Top 8 Amazing Caves In Ha Long Bay Worth Visiting

Huge caverns with remarkable geometries and well-kept secrets serve as Ha Long Bay’s lucky charm and solidify its status as one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. For a long time, it has been widely accepted that any enthusiastic visitor interested in visiting Ha Long Bay, or Vietnam in general, should plan to visit at least one cave there. This comprehensive list of the top 8 caves in Ha Long Bay is sure to wow you and make any journey an unforgettable highlight.

Surprise Cave (Hang Sửng Sốt) 

One exceptionally unique and striking name that captivates tourists visiting Halong Bay is the Surprise Cave, located on Bo Hon Island and discovered by French scientists in the early 19th century. This cave has long been a well-known tourist attraction, earning the prestigious title of one of the top 10 most beautiful caves in the world. This cave is a natural treasure bestowed upon Halong Bay.

Although the entrance to the Surprise Cave isn’t very wide, as you venture further inside, you’ll find the space seemingly opening up. Spanning over 10,000 square meters, adorned with stalactites and stalagmites in various shapes, the cave presents a mesmerizing beauty. The distance from the cave entrance to its end is about 800 meters, and along this path, you can admire the mysterious and captivating beauty of this place.

The Surprise Cave is divided into two chambers, both of which boast spacious areas that never fail to astonish visitors on Halong Bay tours from Hanoi. What’s more, this place is closely associated with the familiar legend of Saint Giong from everyone’s childhood. Local folklore describes this location as the battleground where Saint Giong fought against invaders centuries ago. The imprint of the iron horse’s hoof is said to be a small lake surrounded by hundreds of stones.

Drum Cave and Virgin Cave (Hang Trống và Hang Trinh Nữ)

Drum Cave and Virgin Cave are well-known names when it comes to Halong Bay tourism, also situated on Bo Hon Island. These locations exhibit marvelous beauty that leaves tourists in awe. Upon visiting Virgin Cave, you’ll notice a rock formation resembling a lying girl, with her hair spread out and arms stretching toward the sea. Drum Cave takes the form of a sturdy young man, standing firm and powerful amidst the storms. Particularly captivating for tourists on Halong Bay overnight cruises is perhaps the love story between a fisherman and a village girl from the past.

Legend has it that there was an exceptionally beautiful village girl who, due to difficult circumstances, had to work as a servant for a landlord. Enamored by her beauty, the landlord forced her into marriage. Refusing to submit because she already had someone she loved, the landlord exiled her to a deserted island, leaving her to starve. During a fierce stormy night, she turned into stone, her arms still reaching out to the sea in anticipation of her lover.

As for the young man, upon hearing the dreadful news, he immediately set sail to the deserted island to rescue his beloved. Amidst the storm, his boat capsized and drifted to the nine islets where the girl was being held captive. From afar, he saw his beloved, but despite calling out to her endlessly, she couldn’t hear him, ultimately turning into stone. Touched by this beautiful love story, locals named these two caves Drum Cave and Virgin Cave.

Thien Canh Son Cave (Hang Thiên Cảnh Sơn)

Situated atop Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, the Thiên Cảnh Sơn Cave features pristine landscapes and mesmerizing limestone formations. To reach this cave, visitors must climb 100 stone steps, so it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes or sneakers for ease of movement.

From atop, the panoramic view of Halong Bay is truly breathtaking. The smooth white sandy beaches embracing the islands, with gentle boats floating on the azure sea, all resemble a vivid painting crafted by Mother Nature herself, incredibly vibrant and enticing.

Upon entering the cave, you’ll witness the peculiar beauty of limestone formations, shaped over thousands of years. Each stalactite and stalagmite bears a unique image, enriching the imagination of Halong Bay tour-goers.

Tunnel Cave (Hang Luồn)

Tunnel Cave, located on Bo Hon Island, is a top tourist destination loved by travelers. Here, you can engage in various activities, including kayaking to freely explore the scenic wonders of the bay. The towering cliffs surrounding the emerald waters never fail to amaze visitors on a Halong Bay 2-day 1-night tour with their enchanting beauty.

Paddling through the entrance, you’ll encounter a serene lake surrounded by lush vegetation atop the cliffs. You may even spot the “hosts” swinging from vines, climbing the cliffs in search of food. These monkeys are accustomed to humans and won’t be startled when you approach. You can bring bananas or bread, placing them on the cliffs for them to grab and eat after you move away.

