Located just past Bich Dong Pagoda at the end of a scenic karst valley, Thung Nham Bird Park is an eco-sanctuary where over 40 species of storks, egrets and herons nest above a tranquil lake.
Surrounded by undisturbed limestone ridges and flooded forest in Ninh Hai commune, Thung Nham ("Thung Chim") is one of the richest bird habitats in Northern Vietnam.
In the late afternoon, wooden sampans glide quietly toward the nesting island as thousands of white storks, herons, egrets and starlings wheel across the sky to roost in the bamboo groves.
The valley also features Vai Gioi Cave (set high in the mountain with 439 stone steps), But Cave (a water cave with a natural Buddha-shaped stalactite), and an ancient thousand-year-old banyan tree.
Highlights of Thung Nham Bird Park
- Late-afternoon boat ride to watch thousands of storks and herons roost
- But Cave (Buddha Grotto) & Mermaid Cave (Hang Tiên Cá)
- Vai Gioi Cave viewpoint high in the limestone cliffs
- Scenic rural road directly extending past Bich Dong Pagoda
Things to do
Take the sunset Bird Island boat ride
Board a sampan between 16:00 and 17:30 when flocks of birds return to the wetland sanctuary.
Explore But Cave by sampan
Float through a 500-meter natural tunnel beneath the mountain.
Plan your visit
How to get there
Located 2.5 km past Bich Dong Pagoda (about 5 km from Tam Coc station) along a winding karst valley road.
Best time to visit
16:00 – 17:45 for the highest concentration of birds returning to their nests.
Local tips
Combine a morning open-air Jeep ride to Thai Vi Temple & Bich Dong Pagoda with an afternoon visit to Thung Nham.
