QUẢNG BÌNH — Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is among top experiences in Việt Nam voted by Lonely Planet, a renowned travel guide publisher, for another year.

The national park, located in the heart of central Quảng Bình province, came third in the 2019 list, after food tours and Hội An.

Lonely Planet describes Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng as one of Việt Nam’s most spectacular national parks with “jagged hills shrouded in verdant rain forest and mountain river coursing through impressive ravines” above ground.

Underground, “a fortunate selection of travellers can experience the cathedral-like chambers of Hang Sơn Đoòng, the world’s largest cave,” it says.

More accessible for visitors are “the ziplining and kayaking thrills of Hang Tối (Dark Cave), and the ethereal beauty of aptly named Paradise Cave,” it adds.

Meanwhile, food tours have been named the top experience in the country for the first time.

“The highlight of any trip, Vietnamese food balances sour and sweet flavours, crunchy and silky textures, fried and steamed dishes, soups and salads,” says Lonely Planet.

“Eating out in Việt Nam is a feast for the eyes and treat for the palate,” it says.

The list also includes Hạ Long Bay, Huế, HCM City, Cát Tiên National Park, Phú Quốc Island, Hà Nội, Côn Đảo Island, Ba Bể National Park, Sapa, Đà Lạt, and Mũi Né. — VNS