Ninh Binh caves are primarily known for their unrivaled natural beauty thanks to all the gifts from Mother Nature. For your next vacation to this province, visit these 11 incredible caves to witness their allure firsthand.
Ninh Binh caves, a gorgeous gift from nature, are a highlight that has put this Northern Vietnamese province on the map of tourism. They are known for their lush greenery and majestic structure that almost seem otherworldly. Witnessing these caves in Ninh Binh with your own eyes will be an incredible experience on your trip.
1. Tam Coc Caves – Among the most famous caves in Ninh Binh
- Location: Hoa Lu district
Tam Coc, which means “Three Caves” in Vietnamese, is a picturesque area of three Ninh Binh caves. The entire area is renowned for its stunning beauty as well as historical significance of the past feudal dynasties. Within Tam Coc, you can find a series of caves that have captivated travelers for generations: Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave.
While the journey through this trio of caves is magnificent on its own, what is waiting for you after is nothing short of amazing. As you exit the last cave, you will be greeted by a golden field that accentuates the river effortlessly, creating a sense of elegance contradicting the rugged beauty of the caves.
2. Mua Caves Ninh Binh
- Location: Hoa Lu district
Mua Caves, or Dancing Caves Ninh Binh, have a peculiar but beautiful name. While there were numerous lores behind the name, it sticks because of the dreamy views that the caves offer. Ngoa Long Mountain, the main attraction of Mua Caves, requires tourists to go above and beyond to fully admire its full glory. At the peak of the mountain, visitors can preserve their memories by taking pictures with a tower or an ornate stone dragon. Alternatively, if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, the lotus pond at the foot of the mountain will take your breath away. Walking on a small wooden bridge cutting through the pond or hopping on a boat to get closer to the lotus are all great shouts.
3. Nau Ruou Cave
- Location: Hoa Lu district
Nau Ruou Cave is another Ninh Binh cave with a unique name (nau ruou means wine distilling). There was a legend about the groundwater under this cave being an ideal water source for distilling wine, hence the name. Nowadays, Nau Ruou Cave is a popular tourist spot, where visitors can see thousands of wine jugs placed throughout the cave and feel the aroma of wine throughout the air.
4. Thien Ton Cave – A must-visit on your Ninh Binh cave tour
- Location: Hoa Lu district
Thien Ton is a complex that acts both as a cave and a pagoda. Thien Ton Cave takes on a different vibe by placing importance on religion, namely Buddhism and Taoism. The serenity alongside the traditional architectural aspect of the cave brings a soothing feeling for its visitors. This cave is an ideal location to unwind, reflect, and escape the hustle of modern cities. For history buffs, it also presents an opportunity to learn more about Vietnamese culture.
5. Dich Long Cave
- Location: Gia Thanh commune, Gia Vien district
Next up is Dich Long Cave, a place that had the honor of being considered the “third best cave” by Emperor Minh Mang. Similar to Thien Ton Cave, Dich Long Cave also has an important place in the local culture. It is home to a long-standing place of worship, Dich Long Pagoda, and multiple ancient constructions in its premises. Notably, the cave’s name stems from its special structure. The sound of wind blowing into the narrow cave entrance closely resembles the sound of the flute, which earns the cave its distinctive name.
6. Van Trinh Cave
- Location: Nho Quan district
Van Trinh is one of the best caves in Vietnam and among the largest Ninh Binh caves, totaling 3,500 square meters inside Mo Mountain. Outside, it is a humongous cave that can rival any other ones in the entire country. Setting foot inside the cave is an entirely different experience. Tourists will feel as if they have been transported to another world, one with mysterious yet alluring limestone structures and lighting. Part of the appeal is its untouched nature. Since the natural formation has done the heavy lifting, there is no need for the locals to make adjustments aside from placing lights inside the cave.
7. Am Tien Cave
- Location: Hoa Lu district
Am Tien Cave and Pagoda are nestled within the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and bear the romantic nickname of Tuyet Tinh Coc. The reclusive nature of this destination adds to its appeal, further solidifying its position as one of the most popular Ninh Binh caves and tourist attractions. Am Tien Cave is straight out of a fantasy novel, as it is surrounded by rocky cliffs with a picturesque pond in the middle as well as a tunnel through the mountain. Venturing into the cave will lead tourists to Am Tien Pagoda, also known as Dragon Cave due to its resemblance to a dragon’s mouth.
8. Thien Ha Cave – One of the go-to Ninh Binh caves for spelunking
- Location: Nho Quan district
Although it is not among the most famous caves in Vietnam, Thien Ha Cave is extremely underrated. For adventure enthusiasts, this cave can be an absolute dream-come-true with its naturally beautiful structure. Here, you can explore its hidden chambers and marvel at its geological formations. As you venture deeper into Thien Ha Cave, you will be awestruck by the play of light and shadow on the ancient rock formations.
9. Mermaid Cave
- Location: Hoa Lu district
Mermaid Cave Ninh Binh carries the name of a mythical creature to match its own mysterious vibe. As one of the most enchanting caves in Ninh Binh, the locals have meticulously played with the lighting to create illusions throughout the cave. One of the things that distinguishes this cave from others is the pristine water. The crystal-clear pools and shimmering stalactites within the cave together create a magical ambiance that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
10. Ma Tien Cave – A pristine Ninh Binh cave in the mountain
- Location: Yen Mo district
Ma Tien Cave is a God-given gem nestled within its namesake mountain. This pristine cave offers a serene escape from the city, along with numerous incredible photo ops. As you explore its chambers, you will be treated to breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility that can only be found in nature’s embrace. The cave entrance is located 100 stone steps above the ground, giving adventurers quite a climb. Furthermore, there are 3 openings at the top of the mountain, allowing the cave to always be illuminated.
