Explore Top 6 Must-Visit Ninh Binh Caves

Blessed by nature, the land of Ninh Binh is bestowed with numerous landscapes and many breathtaking scenic spots. Among them, the stunning Ninh Binh caves stand out, offering you the opportunity to admire incredibly unique natural scenery. Join us on a journey with Vietnamonthego to explore the caves you should not miss when visiting this ancient capital land!

Tam Coc – Bich Dong

Tam Coc Bich Dong is an inseparable part of the Trang An scenic complex. Located in Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province, 100km south of Hanoi and only 7km from the center of Ninh Binh city, Tam Coc Bich Dong is not only famous for its magnificent natural beauty but also carries mysterious stories about its three renowned caves: Ca, Hai, and Ba.

Visitors can only reach Tam Coc Ninh Binh by boat, and as the boat leaves the cave, a magnificent natural landscape unfolds before their eyes. The towering limestone mountains cover a vast area of land, creating a mystical and tranquil space.

Continuing the journey of exploration, visitors will arrive at Bich Dong, also known as the “Second Pagoda Cave”. Bich Dong consists of a water cave penetrating through the mountain and a dry cave nestled on the mountain’s slope. Bich Dong is surrounded by a branch of the Ngô Đồng River in front and on the other side of the river is the sprawling rice fields.

Mua Cave

Exploring the caves of Ninh Binh would be incomplete without visiting Mua Cave. Located at the foot of Mua mountain, in Khe Dau Ha village, Ninh Xuan commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh.

To reach Mua Cave, you will be challenged by climbing 486 steps to the mountaintop. However, these difficulties are rewarded when you step onto the summit, revealing a magnificent panorama. Standing on the mountaintop, visitors can enjoy the majestic Ninh Binh landscape from above, where the green terraced rice fields intertwine, creating a beautifully colorful painting. Don’t forget to capture some unique and memorable photos here.

>>> Read More: Stay in Ninh Binh or Tam Coc?

Am Tien Cave 

Located approximately 10km from the center of Ninh Binh city, Am Tien Cave is the next destination on the journey to explore the caves here. Am Tien Cave is nestled deep in the limestone mountains and is part of the Trang An Tourism Complex recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site in 2014. To reach the cave, you will have to travel by boat and admire the majestic natural landscape with famous limestone mountains.

Stepping into Am Tien Cave, you will feel like entering paradise with crystal-clear formations on the walls, creating a sparkling and magnificent appearance when illuminated by light. Inside the cave, the tranquil and cool space, along with the rays of light shining through small cracks in the rock ceiling, give the feeling of being in a fairy-tale world. Visitors will sense the serenity and enchantment of this place.

Thien Ton Cave 

Thien Ton represents a unique blend of cave and pagoda, offering a distinct ambiance that emphasizes religious significance, particularly in Buddhism and Taoism. The tranquility combined with the traditional architectural features of the cave offers a calming experience for those who visit. It serves as an ideal retreat to relax, contemplate, and detach from the bustle of urban life. Moreover, for enthusiasts of history, it provides an enriching opportunity to delve deeper into Vietnamese culture. 

Van Trinh Cave (Giang Tien Cave) 

Ninh Binh tours exploring the stunning caves in the area must include a visit to Van Trinh Cave, also known as Giang Tien Cave, ranked among the most beautiful caves in the ancient capital land of Ninh Binh. Van Trinh Cave is nestled in the Mo mountain range in Thuong Hoa, Nho Quan district.

Van Trinh Cave is renowned for its pristine, majestic, and romantic beauty. The cave features unique limestone formations formed over millions of years, with each rock formation bearing its own shape and name, creating a unique and captivating natural space. The name “Giang Tien” originates from ancient fairy tales, evoking a sense of stepping into a mythical world, separate from the outside world, for visitors.

Nau Ruou Cave

If you’re someone who loves to explore the mysterious wonders of nature, then you cannot miss the opportunity to experience Nau Ruou Cave in Ninh Binh. This is one of the five famous caves in Ninh Binh, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The legend surrounding Nau Ruou Cave is closely tied to the traditional winemaking craft of the local people.

Nau Ruou Cave is located in the southwest of the Trang An tourist area in Ninh Binh, about 7km from the city center. To reach the cave, you must take the Trang An boat route 1, sailing along the Ngô Đồng River, through lush green rice fields. The cave is approximately 250m long, 3-5m wide, and 2-4m high. Inside the cave is a vast space adorned with peculiar limestone formations.

Thien Ha Cave – Thien Thanh Cave 

Located in Son Ha commune, Nho Quan district, Thien Ha Cave exudes a fairy-tale beauty, with its unique and majestic natural architecture. The cave is divided into two areas: a 200m-long dry cave and a 500m-long water cave, adorned with special limestone formations, creating incredibly unique and magnificent landscapes.

Stepping into Thien Ha Cave, you feel as if you’re entering a splendid palace adorned with sparkling and colorful stalactites. What sets Thien Ha Cave apart is the intricate limestone walls, carved with exquisite patterns and images of animals, plants, and historical events. This is one of the remarkable features that captivate the attention of visitors when exploring the cave.

Conclusion

Ninh Binh caves offer a captivating exploration of Vietnam’s natural wonders. With their breathtaking limestone formations, peaceful surroundings, and deep historical and cultural significance, these caves provide an immersive experience for visitors. From the enchanting ambiance of Hang Mua to the grandeur of Tam Coc – Bich Dong, each cave in Ninh Binh has its own distinct charm. Whether you seek adventure, serenity, or cultural discovery, the caves of Ninh Binh promise an unforgettable journey showcasing the best of Vietnam’s natural and cultural heritage.

Ninh Binh Caves FAQs

How do I get to the caves in Ninh Binh?

To reach the caves in Ninh Binh, visitors typically have several transportation options. Many of the caves, such as Tam Coc – Bich Dong and Trang An, are accessible by boat tours along scenic rivers and waterways. These boat tours often depart from nearby villages or designated docking areas. Alternatively, some caves like Hang Mua and Thien Ha Cave can be reached by hiking trails, which may start from designated entrance points or parking areas. Local transportation, such as taxis or rented motorbikes, can also be used to access the caves independently. 

Are the caves suitable for children and elderly visitors?

Yes, many of the Ninh Binh caves are suitable for children and elderly visitors. Several caves offer boat tours or easy walking paths that are accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. These caves typically have well-maintained paths, handrails, and minimal stairs, making them safe and enjoyable for families and older individuals. However, it’s advisable to check the specific accessibility features of each cave beforehand, as some may involve more strenuous activities such as climbing stairs or hiking. 

Are there entrance fees for the caves?

Yes, most Ninh Binh caves require an entrance fee for visitors. The entrance fees may vary depending on the cave and the amenities or services provided, such as guided tours or boat rides. Generally, these fees help support the maintenance and preservation of the caves, as well as the surrounding natural environment. It’s advisable to check the current entrance fees for the specific caves you plan to visit before your trip to ensure you have the necessary funds available. Additionally, some caves may offer discounted rates for children, students, or groups, so it’s worth inquiring about any available discounts.

What is the best time to visit the caves in Ninh Binh?

The best time to visit the Ninh Binh caves is during the dry season, which typically extends from November to April. During this period, the weather is cooler and more pleasant, with less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as cave exploration. The dry season also ensures that water levels in rivers and waterways, which are often used for boat tours to the caves, are stable and accessible. However, it’s important to note that Ninh Binh can experience high tourist traffic during peak seasons, so visitors may want to plan their trip accordingly to avoid crowds and secure accommodations and transportation in advance.