The MAG Vietnam Vol 2 Oct 2016 | Page 12

Text by Andrew : Images courtesy of Oxalis

Paradise Cave

Thien Duong

The magnificent Son Doong Cave in Central Quang Bing province has become known as one of the seven new wonders of the world . Since 2013 , when the Son Doong Cave was officially opened for tourism foreign visitor numbers to Vietnam have increased exponentially , many of whom have come specifically to visit the worlds largest dry cave . This massive cave , which is 200 metres high and 150 metres wide covered with jungle and enormous stalagmites rising from the ground and statuesque stalactites hanging from the ceiling , anyone could be forgiven for thinking they had been transported to an alien world . Unfortunately most will have to wait for their experience , tours are strictly controlled and limited in order to preserve this unique and delicate environment . UNESCO World Heritage Site of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park , Quanh Binh has many spectacular caves with affordable options for tourists and locals alike providing them with a an experience most only dream about .

Thien Duong ( Paradise ) Cave stretching over 31km , is not only considered Asia ’ s longest dry cave by the British Cave Research Association ( BCRA ) but also a “ virtual galaxy ” inside the earth ’ s crust , a real life fairy land . Thien Duong is a popular destination for visitors to the province and demand has continued expeditiously . Truong Thinh Tourist Company offer professional experienced guides and tours through the cave and surrounding areas . Phong Nha is in the same region has been accredited by the BCRA as one of the most outstanding aesthetic and unique values , with seven outstanding criteria : the longest wet cave , the highest and largest entrance to a cave , the largest and most beautiful sandy-bank and reefs , the most beautiful underground river ,