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Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam’s Majestic Cave

caves vietnam hang son doong

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Welcome to an extraordinary adventure in Vietnam’s Quang Binh province. We’re going to explore Hang Son Doong, the world’s largest cave. It’s 9.4 kilometers long, 200 meters high, and 175 meters wide. This cave is not just a cave; it’s a complete ecosystem full of life and stunning landscapes.

Ho Khanh discovered Hang Son Doong in 1990, and it was officially recognized in 2009. It’s a key part of Vietnam’s cave tourism, drawing adventurers and nature lovers worldwide. Its volume of 38.5 million cubic meters is much larger than Deer Cave in Malaysia. Inside, we’ll see massive stalagmite columns over 70 meters tall, even bigger than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

Only one company, Oxalis, is allowed to lead tours in Hang Son Doong. They keep the cave’s beauty safe from too many visitors. These tours have just 10 people, offering activities like camping, swimming in underground lakes, and seeing formations that took millions of years to form.

Caves Vietnam Hang Son Doong Key Takeaways

  • Hang Son Doong is recognized as the world’s largest cave.
  • It measures 200m high, 175m wide, and 9.4km long.
  • The cave’s volume is approximately 38.5 million cubic meters.
  • Expeditions are limited to 10 participants for conservation.
  • Activities include camping, swimming, and rock climbing.
  • Hang Son Doong’s formations have been developing for millions of years.
  • Only one company, Oxalis, conducts tours of the cave.

Introduction to Hang Son Doong

Hang Son Doòng
Hang Son Doòng

Hang Son Doong is a natural wonder in Vietnam, stretching over 9 kilometers. It has sections that are over 200 meters high and 175 meters wide. The cave’s chambers are so big, they could fit entire city blocks, with a volume of 38.5 million cubic meters.

Exploring this cave is a rare chance, thanks to Hang Son Doong tours. Only 1,000 visitors are allowed each year. This helps protect the cave’s delicate ecosystem. The 4-day trip covers 25 kilometers, including 8 kilometers inside the cave.

As we explore, we see the Hope and Vision Passage, about 1.5 kilometers long. The tallest stalagmite is 80 meters high. Doline 1 is a highlight, with a 450-meter-high chamber that lets sunlight in beautifully.

Our journey is safe and exciting, thanks to Oxalis Adventure. We’ll face challenges like the Great Wall of Vietnam, nearly 100 meters high. This adventure connects us with nature and shows us Vietnam’s geological and ecological wonders.

Discovering the Largest Cave in the World

Hang Son Doòng
Hang Son Doòng

The discovery of Hang Son Doong is a tale of wonder. A local named Ho Khanh found it in 1991, but its true wonder was missed for years. In 2009, British cave experts mapped it, marking a key moment in cave exploration Vietnam.

This cave is huge, stretching nearly nine kilometers. It’s up to 200 meters tall and 150 meters wide. You could fit 25 buses inside. National Geographic says it’s even bigger than Deer Cave in Malaysia.

Inside, there’s a unique world with over 200 plant species and new animals. An underground river flows, creating mist and steam. The “Hand of Dog,” the tallest stalagmite, stands at 80 meters.

Visiting this cave costs about 72 million VND per person. Tours run from January to August, but only 1,000 people can go each year. Planning is key for a great trip. For more on caves, check out this link.

Caves Vietnam Hang Son Doong: A Geological Marvel

Exploring Hang Son Doong takes us to a world shaped by water over millions of years. It’s filled with amazing geological formations. The cave stretches over 9 kilometers, with chambers that reach 200 meters high and 150 meters wide.

Every part of this cave tells a story of the Earth’s past. It shows the beauty of nature’s architecture.

The Formation of Hang Son Doong

Sapa 1 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking 1 Day
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  • 1 day experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Rice fields, valleys & villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 2 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking And Homestay
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  • 2 days 1 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 3 Day Tours

Sapa Muong Hoa Valley Trekking 3 Days 2 Nights
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  • 3 days 2 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 4 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking And Homestay No Touristic
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 36
  • 4 days 3 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
  • ​Private tours – Less Touristic
  • Vegan-friendly

Hang Son Doong is known for its huge chambers and stunning sinkholes. These features make it beautiful and show how it has changed over time. Geologists and nature lovers find it fascinating.