Wooden Stake Cave (Hang Đầu Gỗ)

Covering an area of approximately 5,000 square meters, Wooden Stake Cave stands 27 meters above sea level, exuding an ancient, pristine, and mysterious beauty.

The cave is divided into three main chambers, adorned with magnificent limestone formations on the walls and ceiling. The outer chamber features a vaulted ceiling overflowing with natural light. The cave’s ceiling is adorned with clusters of stone flowers, illuminated by sunlight seeping through.

Entering the second chamber, visitors will marvel at the ethereal beauty of sunlight filtering through, outlining stone formations that resemble flowers, appearing and disappearing with the light.

In the third chamber of Wooden Stake Cave, the cave suddenly expands. At its deepest point lies a freshwater well, a serene oasis amidst the darkness. The highlight here is the large stalactite columns, finely sculpted by nature’s hand.

Thien Cung Cave (Động Thiên Cung)

As the most magnificent cave in the Halong Bay cave system, Thien Cung Cave, located in the southwest of the bay, boasts grandeur and vibrancy from outside to inside. The path leading to the cave is lined with steep cliffs, adorned with lush greenery.

This cave, situated near Wooden Stake Cave, has an entrance at a height of 25 meters. Spanning nearly 10,000 square meters, the cave’s complex structure consists of multiple tiers and chambers with high, wide ceilings and walls. Inside, countless limestone formations and stalactites form peculiar shapes.

The beauty of the cave has inspired locals to imagine stories of dragon parents and their separation, depicted on the cave walls, or reminiscent of the labyrinthine palaces of the Persian emperor in the tales of “One Thousand and One Nights.”

Tien Ong Cave

The majority of the Halong Bay caves on our list have spacious chambers and restricted entrance routes. One of the first exceptions is Tien Ong Cave, which has a very large entrance that is 14 meters high and 50 meters wide. It is connected by a shorter cave entrance that takes you directly to the enormous 1000 square meters of space inside. 

This pitch-black cave is 50 meters deep and 5 meters above sea level. It is nearly split into two separate rooms by tall, rustic stone pillars. Tien Ong Cave has an amazing network of stalactites that is equally as remarkable as any other high-quality cave 

Another hidden treasure is waiting for you as you enter the deeper compartment. Named for the Vietnamese “fairy godfather,” Tien Ong, these blocks are arranged in rows and resemble elderly men with long beards, hair, and kind faces. They are separated from the other outer chamber by long stalactites hanging from the ceiling.

There are also other forms and shapes visible, such as peacocks, crocodiles, and strong men. Even better, these stalactites have recently benefited from strategically placed lights, which has made them gleam even more brilliantly; taken as a whole, they like a spectacular museum that Mother Nature created. 

Ho Dong Tien Cave

According to local traditions, Ho Dong Tien, also known as Fairy Lake Cave, is a site where gods and fairies go to relax and take baths. 

Two chambers are linked through tiny tunnels. The first, which is distinguished by pairs of dazzling stalactites and stalagmite, is accessible by row boats or kayaks; in the meantime, to reach the second chamber, you must navigate two narrow passageways and tiny ponds before arriving at the trustworthy fairy lake. 

The fairy lake is surrounded by striking limestone cliffs that cast a soothing aura of calm, not just from the lake’s isolation but also from the peaceful sound of enchanted hums. However, Ho Dong Tien is still teeming with wildlife; to the delight of those who adore animals, bats, crickets, and crabs – known as the fairies’ pets – continue to skulk in the shadows.

Read More: Must-See Ha Long Attractions

Why are the Halong Bay caves a must-see?

Halong Bay, located in northeastern Vietnam, is famous for its stunning karst landscapes, which include numerous caves that are a major attraction for visitors. Here are some key reasons why the caves in Halong Bay are considered must-visit sites:

Natural Beauty: The caves in Halong Bay are renowned for their extraordinary natural beauty. Many of these caves feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites, with unique formations shaped over millions of years. The interplay of light and shadow within these caverns creates an almost mystical atmosphere.

Geological Significance: Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding geological and geomorphological value. The caves are an integral part of this, showcasing the area’s long history of geological evolution.

Cultural and Historical Significance: Some caves in Halong Bay hold significant historical and cultural value. For example, they have been used as shelter and habitation sites by ancient humans, and they often feature in local myths and legends.

