If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, there’s one place that you absolutely cannot miss: Halong Bay. With its stunning natural beauty, wild islands, and captivating cultural heritage, it’s no wonder that Halong Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
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Why Should I Discover The Hidden Beauty Of Halong Bay’s Caves?
For any traveler seeking to explore the spectacular and wondrous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay, the Halong Bay Caves are a must-see attraction. A multitude of limestone karst islands adorns this bay, making way for an abundance of mysterious coves, craggy cliffs, many stone pillars, and awe-inspiring cave systems that brim with fascinating wildlife, numerous stalactites, history, and culture.
Related Article: Fantastic Food to Eat in Halong Bay: 15 Delicious Dishes
From its captivating beauty to its serene setting alongside unique geological structures – no other destination in the world can match the remarkable experience presented by Halong Bay’s caves!
From viewing the exotic cave animals to exploring ancient structures carved into limestone walls to learning about the area’s rich history, visitors can expect a mesmerizing experience no matter which Halong Bay cave they choose to visit.
Breathe in the wonders of Halong Bay by investigating its hidden caves – a true nature creation! Take a journey inside and discover what this extraordinary bay holds through the list below!
Let’s figure out the best things to do in Halong Bay according to the recommendations on Halong Hub:
Top 10 Halong Bay Caves – Explore Every Corner Of This UNESCO Heritage Site
Let’s discover the most beautiful Halong Bay caves to see why its one of the natural wonders of the world!
1. Thien Cung Cave – Most Charming Halong Bay Cave
Thien Cung Cave, also known as the Heavenly Palace Cave, is one of the most popular, visited, and beautiful Halong Bay Caves. Located in the north of Dau Go Island, Thien Cung Cave is a natural wonder that attracts tourists from all over the world. The cave was discovered in 1993 and opened to the public in 1998.
As you enter the cave, you will be greeted by a colorful world of stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands of years by the erosion of water and wind.
The cave is divided into three chambers, each with its unique features. The first chamber is full of stalactites and stalagmites of different shapes and sizes, resembling animals, flowers, and even people.
The second chamber is where the highlights of the cave are located, including a magnificent stone pillar, which is said to be a representation of a prince who fell in love with a fairy. The third chamber is the largest and most spacious, featuring high ceilings and impressive formations that leave visitors in awe.
Visitors to Thien Cung Cave can also take in the stunning view of Halong Bay from its entrance. The entrance is a natural archway, shaped like a horseshoe, and the view from there is breathtaking.
Thien Cung Cave
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2. Dark & Light Cave In Halong Bay
Dark and Light Cave is a unique cave system located on Cat Ba Island, which is the largest island in Halong Bay. It is a great example of why you should visit Halong Bay. It is also referred to as Dark and Bright cave.
This a perfect example of the natural beauty and geological history of the area. These most beautiful caves are called Dark and Light Cave because of the stark contrast between the two parts of the cave.
The Dark Cave is a narrow passage, where visitors must use a kayak or a small boat to navigate through the cave’s dimly lit waters. It is filled with eerie shadows and bats, making it a thrilling and adventurous experience for visitors.
On the contrary, the Light Cave or Bright Cave is an airy area surrounded by towering cliffs and brightened with sunny glows. Swimmers or kayakers can revel in its crystal-clear waters and explore a stunning view of limestone hillsides surrounding translucent bays. The perfect photographic backdrop awaits visitors at this beautiful spot!
Dark and Bright Cave is one of the Halong Bay caves that’s definitely worth a visit for those with an adventurous streak.
Kayaking through Dark and Light Cave and admiring the beauty of natural creation: Halong Bay 1 Day Cruise – Incredible UNESCO Experience
Dark & Light Cave
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3. Sung Sot Cave – Surprise Cave
Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave, is one of the largest and most spectacular caves in Halong Bay. Located on Bo Hon Island, the cave is about 25 meters above sea level and covers an area of 10,000 square meters. Sung Sot Cave was discovered in 1901 by a group of French explorers.
As you enter Surprise Cave, you will be amazed by the sheer size of it and its magnificent beauty. The cave is divided into two chambers, each with its unique features and strange shapes.
The first chamber is full of magnificent stalactites and stalagmites, shaped like animals and plants, and the second chamber is where the real surprise lies.
The second chamber has many stalactites of several shapes and a statue of the Sea God. It is also a large hall, where you will find a wide range of impressive formations, including a huge stone pillar, which is said to be the symbol of Halong Bay.
Sung Sot Cave is known for its brilliant lighting system, which brightens the cave and creates a captivating ambiance. To best enjoy your experience without many tourists, you should plan to visit in the morning or late afternoon and this popular cave is open all year long.
Let’s see how Wanderlust Storytellers explored Sung Sot Cave:
Recommend cruises that visit Sung Sot Cave: 5 Hour Halong Bay Cruise 1 Day Package + Transfers & Set Menu Lunch
Sung Sot Cave
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4. Trung Trang Cave
Trung Trang Cave is located on Cat Ba Island, the largest island in Halong Bay. This cave is a natural cave system that stretches nearly 300 meters and is filled with limestone formations.
As you explore the cave, your eyes will be met with a spectacular array of stalactites and stalagmites. In addition, you will witness various shapes in rocks that resemble animals, trees, and plenty more!
