Bai Tu Long Bay, often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Ha Long Bay, is a stunning natural wonder in its own right. With a rich history and diverse ecosystem, this "little dragon" of Vietnam offers a tranquil escape and a chance to explore untouched landscapes.
According to Vietnamese legend, ancient times saw the nation frequently invaded, prompting divine intervention. A dragon and its offspring were sent by the gods to defend the land. After their victory, the dragon family chose to remain on Earth. The mother transformed into Ha Long Bay, which means "Descending Dragon," while the children became Bai Tu Long Bay, translating to "Dragon children cheering their mother." This enchanting origin story adds a layer of mystique to the bay's already captivating scenery.
Situated approximately 200 kilometers northeast of Hanoi, Bai Tu Long Bay spans the waters near Cam Pha Town, Ha Long Town, and Van Don District. The bay is a mosaic of hundreds of islands, each with its unique shape and story. For instance, Dong Chen Island, named for its resemblance to a stack of stone bowls, and Dua Island, likened to a colossal chopstick resting on the water, are just a couple of the bay's geological marvels.
Quan Lan Island may not boast an unusual shape, but it compensates with its pristine beaches, such as Ngoc Vung and Minh Chau, and a 300-year-old primeval forest. The island comes alive during the sixth lunar month with a festival that welcomes visitors to partake in the local culture.
Other islands like Ban Sen offer a taste of history with tea produced from centuries-old trees, while Minh Chau Island provides a glimpse into the simple life of a fishing village.
Mirroring Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long is home to several caves with significant historical and natural value. Dong Trong Cave and Hang Quan Cave are notable examples, with the latter having served as a base for the Vietnamese army during the Vietnam War.
The bay also features temples dedicated to renowned generals from Vietnam's feudal era and is known for its seafood delicacies, including the snout otter clams, locally known as tu hai.
Encompassing nearly 16,000 hectares across 30 islands, Bai Tu Long National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity. The park's mangrove forests and coral reefs support a variety of rare plant and animal species. Archaeological findings suggest human presence in the area dating back 14,000 years, adding to the park's cultural significance.
Doi (Bat) Cave, situated at the edge of a mangrove forest, is a sanctuary for thousands of bats and other wildlife such as foxes and otters. Nearby, Cai De Cave stretches through a mountain range for about 500 meters, adorned with stalactites and rich marine life. However, access to the cave is limited to times of low tide.
Despite proposals to open Cai De Cave to visitors in 2007, no developments have been made to facilitate tourist access, preserving its untouched beauty.
While Bai Tu Long Bay's beauty is undeniable, it remains less frequented than Ha Long Bay, offering a more serene experience. According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, the number of visitors to Bai Tu Long Bay is only a fraction of those visiting Ha Long Bay, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking tranquility away from the crowds.
In conclusion, Bai Tu Long Bay is a testament to Vietnam's natural splendor and cultural heritage. Its lesser-known status provides a unique opportunity for exploration and discovery, making it a must-visit for those looking to delve into Vietnam's hidden wonders.
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