Diversity of Caves: There’s a great variety in the types of caves you can explore in Halong Bay. From large, easily accessible caves like Sung Sot (Surprise Cave) and Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace Cave) to more secluded and less explored ones, each offers a different experience.

Adventure and Exploration: For those who enjoy adventure, exploring these caves offers a thrilling experience. Navigating through the caverns, often by boat or through walking tours, provides a sense of discovery and adventure.

Each cave in Halong Bay has its own distinct character, making them a highlight for anyone visiting the region. The combination of natural beauty, geological and historical significance, and the sense of adventure they offer makes these caves a must-visit for travelers.

Travel tips for the ideal cave excursion

• The summer months are when the domestic market is most active. You can choose from September to May of the following year if you wish to avoid the throng.
• While some caverns may have rocky, slick steps, others may have smooth stone steps and easy-to-walk terrain. As a result, getting ready with appropriate footwear is crucial. It is advised to wear hiking shoes.
• Insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, long sleeve shirts, and a lightweight jacket are among other items you could require because the cave is slightly colder than the outside world.
• Caves can vary greatly in size. There are wide and narrow passageways connecting the various chambers. Some need you to ascend between 100 and 200 steps to get to the entryway. You should let the staff know if you have any health issues so they can provide you with extra advice.

Conclusion

As our exploration of the caves in Ha Long Bay comes to an end, we are left with a sense of awe and appreciation for these natural wonders. Each cave we visited told a unique story, revealing secrets of the past and showcasing the incredible power of nature. These caves are more than just tourist attractions; they are natural treasures that have stood the test of time, silently witnessing the evolving story of Ha Long Bay. As we bid farewell to these geological marvels, we carry with us memories of the mystical beauty and the serene ambiance of the caves, reminding us of the unforgettable experience we had in one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes.

Caves in Ha Long Bay FAQs

What are the most famous caves in Ha Long Bay?

The most famous caves in Ha Long Bay, a stunning testament to nature’s artistry, include Sung Sot Cave (also known as Surprise Cave), Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave), Dau Go Cave (Wooden Stakes Cave), and Trinh Nu Cave (Virgin Cave). 

Sung Sot Cave, the largest and perhaps most spectacular, amazes visitors with its vast chambers and remarkable rock formations. Thien Cung Cave is celebrated for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites, along with tales of celestial beings and mythical characters linked to its formation. Dau Go Cave, steeped in historical significance, is known for its ancient feel and impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. Lastly, Trinh Nu Cave, with its legend of eternal love, offers a more intimate and evocative experience. 

How were the caves in Ha Long Bay formed?

The caves in Ha Long Bay are a marvel of natural history, formed over millions of years through a complex process involving limestone erosion and geological evolution. These limestone karsts were initially shaped by the fluctuation of sea levels and the impact of the tropical wet climate. As rainwater seeped through the limestone, it slowly eroded the rock and created hollows and caves. Over time, these hollows expanded, forming the magnificent caves seen today. 

The constant dripping of mineral-rich water led to the formation of stalactites and stalagmites, creating the intricate and surreal interior landscapes that fascinate visitors. This long and gradual process reflects the dynamic nature of our planet and showcases the extraordinary capabilities of natural forces in shaping our world.

Can visitors explore the caves by themselves?

Visitors are generally not allowed to explore the caves in Ha Long Bay by themselves. For safety reasons and to preserve the delicate natural formations within the caves, guided tours are the norm. These tours are conducted by experienced and knowledgeable guides who provide valuable insights into the geological history, cultural significance, and unique features of each cave. Additionally, the guided tours ensure that visitors follow designated paths to minimize environmental impact. Some caves might be more accessible than others, but it’s always recommended to be part of a guided tour to fully appreciate and safely experience the wonder of these natural formations.                               

Is there an entrance fee for the caves?

Yes, there is an entrance fee for visiting the caves in Ha Long Bay. These fees are a part of the conservation efforts to maintain and protect these natural wonders. The cost can vary depending on the specific cave and the type of tour chosen. Typically, these fees are included in the overall price of the tour packages offered by cruise operators or local tour agencies. It’s important for visitors to check with their tour providers about the inclusion of these fees in their packages. The entrance fees contribute to the upkeep of the caves, ensuring that they remain pristine and accessible for future generations of visitors to enjoy and marvel at their natural beauty.