Thung Nham Bird Valley has gained attention as a nature-focused attraction in Ninh Binh. It is often visited by travelers who enjoy simple and comfortable travel experiences. The destination provides an open space where visitors can relax and explore gently. Many tourists appreciate the quiet atmosphere found here. It is easy to include in both short and long itineraries. The environment feels welcoming and easy to manage. This destination remains a suitable option for travelers looking to enjoy nature without pressure or crowds.
What is Thung Nham Bird Valley and why is it famous?
Thung Nham Bird Valley is a large nature destination in Ninh Binh that is known for its wildlife and peaceful landscapes. This area is part of the Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone. Limestone mountains, water, and forests surround it. Many visitors come here to see birds, caves, and gardens in one place.
The valley is most famous for its bird sanctuary. Thousands of birds live and gather here throughout the year. More than 40 bird species have been seen in the park. Some common birds are herons, storks, egrets, and night herons. During migration seasons, even more birds arrive, creating a busy and lively scene.
Many travelers enjoy visiting Thung Nham Bird Park and Thung Nham Bird Garden to watch birds in their natural habitat. The late afternoon is a good time to see large flocks returning to their nests.
Besides birds, the valley has flower gardens, orchards, and caves. These areas make the visit more interesting and offer good opportunities for photos. The quiet environment and natural beauty make this site famous among both local and international travelers.
Thung Nham Bird Valley location and how to get there
Thung Nham Bird Valley is located in Hai Nham Village, Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province in northern Vietnam. It sits about 12 kilometers west of the Ninh Binh city center and near the Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourist area.
If you are coming from Hanoi, the distance to the valley is around 100–110 kilometers. By private car or taxi, the drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours along National Road 1A and local roads.
There are also several public transport options. You can take a bus from Hanoi (such as from Giap Bat or My Dinh). Buses run to Ninh Binh city. Once you arrive in Ninh Binh, take a taxi or motorbike taxi (xe ôm) to reach the valley entrance.
Another popular method is to travel by train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Train Station. The train ride takes about 2–2.5 hours. From the train station, you can take a taxi or a motorbike taxi to the park.
If you are staying in Ninh Binh city or Tam Coc, it is easy to reach Thung Nham Bird Park Ninh Binh by taxi or motorbike in about 15–30 minutes. Some travelers also rent bicycles for a more scenic ride through the countryside.
Once at the entrance, you can pick up a Thung Nham Bird Park map to help plan your route through the gardens, caves, and bird-watching areas.
Main attractions inside Thung Nham Bird Valley
Inside Thung Nham Bird Valley, there are several places worth seeing that can keep you busy for hours. The main highlight is the bird sanctuary. This is where tens of thousands of birds live. You can find more than 40 bird species here, including herons, storks, and rare birds. Many birds fly out early in the morning and return late in the afternoon. This daily movement creates an impressive scene for bird lovers. If you want the best experience, plan to see them at dawn or near sunset.
There are also a number of natural caves inside the valley. But Cave, also called Buddha Cave, has interesting rock formations that look like a seated figure. You can explore this cave by boat, and it feels cool and peaceful inside. Vai Gioi Cave sits higher up and offers panoramic views of the valley. To reach it, you must climb many stone steps, but the view at the top is worth the effort. Mermaid Cave is another cave with a long passage and water-flowed areas. People named it after a local legend about a mermaid. Ba Co Cave is linked to a folk story and is known for its calm atmosphere and scenic views.
Besides birds and caves, Thung Nham Bird Garden has flower valleys, fruit orchards, and quiet paths. The flower areas change with the seasons and are great for photos. The orchards grow tropical fruits that may be available to visitors when in season.
All of these attractions make Thung Nham Bird Park more than just a bird-watching site. There is a variety here, so you can enjoy nature, explore caves, take photos, and relax without rushing.
Thung Nham Bird Valley compared to other Ninh Binh attractions
When you compare Thung Nham Bird Valley to other attractions in Ninh Binh, you will notice some key differences. Many famous sites, like Trang An or Tam Coc, focus on river boat cruises through karst landscapes. These places are often busy and popular with large tour groups. Thung Nham, on the other hand, is quieter and more nature-oriented. It does not have long boat tours through caves like Trang An, but it has a peaceful bird sanctuary where you can see a large number of birds in one place.
