Don't go to Vietnam for the conventional 'beaches and temples' Southeast Asian holiday. Outside its northern cities, the limestone topography will take your breath away
Vietnam isn’t thailand. the tourism infrastructure isn’t nearly as well developed, there are no comfortable, direct Rs 20,000 return flights and the visa-on-arrival will end up costing almost $100. But if you’re willing to brave a bumpy bus ride or two, the beauty of the magnificent limestone formations that blossom from the paddy fields, river deltas and placid bays will amaze. Northern Vietnam is blessed with unique natural beauty that will reward the intrepid.
Ha Long Bay is famous for its limestone islets that jut dramatically out of the placid waters. A full day boat tour, including kayaking, snorkeling and lunch from a reputable tour company like Cat Ba Ventures or Asia Outdoors, will set you back by $30 per head.
The scenery around Tam Coc (meaning Three Caves) is reminiscent of Vietnam War films: Lush, green hills and still, grey waters. It is sobering to think that this peaceful, agricultural country was carpet bombed and napalmed so indiscriminately. The views from the 15th century Bich Dong pagoda at the top of the nearby hill are spectacular. The higher you climb, the fewer tourists you jostle past. If you’re intrepid enough to clamber up the sharp rocks to the top of Ngu Nhac Mountain, you’ll get a unique view of the valley.
(This story appears in the March-April 2014 issue of ForbesLife India. To visit our Archives, click here.)