Ninh Binh: Discover the tranquil "waveless bay" of Van Long.
Van Long Lagoon boasts a calm, mirror-like surface and is the largest wetland conservation area in Northern Vietnam, featuring a diverse ecosystem and magnificent limestone landscapes.
Located not far from Hanoi, Van Long Lagoon in Ninh Binh appears like a giant ink painting. Dubbed the "bay without waves," it attracts tourists with its pristine beauty, crystal-clear water that allows you to see the bottom, and the characteristic wetland ecosystem of the Northern Delta region.
The largest wetland conservation area in Northern Vietnam.
Van Long Lagoon is located in the mountainous area outside the dike in Gia Van, Gia Vien, and Gia Hung communes (Ninh Binh province). With an area of approximately 3,000 hectares, it is the largest wetland nature reserve in the Northern Delta region. About three-quarters of the area consists of limestone mountains and one-quarter is wetland, creating a diverse and fascinating landscape.
Few people know that this area was formed in 1960 after a dike more than 30km long was built on the left bank of the Day River to control flooding. This event inadvertently created a vast flooded area, transforming the former limestone mountains into isolated rocky islands in the middle of a vast valley.
Experience the thrill of floating on a "bay without waves".
To fully explore the beauty of Van Long, visitors will ride in small bamboo boats steered by local people. The most unique feature here is the calm, ripple-free water, crystal clear like a giant mirror reflecting the clouds, sky, and rocky mountains.
As the boat glides gently, visitors can clearly observe the layers of algae and the ecosystem at the bottom of the water. Surrounding them are strangely shaped mountains named according to the imagination of the locals, such as Sticky Rice Mountain, Bookcase Mountain, Table Stone Mountain, or Inkstone Mountain.
Unique highlights and records
One of the most impressive stops is Cat Scratch Mountain. This mountain, approximately 150-200 meters high, stands independently like an island. Its name comes from the natural scratches on the cliff face that, when viewed from a distance, resemble cat scratches. It is also believed to preserve ancient rock carvings (rock murals), attracting the attention of researchers.
Van Long is not only an ecotourism destination but also a vibrant "natural museum." In 2010, it was recognized with two Vietnamese records: "The place with the largest number of white-buttocked langurs" and "The place with the largest natural painting." Currently, the lagoon is home to more than 100 white-buttocked langurs along with hundreds of rare plant and bird species.
With its tranquil atmosphere and lack of engine noise, Van Long Lagoon is an ideal choice for those seeking to reconnect with pristine nature and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
