Nature always brings us surprises that can only be truly appreciated, admired, and experienced when witnessed, explored, and stepped foot upon. It is through these encounters that we can fully embrace and behold the hidden beauty that no words can accurately describe. Below is a compilation by DanangPrivateCar.com’s of the 8 most famous and big caves in Vietnam.
Son Doong Cave
It’s difficult to put into words the mysterious beauty of Son Doong Cave, part of the cave system in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Bo Trach District, Quang Binh Province). The cave was discovered in 1991 by a local resident named Ho Khanh. In 2009, the British Royal Cave Association conducted an exploration. Since then, Vietnam has been mentioned in the media for its new beauty, a new discovery of an internationally significant natural cave system – Son Doong Cave.
It can be said that every moment of discovery, every moment standing before the natural wonders in Son Doong Cave, will leave visitors in awe. No one can remain unmoved or unaffected by the stunning scenes of the paradise within the cave, the gigantic limestone walls, or the collection of ancient “pearls” that have formed over thousands of years. Son Doong Cave is an enchanting destination, a world underground full of mystery, pristine beauty, and yet to be fully explored beneath the earth’s surface.
Tam Coc Bich Dong
Tam Coc Bich Dong, also known as “Halong Bay on land” or the “second most beautiful cave system,” is a beloved destination in Ninh Binh. Located in the Ngu Nhac Son mountain range, about 7km south of Ninh Binh, Tam Coc – Bich Dong landscape includes three caves: Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave.
From the very first moments of boating on the Ngo Dong River, visitors can admire the breathtaking natural scenery. Venturing into the caves, visitors immerse themselves in a different world. Despite the absence of sunlight, the caves are enchanting and ethereal. Ca Cave is 127m long, passing through a large mountain with a cave entrance over 20m wide. Inside the cave, visitors can feel a cool and fresh air different from the outside. The cave is adorned with numerous stalactites in various shapes and forms. Next is Hai Cave, 60m long, hiding stalactites resembling flying clouds and small stalactites dropping like milk drops. Ba Cave is the smallest cave with a smooth ceiling, seemingly eroded by nature. Besides, Tam Coc Bich Dong also contains valuable relics and artifacts such as rock dragons and peculiar rocks that produce deep resonating sounds like musical instruments, delighting visitors.
If you are looking for transportation in Central Vietnam to explore the large caves in Phong Nha, Quang Binh, please contact us. We provide private car services with drivers to pick you up and take you to the sightseeing destinations. Some popular routes include Da Nang to Phong Nha by private car and Hue to Phong Nha by private car, which are the most preferred choices by our customers.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang
Quang Binh not only has Son Doong Cave but also the “kingdom of caves” – Phong Nha-Ke Bang. Located in the limestone mountains of Ke Bang, Bố Trạch District, Quang Binh Province, this complex comprises over 300 magnificent caves with a length of about 8km, a depth of 83m, and a height of 50m.
As soon as the boat enters the cave, the scorching heat and sweltering wind of Central Vietnam dissipate instantly, replaced by a cool breeze enveloping the space. The deeper the boat goes, the dimmer the light becomes until it disappears completely, revealing a world adorned with shimmering stalactites hanging from above, captivating the imagination. Like other caves, Phong Nha Cave features unique rock formations named Lion, Unicorn, Altar, Royal Court, or Buddha. It also has enormous stalagmites resembling the teeth of giants. Additionally, visitors can explore other marvelous caves within the complex, such as Tien Son Cave and Paradise Cave. A trip to Quang Binh would be incomplete without visiting and exploring the Phong Nha-Ke Bang.
Trang An Cave Complex
Trang An in Ninh Binh is one of the beloved destinations for many tourists due to its rare natural beauty, with mountains, water, and magnificent caves. There are 31 water valleys connected by 48 caves, including subterranean caves that are 2km long, such as Dia Linh Cave, Sinh Duoc Cave, and May Cave. Each cave has its own distinctive features, and many of them have been recognized as archaeological relics.
Although not as sparkling and vibrant as Phong Nha-Ke Bang Cave, the cave system in Trang An evokes unique emotions in every visitor. Floating on a small boat, tourists can explore 12 caves that stretch about 5km, experiencing the suspenseful moments as they venture deeper into the caves. The longest cave here is approximately 350-400m. Due to the high water level, visitors often have to stoop to avoid hitting their heads. However, as they progress inside, tourists will be amazed by the fascinating cave formations. Some areas are spacious and flat, while others are so narrow that only a tiny boat can pass through. Additionally, the cave system is adorned with traces of time and dazzling stalactites that captivate the eyes of visitors from all directions.
