The Shondong Cave in Vietnam: description, photos, reviews

It would seem that there are almost no places on Earth where no man has yet set foot. But even in our time, scientists and travelers keep discovering new natural wonders that amaze with their mystery and grandeur. One of the most recent significant discoveries the Songdong Cave (Vietnam).

Do you want to try on the role of a courageous explorer and be among the first to see the natural beauty hidden from human eyes at a depth of hundreds of meters? Then take an excursion to Shondong, the largest cave on the planet.

Giant Size

Vietnam's Shondong Cave is impressive above all for its size. According to the latest data, its total volume reaches 38.5 million cubic meters. It can easily hold a 40-story building!

This cave consists of more than 150 halls. Some of them are up to 150 m wide and 200 m high.

To date, only a small section of 6,500 m has been studied. But already now scientists admit that The largest cave in the world, Shaondong is a natural attraction in Vietnam.

History of discovery

It is possible that ancient tribes knew about the existence of this cave, but for the past few centuries people avoided this place. They were frightened by the mysterious roar that came from the depths of the earth - the roar of the underground river. Shondong is translated as "the cave of the mountain river.

The cave was discovered in 1991. A local farmer was walking through Fongnya Kebang Park. His area was already well explored at that time. At some point he heard a strange noise coming from under the ground and decided to find out its origin. He found a cave, but since the descent was quite steep and dangerous, he hesitated to climb in and explore it.

The general public became aware of the existence of this unique place only in 2009 - after the researchers from the British Speleological Association made the first expedition into the bowels of Shondong. It is worth noting that that time, scientists were not able to explore in detail the underground labyrinths of the cave, as they ran into a 60-meter calcite wall (later called the Great Wall of Vietnam), which prevented them to continue on their way.

Local flora and fauna

Shondong attracts attention not only because of its gigantic size, but also because of its unique ecosystem.

According to scientists' calculations, the cave is 2-5 million years old. It was formed as a result of limestone rocks washing out by underground waters. And all these years its inner world was isolated from the external environment and developed according to its own scenario. It formed its own microclimate.

Although hot and dry weather prevails in this area, it is always cool and damp inside the cave.

Tourists often manage to see a unique natural phenomenon - the real underground clouds, which float quite low overhead and fly out through the huge natural "windows" in the vault. The reason is the frequent changes of air temperature (warm air masses constantly come into the cave from outside) and high humidity.

The underground river played an important role in shaping the local ecosystem. Its waters feed the dense groves that have formed where there is access to sunlight. Don't miss the opportunity to explore them: in this jungle you can see rare species of plants and animals, such as flying foxes.

During the rainy season (during which time access to the cave is closed), the river floods some of the halls, forming underground reservoirs of fascinating beauty.

Interesting stone formations

When visiting the cave, it is worth taking the time not only to walk through the jungle, but also to examine the local "architecture". Its dark halls contain many treasures - ancient fossils, mysterious natural drawings, giant stalactites and stalagmites of the most bizarre forms.

It was in Shondong that the tallest stalagmite in the world was discovered. It is called the Hand of the Dog and reaches a height of 70 m.

One of the most popular places in the cave is the Cactus Garden. There are huge stalagmites that are shaped like cacti.

Another highlight of Shondong is the placers of rare stone pearls. Under the influence of water, the walls of the cave stratify and huge pearls form between the layers of limestone. Unlike sea pearls, they are not shiny, but nevertheless are of great value for scientists.

Cave tours

Tourists are only allowed to visit Shondong as part of organized groups. In a year, only about 500 travelers come here.

National Park Fongnya–Kebang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is carefully protected by the government.

Of course, everyone wants to see such beauty. But this excursion is not an easy test; it is suitable only for people in good physical shape. Children, the elderly and those who have serious health problems, it is better to refrain from such trips. To see the cave, you'll have to wade for hours through dense brush inhabited by wild animals and even wade across a deep river. The only way to get down inside is by rope (about 80m), so you'll need climbing skills. But when you see this amazing underground world, you will forget all the difficulties of the road.

Many tourists prefer to stay in the cave for several days. It also takes a lot of time and energy to explore the halls: due to the high humidity, it is very slippery. It is allowed to pitch tents and make fires on the territory, but you should forget about other benefits of civilization for a while.

Of course, such a trip is not cheap. In reputable agencies, prices start at several hundred dollars. For this money you will not only get insurance and help to carry heavy equipment, but also provide a Russian-speaking guide, who will conduct a professional tour.

Do not skimp and hire hustling local entrepreneurs who offer guide services at very attractive prices: they do not give any guarantees of safety, and if any emergency happens, you will have to deal with it yourself.

Interesting places nearby

As already mentioned, Shondong is located in the national park Fongnya–Kebang. If time permits, it is worth spending at least a day to explore the rest of the area - observe wildlife (many species are in the Red Book), visit world-famous caves and caves (there are over 300), climb local mountain peaks, go rafting or simply stroll along ecological trails.

You can stay in the village of Fongnya, which is located nearby. Here you can rent accommodation at a fairly affordable price.

Location

National Park Fongnya–Kebang is located в Quang Binh Province, 40 km from its administrative center, Dong Hoi.

It's easy to get to the park. There is a train station and an airport in Donghui (it takes helicopters and small planes). There is also National Highway 1A near the park.

The location of Shondong Cave on the map:

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam and feel strong enough to conquer the Shondong Cave, do not miss this unique opportunity. This mini-vacation is sure to give you many vivid memories and inspire you to new tourist accomplishments.