Leaving the city behind for a land of green

Departing from the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh, I embarked on a journey to Đồng Hới via plane—the quickest route available. Friends from Hanoi and Da Nang joined me in Quảng Bình for this adventure. Our first stop was the charming city of Đồng Hới, nestled beside the Nhật Lệ River, boasting serene beaches like Nhật Lệ, Bảo Ninh, and Quang Phú that captivated us.

Our main destination was the Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, specifically the Phong Nha Botanical Garden. From Đồng Hới, we traveled westward along the eastern branch of the Hồ Chí Minh Highway for about 45 kilometers.

Arriving at Km9 on Route 20 Quyết Thắng around 9 a.m., we found the garden's atmosphere refreshingly cool and pleasant, despite the summer heat.

A Sanctuary Where Nature is Revered

At Phong Nha Botanical Garden, one feels like a humble guest in the realm of ancient trees and flowing streams. Nature here isn't just present; it's cherished and meticulously preserved.

The garden is thoughtfully divided into four functional zones: Conservation Zone: Pristine forests untouched by human hands; Natural Regeneration Zone - Areas allowing nature to heal and rejuvenate; Collection and Supplementation Zone - A living repository of rare plant species.  Service and Administration Zone: Facilities connecting visitors to the forest's narratives in a modern, accessible manner.

Beyond being a verdant retreat, the garden serves as a vital center for conserving indigenous genetic resources and offers immersive environmental education for students, researchers, and the local community.

Phong Nha Botanical Garden – Forest and Life

Strolling along forest trails, one observes distinct vegetation zones, each narrating tales of nature's resilience. From untouched primary forests to areas recovering from past human impact, the landscape showcases nature's capacity for renewal.

The garden boasts over 513 vascular plant species across 327 genera and 122 families, including 16 species listed in Vietnam's Red Data Book, 24 under strict protection, and 82 on the IUCN Red List.

The flora is diverse not only in number but also in function, encompassing medicinal plants like Stephania glabra and Jasminum subtriplinerve, over 160 timber species, edible plants integral to local diets, and ornamental species enhancing the forest's beauty.

The ecosystem supports 343 vertebrate species, including rare primates, 131 bird species, 67 fish species, 59 reptiles, 31 amphibians, and 60 insect species, reflecting a rich tapestry of biodiversity.

Forest Bathing – Embracing Earth's Rhythms

I liken this journey to "forest bathing," where each step along verdant paths rejuvenates the spirit. The earthy aroma, melodious bird calls, and cascading waterfalls awaken the senses.

Our first stop was Thác Gió (Wind Waterfall), a 30-meter cascade just 500 meters from the garden's center, offering a refreshing mist. Nearby, Hồ Vàng Anh (Golden Oriole Lake) reflects the surrounding foliage, providing a tranquil respite.

Venturing deeper, we explored Hang Đạn (Weapon Cave), a dry limestone cave once used to store arms during the war. Above, the rare Hà Tĩnh langurs gracefully moved through the canopy, a testament to the area's ecological significance.

We encountered ancient trees like the over 100-year-old Hopea vietnamensis, towering over 20 meters, and the majestic Gùa tree by Ba Khe stream, standing over 50 meters tall, home to wild bees and birds.

Further in, Thác Tiên (Fairy Waterfall) unveiled a 30-meter stream plunging into a clear 50-square-meter pool, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Finally, Đồi Vọng Cảnh (Scenic Hill), at over 300 meters elevation, offered panoramic views of limestone valleys and distant villages, painting a living landscape.

When the Forest Transforms

Each season in Phong Nha tells its own story. From March to August, the forest thrives with vibrant greenery and lively waterfalls, ideal for photography. From December to February, misty veils and moss-covered trees create a mystical, cinematic ambiance.

Journeying to Preserve the Green

Some journeys are about more than exploration; they're about preservation. Every ticket purchased and step taken contributes to the forest's vitality.

Phong Nha Botanical Garden exemplifies sustainable ecotourism, inviting visitors to engage in conservation efforts, plant commemorative trees, and deepen their understanding of biodiversity.

This experience enriches not just our memories but also ensures a verdant legacy for future generations.

More Than Just Trekking

Trekking in Phong Nha Botanical Garden transcends physical activity; it's a journey inward. The forest's serenity rekindles emotions long forgotten.

In places where nature speaks through rustling leaves and babbling brooks, one doesn't need grand promotions. The forest's whispers are compelling enough to draw us back time and again.

Phong Nha Việt