If you are searching for a peaceful corner of Ninh Binh where nature takes the spotlight, Thung Nham Bird Park is exactly the place to be. Nestled within the limestone karst landscape of Tam Coc, Bich Dong, this eco-tourism site is home to thousands of birds, lush greenery, and hidden caves. A visit here is not only about sightseeing but also about slowing down, breathing fresh air, and reconnecting with nature.
What can you find in this travel blog?
- Why Thung Nham Bird Park is Unmissable
- What to See and Do in Thung Nham Bird Park
- Is it worth visiting Thung Nham Bird Park?
- Nearby attractions
- Suggested Ninh Binh 2-day tour including Thung Nham Bird Park
- Practical Tips for Visiting Thung Nham Bird Park
- FAQs
Why Thung Nham Bird Park is Unmissable
Located just 5km from Tam Coc, Thung Nham Bird Park is one of the most unique attractions in Ninh Binh. Covering an area of over 300 hectares, the park combines natural wetlands, tropical forests, and limestone mountains. The highlight is its bird sanctuary, where more than 40 bird species, including storks, herons, and even rare phoenixes, find shelter.
What makes it special is the untouched atmosphere. Unlike the more crowded Tam Coc boat rides, here you can quietly watch flocks of birds returning to their nests at dusk. It’s such a magical moment that makes the trip worthwhile.
Overview of Thung Nham Bird Park
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Mix of attractions: birdwatching, caves, gardens, and viewpoints.
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Location: Hai Nham village, Tam Coc, Ninh Binh.
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Size: ~300 hectares of wetlands and limestone hills.
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Entrance Fee and Opening Hours:
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Adults: 100,000 VND
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Children: 50,000 VND
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Free for children under 1m
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Summer: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM; Winter: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM
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Inclusions: boat ride, visit to Buddha Cave, access to walking trails.
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Connection: Part of the Trang An landscape complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What makes Thung Nham unique is its combination of biodiversity, scenic beauty, and peaceful environment, offering a slower pace than other crowded attractions in Ninh Binh.
The Unique Bird Sanctuary
The bird garden of Thung Nham is the largest in northern Vietnam. During peak season, especially from September to April, thousands of birds gather here. Some highlights:
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Diversity: Around 50,000 birds of 40 species, including starlings, herons, and flamingos.
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Best time: Early morning or late afternoon when the sky fills with wings.
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Rare sightings: With luck, you might spot endangered species such as the flamingo or phoenix bird.
This sanctuary is a paradise for photographers and bird lovers. Sitting on a wooden boat while gliding across the water, you’ll find the reflection of white storks against the sunset. This is a scene that is straight out of a painting.
Best Time to Visit Thung Nham Bird Park
The park is open year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons:
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September – April: Best for bird-watching as thousands migrate here.
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May – August: Lush green scenery, but fewer birds. Perfect for nature walks and picnics.
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Late afternoon: The golden hour when birds return to their nests, creating the park’s most beautiful scene.
What to See and Do in Thung Nham Bird Park
Thung Nham bird-watching area
The bird sanctuary reveals its true magic during feeding times when thousands of birds return to their nests. What makes this place unique is the wide variety of birds you can see, like beautiful white storks gracefully flying over the water and night herons diving down to catch fish. The surrounding scenery forms a natural bowl, with limestone mountains surrounding a calm lake below. Feel free to bring your cameras – this place provides great views without disturbing the birds in their homes. The morning mist floating over the lake gives your photos a dreamy touch, making this location a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
But Cave
The But Cave stands out for its remarkable 250-meter length and uniquely formed chambers. What makes it special is the natural lighting phenomenon – as sunlight filters through small openings, it creates an enchanting play of light and shadow across the limestone formations. The most captivating feature is the collection of stalactites and stalagmites that local legends say resemble dragons and phoenixes.
Take a boat ride to But Cave
Vai Gioi Cave
What makes it extraordinary is its three distinct levels, each representing a different realm in Vietnamese mythology – heaven, earth, and the underworld. The cave’s formations create natural divisions between these realms, with the highest chamber featuring ethereal light streams and delicate formations representing heaven. The most fascinating aspect is how ancient residents used different cave levels for various purposes, from meditation to shelter, leaving behind traces of their presence that you can still see today. The cave’s natural ventilation system keeps air flowing smoothly, making it comfortable to explore even during peak summer months.
Goi Dai Temple
This hidden gem offers more than just spiritual significance. What sets it apart is its strategic location, providing the most comprehensive views of the entire bird park from its upper courtyard. The temple’s unique design incorporates elements from both 17th-century Vietnamese architecture and the surrounding karst landscape.
