Van Long Lagoon is one of the most promising tourist destinations in Ninh Binh, where natural beauty blends with tranquility and serenity. This place not only offers visitors delightful experiences with its scenery and cuisine but also opens the door to a better understanding of the simple yet colorful life of the locals. Let’s explore the magical beauty of Van Long Lagoon with Meditours Ninh Binh through the following content.
A brief Overview of Van Long Lagoon
Van Long Lagoon is located in the southwest of Ninh Binh, within the communes of Gia Van, Gia Sinh, and Gia Lap, and part of the Gia Phuong commune in the Gia Vien district. Covering a vast area of about 3,500 hectares, Van Long Lagoon is considered the most significant wetland nature reserve in the Red River Delta. The formation of Van Long Lagoon stems from an ancient sea, and over millions of years of geological changes, it has created a unique landscape with limestone mountains interspersed with lush green rice fields and clear blue waters.
It is often said that the beauty of Van Long Lagoon is tied to time, with each season bringing its own colors and emotions. This is why the area has increasingly attracted more visitors from all over the country to come and explore. Like a vibrant natural painting, Van Long Lagoon not only offers visitors beautiful photos but also contains rich historical and cultural stories of the local area.
Van Long Lagoon is not only a tourist destination but also plays a vital role in protecting and maintaining the area’s natural ecosystem. The Lagoon boasts a rich and diverse ecosystem with hundreds of species of plants and rare animals. The system of ponds, lakes, and mangrove forests within the Lagoon provides a favorable habitat for many species to live and thrive. Conservation activities here not only help preserve biodiversity but also raise community awareness about environmental protection.
What makes Van Long Lagoon stand out?
When you set foot in Van Long Lagoon, you will immediately feel the pristine, pleasant beauty of the area. It’s not just a resort; Van Long Lagoon is where you can explore a natural world that is both poetic and mysterious.
Wild and peaceful nature
The majestic limestone mountains surrounding Van Long Lagoon create a fascinating space that captivates visitors at first sight. The blend of birdsong and the soothing sounds of water, combined with the fresh air, brings a sense of tranquility to anyone who visits. The natural landscape here is covered by small rivers, ponds, and lush green rice fields. Early in the morning, when the sunlight begins to shine through the leaves, the clear blue water becomes shimmering and magical, creating a truly picturesque scene.
Diverse ecosystem
Van Long Lagoon is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its rich ecosystem. It is home to over 400 species of plants and 200 species of animals, many of which are endangered. The abundant wildlife includes fish, reptiles, and scarce bird species such as the Indian stork and the black-headed ibis.
A visit to Van Long Lagoon offers you the opportunity to observe these wild animals in their natural habitat. You can find boats gently gliding on the water, taking you on a journey to explore the hidden corners of the Lagoon, where you can watch birds flying high above or fish swimming below the surface.
Activities related to local life
Living in harmony with Van Long Lagoon, the locals have learned to make use of the natural resources for their livelihood. They raise fish, grow rice, and breed livestock, creating a simple but fulfilling life. Daily activities such as fishing or rowing boats add to the Lagoon’s beauty. If you want to learn more about the culture and traditions of the local people, participate in traditional activities or visit the surrounding craft villages. Here, you can witness the craftsmanship of making handicrafts and enjoy unique local delicacies.
Affordable prices
One of the reasons Van Long Lagoon has become a popular destination for many tourists is its affordability. Compared to many other tourist destinations, the services here are reasonably priced, from boat rentals to dining and accommodation services. Visitors can freely choose a tour that fits their budget while still ensuring a fantastic experience. These reasonable prices are not only for young tourists but also for families and groups of friends, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere at Van Long Lagoon.
The best time to visit Van Long Lagoon
When planning your trip to Van Long Lagoon, it’s important to consider the best time to explore the beauty of the area. Each season offers its own charm, but there are two main periods that tourists often choose.
Spring (February – April)
Spring, particularly from February to April, is an ideal time to visit Van Long Lagoon. During this time, nature is at its most vibrant, with blooming flowers and lush green young rice fields. The dry and calm weather makes outdoor activities even more enjoyable. The clear blue sky and gentle breeze provide a comfortable feeling, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. As you row your boat on the Lagoon, you will quickly appreciate the fresh natural beauty of spring.
Autumn (September – November)
If you love the quiet and romantic beauty, autumn from September to November is the perfect time to visit Van Long Lagoon. The golden rice fields create a stunning natural landscape that is warm and gentle. Autumn weather is still warm, perfect for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the scenery. You can organize picnics with friends or family, freely experiencing the peaceful beauty of Van Long Lagoon.
Ticket prices for visiting Van Long Lagoon
The ticket prices for visiting Van Long Lagoon are considered relatively cheap compared to many other tourist destinations. This is an essential factor that draws more tourists to the area.
Entrance Tickets
- Adults: 20,000 VND per person.
- Children under 1 meter: 20,000 VND per person.
- Elderly (aged 60 and above): 10,000 VND per person.
Boat Tickets
- Adults: 50,000 VND per trip.
- Children under 1 meter: 25,000 VND per trip.
- Elderly (aged 60 and above): 25,000 VND per trip.
However, please note that these prices are for reference only and may change over time. Therefore, check with the tourism management for the most accurate information before your trip.
What can you experience at Van Long Lagoon?
At Van Long Lagoon, you are not simply sightseeing but also immersing yourself in exciting activities, exploring the unique life and culture of this land. The experiences below will undoubtedly make your trip more memorable.
Explore the Caves in Van Long
The cave system in Van Long Lagoon is one of the highlights that attracts tourists. These caves not only have mysterious beauty but also hold many historical secrets. Among the famous caves, But Cave, May Cave, and Ca Cave are the most well-known. Each cave has its own distinctive features in terms of terrain and architecture. When exploring these caves, you will have the opportunity to admire beautiful stalactites that have formed over millions of years under the influence of water and wind.
Tourists often choose to rent boats to travel to the caves, making it easy to explore the interesting hidden corners of the area without missing any details.
Visit the Temples
After exploring the wild beauty of Van Long Lagoon, take advantage of the ancient temples in the area. Temples like Non Nuoc Temple, Luu Temple, and Tien Temple are sacred places that hold significant cultural and historical values. The serene atmosphere of these temples will help you feel more at peace after tiring hours of sightseeing. The unique architecture of the temples, combined with the surrounding natural landscape, will create beautiful mementos.
Boat riding on the Lagoon
Boating on Van Long Lagoon is not just a recreational activity but also a way to fully experience the beauty of the area. Sitting on the boat, you can weave through small waterways, admire the scenery, and feel the inner peace. You can choose either a bamboo boat or a motorboat, depending on your preference. Each type of boat offers a different experience, allowing you to freely explore the beauty of the area.
Enjoy local cuisine
We cannot forget to mention the local cuisine when talking about Van Long Lagoon. The flavors of the dishes here are characteristic of the Ninh Binh region, promising to offer you great culinary experiences.
Try specialty dishes such as Ninh Binh mountain goat, field snakehead fish, burnt rice, and wild vegetables. The dishes are made from fresh ingredients, rich in local flavor, and unforgettable. You can enjoy these dishes at local restaurants, where the cultural ambiance adds to the enjoyment of your meal.
Van Long Lagoon is an ideal eco-tourism destination that offers visitors wonderful experiences of nature, culture, and history. With its beautiful natural landscape, diverse ecosystem, and distinctive culture, Van Long Lagoon promises to be an unmissable stop on your journey to explore Vietnam. Visit Van Long to enjoy the peaceful beauty, relax, and discover new things, and you are sure to leave with unforgettable memories.
