1. Hang Mua: Vietnam’s “Great Wall” with Breathtaking Panoramic Views

Nestled in the heart of the Trang An heritage site, Hang Mua is not just a destination but a journey through time. Legend has it that King Tran Thai Tong used to visit this place to enjoy royal dance performances, inspiring the poetic name "Hang Mua", meaning Dance Cave in Ninh Binh, Vietnamese.

The highlight of Hang Mua is its mesmerizing stone staircase winding up the mountain like a flowing silk ribbon. Dubbed a "miniature Great Wall of Vietnam", this path consists of nearly 500 steps, flanked by intricately carved dragon and phoenix statues, symbols of Vietnamese spiritual heritage. As you reach the peak, a breathtaking panorama of Trang An and Tam Coc unfolds - a masterpiece of nature where serene rivers embrace golden rice fields and towering limestone peaks.

Tips for visiting Hang Mua:

• Make sure you're wearing sturdy, comfortable footwear.
• Bring a bottle of water with you, as there are only water shops at the base of the mountain.

Majestic dragon statues (on Lying Dragon Mountain), standing as silent sentinels of the former royal land

2. Tam Coc – Bich Dong: “Halong Bay on Land” with Serene River Views

Tam Coc - Bich Dong is often called the "Ha Long Bay on land", where nature and history blend into a breathtaking masterpiece. The three famous water caves in Ninh Binh: Hang Ca, Hang Hai and Hang Ba were carved by the gentle Ngo Dong river winding through limestone mountains for millions of years. Drifting on a boat along the emerald waters, surrounded by towering karsts and golden rice fields, visitors feel as if they are floating through a dreamlike paradise.

Tips for visiting Tam Coc - Bich Dong:

• Few or no walking stops along the way, unlike the route in Trang An.
• Boat rowers are local residents, mostly middle-aged. They may not be very talkative but they are experienced and know the route well.
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda, which was built during the Later Le Dynasty and renamed by Lord Trinh Sam in 1774.

Bich Dong Pagoda nestles within the mountains, exuding an ancient and sacred charm

3. Hang But: Unique Stalactites in the Shape of the Buddha

Hidden within the Van Long Nature Reserve, this flooded cave stretches approximately 500 meters, silently weaving through towering limestone mountains, creating an atmosphere of serenity and mystery. Inside this natural wonder, a remarkable stalactite formation takes the shape of a meditating Buddha, like a wise sage lost in contemplation for centuries.

Stepping into Hang But is embarking on a journey of enchantment. As visitors glide gently on a small boat through the crystal-clear waters, you can marvel at the intricate formations of stalactites, each seemingly whispering tales of time. In the distance, amidst the lush greenery and rugged cliffs, the rare Delacour’s langurs make fleeting appearances, offering glimpses into the untouched wilderness.

Tips for visiting Hang But:

• Visitors need to bring or use flashlights as the cave’s low ceiling and seasonal flooding, there is no installed lighting inside.
• Boat rowers are friendly local residents who provide helpful guidance throughout the trip.
• The boat ride only begins when there are at least 3 to 4 passengers.

The cave’s mouth is low, dark, and narrow, evoking a sense of mystery as if entering another hidden world

4. Thien Ha Cave: A Journey into a Dazzling World of Stalactites and Mysteries

Thien Ha Cave, part of the Tuong Mountain range, spans 700m with 200m of dry cave and 500m of water cave. It features stunning stalactites, including a shimmering formation resembling a celestial Milky Way.

Traces of ancient Vietnamese civilizations have been discovered here with excavated artifacts offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride through the water cave, admire breathtaking rock formations, explore the dry cave’s historical relics, listen to local legends, and immerse themselves in untouched nature.

Tips for visiting Thien Ha Cave:

• You should bring a flashlight for better visibility inside the cave.
• Navigate carefully through narrow paths and sharp rocks.
• Avoid touching the stalactites to help preserve their natural beauty.
• Visit during the dry season for the most comfortable and complete experience of this mystical cave.