Visitors are amazed by the cave’s structure. It proves the power of nature’s forces.

The Ecosystem Within the Cave

Inside the cave, there’s a delicate ecosystem. It’s home to cave swiftlets, bats, and rare insects. There are also plants, ferns, and unique formations.

Exploring this ecosystem is awe-inspiring. It shows how life can thrive in hidden places.

AttributeDetails
Length9 kilometers (5.6 miles)
Height200 meters (656 feet)
Width150 meters (492 feet)
Depth150 meters (492 feet)
WildlifeCave swiftlets, cave fish, bats, cave crickets, etc.
Dry SeasonFebruary to August
Wet SeasonSeptember to January

The Adventure of Exploring Hang Son Doong

Getting ready for a caving trip to Hang Son Doong is an exciting adventure in Vietnam. We need to be in good shape and have the right gear for this journey.

Preparing for the Expedition

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Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 37

Getting ready means lots of training and being ready for tough challenges. You should be able to:

  • Run continuously for 3 kilometers in under 30 minutes
  • Climb five flights of stairs without getting out of breath
  • Navigate rough terrains and camp in the jungle overnight

The Hang Va Expedition tour is known for its stunning views. It’s a 15-kilometer trek with tough terrain and a 150-meter climb. It’s rated as Moderate (Level 3) on the Oxalis Adventure level system. This shows you need to be fit and have a sense of adventure.

The Journey Through the Jungle

Starting our journey, we face exciting challenges in the jungle. We cross rivers and go through dense foliage to reach the cave. This adventure tests our determination and shows off the park’s vibrant plants and animals.

Exploring 7 kilometers inside Hang Son Doong adds a thrilling twist. We swim 100 meters underwater, making it a unique part of our adventure. We also see amazing sights inside the cave, learning about its geological wonders. This makes Hang Son Doong a top spot for caving and nature lovers.

Expedition AspectDetails
Distance of Trek15 km through jungles; 7 km inside the cave
Underground Swimming100 meters
Elevation Gain150 meters
Maximum Participants10 people aged 16-70
Tour PriceUS$3000 per person (including park maintenance)

Sapa 1 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking 1 Day
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 38
  • 1 day experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Rice fields, valleys & villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 2 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking And Homestay
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 39
  • 2 days 1 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 3 Day Tours

Sapa Muong Hoa Valley Trekking 3 Days 2 Nights
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 40
  • 3 days 2 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 4 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking And Homestay No Touristic
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 41
  • 4 days 3 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
  • ​Private tours – Less Touristic
  • Vegan-friendly

Only 1,000 visitors get to see Hang Son Doong each year. This makes it a special chance to explore one of the world’s most amazing natural wonders. Getting ready for this adventure ensures a memorable journey through Vietnam’s caves.

Understanding the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a key spot for natural beauty and environmental importance in Vietnam. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003. It shows off incredible geographical features and a wide range of wildlife.

The park covers 123,326 hectares. It has many limestone caves, mountains, and jungles. This makes it a top choice for visitors and nature lovers.

Geographical Significance

The park’s landscape is shaped by its limestone mountains and cave systems. Co Preu Peak is 1,213 meters high, and Co Rilata Peak is 1,128 meters. It’s located in northern Quang Binh province, near Laos.

This unique spot is crucial for regional geography. It has diverse habitats that support amazing wildlife.

Flora and Fauna

Flora And Fauna
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 42

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is alive with life. It has 751 species of vascular plants, with 36 endangered or critically endangered. Many vertebrate species live here, showing the park’s role in saving Vietnam’s biodiversity.

The park’s caves, jungles, and rivers are breathtaking. They support a variety of plants and animals. This creates an incredible ecosystem full of wonders.