Another difference is in the type of activities. Tam Coc is known for rowing boats through rice fields and limestone hills. Many visitors go there for scenic photos and a gentle boat ride. Thung Nham Bird Valley offers bird watching, cave exploration, flower areas, and fruit orchards. It is more suited to travelers who enjoy nature walks and wildlife observation.
There are also cultural and historical attractions in Ninh Binh, like Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and Bai Dinh Pagoda, which focus on Vietnamese history and religion. These places are very different from the natural setting at Thung Nham. While history lovers will enjoy the temples and old sites, visitors who want fresh air and wildlife will prefer Thung Nham Bird Park Ninh Binh for its calm and natural scenery.
In short, Thung Nham Bird Garden stands out for its wildlife and relaxed atmosphere. It is ideal for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone who wants a slower travel pace compared to busy, mainstream attractions.
Best time to visit Thung Nham Bird Valley
The best time to visit Thung Nham Bird Valley is when the birds are most active and the weather is comfortable. Many birds come to the park between September and April. This is when cool weather returns after the rainy season. During these months, bird activity increases, and you can see more of them gathering around water and trees.
For bird watching, the early morning and late afternoon are the best parts of the day. Birds are most active just after sunrise and again before sunset as they search for food or return to nests. The late afternoon light also makes it a good time for photos.
In summer (May to August), the scenery is lush and green. Fewer birds may be present, but the park is still pleasant. The weather is warmer, so mornings and late afternoons are more comfortable.
If you want the classic bird-watching scene, plan your visit around late afternoon between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM. This is when flocks return to their nests and create one of the most memorable sights in the valley.
Visitor information and entrance fees
When visiting Thung Nham Bird Valley, you should know the basic entry rules and costs before planning your trip.
The park is open daily. In summer (April–October), opening hours are usually 07:00 AM to 6:00 PM. In winter (November–March), it opens around 07:30 AM and closes around 5:30 PM.
Entrance fees are based on visitor height and age. Adults and taller children (over about 1.3 m) pay around 150,000 VND. Children from about 1 m to 1.3 m tall pay around 100,000 VND. Children under 1 m tall can enter for free.
Your ticket normally includes boat tickets to visit the bird sanctuary and the Buddha (But) Cave by water. Inside the park, you can walk the paths, explore caves, ride boats, or enjoy gardens. Some activities, like private tours or extra services, may cost more. When you enter, look for a Thung Nham Bird Park Map at the ticket counter. It will help you find the main attractions, walking trails, and boat docks easily.
Tips for visiting Thung Nham Bird Valley
To make the most of your visit to Thung Nham Bird Valley, here are some practical tips to remember.
- Try to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon. These times are best for seeing birds when they are most active.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Walking paths and trails can be uneven. Good shoes help you move around with ease.
- Bring sun protection like hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses. The valley has open areas with sun exposure. Mosquito repellent is also useful, especially during warmer months.
- Carry a water bottle and snacks if you plan to stay for longer. While there are cafes and food options inside, having water helps you stay refreshed.
- Use a camera or phone with a telephoto lens if you want clear photos of birds. A power bank is also helpful because you may use your phone a lot for photos.
- Respect the park rules and the natural environment. Do not feed or disturb birds. Keep the area clean and avoid loud noise. This helps protect wildlife and keeps the park pleasant for everyone.
- If possible, check the weather forecast before your visit. Rain or storms may reduce bird activity and make paths slippery.
Reserve your Thung Nham Bird Valley experience with Lily’s Travel! Since 2007, Lily’s Travel has focused on authentic cultural and nature tours. We create small-group and custom programs that highlight regional culture and natural beauty. Our team values sustainable tourism and social projects. Staff bring fresh ideas and strong local knowledge too! Use our 3D tour previews to see the trip before you go.
Thung Nham Bird Valley completes a Ninh Binh travel itinerary with a peaceful and nature-based experience. It brings together bird watching, cave visits, and scenic views in one location. The site is easy to access and friendly to visitors. It is less crowded than many popular attractions, which adds to its appeal. With good planning, travelers can enjoy a smooth and relaxing visit. This destination remains a strong option for those seeking a calm and enjoyable trip.
