Wedged between Laos and the East Sea, Quang Binh Province lies in the heart of Vietnam. It was the setting of several battles during the Cham–Vietnamese War and became an important front for defending the southern region of Dang Trong against Dang Ngoai in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Things to do in Quang Binh
From its lively beachside capital to the forest-clad caves of Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, Quang Binh Province is sure to impress!
Sightsee in Dong Hoi. Serving as the capital of Quang Binh Province is Dong Hoi, a laid-back riverside town with 12 kilometres of white sandy beaches. Kick back on pristine Nhat Le Beach, feast at the local markets or delve into the past at the Dong Hoi Citadel. Constructed in the 19th century, it played an important role in the First Indochina War between France and the Viet Minh.
Explore UNESCO-listed Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park. Sprawling across karst limestone mountains, tropical forests and subterranean rivers, this spectacular protected area lies west of Quang Binh Province along its border with Laos. It’s home to the immense caves of Son Doong and Phong Nha, the latter of which can be explored by boat, as well as elephants, tigers and black bears. Venture into the 32-kilometre-long Paradise Cave and take a dip at the Mooc Spring.
See one of Central Vietnam’s oldest temples. Located in the village of Thuan Trach is the Hoang Phuc Pagoda, which has a history dating back more than 700 years. It rises above the banks of the Kien Giang River and once formed part of a Buddhist temple known as Tri Kien Am. Gaze up at its nine-storey towers and admire the treasures housed within, including bronze Dharma tools and a statue of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara.
Getting around Quang Binh
Dong Hoi Airport is the main aviation gateway to Quang Binh Province and has regular flights to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Trains travel north and south from Dong Hoi railway station and buses connect to smaller towns and villages throughout the province.