Van Long Lagoon is known for its tranquility between the limestone mountains and the calm water surface that mirrors the clouds.
About 80 km to the south of Hanoi, Van Long lagoon is said by many to be a “legendary land” with the largest wetland nature reserve in the Northern Delta. From far away, the towering limestone mountains harmonized with white clouds, blue sky and immense water beautify the natural scenery.
Surprisingly, Van Long lagoon is not natural. It was formed from embankment of dyke on the left of Day river to prevent flooding. Since then, a vast wetland with beautiful rocks and caves was “born”, becoming a stopping destination for people who love to explore nature and want to immerse themselves in water and mountains.
Van Long is called “Ha Long Bay without waves” of Ninh Binh by many. If you take a boat on the lagoon, feel the calm water without ripples like a giant sun mirror, you will get why. Van Long lagoon water is clear, revealing every layers of moss down in the bottom, making the natural scenery here even more impressive.
Van Long area has more than 32 beautiful wild caves such as Ca cave (Fish cave), Bong cave, Rua cave (Turtle cave), … present many stalactites with unique shapes inside. The lagoon is also home to nearly a hundred delacour’s langurs – a species listed in the Red Book of Vietnam as well as the world that needs protection.
The best time of the day to go to Van Long lagoon is in the afternoon when birds flock back to the region. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the flock of langurs feeding on the edge of water. Surrounding Van Long nature reserve are typical villages of the Northern Delta. You can explore the village by oxcart or bicycle to enjoy the tranquility and idyllicity of this land.
