About 80 kilometers from Hanoi, the Vân Long Wetland Nature Reserve, located in Gia Viễn District, Ninh Bình Province, covers nearly 3,500 hectares and is the largest wetland nature reserve in the Red River Delta.
Vân Long Wetland Nature Reserve is known for its picturesque beauty and is a region with extremely high biodiversity. What makes this nature reserve unique is that the entire ecosystem, with its limestone mountains isolated amid the wetlands, is largely untouched by human activity. The limestone mountain ranges, caves shaped by erosion, and the fascinating formations are home to many rare animal species, including the largest population of white-legged langurs in Vietnam. It is also a nesting site for various bird species, and at sunset, flocks of birds fly in, creating a stunning and picturesque scene.
The reed beds and vast lotus ponds add to the charm, making the scenery even more appealing, wild, and mysterious. Boats navigate through narrow mountain passes, surrounded by forests of grass and water plants, with numerous aquatic species, towering above the boat. Grasses brush against the shoulders, and wildflowers dangle from the hair. The lotus leaves in spring remain lush, gently floating along the water’s flow beside the boat. In the distance, the mountain ranges are shrouded in mist and rain, truly living up to the name Vân Long – the land of Dragons and Clouds.
In addition to the breathtaking landscape, Vân Long also features several spiritual tourist spots that are not to be missed. Many ancient temples and pagodas, such as the Châu Sơn Holy Mother Monastery, Thanh Sơn Pagoda, and Địch Lộng Pagoda, exude a peaceful atmosphere and carry historical stories from our ancestors.
Vân Long Wetland Nature Reserve is often likened to a fairyland created by nature because its surface is as smooth as a giant mirror. Relaxing in the gentle breeze, letting go of the stresses of daily life, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty here will surely provide an unforgettable, tranquil, and poetic experience during your journey to explore Ninh Bình.