Tu Lan Caves System: What to Do & How to Get There
Introduction about Tu Lan Cave in Phong Nha:
Tu Lan Caves System: Referring to Quang Binh, tourists often think of Phong Nha – Ke Bang “cave kingdom”. But few people know that Tu Lan valley in Tan Hoa commune, Minh Hoa district also owns beautiful natural scenery and number of magnificent caves.
About 12 km from the center of Quy Dat town, Minh Hoa district, Quang Binh province, Tan Hoa commune is nestled among limestone mountains. The road to the commune winding winding at the foot of the mountain, looming on the green side of maize fields, rice fields and idyllic wooden houses.
At the end of the commune, Tu Lan valley appears green with long lawns, surrounded by soft Rao Nan river. Coming to Tan Hoa, tourists not only immersed in the peaceful scenery of the village, but also have the opportunity to explore the wild Tu Lan cave system including 10 fanciful stalactite caves.
Tu Lan cave system includes more than 10 caves, some were discovered in 1992, others have been recently found. Oxalis is exploiting this cave tour to help visitors have a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Being a land of pristine natural scenery, with Tu Lan cave arc. Tan Hoa is becoming an ideal destination for tourists. In 2016, a Hollywood film crew chose Tu Lan Valley to make some scenes for the movie “Kong: Skull Island”. And in 2018, director Victor Vu also chose Tan Hoa for the movie “The Immortal”. The fact that the famous directors and studios choose Tan Hoa as a “film studio” is a great gift for tourists to know and come to this land more and more.
Mr. Cao Thanh Binh, Secretary of Tan Hoa Commune Party Committee, is proud to introduce the beautiful landscape and nature. With believes that visitors will have a great experience when exploring Tu Lan.
With the propaganda, calling for people to join hands in tourism. And also with the innovation efforts of local authorities, especially after being constantly selected by film crews as an ideal filming location. Hopefully Tan Hoa will become one of the attractive destinations for tourists coming to Quang Binh. See More Tour to Tu Lan.
How to Get to Tu Lan Cave from Hue City?
- Tu Lan Cave is located in Tan Hoa commune, Quang Tri province. It is approximately 277 km (about 4.5 to 5 hours driving) from Hue. The best way to get there involves first traveling from Hue to the Phong Nha area (Dong Hoi city or Phong Nha town). And then using the tour operator’s transport to the site.
- By Tour Operator Shuttle/Private Car: Oxalis Adventure and other local companies can arrange a private car. Or book you on a shuttle bus from Hue directly to their office in Tan Hoa village or your hotel in Phong Nha. This is the most convenient option.
- By Train: Take a train from Hue Railway Station to Dong Hoi Railway Station (around 3 hours). From Dong Hoi, you can book a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle bus to the Oxalis office in Tan Hoa. Or your hotel in Phong Nha (about 1-1.5 hours drive).
- By Bus: Direct buses run from Hue to Phong Nha daily. Which is the most affordable option (around $10 USD, 4-5 hours). Recommended companies include Hung Thanh and Queen Cafe. Once in Phong Nha, the tour operator will pick you up.
Activities and Tours at Tu Lan Cave.
- Activities center on adventure tourism, including jungle trekking, caving, swimming through underground rivers, and camping. All tours are run by Oxalis Adventure and require a certain level of physical fitness and a signed release form.
- Cave Exploration: The system features over 10 wet and dry caves, including Hung Ton Cave, Rat Cavem(Hang Chuot), Ken Cave, and Kim Cave. Tours involve exploring massive formations, descending ladders with safety ropes, and crawling or sliding through chambers.
- Trekking and Jungle Hiking: You will trek through picturesque landscapes, including peanut and cornfields, across the Rao Nan river, and over mountains and valleys (like Hung Ton Valley).
- Swimming: A key feature of the “wet” caves is swimming in the crystal-clear, cool underground rivers and streams. Life jackets are provided, and basic swimming skills are sufficient.
- Camping/Lodge Stay: Longer tours include overnight camping by waterfalls or staying at the nearby Tu Lan Lodge for a unique cultural experience in Tan Hoa village.