History and Discovery of Hang Son Doong

The story of Hang Son Doong’s discovery is fascinating. It starts with local villager Ho Khanh. In the early 1990s, he was searching for agarwood when he found the cave’s entrance. This event began a remarkable cave discovery history.

Years later, Ho Khanh remembered the hidden entrance. This memory led to one of the most significant discoveries of our time.

The Role of Ho Khanh in the Discovery

Ho Khanh played a key role in finding Hang Son Doong. In 2009, he worked with the British Cave Research Association. His local knowledge was crucial.

Before, he had worked with the British caving team. This experience helped in many cave discoveries. It showed how important local knowledge is in exploration.

Hang Son Doòng
Hang Son Doòng

British Cave Research Association’s Exploration

The team’s work with the British Cave Research Association was groundbreaking. From 2009 to 2010, they explored and mapped the cave. They confirmed it as the world’s largest cave.

Their discoveries showed the cave’s amazing ecosystem and geological formations. These features draw adventurers and scientists.

For exciting adventures, try the Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam. It’s a beautiful route that shows the country’s beauty and culture. Learn more at this link and get ready for an unforgettable journey.

Hang Son Doong Tour Details

Going on a Hang Son Doong tour requires a lot of planning and excitement. These tours show off the cave’s stunning beauty and stress the need to protect it. They offer a mix of adventure and learning, making the trip unforgettable.

What to Expect on the Guided Tours

Our Hang Son Doong tours take you through amazing landscapes and teach you about the cave’s ecosystems. The trip lasts four days and three nights, covering 25 kilometers. This includes 8 kilometers inside the cave.

You’ll see different terrains, cross rivers, and climb steep paths. This makes for an exciting journey. Each group has only ten people, ensuring a safe and personal adventure.

Sapa 1 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking 1 Day
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 43
  • 1 day experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Rice fields, valleys & villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 2 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking And Homestay
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 44
  • 2 days 1 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 3 Day Tours

Sapa Muong Hoa Valley Trekking 3 Days 2 Nights
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 45
  • 3 days 2 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 4 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking And Homestay No Touristic
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 46
  • 4 days 3 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
  • ​Private tours – Less Touristic
  • Vegan-friendly

Limited Availability and Conservation Efforts

Seeing Hang Son Doong is rare, with only 1,000 visitors each year. This limit helps keep the cave safe. A part of the tour cost (US$620) goes to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

By joining these tours, we help protect this natural wonder. Our efforts support conservation efforts to keep it safe for the future.

Unique Features of Hang Son Doong

Hang Son Doong is a world unlike any other. It boasts stunning cave features. The cave has massive chambers that are awe-inspiring.

As we explore, we find microclimates that create complex weather systems. These include an indoor rainforest.

Massive Cavernous Chambers

The scale of Hang Son Doong is breathtaking. It reaches 503 meters high and 175 meters wide. This allows entire forests to thrive inside.

The cave is so big that it can fit several jumbo jets. Its size and grandeur are unmatched.

Indoor Rain Forest and Weather Patterns

Hang Son Doòng
Hang Son Doòng

Inside the cave, there’s an indoor rainforest. Rain and mist create a perfect environment for diverse species. This supports life in the cave’s micro-environments.

Exploring this rainforest is a unique travel experience. The lush greenery contrasts with the cave’s rocky formations.

For those interested in Vietnam’s wonders, connecting with expert guides is key. Trusted agencies offer personalized tours, like Travel Agent Hanoi. They provide insider knowledge and customized itineraries for memorable journeys.

FeatureMeasurement
Height503 m (1,650 ft)
Width175 m (574 ft)
Length9.4 km (5.8 miles)
Annual Visitor Limit1,000 visitors
Average Expedition Group Size10 visitors
Expedition CostUS$3,000 per person
Park Upkeep FeeUS$620 included in tour

Photography in Hang Son Doong

Exploring Hang Son Doong is a dream for photographers. It offers stunning landscapes and detailed cave formations. The cave’s height of 503 meters and width of 175 meters make it a perfect backdrop for photos. With the right gear and planning, we can capture its grandeur.

