Home to more than 45 species of birds and surrounded by enchanting landscapes that look like they belong in a storybook, Thung Nham Bird Park is an off-the-beaten-path treasure just waiting to be explored. Embark with us on a journey into this serene bird sanctuary, where nature’s beauty and secrets unfold at every turn.

Thung Nham Bird Park, Ninh Binh: Location and Ticket Information

Located in Hai Nham hamlet, Ninh Hai commune, within the Tam Coc region of Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province, Thung Nham Bird Park offers an unforgettable experience. Entrance fees are 150,000 VND for adults and 100,000 VND for children, with free admission for children under 1 meter in height. This park is celebrated for its rich birdlife, serene lakes, majestic karst cliffs, and breathtaking natural scenery. It also features a series of ancient caves, rich in history and cultural significance, making it a top destination for visitors to Ninh Binh.

Thung Nham Bird Park EntranceThung Nham Bird Park Entrance

Best Times to Visit Thung Nham Bird Park and How to Get There

The ideal time to explore Thung Nham Bird Park is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as these are the peak activity hours for the birds.

The park operates from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm during summer and from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm in winter. Arriving early or later in the day not only enhances your chances of observing the birds in action but also provides a more pleasant experience with cooler temperatures and softer natural light.

Getting to Thung Nham Bird Park is straightforward, with several options available. If you’re traveling from Ninh Binh city, the quickest and most convenient choice is by taxi or motorbike. Taxis are readily available throughout the city, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. For those seeking adventure, renting a motorbike is a fantastic way to discover the surrounding landscapes, with rentals available at various locations in Ninh Binh.

To reach the park from Ninh Binh city center, head south along the Tran Hung Dao – Truong Han Sieu – Hoa Lu route. After approximately 2.5 kilometers, you’ll arrive at Thung Nham Bird Park.

If you prefer a more structured experience, guided tours are also an option. These tours can be arranged through local tour operators in Ninh Binh and typically include transportation to and from the park, along with a guided exploration of its attractions.

Thung Nham Bird Park MapThung Nham Bird Park Map

Top Sights to Explore at Thung Nham Bird Park on Your Excursion

Thung Nham bird watching area

As you step into Thung Nham Bird Park, the first sensation that captures your attention is the serene and calming chorus of chirping birds, a welcoming sound that immediately immerses you in the natural beauty of this birdwatcher’s haven. This melodious backdrop sets the tone for an unforgettable experience, where the sights and sounds of the avian world unfold in front of you.

The park’s ecotourism offering is nothing short of extraordinary. It boasts a diverse collection of over 45 bird species, each contributing to the rich biodiversity that makes the park so special. Among these species are graceful storks, elegant egrets, majestic herons, and vibrant kingfishers, all coexisting in this lush sanctuary. The dedicated birdwatching zones scattered throughout the park provide excellent vantage points for spotting these fascinating creatures in their natural surroundings. Whether you’re an avid bird enthusiast or a casual observer, these areas offer an unparalleled opportunity to observe the birds as they go about their daily activities — nesting, feeding, and soaring gracefully across the sky.

Bird Watching Thung NhamBird Watching Thung Nham

But Cave

One of the standout attractions of Thung Nham Bird Park is the But Cave, a fascinating natural wonder that captivates visitors with its unique beauty and ecological significance. Upon entering the cave, you’ll immediately be struck by the stunning formations of stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years, creating an otherworldly landscape of intricate shapes and textures. These natural rock formations hang from the cave’s ceiling and rise from the ground, forming impressive columns and spires that seem to tell the story of the cave’s ancient past.

But Cave is more than just a visual marvel; it also serves as a thriving habitat for a variety of wildlife. The cave is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem, with colonies of bats nesting within its cool, dark recesses. These bats, with their silent, fluttering wings, are a testament to the cave’s role as a crucial refuge for nocturnal creatures. Additionally, the cave provides a sanctuary for swifts, graceful birds known for their remarkable ability to navigate through the cave’s narrow passages with speed and precision. Along with the bats and swifts, other small wildlife species have also made this cave their home, contributing to the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.

