Son Nu Cave, stretching over 1.5 kilometers in depth, is adorned with an array of stalactites.
The cave was recently unearthed by the residents of Truong Son Commune in Quang Ninh District, Quang Binh Province. The name "Son Nu" (mountain fairy) was chosen for the cave by the local residents.
Hoang Trong Duc, chairman of the Truong Son Commune, revealed that Son Nu Cave lies deep within the heart of the West Truong Son (Annamite) forest area, and was discovered by foresters by chance. To reach the cave's entrance, one needs to embark on a nearly 2-kilometer journey along a meandering stream.
The entrance to Son Nu Cave is near the Khe May Stream. To venture inside, both locals and visitors must equip themselves with standup paddleboards, flashlights, and life jackets.
Navigating through the cave entails traversing numerous rapids, and while the underground waters remain crystal clear, accessing the cave during heavy rainfall is deemed dangerous.
Some stalactites parallel the water’s surface, forming an ethereal spectacle.
Duc emphasized the potential of this newfound cave for adventure tourism. He said: "Over 60% of the commune’s population comprises the Van Kieu people, who face economic hardships. The inclusion of Son Nu Cave in the tourism circuit will not only provide employment opportunities but also bolster the local economy."
The stalactite formations have evolved over hundreds, if not thousands, of years, borne from the perpetual dripping of mineral-rich water.
The blue waters that flow from Son Nu Cave find their way to Khe May Stream.
Nguyen Ngoc Quy, director of Quang Binh's Department of Tourism, hailed the discovery of this new cave as a boon for the local tourism industry.
"The Department of Tourism will collaborate with Quang Ninh District to conduct a survey and develop a tourism strategy, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all visitors," he said.
