The Thung Nham eco-tourism area is one of the standout destinations in Ninh Binh, where majestic nature and unique culture come together. If you’re looking for a place to experience tranquility and immerse yourself in nature, Thung Nham will certainly not disappoint. With its pristine beauty, diverse ecosystem, and exciting activities, Thung Nham is gradually becoming the top choice for those who love to explore and enjoy the natural life.
Introduction to Thung Nham Eco-Tourism Area
Thung Nham, a beautifully natural picture hidden within the land of Ninh Binh, is gradually becoming an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists. Located about 12km west of Ninh Binh city center, the Thung Nham eco-tourism area boasts wild, majestic beauty with a rich and diverse ecosystem. Here, visitors can feel the tranquility of nature, where every sound from the wind rustling through the leaves or the birds’ chirping brings a sense of calm and relaxation.
Environmental Features
One of the special attractions of Thung Nham is its beautiful natural scenery. Limestone mountains rise and fall, and vast green fields create a picturesque setting that anyone would want to immerse themselves in. The blend of rocks and water, trees, and open spaces creates a fresh and comfortable atmosphere.
Thung Nham also has stunning lotus ponds, especially during the lotus blooming season. The image of lotus flowers in full bloom, showing off their pink colors on the blue lake surface, truly tugs at the heartstrings. This is why Thung Nham has become an ideal photo spot for nature lovers.
History
Thung Nham is not just a tourist destination; it also holds many historical stories. In ancient times, this land was once a refuge for Buddhist monks and a stop for merchants on their trading journeys. The stories about the lives of people here and the legends related to the caves add a unique charm to this tourist area.
One notable site is Hang Temple, one of the ancient and sacred temples located inside the Bụt Cave. This is a place where spiritual activities frequently take place, attracting not only tourists but also locals who come to pray for peace and luck for their families and themselves.
What makes Thung Nham Eco-Tourism Area Special?
The Thung Nham eco-tourism area captivates tourists with its perfect combination of majestic nature, traditional cultural beauty, and quality tourism services. The activities here are rich and diverse, offering visitors unforgettable experiences.
Wild, Majestic Natural Beauty
Mysterious Caves
Thung Nham is home to a unique cave system, rich in natural imprints. The most prominent is Bụt Cave, with shimmering and mystical stalactites that create an enigmatic beauty. Visitors can explore Bụt Cave by rowing a boat on the river, experiencing the grandeur and hidden beauty inside the cave. The feeling of passing through narrow paths, admiring the sparkling stalactites under the light from outside, will be an unforgettable experience.
Additionally, there are other caves, such as Cá Cave and Ván Cave, each with its own unique beauty and fascinating historical stories. Exploring these caves not only helps visitors learn about the area’s geology but also offers an exciting journey to broaden their knowledge of culture and history.
Romantic Thung Nham Lake
Thung Nham Lake, with its clear blue water surrounded by majestic mountains, creates a poetic and romantic setting. Visitors can rent a boat to leisurely cruise on the lake, enjoy the fresh air, and admire the beautiful natural scenery. During the lotus season, Thung Nham Lake becomes even more enchanting with the pink hue of blooming lotus flowers, creating a stunning landscape.
Magnificent Mountain Scenery
Thung Nham is surrounded by limestone mountains, creating a wild, majestic natural scene. The feeling of conquering mountain peaks and exploring winding paths will make visitors feel like true adventurers. This is also an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in nature and challenge yourself.
Exploring a Diverse Ecosystem
Thung Nham is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, creating a rich and diverse ecosystem. Visitors can admire rare bird species, fish, and other wildlife living in the area. This is an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn about biodiversity and environmental protection.
Many rare bird species, such as storks and, herons and specialty fish, live in Thung Nham’s natural environment. Walking or cycling around the area, you might encounter flocks of birds flying in the vast sky, creating a lively natural picture. This not only brings joy to visitors but also raises awareness about environmental protection and the conservation of wildlife species.
Best Time to Visit Thung Nham Eco-Tourism Area
Thung Nham is beautiful and attractive year-round, but to have the most fulfilling trip, you should choose the right time to visit. Each season at Thung Nham brings different experiences for tourists.
Spring (February – April)
This is an ideal time to visit Thung Nham due to the mild, pleasant weather and lush green landscapes. The cool spring air is perfect for sightseeing, walking, and exploring. Especially in spring, lotus flowers are in full bloom, adding to the beauty of Thung Nham. The image of pure white lotus flowers standing out on the blue water creates a stunning natural painting.
Additionally, spring is when many traditional festivals take place, allowing visitors to not only enjoy the natural scenery but also participate in cultural activities and learn about local customs and traditions.
Summer (May – July)
Summer in Thung Nham is often hot, but if you enjoy outdoor activities and don’t mind the weather, it’s still an exciting time to explore. You can participate in activities like trekking, kayaking, or leisurely boating around the lake to enjoy the fresh air. Summer is also an ideal time to savor Ninh Binh’s specialty dishes, from caramelized fish to fresh vegetables and fruits. The occasional summer rain also brings a refreshing feeling to the space. The sight of raindrops falling from the leaves creates a fresh atmosphere, making you feel closer to nature.
Autumn (August – October)
Cool, fresh weather makes autumn perfect for sightseeing, walking, and exploring. Autumn is also an ideal time for photography, thanks to the vibrant colors of the trees and the clear blue sky. The changing landscape with the seasons will bring you new and exciting experiences.
Avoid the Rainy Season (September – November)
The rainy season in Ninh Binh often lasts and affects travel and sightseeing. However, if you visit Thung Nham during this time, you will witness the poetic beauty of the mountains and forests when it rains. The sound of raindrops, along with the scent of wet earth, will give you unique experiences.
Essential Information for Visiting Thung Nham Eco-Tourism Area
To make your trip to Thung Nham perfect and memorable, keep in mind some helpful information:
Getting there: You can easily reach Thung Nham by motorbike or car from Ninh Binh city center. Since Thung Nham is pretty close, transportation is quite convenient. Additionally, you can take a taxi or bus to the tourist area. The journey itself will offer you exciting experiences from the start.
Accommodation: The tourist area has hotels, guesthouses, and homestays at various price levels to suit visitors’ needs. If you want to experience a friendly and close-to-nature space, choose homestays nestled among the mountains. This will give you a truly relaxing feeling and a connection with nature.
Dining: You can enjoy Ninh Binh’s specialties at the area’s restaurants or visit local eateries. Particularly, Ninh Binh’s “cơm cháy” (crispy rice) and mountain goat dishes are must-tries when you come here. The distinctive flavors combined with the cozy atmosphere will make your meal even more enjoyable.
Pro tip: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin during outdoor sightseeing. Prepare comfortable shoes and clothing for exploration activities. Carry cash for easy payments at various attractions. Be cautious when exploring caves, especially when moving by boat.
With its pristine beauty, diverse ecosystem, mysterious caves, and unique cultural features, the Thung Nham eco-tourism area is truly an ideal destination for those who love to explore, experience, and immerse themselves in nature. It’s not just a place to relax but also an opportunity for you to learn, experience, and capture beautiful memories during your journey to explore the land of Ninh Binh. Make sure to visit Thung Nham to feel the incredible beauty of nature and culture here!