Vai Gioi Cave

Vai Gioi Cave stands as one of the most breathtaking natural wonders within Thung Nham Bird Park, captivating visitors with its dramatic beauty and awe-inspiring scale. Nestled deep within the park’s rugged terrain, this extraordinary cave provides an immersive experience that highlights the incredible forces of nature that shaped its interior over millennia.

As you approach the entrance to Vai Gioi Cave, the sense of anticipation builds, knowing you’re about to enter a hidden world beneath the earth’s surface. The cave’s chambers open up into a vast expanse filled with remarkable geological formations, from soaring stalactites and stalagmites to colossal stone pillars. These structures have formed through slow mineral deposition, creating intricate patterns and textures that feel as though they were sculpted by an artist’s hand.

What truly sets Vai Gioi Cave apart, however, is the mesmerizing natural light display that graces its inner chambers. As sunlight filters in through small openings and crevices in the cave’s ceiling, it casts soft, glowing beams across the cavern walls, illuminating the formations with an ethereal radiance. The interplay between light and shadow creates a mystical, otherworldly atmosphere, with the cave’s rocks seeming to shimmer and change colors depending on the angle of the light. This surreal effect leaves visitors in awe, making it feel as though they have stepped into another realm entirely.

Vai Gioi Cave FormationsVai Gioi Cave Formations

The ancient banyan tree

The ancient banyan tree in Thung Nham Bird Park stands as a majestic testament to the park’s deep-rooted history and abundant natural beauty. With a lifespan stretching over 1,000 years, this colossal tree has witnessed the passing of centuries, silently observing the transformations of the land around it. Its towering trunk, with its gnarled, weathered bark, tells a story of endurance and resilience, while its expansive network of roots and branches has sprawled outward, intertwining with the earth and forming a sprawling natural canopy that covers a vast area beneath it.

The banyan’s enormous branches stretch out in all directions, some dipping low to the ground before rising again, creating an intricate web of limbs that intertwine and support one another. Its roots, thick and powerful, seem to ripple across the earth, snaking outwards in search of new ground to anchor themselves. Together, the branches and roots create a serene, shaded haven, offering a cool retreat from the sun for both visitors and wildlife alike.

A leisurely walk around this ancient banyan tree allows visitors to fully appreciate its grandeur and the tranquil environment it fosters. As you stroll beneath its leafy canopy, you can hear the soft rustle of the wind moving through the leaves and the chirping of birds perched within its branches. The dappled sunlight that filters through the dense foliage creates a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for quiet reflection or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

Must-Have Items for an Unforgettable Thung Nham Bird 

At Thung Nham Bird Park, visitors are treated to more than just awe-inspiring natural landscapes and unique destinations. The park offers an array of exciting activities that allow tourists to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the surroundings. Whether it’s gliding across tranquil waters in a boat, casting a line for a peaceful fishing experience, setting up camp under the stars, or delving into the mysterious depths of ancient caves, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

To make the most of your adventure at Thung Nham Bird Park, it’s important to come prepared. Here are some essential items to bring along for a smooth and enjoyable trip:

  • Jacket or Windbreaker: Nestled in a mountainous region, Thung Nham has a cooler climate compared to other parts of northern Vietnam. Early morning and late afternoon explorations can be chilly, so it’s a good idea to pack a jacket or windbreaker to stay warm and comfortable.
  • Comfortable Footwear: With so much to explore, from nature trails to caves and lakes, you’ll be on your feet quite a bit. To ensure comfort and safety, it’s best to wear sturdy sports shoes or travel sandals that provide good support for walking over varying terrain.
  • Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: As you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors, be sure to protect your skin from the sun’s rays by applying sunscreen. Insect repellent is also essential, as the park’s lush greenery and wetlands can attract mosquitoes and other bugs.
  • Camera and Binoculars: Thung Nham is famous for its diverse bird population, so don’t forget to bring a camera to capture stunning images of the landscape and wildlife. Binoculars are also highly recommended to get a closer view of the park’s birdlife, allowing you to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
  • Cash: Since Thung Nham Bird Park is located in a relatively remote area with limited access to ATMs, it’s wise to carry enough cash for entrance fees, boat rentals, food, and other potential expenses.

Thung Nham Bird Park provides the perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, remarkable wildlife, and thrilling activities, making it a top destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. 

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