Hang Son Doòng
Hang Son Doòng

Recommended Photography Gear

For our Hang Son Doong photography adventure, the right equipment is key. Here’s what we need:

  • High-quality DSLR or mirrorless camera
  • Wide-angle lens for expansive shots
  • Tripod for stability in low-light conditions
  • External lighting equipment to illuminate dark areas
  • Waterproof gear to protect against damp cave environments
  • Extra memory cards and batteries

Being prepared helps us handle the cave’s tough lighting and weather. It ensures we don’t miss any amazing moments.

Capturing the Cave’s Splendor

To capture Hang Son Doong’s essence, we need to follow some photography tips. Here are a few strategies to improve our photos:

  1. Plan Your Shots: Planning ahead helps us see the angles we want to capture.
  2. Embrace Composition: Use the cave’s natural lines and formations to guide our viewers’ eyes.
  3. Experiment with Exposure: Try different exposure settings to get the right light and shadow balance.
  4. Focus on Details: Take close-up shots of unique rock formations and textures to show the cave’s details.
  5. Be Patient: Waiting for the perfect moment often leads to the most striking images.

By following these tips, we can make sure our Hang Son Doong photos show its extraordinary beauty and atmosphere.

Sapa 1 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking 1 Day
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 47
  • 1 day experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Rice fields, valleys & villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 2 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking And Homestay
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 48
  • 2 days 1 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 3 Day Tours

Sapa Muong Hoa Valley Trekking 3 Days 2 Nights
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 49
  • 3 days 2 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 4 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking And Homestay No Touristic
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 50
  • 4 days 3 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
  • ​Private tours – Less Touristic
  • Vegan-friendly

Preparing for Your Caving Expedition

Getting ready for our caving trip in Hang Son Doong is key. We need to be in top shape, both physically and mentally. Preparing well means better experiences and safety on our journey.

Physical Fitness and Safety Tips

Regular exercise is a must for caving. We should work on our heart health and build strength. This will help us face the challenges of walking, climbing, and swimming in the caves.

Knowing safety tips is also important. Drinking plenty of water, using good trekking methods, and understanding the terrain will keep us safe and healthy.

Essential Gear and Equipment

Having the right gear is crucial for a great caving trip. Here’s a list of must-haves:

GearPurpose
HelmetProtects against falling rocks and head injuries.
HeadlampProvides essential lighting in dark cave areas.
Trekking BootsOffers stability and protection when walking on rugged terrain.
Rope and HarnessEssential for climbing and navigating vertical sections.
First Aid KitPreparation for minor injuries during the expedition.
Water BottleHydration is key, especially in fluctuating cave temperatures.
Leech SocksPrevents leech encounters while trekking in jungles.
Hang Son Doòng
Hang Son Doòng

By preparing well and bringing the right gear, we boost our chances for a safe and memorable trip through Hang Son Doong’s amazing landscapes.

The Importance of Cave Conservation

Cave conservation is key to keeping places like Hang Son Doong safe. As more people visit, we must learn how to protect these areas. This is crucial for the health of our planet.

Environmental Impact of Tourism

More visitors mean more problems for caves. Too many people can damage the soil, pollute water, and upset the natural balance. It’s important to understand these effects to visit responsibly.

Efforts to Protect the Cave Ecosystem

Many efforts are being made to save Hang Son Doong. One way is to limit how many people can visit. This helps keep the ecosystem healthy. Local groups, tour operators, and visitors are all working together to protect these special places.

Conservation InitiativeDescriptionImpact
Visitor LimitationRestricting the number of tourists to minimize wearHelps maintain ecosystem balance
Environmental MonitoringRegular assessments of flora and faunaIdentifies and mitigates potential threats
Education ProgramsInforming visitors about cave ecosystemsEncourages responsible tourism
Hang Son Doòng
Hang Son Doòng

Other Notable Caves in Vietnam

Vietnam is home to many amazing caves, besides the famous Hang Son Doong. Each cave offers something special, from beautiful landscapes to diverse wildlife. They cater to different interests, making them a must-see for adventure seekers.

