apart from the mentioned accommodations, you can also search and book hotels that suit your needs and budget on Klook!
The vast water expanse, magnificent caves, and the cultural-historical imprints come together to create a unique space at Van Long Lagoon. This is the ideal destination for immersing yourself in the majestic nature and discovering a distinctive culture. Explore more in the blog on Klook for useful travel experiences, including 20 Beautiful Places in Ninh Binh, Tuyet Tinh Coc Ninh Binh, 25 Delicious Specialties of Ninh Binh, Mua Cave Ninh Binh, 10 Unbelievably Beautiful Resorts in Ninh Binh,...
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