Discover The History And Significance Of Sung Sot Cave

Sung Sot Cave, which means Surprise Cave, is located in the centre of the World Heritage area. The cave was previously called Grotto de la Surprise. Sung Sot Cave – either “Cave of Awe” or “Cave of Marvel” in Vietnamese – consists of two immense chambers situated on the north wall of Bo Hon Island. The cave represents an extraordinary example of the Ancient Karst of an unusual geological formation allowing immense underground chambers often encountered within limestone formations of similar geological age, to a depth of more than 10m and extends some 30m to 40m above the tourist trail. This is just the lower storey reached by a pathway that carries you past some impressive formations with interesting names such as “The Head”, “The Fighting Cocks”, “The Fairy” and “The Buddha”.

Cultural And Historic Significance

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Sung Sot Cave location is regarded as one of the most magnificent caves in Ha Long Bay. It is a karstic cave in the centre of the World Heritage Area of Ha Long Bay. The French named this cave Grotte des Surprises, meaning it is a surprise when being discovered. The cave is a magnificent and breathtaking wonder, one created by Mother Nature. Sung Sot Cave is situated on Bo Hon Island. It is the largest cave in Ha Long Bay, formally named Grotte des Surprises in 1901 by a Frenchman. The cave lies at a height of 25m above sea level and is 12m wide, and then 30m high from the entrance to the cave’s ceiling. Standing there, you can feel the greatness of nature and the surprise of the beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites in the first sections of the 25m-wide cave, from the entrance.

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Exploring Sung Sot Cave

Sung Sot location, the largest cave in Halong, has three compartments that receive tremendous light.

1. Great Number Of Stalagmites

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The first compartment is the region in which many stalagmites flow towards the ground, forming deep pillars and high walls. The cave has not been affected by human activities, although scientists still come to the cave to conduct research. View of the arching cave is from the boat, offering many marvellous angles.

2. Diverse Flora and Fauna

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The second compartment is characterised by diversified and abundant fauna and flora, superior to those of Phong Nha cave. Some formations, such as the cross-stalagmite, still preserve their transparency. Stay surrounded by your family, or do not stray inside the caves because it can be confusing.

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3. UNESCO Recognition

Image Credit: By Richard Mortel for Wikimedia Commons
One of Halong Bay’s attractions is the Sung Sot Cave, known as the largest cave in Halong Bay. UNESCO has recognised it for its exceptional beauty. It is one of Ha Long Bay’s finest and widest grottoes. Located just up the hill next to the path leading to the cave, it is a must-see. Its 10,000 square metres are why it got its name, which means “Amazing cave” in Vietnamese.

Ecological Diversity Within Sung Sot Cave

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Stepping into Sung Sot Cave, one of Halong Bay’s largest caverns, allows you to explore a variety of biological environments and journey back in time. Cave Sung Sot with the two main separated chambers, including the outer and inner chambers, cover an area of over 10,000 square metres. The two giant main doors that both enter and exit the spatial structure of the cave will give you uncertainty about the division of each specific landscape.

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Local Legends And Folklore

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The name “Sung Sot” means “surprise” in Vietnamese. The size and beauty of Sung Sot Cave surprises my visitors. The mouth to the impressive cavern is fairly unassuming, surrounded by lush, thick woodland and opening out onto a very ordinary-looking hillside.
The French discovered it in 1901 and wrongly believed it was connected to Ha Long Bay. Repeated confirmations of the cave’s connection to the bay have helped place the Cave at the forefront of Ha Long Bay tour itineraries.
The cave was created during the Quaternary geological period. Weather agents eroded the mouths and edges of the cave roofs, creating patterns of chelone and daisy flowers. Interestingly, when the French discovered the cave, it was covered with a thick layer of limestone.

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Sung Sot Cave is a fascinating man-made site located in Ha Long Bay. It is a kind of cave with incredible stalactites all over the area. Plan your trip to Vietnam today and experience the unbelievable natural magic of the Sung Sot Cave. It is a must to admire the beauty of this unique place at least once in your lifetime.

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Cover Image Credit: By Richard Mortel for wikimedia commons

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