The stalactites hang from the cave ceiling, resembling frozen waterfalls sculpted by time and nature

5. Hang Nau Ruou: Cultural Roots of Vietnam’s Ancient Winemaking

Hang Nau Ruou, stretching 250 meters with a high ceiling and spacious interior, offers a sense of entering a different realm. This unique cave allows boats to travel upstream, exploring the deep mysteries beneath the earth. With a subterranean water source more than 10 meters deep, connecting to the Hoa Lu ancient capital, the cave was historically used by locals to collect pure water for brewing special wine offered to the kings.

This place is a historical treasure, where artifacts like pottery, jars, and winemaking tools have been discovered, proving its role in the production of royal wine. Today, ancient wine jars are displayed near the entrance, allowing visitors to learn more about the region’s traditional wine culture.

Tips for visiting Hang Nau Ruou:

• Bring a light jacket as the temperature inside the cave may be cooler.
• Please preserve the relics in the cave by avoiding touching or damaging them.

Hang Nau Ruou is linked to the legend of brewing wine for the king

6. Thien Ton Cave: A Sacred Landmark Steeped in Spiritual History

According to legend, Thien Ton was a deity associated with the history of Hoa Lu in the 10th century, revered as the protector of the eastern gate, bringing peace and prosperity to the land. Thien Ton Cave became a place of worship, where locals prayed for good fortune and tranquility in their lives. The divine and peaceful atmosphere within the cave makes it an exceptional place to reflect and connect with the spiritual heritage of the region.

Tips for visiting Thien Ton Cave:

• Wear light footwear to easily navigate the stone steps within the cave.
• Respect the tranquil and sacred atmosphere of this historical site.

The serene and tranquil scenery of the temple's garden evokes a sense of peace and freedom

After exploring the caves and heritage sites, don’t miss out on the vibrant Ninh Binh Night Market: A Bustling Hub for Food and Entertainment, where local cuisine, handmade souvenirs, and traditional performances bring the city to life after dark.

7. Am Tien Cave: The “Emerald Gem” of Ancient Hoa Lu

Am Tien Cave, also known as the "Dragon Cave" is one of the most unique sites within the Trang An heritage complex. During the reign of the Dinh Dynasty (968 - 980), this cave served as a prison, where tigers were kept to punish wrongdoers. The cave is situated in a water-filled valley, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, creating a space that is both rugged and mysterious.

To enter the cave, visitors pass through an entrance and follow a narrow path on the left side, next to a crystal-clear pond filled with lotus, water lilies, and fish. This pond, once thought to be used for raising crocodiles to execute criminals, adds to the fascinating history surrounding the cave. The cave itself resembles the mouth of a dragon, with stunning stalactites shaped like rice plants, money trees, Buddha's hand fruits, and lotus buds hanging down. The sound of dripping water from the stalactites enhances the tranquil and sacred atmosphere, earning the cave its title of "Tuyet Tinh Coc" (The Pure Valley).

Tips for visiting An Tiem Cave:

• Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for navigating the stone steps.
• Show respect while exploring this sacred site.

When morning mist veils the landscape, Am Tien emerges like a legendary valley

8. Ma Tien Cave: Where Echoes of History Resid

The first level of the cave features an uneven terrain, with varying elevations and cleverly arranged rocks that form a stunning and dynamic stone landscape. This level also contains several smaller caves, each with its own unique beauty.

The second level is expansive, with five main chambers, each offering rustic, mysterious charm. The most remarkable is the Fairy Chamber, the most beautiful and coolest space, featuring a beautiful jade well with fresh, clear water year-round. The cave is naturally illuminated by three skylights, casting warm sunlight that brightens the vast interior.

Tips for visiting Ma Tien Cave:

• The cave paths can be slippery due to moisture, so walk with caution.
• Wear anti-slip shoes for better grip and safety.
• You can try boat tours to explore Ma Tien Cave.

Layered rock formations twist and turn like fossilized ocean waves

9. Dich Long Cave: A Limestone Marvel Nestled in the Heart of Ninh Binh

Climbing nearly 100 stone steps leads visitors to the cave’s entrance, marked with the inscription “Nham Son Cave, Co Am Pagoda”. In front of the cave is a jade well, with water flowing from the stalactites year-round.

The cave also contains a large bell weighing about one ton, cast during the Nguyen Dynasty. Beyond the Buddhist cave, visitors enter the Dark Cave, filled with bizarre, wave-like stalactites. The final destination is the Bright Cave, where light flows through openings, creating an ethereal, flute-like sound as the wind passes, making it a true natural wonder.

