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Halong Bay is renowned for its stunning limestone formations and hidden caves. Exploring these unique caves is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of this UNESCO-listed site. Each cave varies in shape, size, and history, offering something for everyone, from adventure seekers to history enthusiasts. Halong Bay cave tours provide an excellent opportunity to witness these natural wonders up close. This guide highlights the best caves to explore.
Top 10 Halong Bay Caves
Explore the top 10 caves in Halong Bay, known for their stunning rock formations and history:
1. Sung Sot Cave
Photo: Greg Willis / Wikimedia Commons
Sung Sot Cave is one of the best caves in Halong Bay. The cave has two sections with high ceilings and natural lights reflecting on the rocks. A well-known legend says the cave was once home to a young hero who fought against invaders. Nearby, visitors can hike up Bo Hon Island for a panoramic view of the bay. Other top activities include kayaking around the island and exploring nearby trails.
Best Time To Visit: March – May; September – November
How To Reach: Take a boat from Tuan Chau Marina, followed by a short hike
2. Tien Ong Cave
Photo: KELLEPICS / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Tien Ong Cave has a wide entrance that leads to a large chamber with ancient stalactites and stalagmites. It is known for human remains and artefacts found inside, dating back thousands of years. This makes it an important site for history enthusiasts. The cave is included in many Halong Bay cave exploration trips. Near the cave, visitors can take boat rides to fishing villages or visit Cua Van Village, one of the oldest floating communities.
Best Time To Visit: October – April
How To Reach: Take a boat from Halong City to the cave
3. Thien Cung Cave
Photo: xiquinhosilva / Wikimedia Commons
Thien Cung Cave is famous for its rock formations that look like human figures, animals, and even a dragon. According to local legends, a young couple once got married in this cave, and the gods blessed their wedding. The cave is often visited as part of Halong Bay cave tours due to its interesting formations and lighting effects. Visitors can explore floating fish farms and small islands near the cave. The nearby Dau Go Island has good viewpoints, making it a great stop for photography.
Best Time To Visit: March – November
How To Reach: Boat ride from Bai Chay Pier, followed by a short walk
4. Dau Go Cave
Photo: 20twenty / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Dau Go Cave is one of the famous caves in Halong Bay that has a historical connection. It is said that General Tran Hung Dao hid wooden stakes here to fight Mongol invaders. The cave has three main chambers, each filled with different rock formations. Visitors can join guided tours to learn more about its history. Close to the cave, the nearby islets offer good spots for photography, along with boating activities. The island provides a nice short hike to a viewpoint, making it a good stop during a Halong Bay cave exploration trip.
Best Time To Visit: October – March
How To Reach: Take a boat from Tuan Chau Harbour
5. Luon Cave
Photo: dimitrisvetsikas1969 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Luon Cave is different from other best caves in Halong Bay because it is a water cave. Visitors can only explore it by kayaking or small bamboo boats. The cave has a low ceiling and leads into a peaceful lagoon surrounded by cliffs. Many monkeys and birds live in the area. Nearby, visitors can enjoy swimming or kayaking through the calm waters. The cliffs around the lagoon offer good viewpoints for photography. Many Halong Bay cave tours include this stop for a relaxing experience.
Best Time To Visit: April – October
How To Reach: Travel by boat from Bai Chay, then use a kayak
6. Dark And Bright Cave
Photo: Licya / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Dark and Bright Cave has two sections – the Dark Cave, which is deep and requires a flashlight, and the Bright Cave, which is open and filled with natural light. This cave is often visited on Halong Bay cave exploration trips because of its unique structure. Kayaking and boat tours are the best ways to explore it. The area around the cave has some great viewpoints, especially during sunrise and sunset. Many visitors also take boat rides to nearby floating villages, where they can learn about local life.
Best Time To Visit: May – October
How To Reach: Boat from Halong Bay, then transfer to a kayak
7. Me Cung Cave
Photo: StockSnap / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Me Cung Cave has narrow passages that open into larger chambers, making it feel like a maze. Inside, there is a small lake that adds to the unique experience. The cave is also known for ancient artefacts, making it a historical site. The nearby cliffs offer some of the best Halong Bay views for photography. Visitors can also go on short hikes to viewpoints that overlook the bay. Kayaking around the cave is another popular activity. The cave is often included in Halong Bay cave tours, attracting visitors who enjoy exploring hidden locations.
Best Time To Visit: October – April
How To Reach: Take a boat from Halong Bay, followed by a short climb
8. Trinh Nu Cave
Photo: pen_ash / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Trinh Nu Cave is famous for a local legend about a young woman who was turned into a stone here. Inside, a rock formation looks like a lying woman, and many locals believe this cave brings good luck in love. The cave is part of many Halong Bay cave tours due to its story and unique formations. The nearby Bo Nau Cave and Sung Sot Cave are also worth visiting. Kayaking, swimming, and exploring nearby beaches are common activities here. The high cliffs around the cave provide good viewpoints for visitors who want to enjoy the landscape.
Best Time To Visit: September – March
How To Reach: Take a boat from Halong Bay
9. Bo Nau Cave
Photo: SEVEN-OF-ALTEA / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Bo Nau Cave has a large entrance that allows sunlight to brighten the inside. The cave is not very deep, but its ceiling has unique patterns that make it look like an artwork of nature. Many guided Halong Bay cave exploration trips include this cave for its interesting rock formations. The high cliffs around the cave are excellent for viewing the bay. Bo Nau Cave is a peaceful spot for those looking to enjoy a quiet stop during their journey.
Best Time To Visit: October – April
How To Reach: Travel by boat from Bai Chay
10. Tam Cung Cave
Photo: juanguzmanphoto / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Tam Cung Cave has three main chambers, each filled with beautiful rock formations. It is known for its interesting shapes, including ones that look like animals and even a statue of a fairy. The cave is usually visited on Halong Bay cave tours as part of a larger trip. Visitors can explore nearby beaches or smaller caves near the cave. Some of the cliffs around the cave offer great views of the bay, making them a favourite spot for photographers. Boating and kayaking are also popular activities in this area, especially in the afternoon.
Best Time To Visit: November – April
How To Reach: Take a boat from Halong Bay
Exploring the caves of Halong Bay is a must for visitors to Vietnam. Each cave boasts unique features, from historical significance to stunning rock formations and thrilling kayaking adventures. Whether you seek beauty or adventure, Halong Bay has it all. Plan your visit with TripXL and witness the wonder of these breathtaking caves firsthand.
Cover Photo: ivabalk / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
