Be ready to discover Thung Nham Wet Bird Valley one of the most remarkable day trips during any Ninh Binh Eco Tour and a special route that very few Ninh Binh Tours offer their guests. Situated only 12 kilometers away from Tam Coc, the place is made up of varieties of rich biodiversity and well-conserved landscapes; thus, it is considered an ideal place for both nature lovers and bird watchers. Nestled within the Trang An Landscape Complex, this “Wet Bird Valley" offers one a home to over 40 species of birds, with rare caves and lush, serene landscapes. For the rest who have a thirst to explore the real heart of Ninh Binh, Thung Nham promises an unforgettable experience replete with nature, wildlife, and insight into culture. Join us on your next eco-tour in the discovery of this gem!
Key Attractions of Thung Nham: What Awaits You
The Bird Sanctuary
Imagine the skies coming alive with hundreds of birds flying back to their nests every evening at dusk, thereby setting a cinematic view every evening in the golden-twilight sky! Thung Nham’s Bird Sanctuary is one of the treasures that are kept within the region, housing over 40 different species of birds, including the rarely-seen phoenix and vibrantly colored flamingo. Bird watchers should expect to view seasonal migratory birds seeking refuge in this tranquil sanctuary as nature unwinds its rhythm day by day. Take an easy, environmentally-friendly boat ride through wetlands and close up on this magic, tranquil scenery, and serenading sounds all around you.
Cave Exploration
For those who love adventure, Thung Nham is home to various unique caves, each with its own stories and allurements; freely compare to many caves in Ninh Binh Tours for a closer approach.
- Vai Gioi Cave: Step into the mystic realm as you enter Vai Gioi Cave, which is known for its serene and overwhelming rock formations. The name of the cave translates to “Worshiping Heaven," wherein legend says ancient locals prayed for good fortune and bountiful harvests. Inside, you’ll find intricate stalactites and stalagmites that almost seem alive; each corner exudes an otherworldly energy ideal for spiritual and scenic experiences.
- But Cave: This is the place for you if you love natural art. What is sometimes called “Buddha Cave" has within it a quite fantastic rock formation that takes the shape of a seated Buddha, looking over this valley. As you walk in, stalactites are forming shapes, creating a fascinating backdrop steeped in historical reverence.
- Ba Co Cave: Visiting the Ba Co Cave will expose you to folkloric tales handed down since time past. This cave was dedicated to three heroic sisters of old who sacrificed their lives to save the people of this community. Their story imbues this cave with a sense of bravery and history where even the natural rock formations reflect the strength and beauty of their legend.
Thung Nham’s Water Valley
Thung Nham Wet Bird Valley
Thung Nham’s Water Valley is the most beautiful place, with its submerged forest and everything that cannot be seen anywhere on standard Ninh Binh Tours. This place is packed full of various fish types, flowers that blossom on the waterways, and picturesque waterways that one might take in thoroughly by riding a boat around it. Drift past tall trees, standing amidst the water, as the reflection across the surface develops a magical mirror effect; this will make this hidden forest seem like a fairy tale. Thung Nham’s Water Valley nestles amidst serene greenery to invite one for an experience of tranquility surrounded by nature in its most virgin state.
Thung Nham Wet Bird Valley Tour for Ninh Binh Eco Tours: Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Exploration and Adventure
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
07:00 – 07:15: Departure from Hanoi
The guide will then pick you up from your Hanoi hotel, and our driver will drive for about 2 hours to get to Ninh Providing ample time to get comfortable and enjoy the scenery while leaving the bustling city behind.
09:15: Rest Stop
We will have a short stop en route for a glass of refreshment and a bit of stretching, for 15 minutes. Enjoy your cup of coffee or tea and get ready for the exciting day!
10:30 – 11:15: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Upon arrival at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, you will visit two very interesting temples: one of King Dinh Tien Hoang and one of King Le Dai Hanh. Our guide will accompany you through the traces of Hoa Lu history, an ancient kingdom that has tales of bravery and tradition whispered at every corner.
11:30 – 12:30: Mua Cave Hike
Next, we visit Mua Cave emojis the legendary panoramic views in Tam Coc Area. Be prepared for your 500-step hike to the top, which will be fully rewarded with an amazing, breathtaking view of limestone mountains and vast rice fields. This place is wholly recommended as a “mini Halong Bay on land" for amazing photos.
12:45 – 13:45: Lunch at Local Restaurant
The afternoon is used for a delectable lunch at the local restaurant. It would be an opportunity to taste some of the traditional dishes in Ninh Binh, such as Mountain Goat Meat and Crispy Rice a culinary experience from fresh in the area!
14:00 – 15:30: Tam Coc Boat Ride
Get amazed by the beauty of Tam Coc in a 1.5-hour boat trip down the Ngo Dong River. Trip the caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. It will take you through the landscape serenely and give you a closer look at the very high cliffs and rice paddies along the riverbanks.
15:45 – 17:00: Arrival and Check-in at Thung Nham Eco-Tourism Zone
We will arrive at Thung Nham Eco-Tourism Zone, where you check in. After a brief rest, it is free to cycle around, and you go and find some quiet surroundings or just sit down and enjoy the natural beauty of Thung Nham.