One of the most impressive parts of Trung Trang Cave is the large underground river that flows through the middle of the cave. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore this river and admire the natural beauty of the cave.
Trung Trang Cave
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5. Me Cung Cave
Me Cung Cave is one of the most unique caves in Halong Bay because it is not only a cave but also a historical site. This cave is located on Lom Bo Island and has a rich history that dates back to the ancient Halong culture.
The entrance to Me Cung Cave is a small door that leads to a small tunnel. As you walk through the tunnel, you will emerge into a large chamber that is filled with natural light. The walls of the cave are adorned with intricate carvings and engravings that depict scenes from ancient Halong life.
One of the most interesting things to do in Me Cung Cave is to climb up to the top of the cave and admire the breathtaking view of Halong Bay from above.
Me Cung Cave
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6. Luon Cave
Luon Cave is a must-visit destination in Halong Bay, located in Bo Hon Island. Unlike other caves, it is only 60 meters long, but it boasts a stunning natural scenery that will leave you in awe.
It is only about 1 kilometer away from Sung Sot Cave, in front of Con Rua Island (Turtle Island), and to the left of Cong Troi (Heaven’s Gate).
This is a water cave, which means that you need to go through it by boat. Luon Cave is surrounded by limestone cliffs, and the water is crystal clear, so you can see the different marine species like shrimp, crab, and squid… swimming underneath your boat.
One of the highlights of Luon Cave is the lush greenery that surrounds it. Luon Cave is hidden in a peaceful area, and you can feel the calmness and serenity of the surroundings as you explore the cave.
Unlike many other caves which are accessible by boats or cruise ships, you need to visit this place on a bamboo boat or small kayak as the cave has a limited height. The cave’s entrance of the cave is also an excellent spot for kayaking, where you can admire the beauty of the surroundings from a different perspective!
Recommend cruises that visit Luon Cave: Halong Daily Cruise – 8 Hour Halong Bay Discover + Luxury Buffet Lunch
Luon Cave
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7. Tien Ong Cave
Tien Ong Cave, also known as the Fairy Cave, is a hidden gem in Halong Bay. It is located on Co To Island and is known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites that look like mythical creatures. It has a primitive charm that you will enjoy.
Stepping indoors, you’ll be in awe of a majestic block of stalactites, which looks like an old man with a gentle face, long hair, and a beard. The local people call him a miraculous “fairy godfather”. The cave is also named after a legend that tells the story of fairies that used to come to the cave to bathe in the crystal-clear water.
The Tien Ong Cave is a bit tricky to reach, and you need to climb a steep hill to get there. However, once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the island and the bay. Inside Tien Ong cave, you can see amazing rock formations, including the 5-meter high stalactite that looks like a unicorn.
Interested in the rich and ancient folklore of Vietnam? Check out these amazing stories of Vietnamese gods!
Tien Ong Cave
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8. Dau Go Cave
Dau Go Cave (Wooden Stakes Cave) is one of the most popular caves in Halong Bay, and for a good reason. It is located on Dau Go Island and has a history that dates back to the 13th century. Wooden Stakes Cave is massive, with three main chambers that feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites. To get to the cave entrance you have to walk past 90 stone staircases.
One of the highlights of Dau Go Cave is the enormous statue of a woman with long hair that guards the entrance. The legend tells the story of the Vietnamese army that used Dau Go Cave to store bamboo spikes to fight against the Mongols.
This Halong Bay cave is also known for its impressive lighting system that highlights the natural beauty of the cave.
Dau Go Cave
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9. Trinh Nu Cave – Virgin Cave
Trinh Nu Cave is unique in Halong Bay, named after a legend that tells the story of a tragic love between a young couple. You can even see a stone statue of a girl lying in the center of the cave when you enter. It is located on Bo Hon Island and is a peaceful and romantic destination.
The cave entrance looks like a peach, and inside, you can see the stalactites and stalagmites that resemble the body of a young woman.
One of the highlights of Trinh Nu Cave is the small beach in front of the entrance. It is an excellent spot to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery of the bay. You can also climb to the top of the island to get a panoramic view of the surroundings.
Halong Bay caves are perfect for families with young kids as every tour includes an English speaking guide. Here are some more tips for traveling Vietnam with children.
Trinh Nu Cave
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10. Thien Canh Son Cave
Thien Canh Son Cave is one of the newest Halong Bay Caves, discovered in only 2010. This cave is located on Bai Tu Long Bay, and it is a hidden gem that many tourists miss. The cave is known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, and it is an excellent spot for those who want to escape the crowds.
One of the highlights of Thien Canh Son Cave is the panoramic view of the bay that you can get from the top of the cave. Inside, you can see the impressive stalactites and stalagmites that form different shapes and sizes.
This beautiful, bright cave is also a great spot for bird watching, as many species can be found in the surrounding forest.
Thien Canh Son Cave
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Plan Your Trip To Halong Bay Caves Now!
With these 10 amazing Halong Bay caves, you can experience wonders beyond your wildest imagination! Make sure to include them in your Vietnam journey.
Halong Bay Caves do offer visitors a breathtaking beauty, a unique history, and a rich cultural heritage! Here are some recommendations for culture-lovers to discover Vietnam’s culture in-depth!
So what are you waiting for? Experience Halong Bay, and its caves for yourself and discover why it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth.
To get on a Halong Bay cave tour, book a Halong Bay day trip for the best adventure experience!
