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from the scorching sun. Our enthusi-
asm and eagerness were high as we
waited to enter after hiking through
tropical forest and then climbing up
584 stone stairs.
Stepping through the narrow en-
trance we were astonished by the splen-
dour inside. The temperature is far lower
inside so it feels very cool and fresh.
Discovering the cave by follow-
ing a long, wooden bridge, we were
surprised by a series of white crystal
stalactites resembling glass pillars and
many other spectacular formations.
Some of the cave’s rock formations
resemble familiar images, such as a
flower trellis or a vegetable garden.
The wooden bridge runs for more than
1000 metres inside and showcases the
amazing force of humans in conquer-
ing nature. It seemed that we were
walking in a fairy tale land with im-
posing and sparkling stalactite castles,
towers, pavilions and royal gardens full
of flowers and animals.
Walking deeper, we came to a
grand vault resembling a luxurious pal-
ace of a Jade Emperor, full of super-
natural creatures, including dragons,
unicorns, tortoises, and phoenix. We
saw terraced fields with statues of buf-
falos and pigs. In another corner I saw a
glittering statue of the Virgin Mary car-
rying Jesus and a cathedral shaped like
Pedro Church in the Vatican. But the
most impressive for me was the image
of heaven’s pillars and Cham towers.
Bewitched fully with this fairy-
land, I lost my footing on the wet
floor. Luckily I was able to continue my
wonderful journey without any injury
but it was with regret as I missed an
interesting story told by the guide.
However, I am sure that I will return
to the cave many times in the near fu-
ture as I only saw 1km of the 31.4km
that are opened to tourists. For me the
cave still houses many hidden treas-
ures shrouded in mystery.
Paradise Cave opens daily. Tickets cost
VND120,000 per adult and VND60,000
per child up to 110cm. Electric cars
for 4-6 persons cost VND100,000 to
VND150,000 return, or VND60,000 -
VND90,000 one-way.
THE HERITAGE JOURNEY