Vietnam is not just a country known for its culture, but for the caves as well. Phong Nha-Ke Bang is one of the most talked destinations in Vietnam, primarily due to the discovery of the Son Doong Cave-the largest in the world. But, there is another one called Thien Duong Cave or the Paradise cave which is an iconic destination and discovered way before Son Doong. It is a 31 km long cave and got its name from the first explorers who visited the place.

The longest dry cave in Asia
The Paradise cave is a stunningly beautiful attraction of Phong Nha-Ke Bang national park and the longest dry cave in Asia.

The interiors of the caver are heavenly beautiful with stalactites rich ceilings and exceptionally pretty surroundings as that of a grand cathedral. The first impression you get is amazing as soon as you enter the cave. As you continue walking down the wooden stairs, you will see some of the beautiful cave formations. Carry a DSRL cam while visiting the cave as you can have some beautiful snaps as memorabilia back home.

Important tourism activities
If you wish to explore deep inside the paradise cave, it is recommended booking a cave tour that includes swimmingthrough underground river and lunch under a shaft.

In the conducted 7km (the distance includes round trip) tour, a guide will accompany you through the underground trek. The distance may be cut short to 4 km during the time of high water levels. The cost may range from 1,800,000 to 2,650,000 VND.

How to reach
The closest airport to reach Phong Nha-Ke Bang is Dong Hoi. From Dong Hoi, there are trains and local bus services that take you to the National Park. There are bus services from Hue to Phong Nha-Ke Bang as well. Taxis can also hire from hotels, railway stations and airports from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha-Ke Bang, paradise cave. It is just one hour away (70km) on the highway with cars, buses,and motorbikes.

The well-paved road off the main highway takes you to the paradise cave through car, bus or motorbike access. Up to the entrance of the cave, there are 500 stairs and another 100 or 200 stairs inside as well.

Different mode of transportation
Bike ride or cycling to paradise cave is another alternative option to reach the cave. Don't expect it to be an easy trip as the journey includes several hilly places and mountain ranges, but it is going to be fun. Take the route along the Son River and head as per the signboards. As the place doesn't have any restaurants, it is better to take some food along with you.

To traverse inside the cave, most of the tour providers offer a boat service that takes you around the cave. Floating through the paradise cave in a boat is great, especially if you have aged peopleand children along with you. It is best to share the boat with others as it is cost effective. You will also get a chance to get down the boat and explore the cave through the walkways and stairs.

Conclusion
Paradise cave is one of those beautiful cavesin the world that you shouldn’t misson your Vietnam trip. The geological cave formations formed over millions of years ago give an artistic look to the cave. Expect new sceneries around every corner to cherish throughout your life. Contract your tour operator for further details.