Located in the northern region of Vietnam, Ninh Binh is a province known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. One of the lesser known but equally mesmerizing attractions in Ninh Binh is its caves. Often described as “Ha Long Bay on land”, Ninh Binh Caves offer a unique experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. In this article, we will explore the top caves in Ninh Binh and why they should be on your must visit list when traveling to Vietnam.
Tam Coc – Bich Dong: The “Ha Long Bay on Land”
The first cave on our list is the Tam Coc – Bich Dong complex, also known as the “Ha Long Bay on land”. Located in the Hoa Lu district, this area features three caves (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba) that can be explored by boat. The journey starts at Van Lam pier where you can rent a rowboat and embark on a scenic ride along the Ngo Dong river. As you sail through the crystal-clear waters, you will be surrounded by lush greenery and towering limestone karsts, making you feel like a fairytale.
The Three Caves of Tam Coc
The three caves in Tam Coc each have unique features and take around two hours to cover. Hang Ca (First Cave) is the largest and is named after the fish-shaped stalactites hanging from its ceiling. Next is Hang Hai (Second Cave), the longest and narrowest of the three, with numerous rock formations resembling mythical creatures. Finally, there’s Hang Ba (Third Cave), the smallest but mesmerizing interior with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
Tips for Exploring Tam Coc
To fully enjoy your Tam Coc experience, here are some tips to keep in mind:
The best time to visit Tam Coc is from June to August, when the rice fields are in their peak season. The rice fields offer a stunning backdrop for your boat ride.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes while sitting in a rowboat for 2 hours.
Bring some cash as locals sell snacks and drinks on boats during the ride.
Be careful with your belongings, as there have been reports of pickpocketing in the area.
Bich Dong: The Green Cave
Just a short distance from Tam Coc lies another must-visit cave in Ninh Binh – Bich Dong. Also known as the Green Cave, this two-part cave is located on a hillside and requires a short climb to reach its entrance. It is divided into the lower dry cave and the upper water cave. The lower cave is a tranquil space with natural light seeping through the openings, while the upper cave can be explored by boat. As you navigate through the narrow waterway, you will be greeted by stalactites and sparkling green water, giving the cave its name.
The Legend of Bich Dong
Aside from its natural beauty, Bich Dong also has an interesting legend attached to it. According to local folklore, the name Bich Dong originated from a story of a mandarin who fell in love with a fairy named Tuyet Lan. This fairy lived in the upper section of Bich Dong and would often transform into a butterfly and fly around the cave, leaving traces of her wings. The mandarin built a temple in her honor, which still stands today and is a popular spot for visitors.
Tips for Visiting Bich Dong
Wear comfortable shoes as there are steep steps leading up to the caves.
Carry a flashlight or use the one provided by your tour guide to explore the dark parts of the caves.
Bring a bottle of water and some snacks, as no shops or restaurants are on the hillside.
Visit in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Mua Cave (Hang Mua): Climb to the Top for Panoramic Views
Located in Khe Dau Ha hamlet, Hang Mua (Mua Cave) is a popular destination in Ninh Binh for those seeking breathtaking views. Visitors must climb 486 steps to reach the peak, which can be quite challenging, but the reward at the top is certainly worth it. You can enjoy panoramic views of the limestone mountains, rice fields, and Tam Coc area from the top. The best time to visit Hang Mua is during sunset, where you can witness the sky turning into shades of orange and pink, making for a picture-perfect moment.
Tips for Climbing Hang Mua
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as the climb can get steep and hot.
Bring plenty of water with you and stay hydrated throughout the hike.
Take your time and rest if needed, as the view from the top is worth the effort.
Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid littering as you climb.
