Discover Thung Nham Bird Park, a hidden gem in Ninh Binh’s Trang An complex, famed for pristine nature and rare birdlife. Explore with Vietnamtour 247.
Hidden amid layers of majestic mountains, Thung Nham Bird Park, also known as Bird Valley Ninh Binh, reveals itself as a quiet treasure nestled deep within the famous Trang An scenic complex. Celebrated for its raw, untouched beauty, this enchanting landscape is home to a remarkably rich ecosystem where rare and fascinating bird species thrive in harmony with nature. Join Vietnamtour 247 on a journey to discover Thung Nham Bird Park, where every rustling wing and echoing birdsong weaves together a living symphony of Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.
Introducing Thung Nham Bird Park – Explore The Wild And Amazing Nature in Ninh Binh
Thung Nham Bird Park lies within the renowned Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, located in Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province. Just around 12 km from Ninh Binh city center, this hidden sanctuary is often celebrated as a true “bird kingdom,” home to more than 50,000 birds representing over 40 species. Among them are several rare and striking species, including phoenixes and flamingos, making the area ideal for bird watching at Thung Nham.
From the moment visitors step into Thung Nham Bird Park, they are gently separated from the noise and rush of urban life. The harmonious chorus of birdsong blends with the cool, fresh air, creating a calming natural melody that soothes the soul. As part of the Thung Nham Bird Park nature reserve, the landscape unfolds like a living painting: shaded forests, softly flowing streams, golden rice fields at harvest time, and majestic limestone mountains rising in the distance. All these elements come together to form a rich and balanced Thung Nham Bird Park ecosystem, where wildlife and scenery coexist in perfect harmony—leaving travelers both amazed and deeply connected to nature.
Meaning Of The Name Thung Nham
The name “Thung Nham” carries a deep significance closely tied to the landscape and cultural identity of Ninh Binh province. It originates from the area’s distinctive topography. The word “Thung” refers to a valley or lowland embraced by mountains and forests, while “Nham” evokes lava-like rocky formations or limestone mountains. At the same time, “Nham” is also associated with Hai Nham Hamlet, part of Ninh Hai Commune, where Thung Nham Bird Park—often known as the bird valley of Ninh Binh is located.
Together, the name Thung Nham vividly reflects the region’s natural setting: a serene valley enclosed by dramatic limestone cliffs. This terrain is emblematic of Ninh Binh, a land renowned for its towering karst mountains that create a breathtaking and unmistakable natural panorama. Within this landscape, the Thung Nham Bird Park ecosystem thrives as a harmonious blend of wetlands, forests, and limestone formations, supporting remarkable biodiversity.
Beyond its geographical meaning, Thung Nham also holds a poetic, metaphorical significance. It symbolizes shelter and protection, like nature’s gentle arms encircling and safeguarding the cultural heritage, historical depth, and untamed beauty of Ninh Binh. Today, this sense of natural embrace can be deeply felt through bird watching at Thung Nham, where visitors immerse themselves in the tranquil rhythms of life inside the Thung Nham Bird Park nature reserve, a sanctuary where nature, history, and serenity exist in perfect balance.
The Best Time To Visit Thung Nham Bird Park
Many travelers agree that Thung Nham Bird Park enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it an appealing destination in every season. Each time of year reveals a different side of its charm, from lush greenery to tranquil waterways and vibrant wildlife. That said, the most ideal periods to visit are from February to April and September to November, corresponding to spring and autumn. During these months, the weather is typically dry, mild, and comfortable, perfect for exploring hidden caves, immersing yourself in bird watching at Thung Nham, and admiring the unspoiled beauty of the Thung Nham Bird Park nature reserve. This is also when the Thung Nham Bird Park ecosystem is at its most active and visually captivating.
To make the most of your journey, visitors should also take note of the park’s opening hours. In the summer season, Thung Nham Bird Park welcomes guests from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., while in winter, visiting hours are slightly shorter, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Planning your visit around these times will help ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience in this remarkable natural sanctuary.
Guidelines for visiting Thung Nham Bird Park
Located just around 100 km from Hanoi, Thung Nham Bird Park is easily accessible thanks to its scenic and well-maintained roads. With flexible transport options, visitors can comfortably choose the journey that best suits their travel style while soaking in the natural beauty surrounding the Thung Nham Bird Park nature reserve.
