Explorers have documented 26 newly identified caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Quang Tri Province, Vietnam, uncovering impressive formations, underground rivers, and remarkable stalactites.
A joint British-Vietnamese expedition, in cooperation with local authorities and residents, carried out surveys across the park and its surrounding areas from March 21 to April 11, DTI News reported.
They examined a total of 29 caves – 26 of them previously unknown.
Cha Ngheo Cave
Within the park’s strictly protected zone in Kim Dien Commune, the team discovered Cha Ngheo Cave, which is notable for its steep vertical entrance and intricate structure.
It is only partially explored and is believed to be connected to a larger system.
The cave measures about 583 metres in length and 751 metres in depth.
It features a near-vertical sinkhole opening, with its first level section situated roughly 350 metres below the entrance.
A waterfall plunges from the opening into an underground stream.
Due to its difficulty, Cha Ngheo Cave is not suitable for tourism, and the team is not planning further exploration in the area.
READ MORE: Solar-powered boat signals shift in eco-tourism transport in Philippine province
Thien Cung Cave
In the area of Sinh Ton Valley, the team found Thien Cung Cave, which they identified as part of the ancient flow route of Hang Toi River.
It stretches over 4.2 kilometres and reaches widths of up to 80 metres and heights of 100 metres.
The cave features striking stalactites, runs parallel to the Hang Toi River, and has a hydrological connection to the Chay River.
Other notable caves
Other surveyed caves include Mo Roo Cave, a 515-metre passage cutting through a mountain with underground streams; Nuoc Lan Cave, which extends 2,721 metres with possible seasonal water flow; and Ma Dom Cave, which spans 1,257 metres and features dramatic light effects from its entrance.
Meanwhile, Chac Den Cave, which stretches 468 metres, stands out for its distinctive stalactite formations.
The Southeast Asian country’s Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park now boasts 472 recorded caves spanning more than 254 kilometres, making it home to one of the most extensive and diverse cave systems in the world.
READ NEXT: Philippines rights body to probe deadly military clash that killed student activist, 18 others
Rosemarie Zamora 
Andre Alfonso R. Gutierrez 
Angelica N. Hall