Am Tien Cave: A Hidden Gem in the Mountains
Am Tien cave is hidden among the rugged limestone mountains of Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. This natural wonder is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and is only accessible by boat, adding to its secluded charm. As you enter the cave, you will be greeted by sparkling stalactites hanging from the ceiling and crystal-clear waters reflecting the light, creating a serene atmosphere. The boat ride through the cave takes around 20 minutes, and along the way, you will pass by small openings that offer glimpses of the surrounding landscape.
Exploring Am Tien Cave
To fully experience the beauty of Am Tien Cave, consider taking a guided boat tour. The local boatmen will navigate through the narrow waterways and point out interesting cave features, such as rock formations resembling animals or objects. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and paddle through the cave, getting closer to the natural wonders.
Tips for Visiting Am Tien Cave
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for a boat ride.
Bring a waterproof camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery inside the cave.
Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and legends behind Am Tien Cave.
Respect the environment and do not touch or break any stalactites or stalagmites.
Van Trinh Cave (Giang Tien Cave): A Fairytale-like Ambiance
Located in the northern part of Ninh Binh province, Van Trinh Cave (also known as Giang Tien Cave) is a hidden gem that offers a fairytale-like ambiance. As you enter the cave, you will be greeted by a vast underground space filled with unique limestone formations. The walls are adorned with carvings and inscriptions, adding to the mystical atmosphere. The highlight of this cave is the “fairy well”, a small pool of water surrounded by towering stalactites and stalagmites. Legend has it that this well was once the bathing place of fairies, hence the name Giang Tien Cave (Fairy Bathing Cave).
How to Explore Van Trinh Cave
The best way to explore Van Trinh Cave is on foot, as the cave is easily accessible from the main road. Upon entering, you will be given a flashlight to guide you through the dark chambers. Along the way, you can admire the intricate details of the carvings and take in the peaceful atmosphere. The cave can get slippery, so wearing comfortable shoes is advisable.
Tips for Visiting Van Trinh Cave
Wear non-slip shoes as the cave floor can get wet and slippery.
Bring a camera or phone with a flashlight to capture the carvings on the wall.
If you’re claustrophobic, it’s best to avoid this cave as it can narrow in some areas.
Check for any updates on the opening hours as they may vary depending on the season.
Thien Ha Cave and Thien Thanh Cave: A Double Cave Experience
In the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, Thien Ha Cave and Thien Thanh Cave are two connected caves that offer a unique experience. Thien Ha Cave (Heavenly Cave) is a dry cave measuring around 200 meters and features stunning calcite formations resembling flowers and curtains. As you go through the cave, you will come across an underground lake filled with crystal-clear water surrounded by towering limestone walls. Next is Thien Thanh Cave (Blue Cave), a smaller cave measuring only 50 meters but equally breathtaking. This dry cave has blue stalactites and stalagmites that reflect the light, giving it a mystical blue hue.
What to Expect in Thien Ha Cave and Thien Thanh Cave
Exploring these two caves requires a short hike and a boat ride. Upon reaching the entrance of Thien Ha Cave, you will be given a helmet and a headlamp to navigate through the cave. The tour guide will lead you through the different chambers, pointing out the interesting formations and explaining their history. After an hour, you will reach the end of Thien Ha Cave and hop onto a boat to enter Thien Thanh Cave. Here, you will be greeted by the cool breeze and the stunning blue hues, making for a memorable experience.
Tips for Exploring Thien Ha Cave and Thien Thanh Cave
Wear comfortable shoes for the hike and boat ride.
Bring a camera or phone to capture the unique formations inside both caves.
Listen to your tour guide and follow the designated paths to avoid damaging the cave.
Be mindful of the boat ride, as some areas can get bumpy.
A Must-Visit Destination in Vietnam
From the Ha Long Bay like landscape to the mystical underground world, Ninh Binh caves offer travelers a diverse and unforgettable experience. Each cave has unique features and legends, making for an interesting and educational trip. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or a history buff, there is something for everyone in Ninh Binh cave complex. Plan your visit to Ninh Binh and explore these hidden gems in the Vietnamese countryside.