- Motorbike: For those who love adventure and freedom on the road, traveling by motorbike is an ideal choice. Riding from Hanoi to Ninh Binh allows you to fully enjoy the peaceful countryside landscapes along the way. Follow National Highway 1A to Vom Bridge, then continue for about 7 km toward Tam Coc – Bich Dong. From there, simply ride another 4 km, following the signposts leading to Thung Nham Bird Park, where the rich Thung Nham Bird Park ecosystem begins to unfold.
- Train: The train is a budget-friendly and convenient option for travelers seeking comfort. Train tickets from Hanoi to Ninh Binh typically range from 150,000 to 250,000 VND, depending on seat type and class. Once in Ninh Binh, you can easily continue your journey to Thung Nham Bird Park by taxi or local transport, preparing yourself for unforgettable bird watching at Thung Nham.
- Bus: If you prefer traveling by bus, head to Giap Bat Bus Station and take a bus bound for Hoa Lu. Ticket prices usually range from 70,000 to 100,000 VND. Upon arriving in Hoa Lu, you can either hire a taxi or take another local bus to reach Thung Nham Bird Park, a perfect gateway to explore nature, wildlife, and immersive bird watching at Thung Nham.
What’s up at the bird garden at Thung Nham Bird Park?
Beyond being a true sanctuary for bird lovers, Thung Nham Bird Park invites travelers into a world of wild, captivating nature, where exploration and excitement go hand in hand. Here, bird watching at Thung Nham becomes a memorable journey through a rich natural landscape, while the pristine Thung Nham Bird Park nature reserve reveals its untouched charm at every turn. From immersing yourself in the diverse Thung Nham Bird Park ecosystem to enjoying a range of engaging and entertaining activities, each experience unfolds as a unique way to connect with nature. The highlights below offer a glimpse into the fascinating adventures awaiting you in Thung Nham.
Explore ecotourism areas in Thung Nham
When coming to the eco-tourism area in Thung Nham, you definitely cannot miss the following places:
The land of birds is Thung Nham Bird Garden
Spanning approximately 334.2 hectares, Thung Nham Bird Park unfolds as a serene nature reserve and a thriving sanctuary, sheltering more than 50,000 birds from 40 rare and endangered species listed in the Red Book. This poetic landscape invites travelers to slow down and savor bird watching at Thung Nham, especially while gliding gently along the Ngo Dong River, where flocks of birds sweep across the sky in graceful formations. Beyond the boat journey, visitors can delve deeper into the Thung Nham Bird Park ecosystem by exploring dedicated zones such as the bird migration area and the bird research and study area, offering a closer look at the rich biodiversity that makes this destination truly special.
Valley of Love, the flower paradise of Thung Nham
Nestled within Thung Nham Bird Park, Thung Nham Flower Paradise unfolds like a living painting. At its heart lie two gentle flower hills, embraced by surrounding gardens that together span more than 800 square meters. With over thirty flower species cultivated in harmony with the seasons, the landscape is ever-changing, ensuring that no matter when visitors arrive, they are welcomed into a radiant floral haven that feels nothing short of heaven on Earth.
Among the most familiar blooms are Buckwheat, Chrysanthemum, Dragon’s Edge, Shell Cannon, Butterfly Wing, and Golden Mustard. Each flower is grown independently, yet their colors intertwine seamlessly, creating a soft, visually pleasing harmony. When brought together, they form a breathtaking scene—one that invites visitors to dress their best, step into the moment, and capture elegant, picture-perfect memories amid the blossoms.
Fruit garden at Thung Nham
Spanning over 80 hectares, the Thung Nham Fruit Garden is thoughtfully divided into smaller zones, each showcasing a rich variety of tropical fruits. From mangoes, apples, and papayas to star apples, custard apples, guavas, lychees, longans, and persimmons, visitors are immersed in a vibrant landscape that truly feels like a journey into the legendary “Mountain of Fruits” at Thung Nham Bird Park.
