Unveiling the Land of Charm in the “King’s Homeland”: A Terrestrial Ha Long Bay with a 700-Year-Old Treasure.

Ben En National Park, spanning over 14,700 hectares of land, boasts a diverse ecosystem comprising pristine forests, lakes, and limestone mountains. It is recognized as a biodiversity hotspot in North-Central Vietnam.

Conveniently accessible, Ben En is approximately a 60-90 minute drive from Thanh Hoa city center via National Highway 45 or 47. Visitors from Hanoi or northern provinces can opt for an intercity bus to Thanh Hoa and then hire a vehicle to the national park.

A standout feature of Ben En is Lake Song Muc, spanning over 3,000 hectares with more than 20 islands. This freshwater ecosystem offers a unique landscape reminiscent of Ha Long Bay, nestled within a mountainous forest environment. Boat tours on the lake provide opportunities for ecological observation and educational field trips.

Aerial views of Ben En National Park evoke images of a “Ha Long Bay on Land.” The park presents a captivating fusion of lakes, islands, and lush forests, creating a unique terrestrial version of the famous bay.

Exploring Ben En means immersing yourself in its vast primary forest, home to over 462 tree species and 125 plant families. Among these, the green lim tree, standing tall for hundreds of years, is a notable highlight. The park also shelters a diverse range of rare animal species, including black squirrels, wild boars, and phoenix birds, to name a few. Don’t miss out on this ecological adventure during your visit.

The moniker, “Ha Long Bay on Land,” befittingly describes Ben En, not just visually but also in terms of its geographical and scenic attributes. Lake Song Muc, with its rocky islets, clear waters, and surrounding limestone mountains, mirrors the topography of Quang Ninh’s renowned bay. However, Ben En distinguishes itself with its enveloping primeval forest, cool air, and high oxygen levels, making it ideal for outdoor activities and short-term relaxation.

Boat rides at Ben En offer a unique perspective of the national park’s beauty.

Ben En presents a plethora of activities for visitors, including boating, fishing, camping, jungle trekking, and caving. Specifically designed nature trails cater to outdoor enthusiasts and experiential learning endeavors. The area is also ideal for student groups, nature-seeking families, or friends looking for a weekend getaway close to nature.

Within the confines of Ben En lies a nearly 700-year-old green lim tree, revered as a local treasure. This ancient tree boasts a massive girth, impossible to encircle with two outstretched arms. It is considered a spiritual heirloom, with only two such trees known to exist worldwide.

According to the Vietnam Association for Conservation of Nature and Environment (VACNE), the green lim tree in Ben En National Park is 688 years old, towering at a height of nearly 30 meters with a canopy diameter of 20 meters and a circumference of 6 meters.

Local authorities are actively working on infrastructure improvements, including access roads, parking areas, rest stops, and the provision of local guides, to enhance the tourist experience while preserving the ecological integrity of the area.

Ben En National Park stands out as one of the few destinations in North-Central Vietnam that successfully balances tourism development with nature conservation. With its diverse terrain of lakes, mountains, and lush forests, along with its rich ecosystem and convenient transportation links, Ben En is poised to become a prominent ecological tourist attraction in Thanh Hoa province in the years to come.

Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or seeking a solo respite, Ben En National Park presents an ideal natural retreat, offering healing and rejuvenation in the heart of the “land of kings and lords.”