"Explore vibrant avian life in stunning nature."
Thung Nham Bird Park, located in the heart of the Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh Province, is one of Vietnam’s most captivating eco-tourism destinations. Set amidst karst limestone mountains, lush tropical forests, and serene wetlands, this park is home to over 40 species of birds, including thousands of storks, herons, and other rare and migratory birds. It offers a peaceful retreat into nature and is ideal for birdwatching, photography, and outdoor exploration.
Thung Nham combines natural beauty with cultural and spiritual elements, including ancient caves and pagodas. The park is part of a larger conservation area and plays a crucial role in preserving the region’s biodiversity. It is an excellent destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a quiet escape from urban life.
Thung Nham is about 12 km from Ninh Binh City and 5 km from Tam Coc. It is accessible by:
- From Ninh Binh City: Take a taxi or rent a motorbike for a 30–40 minute drive. Follow the road to Tam Coc and continue toward Thung Nham.
- From Hanoi: The most common route is via a 2-hour train or bus ride to Ninh Binh City, then proceed by taxi or motorbike.
- Tour Packages: Many local tours offer half-day or full-day trips that include Thung Nham, Tam Coc, and Bich Dong Pagoda.
Ninh Binh has a humid subtropical climate. The best time to visit Thung Nham Bird Park is during the dry season from October to April when the weather is mild, and birds are most active.
- Dry Season (Oct - Apr): Cool and dry with temperatures ranging between 18°C to 28°C. Ideal for birdwatching and trekking.
- Wet Season (May - Sep): Hot and humid with frequent rains, but the landscape is greener and the bird population increases due to breeding.
The park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to observe birds is early in the morning (around 5:30 – 7:00 AM) or late afternoon (around 4:30 – 6:00 PM), when birds return to their nests in flocks.
Plan to spend 3 to 4 hours in the park if you want to see all the main areas and caves.
Thung Nham is famous for its vast bird sanctuary, housing over 50,000 birds across more than 40 species. Some rare birds such as flamingos, cranes, phoenixes, and storks can be spotted here, especially during migration seasons.
Besides its rich birdlife, the park is known for its scenic boat rides, tranquil environment, and limestone caves. Its location within the Trang An complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adds to its cultural and environmental significance.
- Entry Fee: Approximately 100,000 VND per adult and 50,000 VND per child
- Boat Ride Fee: 20,000 - 30,000 VND (optional for visiting the bird sanctuary or caves)
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
- Parking: Available for cars and motorbikes near the entrance
Guides are available for hire at the gate. Visitors are encouraged to walk or take a boat through different zones to fully experience the area.
While Thung Nham is primarily a natural park, it is intertwined with local spiritual and historical significance. Within the park, you’ll find:
The park’s layout is designed to preserve its ecosystem while offering an immersive visitor experience, with eco-friendly infrastructure such as bamboo walkways and wooden observation decks.
- Birdwatching: Observe thousands of birds nesting in the trees, especially at dusk when they return from feeding.
- Boat Ride: Glide through wetlands, forests, and caves on a bamboo boat.
- Explore Caves: Visit Vai Gioi, But, and Mermaid caves with their mysterious formations.
- Nature Trails: Walk through forest paths and enjoy the tranquil greenery.
- Fruit Garden: Explore orchards with seasonal fruits like guava, lychee, and longan.
- Photography: Capture wildlife, dramatic limestone mountains, and reflections on the lake.
- Camping and Picnic: Designated areas allow families to rest and eat in a peaceful setting.