What makes the experience even more special is the freedom it offers. Travelers can wander through the garden, handpick ripe fruits straight from the trees, and enjoy them on the spot. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, service staff at designated rest areas thoughtfully prepare freshly harvested fruits, ensuring everyone can savor the garden’s natural sweetness without lifting a hand.
Thung Nham’s spiritual belief cluster
As the ancient capital of Hoa Lu in Ninh Binh, this land is deeply rooted in spiritual beliefs, legendary folklore, and sacred architecture. For that reason, a journey to Thung Nham Bird Park would be incomplete without exploring its spiritual tourism highlights—places where history, faith, and myth gently intertwine.
- Goi Dai Temple: Goi Dai Temple is regarded as one of the most sacred spiritual sites in the area. It represents the harmonious fusion of Mother Goddess worship and traditional deity beliefs, honoring the Three Holy Mothers, the Five Immortals, and the Three Kings. On holidays, full moon days, and the fourth day of each lunar month, local residents come here to offer incense. With bowed heads and clasped hands, they pray to the Mother Goddesses for guidance, protection, peace, good health, and blessings for their families and the community.
- Linh Than Temple: Linh Than Temple was built by Dinh Bo Linh to venerate Saint Viet Vuong—one of the divine figures believed to have aided him in quelling the uprising of the Twelve Warlords. The temple holds remarkable historical value, as it still preserves numerous priceless relics. Among them are five smooth green stone slabs assembled into an altar, along with two ancient incense bowls—one cylindrical and one rectangular—both adorned with the iconic motif of “two dragons flanking the moon.”
- The Moving Banyan Tree: From a scientific perspective, a banyan tree typically renews its trunk after 300–330 years. As the original trunk ages and decays, secondary roots extend deeper into the soil, eventually forming a new main body—a natural phenomenon known as tree migration. Scientific studies suggest that the banyan tree in Thung Nham Bird Park is over a thousand years old and has undergone this migration process three times. Today, it stands at the end of its third phase and the beginning of its fourth. Remarkably, the tree has shifted approximately 20 meters from its original position, earning it the legendary name: the Moving Banyan Tree.
Explore Ninh Binh cave in Thung Nham
Renowned for its breathtaking cave systems, Ninh Binh has long captivated travelers who are drawn to the allure of wild, mysterious landscapes. Nestled within the world-famous Trang An scenic complex, Thung Nham Bird Park stands out with its extraordinary network of caves—each one holding fascinating secrets waiting to be uncovered. Below are some must-visit caves that you simply shouldn’t miss when exploring Thung Nham Bird Park.
The biggest cave in Thung Nham is called Vai Gioi Cave
Vai Gioi Cave is the largest cave within the tourism complex of Thung Nham Bird Park, renowned for its vast scale and a spectacular system of shimmering stalactites. Perched atop the highest peak of Thung Nham Mountain, the journey to the cave is both a challenge and a reward, requiring visitors to climb 439 stone steps. Yet, upon reaching the summit, the pristine air and breathtaking natural scenery offer a profound sense of renewal, making every step worthwhile.
Inside Vai Gioi Cave unfolds an expansive underground world where countless stalactites and stalagmites, shaped naturally over millions of years, create a mesmerizing spectacle. Wandering through the cave feels like stepping into a mystical and enigmatic realm, where imagination is effortlessly awakened. Beyond its geological beauty, the cave also preserves valuable cultural and historical traces. According to legend, King Dinh Tien Hoang once visited this sacred place to pray for peace and prosperity for the nation and its people, adding a layer of spiritual depth to the enchanting experience.
But Cave – the most pristine cave
Hidden among cool, shade-giving trees, But Cave reveals a wild and mysterious charm. Its labyrinth of pristine, untouched stalactites creates an atmosphere that feels both raw and enchanting. Reaching the cave requires only a short walk, yet the journey itself is refreshing—filled with crisp air and the invigorating energy of unspoiled nature that awakens the senses.
But Cave is renowned for its remarkable collection of uniquely shaped stalactites and stalagmites. Each formation appears to whisper an ancient tale, drawing visitors into a dreamlike world reminiscent of a fairy tale. Beyond its geological wonders, the cave also shelters numerous rare animal species, playing a vital role in enriching the biodiversity of Thung Nham Bird Park, also known as the bird valley of Ninh Binh.
