Buzz
Hòn Nội, Nha Trang is a location intertwined with the nearly 700-year history of the swallow's nest industry in Khánh Hòa. Its natural scenery and environment are meticulously preserved, making it a popular destination for tourists.
The history of the swallow's nest industry on Hòn Nội.
According to historical records, in 1328, Admiral Lê Văn Đạt (from the Trần dynasty) discovered islands with swallow nests in the Bình Khang waters. He is revered as the founder of the swallow's nest industry. Later, Lê Thị Huyền Trâm (from the Tây Sơn dynasty) was tasked with leading the naval forces at Bình Khang. She was also appointed the governor of the Hòn Tre archipelago and Yến Island (Hòn Nội Nha Trang). She organized the harvesting of swallow nests as a financial resource for the Tây Sơn family.
In 1788, she was promoted to the leader of the joint naval and ground forces, tasked with guarding key maritime areas. On May 10, 1793, during a battle to protect territorial waters and the swallow nest islands, Admiral Lê Thị Huyền Trâm and her officer An sacrificed their lives. The local people honored her as the goddess of the swallow nest islands, building temples on the swallow nest islands in her honor. Every year on May 10th in the lunar calendar, locals hold ceremonies to commemorate the goddess and the Tây Sơn officers who perished at the swallow nest industry temple.
Hòn Nội – the capital of the swallow's nest industry.
It takes about 45 minutes by boat, covering over 12 nautical miles, to reach this island. Hon Noi Nha Trang is considered the hub of the swiftlet bird population in Khanh Hoa. Hon Noi also harbors many other fascinating features. Located alone amidst the vast, endless sea, the island is surrounded by steep, rugged cliffs. Following the bamboo bridges, you officially arrive at the swiftlet haven, where numerous humanistic stories unfold.
It is unclear when exactly Hon Noi became home to the swiftlets, or the 'storm warning birds.' Khanh Hoa is blessed with nature's wonders, offering everything from scenic beaches and islands to mountains and favorable weather. With hundreds of islands of varying sizes, each has its own intriguing history and story. Among them, Hon Noi is renowned as the birthplace of the bird's nest industry.
Swiftlets typically build their nests on sheer cliff faces to protect themselves from danger. Unlike other birds, swiftlets construct their nests using a secretion from their mouths, which is thread-like and hardens on the rocks. These nests are called bird’s nests (yến sào). Due to their high nutritional and economic value, the bird's nest industry is thriving in Khanh Hoa.
The long-standing bird’s nest harvesting tradition
Twice a year, bird’s nest harvesters return to the remote island to continue their work. Despite nearly 700 years of tradition, the method of collecting nests remains unchanged. The bamboo scaffolds halfway up the cliffs are a familiar sight for those involved in this industry. Though the work is challenging, they always ensure the safety of the harvesters and the preservation of the nests.
Thanks to these unique features, Hon Noi Nha Trang increasingly attracts visitors. Not only can tourists learn about swiftlets, but they can also experience the island’s enchanting charm. You can visit the unique Double Beach, formed by the masterful hands of nature. The beach boasts warm currents and crystal-clear waters where fish and coral are visible.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnJuly 5, 2024