17:30 – 18:30: Evening Bird Watching
Then, in the late afternoon, head to the Bird Sanctuary, where the vast amount of birds returning to nest is simply another spectacle altogether. This evening ritual against the golden hues of the sun is a soothingly magical experience when palpable flocks of storks, herons, and other birds saturate the sky with an amazing natural display.
19:00: Dinner and Overnight in Thung Nham
Enjoy a leisurely dinner at the eco-lodge or Thung Nham restaurant, with local fresh ingredients prepared specially for your meals. Retire to your room and get ready for another day of activity and cultural learning.
Mua Cave
Day 2: Cultural and Natural Discovery
07:00 – 08:00: Breakfast at the Lodge
Begin your day with a heavy breakfast in the hotel to have a day full of spiritual and natural exploration.
08:30 – 10:30: Bai Dinh Pagoda Visit
Our first stop today is the biggest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia: Bai Dinh Pagoda. Take an astonished walk through the huge complex with its big bell tower, 100-ton bronze Buddha, and hundreds of smaller Buddha statues lining the paths. Our guide will come to explain all about the cultural and historical meaning of this remarkable site so that you may deeply feel the spiritual atmosphere.
11:00 – 12:30: Bird Sanctuary and Water Valley Exploration
In the afternoon, return to Thung Nham for a gentle boat ride across Water Valley, a flooded forest full of flora and fauna. In the quiet slippery conditions between the greens, observe different bird species; you could even be so lucky as to glimpse the phoenix or flamingo birds. Such serenity in Wet Bird Valley exploration cannot be more assuredly embedded in nature, which is very significant to you, especially in Ninh Binh.
12:45 – 13:45: Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Before heading back, we have yet another great meal with the best features of NinhBinh’sh culinary art. Take this last chance to indulge in the taste of locals and entertain yourself amidst the serene Thung Nham setting.
14:00: Return to Hanoi
After two days of enrichment, we will leave for Hanoi to drive back and enjoy some quiet moments reflecting on the incredible sights, sounds, and experiences of the Ninh Binh Eco Tours. We expect to arrive in Hanoi around 16:30 and thus conclude our journey.
Tam Coc Boat Ride
Tips for Enjoying Your Thung Nham Eco Tour
Seasonal Considerations
The season chosen sometimes makes all the difference. The best time to see Thung Nham is from late September through April, with much cooler and pleasant weather for outdoor explorations. For avid bird-watching visits, this could be between September and November or around March when complete migrations of birds fill the sky with a lively display against the evening sky. Note that visits at this time, during the rainy season which starts in May and lasts through August-might be a bit inconvenient as most of the trails are muddy with frequent rain showers.
Packing Essentials
Packing well is key to a successful eco-tour. Here are a few essentials:
- Sun Protection: The sun can be intense in Ninh Binh, especially in the middle of the day. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to keep yourself protected during your time in the sun.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: These will be necessary for navigating through the trails, caves, and pagodas of Thung Nham, and you will want comfortable shoes for this exploration. Make sure to wear shoes that have great grip, for some of the paths could be quite slippery because of hiking up Mua Cave or strolling over to the Bird Sanctuary.
- Camera or Binoculars: Birdwatching here in Thung Nham is incomparable, and you may want shots of those brilliant sightings! A good camera or a pair of binoculars brings nature’s wonders closer to you.
- Light Jacket: Since from October through February, each evening and early morning might get pretty cool, a lightweight jacket is necessary to keep comfortable.
Health and Safety Tips
Safety and comfort during your tour will further ensure that everything goes well and is enjoyable.
- Stay Hydrated: It is effortlessly easy to become dehydrated with all the outdoors. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill at designated areas – it’s green and keeps you energized!
- Sun and Heat Precautions: Liberally apply sunscreen at frequent intervals during the day. Break in shaded areas whenever possible to avoid overheating. A small, portable fan can be very effective.
- Eco-Friendly Insect Repellent: Since Thung Nham is a nature reserve environment, bugs are a given, especially in the Bird Sanctuary and Water Valley. Apply an appropriate coating on your skin using eco-friendly insect repellent to protect you from bugs but still be environmentally friendly.
Cultural Respect
Also, one is supposed to respect customs where one goes, especially if there are any historic sites to pay a visit to, such as Hoa Lu Ancient Capital or Bai Dinh Pagoda.
- Dress Appropriately: Dress with respect when visiting temples. Long pants and sleeved tops are appreciated at all times, and some sites provide shawls if required.
- Photography Etiquette: Irresistible since one would want to capture every moment of it, be considerate in taking pictures at these sacred places. Avoid flash photography inside temples, as well as following instructions on guideline boards.
- Engage Respectfully: People in Ninh Binh are so hospitable. A smile, “Xin chào"-hello, or “Cảm ơn"-thank you mean so much in appreciating their warm reception.
Conclusion
Last but not least destination joining in every Ninh Binh Eco Tour is Thung Nham Wet Bird Valley. This valley has it all: breathtakingly beautiful, culturally rich, and serenely peaceful. Every nook may differ, from the incredible sunsets of the Bird Sanctuary to the mysterious caves. Let Impress Travel guide an easy and unforgettable adventure. Book today and let Thung Nham captivate you! Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ninh Binh and to book Ninh Binh Tour at the best prices.