Mermaid Cave
Nestled along the dreamy banks of the Ngo Dong River, Mermaid Cave reveals a mysterious yet poetic charm, highlighted by shimmering stalactites naturally shaped like graceful mermaids. Visitors can reach the cave by kayak or dinghy, gently gliding through calm waters toward this hidden wonder inside Thung Nham Bird Park. Drifting along the romantic river, surrounded by cool air and sparkling stone formations, the experience feels both peaceful and enchanting, an ideal moment to slow down, breathe deeply, and fully immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Thung Nham Bird Park.
Enjoy Thung Nham cuisine
Thung Nham Bird Park is not only renowned for its wild, majestic natural scenery but also captivates visitors with a rich and diverse culinary culture deeply rooted in the authentic flavors of Ninh Binh. A journey here would be incomplete without tasting local specialties such as crispy scorched rice, tender mountain goat, unique rocky mountain snails, and fresh fish salad — each dish reflecting the rustic yet distinctive taste of the region.
Advice & Suggestions for Travel, Accommodations, and Food
For travelers drawn to unspoiled nature, eager to discover diverse ecosystems, and looking for engaging outdoor experiences, Thung Nham Bird Park is an ideal destination. To make the most of your journey to Thung Nham Bird Park, keep the following tips in mind:
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Plan ahead with care: Thoughtful preparation before your trip to Thung Nham Bird Park will help you organize your schedule, identify key locations, and choose the activities you’d like to experience within the park.
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Soak in the scenery and experiences: From breathtaking natural landscapes to peaceful birdwatching and leisurely walks, Thung Nham Bird Park promises moments that are both memorable and rejuvenating.
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Choose the right accommodation: For convenient access to Thung Nham Bird Park, consider staying at a nearby homestay, hotel, or resort that suits your preferences and budget.
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Savor local flavors: Take time to explore the rich local cuisine at restaurants and eateries around Thung Nham Bird Park, where you can enjoy regional specialties and authentic dishes.
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Prioritize safety: While exploring and participating in activities at Thung Nham Bird Park, remain mindful of your health, move carefully, and always follow the safety guidelines set by the destination.
With thoughtful planning and an open spirit, your visit to Thung Nham Bird Park will be a rewarding blend of nature, discovery, and relaxation.
Conclusion
For those seeking a deeper connection with nature while embracing moments of peace and relaxation, Thung Nham Bird Park is an ideal retreat. Here, visitors can breathe in the fresh air, listen to the gentle chorus of birds, and immerse themselves in the untouched beauty of Ninh Binh. Every step through Thung Nham Bird Park reveals poetic landscapes and unforgettable moments that linger long after the journey ends. Let Vietnamtour 247 accompany you to Thung Nham Bird Park, where nature’s melodies, tranquil scenery, and authentic experiences come together to create a truly meaningful escape.
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FAQ
1. Where is Thung Nham Bird Park located and why is it special?
Thung Nham Bird Park is located within the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex in Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province, about 12 km from Ninh Binh city center. It is famous for its untouched natural beauty and rich ecosystem, home to more than 50,000 birds from over 40 species, including many rare and protected birds.
2. What is the best time to visit Thung Nham Bird Park?
The best time to visit Thung Nham Bird Park is from February to April and September to November, when the weather is mild and dry. These months are ideal for bird watching at Thung Nham, exploring caves, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the nature reserve.
3. What activities can visitors enjoy at Thung Nham Bird Park?
Visitors can enjoy bird watching by boat, explore famous caves such as Vai Gioi Cave, But Cave, and Mermaid Cave, visit flower valleys and fruit gardens, discover spiritual sites, and taste local Ninh Binh specialties like goat meat and crispy scorched rice.
4. How can I get to Thung Nham Bird Park from Hanoi?
From Hanoi, travelers can reach Ninh Binh by motorbike, train, or bus. After arriving in Ninh Binh city or Hoa Lu, it takes about 10–15 minutes by taxi or motorbike to reach Thung Nham Bird Park. The route is easy to follow and suitable for both independent travelers and guided tours.