Surprising Cave (Sung Sot Cave)
True to its name, Surprising Cave amazes visitors from the very first moment. Located on Bo Hon Island, this cave stands as one of the largest and most beautiful in Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At first glance, the entrance looks small and narrow. However, once visitors step inside, the cave suddenly opens into a vast and breathtaking space. This dramatic contrast gives the cave its famous name.
The cave features two main chambers, each large enough to hold thousands of people. Inside, visitors can admire countless stalactites and stalagmites in unique and imaginative shapes. Many formations resemble animals such as elephants, deer, lions, and even turtles.
Light reflects off the sparkling formations and creates a magical atmosphere. As visitors climb higher, they reach an area filled with natural light. This space feels like a hidden world, fresh and vibrant.
At the top of the cave, visitors can discover a “garden in the sky.” This area features lush greenery, a clear water pond, and a peaceful natural setting. Birds and plants thrive here, adding to the cave’s charm.
Surprising Cave offers a dreamlike experience. Its vast space, natural light, and unique formations make it a must-visit destination in Ha Long Bay.
Wooden Stake Cave
Primitive and simple, that is the name of one of the must-visit destinations for tourists – Wooden Stake Cave. The cave is located on Dau Go Island and is divided into three main chambers, each with a different color scheme.
In the first chamber, visitors can enjoy the dance of natural light on the cave ceiling, creating a beautiful scene reminiscent of a giant oil painting. Various limestone stalactites and stalagmites form different shapes, allowing visitors to use their imagination to see elephants, deer, dozing lions, or a swimming turtle in the vast water. In the second chamber, the light diminishes, creating a shimmering beauty with hidden and revealed clusters of stone flowers. In the last chamber, visitors will be amazed by a suddenly expanded space containing many intriguing elements. There are sweetwater wells reflecting the four seasons, rocks shaped like horses, elephants, swords, and sabers engaged in a chaotic battle. Wooden Stake Cave appears as a concentration of ancient architectural structures with a pristine and serene beauty, featuring small and tall stone columns that seem to reach the blue sky.
Huong Tich Cave
Located in the scenic Huong Son Scenic Area, Huong Tich Cave offers a majestic setting surrounded by mountains and drifting clouds. The cave brings a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere to visitors exploring the famous Huong Pagoda complex.
Huong Tich Cave impresses visitors from the first glance. Its wide entrance looks like a giant dragon’s mouth. To reach the cave, visitors walk down about 100 stone steps through the forested mountains.
Inside, the cave reveals stunning natural beauty. Visitors can see a stone statue of Quan Am Bodhisattva, carved during the Tay Son Dynasty. The cave also features thousands of shimmering stalactites in unique shapes, such as Mother’s Milk Gourd, Rice Heap, Money Heap, Fairy Mountain, Golden Tree, and Silver Tree.
On the cave ceiling, nine stalactite clusters resemble dragons surrounding a large formation. Locals call this scene “Nine Dragons Competing for the Pearl,” and it stands out as one of the cave’s highlights.
The best time to visit Huong Tich Cave is in March, during the Huong Pagoda Festival. At this time, mist covers the cave and creates a magical blend of natural beauty and spiritual charm.
Tu Lan Cave System
The Tu Lan Cave System lies in Tan Hoa Village, Minh Hoa District, Quang Binh Province. Explorers discovered this cave system in 2009, along with eight caves. In 2012, they found four more valleys nearby.
The main cave is Tu Lan Cave. Other caves include Song Cave, Uoi Cave, Chuot Cave, Hung Ton Cave, Kim Cave, Ken Cave, and To Mo Cave. Each cave features its own unique and stunning beauty.
The Tu Lan Cave System attracts visitors with its pristine landscapes and hidden wonders inside limestone mountains. As you go deeper, the caves open wider and reveal more impressive stalactite formations. Visitors often feel amazed by these natural masterpieces.
Massive stalactites rise along the cave walls and spread across the cave floor. Some columns stand over one meter wide, creating a spectacular scene.
To reach these caves, visitors trek through rugged mountains and dense forests. They cross wide valleys, walk through slippery mud, and swim in rivers with water below 20°C. The journey can be challenging, but the reward is unforgettable. The untouched beauty of Tu Lan leaves a lasting impression on everyone who explores it.