Phong Nha Cave and its Attractions

Phong Nha Cave is a top attraction in Phong Nha. It’s known for its stunning rock formations and varied ecosystems. Located in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, it boasts a huge interior with incredible views.

Visitors can see underground rivers and impressive stalactites. The park has over 300 caves, making it a paradise for caving enthusiasts and adventurers.

Hang En: The Third Largest Cave in the World

Hang En Cave is the third largest cave globally. It’s located in Quang Binh Province and has a massive entrance. Inside, a river flows and there’s a natural beach.

This cave offers a unique mix of nature and adventure. It attracts tourists and caving fans who want to see its beauty and grandeur.

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Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 51

Reviews and Testimonials from Visitors

Many adventurers are drawn to Hang Son Doong. They talk about the stunning views and the cave’s grandeur. Explorers are amazed by the huge chambers and unique life forms they see.

Our research shows that visitors love the guides. They say the tours are well-planned, making it easy to connect with nature. People also appreciate the focus on saving the environment.

It’s not just about the adventure. It’s about keeping the beauty alive for others to see.

  • Stunning views inside the cave.
  • Knowledgeable and friendly guides enhancing the experience.
  • A strong commitment to ecological conservation during tours.
  • The sheer scale and beauty of the cave chambers.

Travelers share stories of the emotional impact of seeing such vast spaces. This shows how much they connect with Hang Son Doong. It encourages them to share their experiences and support eco-friendly cave exploration.

Travel Information and Accessibility

Planning a trip to Quang Binh? Knowing the travel details and best times to visit is key. This province, with its stunning Son Doong Cave, is perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

Hang Son Doòng
Hang Son Doòng

Best Time to Visit

The best months to see Son Doong are from January to August. The weather is great for trekking, letting you enjoy the cave’s beauty. But, from September to December, the rainy season closes Son Doong for safety reasons.

How to Get to Quang Binh Province

Getting to Quang Binh is easy. You can fly to Dong Hoi Airport, a big entry point. From there, a short trip will take you to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This park is where many adventures, including Son Doong tours, start. Here’s a brief guide on how to get there:

Travel MethodDetails
By AirFlights to Dong Hoi Airport from major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
By TrainUsing the North-South Railway, travelers can reach Dong Hoi or nearby towns, followed by a taxi.
By BusVarious bus companies offer rides from cities like Hanoi, Hoi An, and Hue to Dong Hoi.

Conclusion

Hang Son Doòng
Hang Son Doòng

Visiting Hang Son Doong is more than a trip; it’s an adventure in Vietnam. It shows us the amazing beauty and complexity of nature’s wonders. This cave is huge, almost 9 kilometers long, with the tallest stalagmite in the world.

When we enter its depths, we find an ecosystem unlike any other. An underground river flows, and unique species thrive here. It’s a place where nature’s beauty is unmatched.

Before we go, we must remember the importance of sustainable tourism. We must protect this environment for future generations. By respecting Hang Son Doong’s ecosystem, we make sure others can experience its beauty too.

In short, visiting Hang Son Doong is a dream for adventurers and nature lovers. This cave is a reminder of nature’s wonders and our duty to protect it. It shows us the beauty of the world and our responsibility to preserve it for others.

Sapa 1 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking 1 Day
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 52
  • 1 day experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Rice fields, valleys & villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 2 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking And Homestay
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 53
  • 2 days 1 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 3 Day Tours

Sapa Muong Hoa Valley Trekking 3 Days 2 Nights
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  • 3 days 2 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
  • ​Private tours
  • Vegan-friendly

Sapa 4 Day Tours

Sapa Trekking And Homestay No Touristic
Explore Hang Son Doong: Vietnam's Majestic Cave 55
  • 4 days 3 night experience
  • Moderate to challenging
  • Cultural immersion & active adventure
  • Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
  • ​Private tours – Less Touristic
  • Vegan-friendly

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