Quang Binh has long been famous for its majestic cave system, and Tien Son Cave is one of the most attractive destinations that travelers cannot miss. With its magical beauty and unique geological structure, Tien Son Cave deserves to be ranked among the natural wonders of Vietnam. This article will help you understand more about Tien Son Cave, from its geographical location and the story of its discovery to essential travel information and exciting experiences here.
Where is Tien Son Cave?
Tien Son Cave is located in Phong Nha—Ke Bang National Park, in Son Trach Commune, Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province. It is about 1 km from Phong Nha Cave, so visitors can easily combine a visit to both caves. Due to its magical beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Tien Son Cave is known as the “fairyland.” Visitors can easily travel from Dong Hoi City, about 50 km to the northwest, to reach the cave and enjoy the pristine and majestic natural landscape.
The Discovery of Tien Son Cave, Quang Binh
A group of residents discovered Tien Son Cave in 1935 while hunting for forest products. After being forgotten for many years, the cave was studied and opened for tourism at the end of the 20th century. Thanks to its proximity to Phong Nha Cave, Tien Son gradually became an essential destination for many travelers on their journey to explore Quang Binh.
The Legend of Tien Son Cave
The locals say that Tien Son Cave was once the dwelling place of deities, which is how it got its name, “Tien Son” (Fairy Mountain). Inside the cave, there are many strange formations, from pure white stalactites resembling ice to towering stone columns like pillars supporting the sky. These create a majestic landscape, leading many to believe that this is the residence of immortal beings.
The magical beauty of Tien Son Cave, Quang Binh
Upon entering Tien Son Cave, visitors are immediately captivated by the magical beauty of the shimmering, multicolored stalactites. The cave’s unique geological structure, with hundreds of stone blocks and natural limestone columns, creates a mysterious atmosphere inside. The light streaming through the gaps creates patches of light and shadow, making the scenery within the cave dazzling and magnificent.
The highlight of Tien Son Cave is its massive system of stalactites, with a variety of shapes resembling miniature palaces. Some stone formations are likened to the shapes of animals, while others resemble deities. This not only attracts tourists but also serves as a subject of study for geologists.
According to scientists from the British Cave Research Association (BCRA), this cave was formed tens of millions of years ago due to the erosion caused by flowing water, which carved out and hollowed out the limestone mountains of Ke Bang. Through geological processes, the mountain range may have been raised or lowered, leading to the collapse of stone blocks, which blocked the flow of water and created Tien Son Cave above, while the underground river continued to flow, forming Phong Nha Cave. Although Phong Nha and Tien Son caves are adjacent, they are not connected. Tien Son Cave, considered a twin brother of Phong Nha Cave, is also a beautiful masterpiece of stalactites.
Tien Son Cave has a clear geological stratification formed over millions of years. The stalactite system is not just made up of individual stone blocks but also forms long strands of stalactites stacked on top of each other, creating pure white stone curtains. This is what makes Tien Son Cave different from other caves in the region.
Tien Son Cave travel guide
Tien Son Cave began to be developed for tourism in the 1990s when researchers discovered its tourism potential. Since then, Tien Son has become one of the top tourist attractions in Quang Binh. Since 2014, the Phong Nha – Ke Bang Tourism Center has invested in building and renovating the pathway to Tien Son Cave, with shorter stone steps, additional handrails, and a glass viewing bridge along the way. They have also planted climbing vines to create shade, making the exploration experience for visitors more convenient and enjoyable than ever before.
Ticket Prices for Visiting Tien Son Cave
Each year, Tien Son Cave attracts thousands of domestic and foreign visitors. Here, tourists can not only admire the natural beauty but also experience adventurous tours that explore deep into the cave. Especially when combined with a visit to Phong Nha Cave, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the fascinating beauty of Quang Binh fully.
Ticket prices for Tien Son Cave are based on height:
- Tourists 1.3m and above are 80,000 VND.
- Visitors under 1.3m tall are free of charge.
- Boat transportation service: 550,000 VND/round trip (maximum 12 people, including children)
However, for this price, visitors will have the chance to explore a unique natural wonder, which is fully worth the money spent.
Important Notes
- Best time to visit: Visitors should come during cooler weather, which is ideal for exploring the caves.
- Clothes: Visitors should wear comfortable clothes and sports shoes for easy movement.
- Environmental protection: Avoid touching the stalactites to prevent damaging the natural geological formations.
Tien Son Cave is not only a famous tourist destination but also a natural artistic masterpiece filled with mystery and allure. With its magical beauty of stalactites and fascinating legends, it is ideal for those who love exploration and want to learn more about the tourist spots in Quang Binh. If you are planning a trip to Quang Binh, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this natural wonder!
