Ninh Binh: Discovering Thung Nham: “The Safe Heaven” of Birds

 

(TITC) – Nestled within the famous Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, Thung Nham Bird Park (located in Nam Hoa Lu ward, Ninh Binh province) is an ideal destination for nature lovers, explorers, and anyone seeking the fresh, tranquil air of the northern Vietnamese countryside. With its rich ecosystems, poetic natural scenery, and thriving bird populations, Thung Nham is increasingly recognized as one of the most attractive ecotourism sites in northern Vietnam.

Thung Nham is home to many rare bird species and boasts a unique, diverse ecological environment (Photo: Ninh Binh News)

A paradise of biodiversity

Thung Nham is about 12 kilometers from Ninh Binh city center, conveniently located near the Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourism area. The journey to the park takes visitors along winding paths through limestone karst mountains, rice paddies, and calm rivers, creating the sense of entering a different world, far removed from the noise and bustle of urban life.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a harmonious “mountain and water” landscape. The highlight is the vast bird garden, where tens of thousands of birds of various species nest, feed, and soar against the blue sky. Taking a boat ride through the wetlands allows travelers to witness this spectacle up close, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

A sanctuary for rare species

The bird park is home to a wide variety of species, including storks, herons, teals, egrets, starlings, and even the rare ground phoenix. During the peak bird-watching season, typically from September to April, flocks of tens of thousands return to the park, covering ancient trees in a shimmering white canopy of feathers. The most magical times to observe them are early in the morning, when they leave their nests to feed, or late in the afternoon, when they return en masse, painting the sky with movement and sound – a living, moving artwork set against the lush green forest.

Beyond the bird park – caves and legends

Thung Nham is not only about birds. The area also boasts a range of natural and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore But Cave, associated with legends of a benevolent fairy man; Ba Co Cave, which tells a touching story of friendship; and Mermaid Cave, famous for its dazzling stalactites and stalagmites. The site also features the romantic Valley of Love, the unique “Moving Banyan Tree,” and orchards brimming with seasonal fruits. These varied experiences make Thung Nham a destination where nature, culture, and legend intertwine.

Activities and services

Travelers can choose from different ways to discover Thung Nham: hiking along winding forest paths, rowing boats through tranquil lagoons, or cycling around the valleys. The park offers a range of services, including restaurants where visitors can savor Ninh Binh specialties such as mountain goat, crispy rice (cơm cháy), and the famous cá rô Tổng Trường. For longer stays, there are eco-resorts and lodges designed with comfort in mind while maintaining a close connection to nature.

 

Conservation and sustainability

The resort system in Thung Nham offers modern comforts while staying close to nature (Photo: thungnham.com)

Beyond its role as a tourist attraction, Thung Nham Bird Park carries an important mission of ecological conservation. It helps preserve natural habitats for birds and wildlife while raising awareness among visitors and local communities about environmental protection. By maintaining balance between tourism and conservation, Thung Nham not only enriches the visitor experience but also contributes to the sustainable future of Vietnam’s natural heritage.

A destination of peace and harmony

With its serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and thoughtful services, Thung Nham offers more than just sightseeing. It provides a place where visitors can reconnect with nature, slow down, and find peace away from modern life’s stresses. Whether marveling at flocks of birds in the twilight sky, exploring mysterious caves, or enjoying local delicacies, every moment in Thung Nham is infused with the charm of the Vietnamese countryside.

For travelers seeking both beauty and meaning, Thung Nham Bird Park is not just a stopover, it is a sanctuary, a symbol of harmony between humans and nature, and a reminder of the importance of preserving the natural treasures of Ninh Binh.

 

Tourism Information Technology Center