Adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts, looking for a respite from the busy cringe? Plan a trip to Tien Ong Cave located in Halong Bay, Vietnam, and immerse in nature’s mystical wonders. Get amazed by the unique formations beneath the surface which gives you a feel of an unbelievable realm and an alien world! Witness the hidden gems sculpted by nature, explore the cave network, and get enchanted by the captivating sceneries of the surreal world. Immerse in the colossal limestone formations which resemble gorgeous chandeliers, and get to know the underlying history of Tien Ong Cave through this blog.
About Tien Ong Cave
Image Credit: AlleinStein for Wikimedia Commons
The most captivating features of these caves are the stalactites and stalagmites that are formed by a slow process of mineral deposition. Water, dripping from the cave ceiling, dissolves minerals like calcite and redeposits them, creating these magnificent formations over thousands of years. These cliff formations stand as testaments to the exquisite craftsmanship of nature. In this subterranean world, time moves entirely in a different dimension. It is measured not in days or years, but in the slow and gradual deposit of the mineral layer and its accumulation. Each stalactite and stalagmite exhibit are witness to this timeless process in the ever-evolving tapestry of our planet’s geological story.
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Tien Ong Cave And Its History
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Founded in 1938 by J.G. Anderson, a Swedish archaeologist, Tien Ong Cave is in Cai Tai Island of Ha Long Bay. Halong Bay Management opened these caves in 2007 for tourism with the collaboration of the Vietnam Historical Museum. Also called the God Cave or the Fairy Cave, these caves stretch up to 20 km to the south of Ha Long City and around 7 km approximately from the island of Cat Ba. With a wide entrance, the cave floor is almost about 5m above sea level. These caves about 1000 m2 wide have quite sloppy insides. The stalagmites have dropped from the top of these caves and grew from the bottom creating a wall-like obstruction dividing the cave into two. The archaeological findings also show traces of ancient human habitation in the caves as old as 10,000 BC to 8000 BC.
Tourist Attractions Near Tien Ong Cave
There are many wonderful cave formations around Tien Ong Cave waiting to be explored. Here are a few important ones in the surroundings:
1. Sung Sot Cave
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Also called Surprise Cave, Sung Sot Caves, discovered in 1907 by French explorers, is in the centre of Ha Long Bay on Bo Hon Island. The entrance to the cave is narrow, take the stairs to get in. The interiors are surprisingly colossal, hence the name. Spanning an area of 12,000 m2 and 30 m in height, Sung Sot Caves comprises two chambers, the outer one of which is very large and can hold thousands of visitors. Immerse in the beauty of these magnificent caves and breathtaking sceneries. A narrow pathway leads to the inner chamber, which holds a long-standing giant called “Saint Long”.
- Operating hours: 8.00 am – 6.00 pm.
- Entry ticket: USD 2.00.
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2. Thien Cung Cave
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Thien Cung Cave is the most primitive and dry cave in Asia. The visitors must walk through a narrow winding path through the cliffs covered by thick foliage to access the cave, which leads to a spacious interior. Legend has it that this cave was a wedding site of a Dragon King and a beautiful common girl, May. According to Vietnamese folklore, many fairies, dragons, deities, and animals attended the wedding. You can still envision the grand wedding celebration in those stalactite formations especially when viewing the eastern wall. Find the depictions of the dancing fairies at the wedding party on the northern wall. The second and third chambers also showcase the murals of different birds and fish enjoying the Dragon King’s wedlock. Immerse and admire the humongous of these creations of the planet. Enjoy the attractive rock formations at Thien Cung.
- Operating hours: 8.00 am – 5.30 pm.
- Entry ticket: USD 2.00.
3. Dau Go Cave
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Covering an area of approximately 5000 m2, Dau Go Cave is 3 km from Tuan Chau Island and 6 km from the Bai Chay tourist spot. The entrance of the cave is quite wide and high, which makes the chamber airy and ventilated. Dau Go Cave is divided into three compartments and features splendid and amazing views of nature’s handiwork. While the first chamber looks bright because of the natural light and the ceiling of this chamber looks like a fresh oil painting, the second chamber is given artificial dim lighting, which deepens the tone and makes the rock cliffs look magnificent and grand. The third chamber has a fresh, natural pond, and the stalagmites on the walls of this compartment have different interesting shapes, giving you ancient castle vibes. The deeper you go, the darker it is and the more magical too.
- Operating hours: 8.30 am – 4.30 pm.
- Entry ticket: USD 2.00.
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How To Reach Tien Ong Cave In Vietnam
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The best way to reach these caves is to take a Halong Bay Cruise. Not all cruises stop at Tien Ong – check out the itinerary before embarking on a Cruise. Generally, the cruises on Overnight cruises (2 days 1 night) have these caves in their route list.
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Exploring these subterranean wonders and catching a captivating glimpse into a surreal world beneath the surface of Halong Bay. is an experience that awakens awe and ignites a sense of wonder. Caves in Halong Bay offer a captivating glimpse into a world hidden beneath the surface, where time seems to stand still. Indulge in an experience that makes you feel like you are in a mystical realm. If our detailed guide on Tien Ong Cave and the Caves of Halong Bay motivates you to prepare your backpacks, plan a trip to Vietnam.
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Cover Image Credit: AlleinStein for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Tien Ong Cave
What is the best time to visit Tien Ong Cave?
Generally, the caves are open throughout the year. But summers, i.e., April to August are the best time to visit Tien Ong Cave. September to December is generally not recommended and is best to avoid because of the occurrence of typhoons.
What are the places to visit in Halong Bay?
Bai Tho Mountain, Ti Top Island, Ga Choi Islet and Cua Van Fishing Village are a few places you can visit.
Suggest a few activities near Halong Bay?
Snorkeling, rock climbing, beach parachuting, and kayaking are a few interesting activities. Do try these exciting activities.
Name a few tourist attractions in Halong Bay City?
Quang Ninh Museum, Bai Chay Old Town, 3D museum, and night market are some places to explore in the city of Halong Bay
How many days are needed to visit Halong Bay?
You need at least 2 to 3 days to cover most of the noteworthy attractions in Halong Bay.
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