Paradise Cave, Phong Nha, Vietnam: A splendid underground palace

Things to do in Paradise Cave, Phong Nha

Paradise Cave offers a range of exciting activities, from adventurous hikes to breathtaking sights underground. Here are some of the highlights:

1. Conquering the uphill walk

Reaching Paradise Cave is an adventure in itself, requiring visitors to traverse a 1.6 km stretch of concrete road through a lush forest canopy. For those who prefer a more relaxed approach, golf carts are available for a fee (100,000 VND/car/round trip; can accommodate 5 people), offering a comfortable ride. However, many opt to walk, soaking in the sounds and sights of nature.

As the trail ascends to the cave entrance, a 570-meter inclined concrete path awaits, demanding endurance, especially during the hot season when temperatures soar past 35°C. Upon concluding the cave exploration, visitors descend 524 stone steps, a journey that provides a final opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The experience, while physically demanding, is well worth it.

The wooden stairs leading down to the cave floor from the entrance. Source: Flickr

2. Listening to an interpretive talk

Just before entering Paradise Cave, visitors have the opportunity to listen to an informative interpretive talk conducted under a shaded roof. This 5-minute session provides an introduction to the cave’s history, geology, and unique formations, allowing visitors to gain a deeper appreciation of what they’re about to witness. However, this experience may only be available when there is a large number of visitors.

On quieter days, visitors can still approach an on-site tour guide for a personal introduction to the cave, free of charge. The talk also serves as a moment of respite, allowing visitors to cool down after the walk from the base of the hill. From the entrance, a descent of 300 wooden steps leads to the cave floor, where a refreshing temperature of 18-22°C awaits, making the transition from the humid forest even more striking.

Visitors can learn about the history, geology, and unique formations of Paradise Cave. Source: Flickr

3. Admiring the stalactites and stalagmites

Paradise Cave is filled with mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years. The cave stretches 31,4 km in total length, of which 1 km is along a sturdy wooden staircase. This 3.5-meter-wide staircase allows visitors to comfortably explore its depths. Along the way, you can notice that many of these formations are still actively developing, as indicated by their wet surfaces due to constant water dripping.

The process occurs when mineral-rich water seeps through the cave ceiling, depositing calcium carbonate and other minerals that gradually build up these intricate formations. Yet, what makes Paradise Cave fascinating is the way its stalactites and stalagmites take on recognizable shapes, sparking the imagination of visitors. Near the entrance, a stalagmite resembles a Buddha statue, while another looks like a giant elephant.

Paradise Cave is filled with mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites. Source: Flickr

Further along the path, formations resembling terraced rice fields contain small pools of water, mirroring the agricultural landscapes of Vietnam’s Northern Highlands. One of the most remarkable formations in Paradise Cave is a stalagmite shaped like a traditional stilt house common in the Central Highlands. Deeper into the cave, the Lotus Tower stands tall, resembling either a dried pine fruit or a coral reef.

The cave’s lighting system enhances the visual appeal of these formations, casting dramatic shadows and highlighting their intricate details. The acoustics within the cave allow visitors to hear the echoes of their voices, adding to the mystical atmosphere. However, as tempting as it may be, touching these formations is strictly prohibited, as the natural oils from human skin can disrupt their slow but continuous growth.

4. Photography

Photography enthusiasts will find Paradise Cave a dream location, with its awe-inspiring formations and atmospheric lighting. To capture the intricate details of individual stalactites and stalagmites, a macro approach works best, highlighting their textures and shimmering wet surfaces. Meanwhile, wide-angle shots are ideal for showcasing the grandeur of the larger chambers, where formations stretch high above the cave floor.

One of the most striking photographic elements is the thick fog that forms in the bigger chambers due to high humidity. This creates a mystical, ethereal effect. A tripod can help stabilize shots in dim lighting, and adjusting camera settings for longer exposure times can improve clarity. Visitors should also be mindful of lighting placement, as the installed lights cast dramatic shadows that can either enhance or obscure details.

Photography enthusiasts will find Paradise Cave a dream location. Source: Flickr

How to get to Paradise Cave in Phong Nha Ke Bang

Paradise Cave is located within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site renowned for its stunning karst landscapes and extensive cave systems. Situated at Km16, Ho Chi Minh Road (West Branch), Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province, Paradise Cave is one of the park’s most breathtaking attractions alongside Phong Nha Cave, Dark Cave, and, especially, Son Doong Cave.

From Phong Nha-Ke Bang Tourism Center, Paradise Cave is about 23 km southwest, accessible via DT20 and QL15 routes. Visitors can reach Paradise Cave by private car, taxi, or motorbike rental. A private car or taxi from Phong Nha Town takes around 45 minutes and costs approximately 400,000 VND. Renting a motorbike offers more flexibility, with daily rental prices ranging from 120,000 to 150,000 VND.

Paradise Cave is about 23 km southwest of Phong Nha-Ke Bang Tourism Center.

Best time to visit Paradise Cave

The weather around Paradise Cave is influenced by Quang Binh’s climate, which consists of two distinct seasons. The dry season lasts from April to August and is characterized by high temperatures, often exceeding 35°C, with little to no rainfall. The rainy season spans from September to March, bringing frequent rain. Heavy rainfall from October to November can lead to flooding, potentially disrupting travel plans.

The best time to visit Paradise Cave is during the dry season, from April to early August. During this period, favorable weather conditions ensured easy travel, dry roads, and uninterrupted access to the cave. Moreover, the warm temperatures make visiting Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park more enjoyable, offering visitors a comfortable and immersive experience in the stunning natural landscape.

The best time to visit Paradise Cave is from April to early August, during the dry season.