Is it worth visiting Thung Nham Bird Park?
Thung Nham Bird Park offers a unique combination of natural beauty, wildlife observation, and cultural experiences that make it truly worth visiting. The scenery rivals the famous spots in Ninh Binh but with significantly fewer tourists, allowing for a more authentic experience. The well-maintained paths and facilities make it accessible for all ages, though some cave explorations require moderate fitness levels.
This destination particularly suits nature photographers, bird enthusiasts, and travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. The peaceful atmosphere provides a welcome contrast to the more crowded attractions in the region. While the bird activity varies by season, the stunning landscape ensures a rewarding visit year-round.
Nearby attractions
Trang An or Tam Coc are both excellent options for a boat tour through limestone karsts. Trang An lies just 3 kilometers from Thung Nham, roughly a 10-minute drive. A typical boat journey here lasts 2-3 hours, exploring caves and temples along the way. Meanwhile, Tam Coc is situated 7 kilometers away, about a 15-minute drive. Both destinations offer similar scenic beauty, but Trang An tends to be less crowded and includes more cave passages in its boat route.
Bich Dong Pagoda sits closest to Thung Nham, just 2 kilometers away or a 5-minute drive. This three-tiered ancient pagoda requires about 1 hour to explore thoroughly. The short distance makes it an ideal first or last stop when visiting Thung Nham.
Mua Cave, located 5 kilometers from Thung Nham (approximately 12 minutes by motorbike or car), makes for an excellent morning or late afternoon visit. The famous 500-step climb to the dragon viewpoint takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on your fitness level. Plan for at least 1.5 hours here to fully enjoy the panoramic views and take photos.
Suggested Ninh Binh 2-day tour including Thung Nham Bird Park
Day 1: Hanoi – Bai Dinh Pagoda – Trang An boat ride
- Morning: Depart from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
- Afternoon: Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest Buddhist complexes in Vietnam.
- Late Afternoon: Enjoy a boat ride at Trang An, cruising through stunning karst landscapes.
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore the local area.
Day 2: Cycling – Mua Cave – Thung Nham Bird Park
- Early Morning: Cycle around the village, immersing yourself in the peaceful countryside.
- Morning: Hike to Mua Cave, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Afternoon: Visit Thung Nham Bird Park, a unique nature reserve where you can observe a variety of bird species.
- Late Afternoon: Depart from Ninh Binh and return to Hanoi.
With its rich biodiversity, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic landscapes, Thung Nham Bird Park is well worth a visit for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families seeking a unique adventure. Whether it’s witnessing migratory birds, exploring mystical caves, or soaking in the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside, this hidden gem promises a memorable experience.
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Practical Tips for Visiting Thung Nham Bird Park
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The best times for birdwatching are 6:30–9:00 AM or 4:00–5:30 PM, when birds are most active returning to their nests.
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Walking paths and some cave trails can be uneven; wearing light hiking shoes is recommended.
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Entrance fees are 100,000 VND for adults, 50,000 VND for children, and small cash is needed for boat tips (50,000–100,000 VND).
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Carry water, snacks, and sun protection, especially if visiting in summer. Hats, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent are advisable.
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Cameras and phones are allowed, but a waterproof bag or strap is useful on boat rides.
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Consider a local guided tour that can point out rare bird species, explain local legends, and enhance your experience.
FAQs
How long does a visit usually take?
A typical visit to Thung Nham Bird Park takes around two to four hours, depending on whether you explore the caves, temples, and bird sanctuary at a leisurely pace.
Is it suitable for families with children?
Yes, the park is family-friendly, with children under 1m entering for free. Most areas are safe for kids, but supervision is advised near water and caves.
When is the best time to visit?
Morning visits offer cool air, morning mist, and active birds, while late afternoon provides the magical scene of birds returning to their nests with golden light. Both times are excellent for photography.
How do I get there from Tam Coc?
Thung Nham is only 7 km from Tam Coc, about 15 minutes by car or motorbike. Cycling is also an option for a scenic ride through the countryside.
Can it be combined with other attractions?
Yes, it’s easy to combine Thung Nham with Tam Coc boat rides, Mua Cave viewpoint, and Bich Dong Pagoda. The boat ride inside Thung Nham is included in the entrance fee, gently navigating the wetlands and bird sanctuary for excellent views.
What should I wear?
Light, breathable layers in summer or warmer clothes in cooler months are recommended. Comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are essential.