Tips for visiting Dich Long Cave:

• Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes for the 100-step climb.
• Bring a flashlight to explore the darker cave sections.
• Take time to admire the ancient pagoda, stone altar and jade well.
• Listen for the natural flute-like sounds in the Bright Cave, a unique experience.

Dich Long Cave and Pagoda, located in Ninh Binh, was granted the title “Nam Thien De Tam Dong” (the third most beautiful cave in Dai Viet) by Lord Trinh Sam

10. Dong Tien Ca: Legends and the Enigmatic Beauty of Nature

It was also known as “Fish Cave” due to the presence of two rare fish species, the royal Trau fish and the Ro Tong Truong fish. These fish thrive in cold water, found in the limestone mountain’s underground springs. In the past, locals used to offer these fish as royal tributes because of their exquisite taste. Today, they are rare and endemic species of Ninh Binh, especially in areas like Truong Yen, Hoa Lu and Thung Nham, Ninh Hai.

To reach the entrance of Dong Tien Ca, visitors must climb 200 stone steps shaded by old bamboo trees. Once inside, they descend 40 steep metal steps embedded into the mountain. Unlike other caves, visitors explore Dong Tien Ca on foot, following a wooden path that winds through the cave, weaving past large stalactites and ducking under low ceilings.

Tips for visiting Dong Tien Ca:

• If you're a photography enthusiast, using a camera or phone with a flash can help you capture beautiful photos.
• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for uneven and potentially slippery terrain.

An underground stream flows gently through the cave, creating a cool and peaceful atmosphere

11. Hang Ba Giot: The Mystery of the Sacred Dripping Waters

Its name, “Ba Giot” (Three Drops), originates from the mesmerizing sight of three streams of crystal-clear water gently dripping from the ceiling, as if each droplet tells a centuries-old tale. A local legend recounts the story of a young man deeply in love with a beautiful princess.

When he ventured into Sinh Cave to propose, betrayal shattered his hopes. Heartbroken, he sought solace in Hang Ba Giot, where he bathed, immersed himself in his private sorrow, and ultimately ended his life. This tragic romance is said to have moved the stalactites to “cry” along with his grief.

Tips for visiting Hang Ba Giot:

• Stand beneath the dripping stalactites. Locals believe catching three droplets in your palm brings luck, success and true love.
• There aren’t many facilities along the path, so be sure to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated.
• The path can get slippery during rainy weather. It’s best to visit when it’s dry to avoid accidents.

The water-drop-shaped stalactites enhance the space's mysterious and captivating atmosphere

12. Hang Vai Gioi: Where Heaven and Earth Meet

To reach Vai Gioi Cave, visitors must conquer 439 winding stone steps clinging to the mountainside. Historically, this 5000m2 (5381 sqft) cave was the site where the people of Hoa Lu once set up a temple to pray for favorable weather and abundant harvests.

The “mortal” level reflects the simplicity of everyday life, while the “hell” level—with its intriguing stalactites resembling animal teeth, fish bones, and legendary motifs like Nai Ha bridge and Tam Sinh Thach - symbolizes the cycle of life and karmic retribution.

A special “Milepost Zero” marks the boundary between these realms. Ascending a narrow staircase past a cascading waterfall leads to the “heavenly” level, where a serene altar and a magnificent stalactite resembling an elephant captivate visitors. Here, a natural skylight offers a panoramic view of the valley, evoking a profound sense of peace and divine connection.

Light streams through a natural skylight, illuminating the sacred altar inside

Exploring Ninh Binh caves Vietnam is more than just an adventure - it’s a deep dive into rich cultural and natural heritage. These awe-inspiring formations, steeped in history and folklore, provide a perfect escape for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Let's pack your bags and embark on a journey through the mystical and enchanting world, where nature and history intertwine in the most spectacular way.

For nature lovers who wish to further explore Vietnam’s biodiversity, a visit to Cuc Phuong National Park Vietnam offers an exciting journey into the country’s oldest national park, home to endangered species and ancient forests.

With its wealth of natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural gems, there’s no shortage of things to do in Ninh Binh for travelers seeking both adventure and serenity.

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