Top accommodations to stay near Paradise Cave

After visiting Paradise Cave, visitors can return to Phong Nha’s town center, where there are many accommodation options. Most of these places offer affordable prices, decent facilities, and good services, with some even featuring a swimming pool. Prices range from 400,000 to 600,000 VND per night. For those who prefer to stay closer to Paradise Cave, Chay Lap Farmstay is an excellent option, located just 9 km away.

Nestled in Chay Village near the Chay River, this farmstay provides a comfortable lodging experience with three room types designed in different themes. Guests can enjoy complimentary outdoor activities, such as kayaking, biking, billiards, and swimming in the pool. These activities ensure a fun and relaxing stay, making Chay Lap Farmstay a great choice for visitors looking to explore the area without heading back to town.

Chay Lap Farmstay provides a comfortable lodging experience with three room types.

Dishes at Paradise Cave’s restaurant

Just outside Paradise Cave, visitors can find a restaurant (left side before reaching the ticket office) that serves Quang Binh specialties. In fixed menu sets, each is priced from 1,000,000 to 1,200,000 VND per set (suitable for groups of 4). An à la carte menu is also available, with prices ranging from 50,000 to 450,000 VND per dish.

Some highlight dishes at Paradise Cave’s restaurant include:

• Grilled shrimp with vegetable skewers
• Grilled chicken
• Pork ribs
• Pork belly
• Sticky rice
• Spring rolls

Quang Binh cuisine is known for its simple yet flavorful style, emphasizing free-range meats, locally grown vegetables, and traditional cooking techniques. The dishes are often grilled, steamed, or stir-fried, preserving the natural taste of the ingredients while enhancing them with light seasoning. Whether enjoying a hearty set meal or choosing specific dishes, visitors can experience the authentic flavors of Quang Binh.

Quang Binh cuisine is known for its simple yet flavorful style.

Paradise Cave Tour: What are the options?

Paradise Cave offers two tour options: a 1-km wooden staircase tour for casual visitors and a 7-km adventure tour for explorers.

Pradise Cave 1-km tour on wooden staircase

The 1-km tour on a wooden staircase is the most common option, suitable for regular visitors who prefer a leisurely yet immersive experience. This tour allows visitors to admire breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites while walking along a well-maintained, 3.5-meter-wide path. With safe and easy access, it’s ideal for families, casual explorers, and those who appreciate natural wonders without strenuous trekking.

• Adults: 250,000 VND.
• Children from 1.1m to 1.3m: 125,000 VND.
• Children under 1.1m: Free

The 1-km tour is suitable for regular visitors. Source: Flickr

Paradise 7-km adventure tour

This tour is designed for nature lovers and thrill-seekers eager to explore the hidden beauty of the cave beyond the public access areas. Participants witness the stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites, row a boat through an underground stream, and wade through cool waters leading to the Skylight—a breathtaking sinkhole where sunlight filters through, creating a mesmerizing effect.

Tour itinerary:

• 8:30 AM: Participants gear up with protective equipment.
• 9:00 AM: The group gathers at the cave entrance for a briefing by the tour guide.
• 9:15 – 10:30 AM: Explore the first 4 km of Paradise Cave.
• 10:30 – 12:00 PM: Board a kayak to navigate a 60-100m underground stream, then continue trekking through the final 3 km. Upon reaching the 7th km at the Skylight, visitors pause to admire the scenery and capture memorable photos.
• 12:15 – 1:30 PM: Enjoy a lunch break and take time to relax under the natural light streaming through the Skylight.
• 1:30 – 3:30 PM: Retrace the route back to the starting point.

The tour is designed for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Source: Flickr

The tour requires prior booking (at least 1 day in advance) and is only available for groups of 2 or more. To ensure safety, it’s restricted to participants aged 16-65 in good health, with no history of heart disease or blood pressure. With only one or two groups allowed per day, this experience offers an unforgettable exploration of Paradise Cave. Tour price: 2,000,000 VND/participant

Best photos of Paradise Cave

FAQs

• How far is Paradise Cave from Dong Hoi City?

  Paradise Cave is approximately 70 km northwest of Dong Hoi City, Quang Binh Province, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach by car.

• What is the history of Paradise Cave?

  Paradise Cave is estimated to have formed around 35 million years ago. It was first discovered in 2005 by a local man named Ho Khanh. The British Caving Team explored the cave from 2005 to 2010, eventually mapping its total length at 31.4 km, making it the longest dry cave in Asia. Due to its breathtaking atmosphere, the team named it “Paradise Cave,” noting that it was even more magnificent than Phong Nha Cave.

  Before, visitors had to trek through dense forests and climb a hill to reach the entrance. In 2010, Truong Thinh Group built access roads, staircases, and a 1-km wooden walkway inside, officially opening the cave to visitors in September of that year.

• How long is Paradise Cave?

  Paradise Cave is the longest dry cave in Asia, stretching for a total of 31.4 km. However, only the first 1 km of Paradise Cave is accessible to the general public, while the 7-km adventure tour allows deeper exploration.

• What should I wear when visiting Paradise Cave?

  Wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking, such as lightweight, breathable fabrics. Sturdy shoes with good grip are recommended, as some paths may be uneven or slippery. If joining the 7-km adventure tour, expect to wade through water, so quick-dry clothes and water-resistant shoes are ideal. A light jacket is also advisable, as temperatures inside the cave are cooler than outside during the summer.

• How long does it take to visit Paradise Cave?

  A standard visit along the 1-km wooden staircase typically takes 1 hour. The 7-km adventure tour, which includes trekking and kayaking, lasts 7 hours.

• What other caves are there in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park?

  Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is home to many stunning caves, including Phong Nha Cave, Son Doong Cave (the world’s largest cave), and Hang En Cave. Each offers unique experiences, from underground rivers to massive chambers.