Mua Cave: History, Things To Do, How To Get To, Best Time And Travel Tips

Mua Cave is the scenic landscape of Ninh Binh, Vietnam. The cave is a breathtaking destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

Mua Cave is located about 10 kilometers from Ninh Binh City and 100 kilometers from Hanoi. This stunning attraction is part of the Trang An World Heritage Complex, known for its enchanting views of the Tam Coc River and majestic karst mountains. Mua Cave attracts tourists from all over the globe, especially hiking enthusiasts who are eager to conquer its peaks and soak in the panoramic vistas.

The specific address of Mua Cave is situated in Ngoa Long Mountain, Khe Dau Ha Village, Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province. With an entrance fee of 100,000 VND (approximately $4), visitors can explore the cave and its surroundings, enjoying its majestic nature and breathtaking views.

Due to its popularity, many tourists often question what to wear to Mua Cave, how long it takes to hike up, or how to get there from Tam Coc. This article by GTrip aims to provide comprehensive information about this remarkable attraction, including its history, activities, transportation options, the best times to visit, travel tips, and frequently asked questions.

Geographical and cultural significance

Mua Cave has a rather unusual name, tied to an ancient legend. It is said that when King Tran Thai Tong returned to Hoa Lu to establish the Thai Vi Shrine, he often visited this cave at the foot of the mountain to listen to the court ladies and beautiful maidens singing and dancing. From then on, the locals called this place is Mua Cave, meaning “Dancing Cave”.

Mua Cave is famous for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This area is near Tam Coc, a picturesque spot often called “Ha Long Bay on land” due to its majestic limestone mountains and winding rivers. The dramatic scenery of Mua Cave showcases natural beauty and contains deep cultural values that reflect the unique identity of Vietnam.

Mua Cave embodies the essence of natural beauty and the cultural significance of the region, making it an essential part of the local tourism ecosystem. With its magnificent limestone mountains and serene landscapes, this place attracts visitors from all over who seek adventure and relaxation.

The area reflects the harmonious relationship between nature and culture, creating an ideal destination for those who love adventure and tranquility. The bustling tourist season also means visitors can learn about local traditions and customs, enriching their experience when visiting Mua Cave and the Ninh Binh region.

Beautiful sunset at Hang Mua, Ninh Binh, Vietnam. Featured in the picture is the stairway leading to the top of the mountain. On both sides of the stairs are towering black cliffs, covered in green moss and trees.

500-stone-steps to get to the top of the Mua Cave

7 things to do in Mua Cave – Ninh Binh

Mua Cave offers many activities for visitors, such as climbing, hunting, and many activities. Ensuring an unforgettable experience. Here are seven must-do activities at this remarkable attraction:

1. Climb to the peak

We started our journey to explore Mua Cave with great excitement, climbing the 500 stone steps leading to the mountain’s summit. Every step is a testament to your endurance. As we ascended each stone stair, our anticipation grew stronger.

Upon reaching the top, the breathtaking views more than rewarded our efforts. From this vantage point, we marveled at the vast valleys, shimmering rivers, and distant mountains, creating a magnificent panorama.

2. Enjoy the scenic views

At the mountain peak, let yourself be surrounded by the mesmerizing landscape. Gaze upon the Tam Coc River, meandering through lush green rice fields, with majestic karst mountains as a stunning backdrop.

The contrast between the vibrant scenery and rugged peaks offers a visual feast for the eyes. This enchanting view, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, transforms into an artist’s palette, creating an atmosphere of pure magic.

Sunset at Mua Cave mountain viewpoint in Tam Coc

3. Visit the Quan Am Statue

While at the top of the mountain, we visited the Quan Am statue. Located in a peaceful setting, the statue is an important spiritual symbol embodying compassion and serenity. Standing tall against the backdrop of the sky, the statue invites us to reflect and seek inner peace.

This sacred spot is not only a place of worship but also an ideal place for quiet contemplation, allowing you to connect with the spiritual essence of the mountain and the surrounding beauty.

4. Explore the cave

After enjoying the views from the summit, we began our descent to explore the limestone cave at the mountain’s base. Entering the cave felt like a cool paradise, offering a refreshing escape from the heat outside.

As you wander through its winding passages, you’ll encounter unique rock formations developed over thousands of years. The cave’s historical significance adds to its allure, with local legends and stories echoing through its chambers, enriching your experience.

The light shines directly inside the Mua Cave

5. Photography

Bring your camera to capture the iconic views of Mua Cave. We recommend shooting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset when the light casts a golden glow over the landscape.

The breathtaking scenery, combined with the impressive karst formations, creates perfect moments for stunning photos. Whether you’re an avid photography enthusiast or an experienced photographer, this location offers countless opportunities for striking shots.

6. Visit surrounding attractions

After exploring Mua Cave, we didn’t want to stop our journey in Ninh Binh, so we decided to visit nearby destinations like Tam Coc and Trang An. These scenic spots are not only easily accessible but also add depth to your Ninh Binh experience.

We took a relaxing boat ride through the picturesque waters of Tam Coc or explored Trang An’s lush landscapes and cultural significance. Combining a visit to Mua Cave with nearby attractions ensures a diverse adventure full of natural beauty and artistic discoveries.

7. Enjoy the lotus field (seasonal)

As you approach the entrance to Mua Cave, take a moment to stroll through the tranquil lotus pond, especially during the blooming season. The sight of vibrant lotus flowers spreading across the water creates a stunning floral landscape that captivates the heart.
The gentle fragrance of the flowers and the peaceful setting provide a serene backdrop for reflection and appreciating nature’s beauty. This seasonal gem adds a touch of charm to your visit, making it a memorable highlight of your journey.

Tourist enjoying and breathing fresh air at the lotus lake

How to get to Mua Cave

To get to Mua Cave, you first need to travel to Ninh Binh City, and from there, you must travel an additional 6-7 km to reach the cave. You can choose from the following means of transportation:

1. Local buses

Local buses run frequently between Ninh Binh City and the Tam Coc area close to Mua Cave. These buses are affordable, with fares typically under 20,000 VND ($1). However, they may not drop you directly at Mua Cave’s entrance, so you might need to walk a short distance or hire a taxi or motorbike from the bus stop.

2. Motorbike taxi

Motorbike taxis, known as “xe om” are a quick and convenient way to reach Mua Cave from anywhere in Ninh Binh. They are widely available in the city center, and you can quickly negotiate a fare for a short ride from $2 to $5. This option also allows you to experience the local lifestyle and navigate through more minor roads that cars might not access.

3. Bicycle rental

If you’re staying in the Tam Coc area or nearby, renting a bicycle offers a peaceful and eco-friendly way to reach Mua Cave. Many guesthouses and hotels provide bicycle rentals for as low as $2 per day. The short, flat ride will take you through beautiful rice paddies and local villages, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

4. Motorbike rental

For more freedom and flexibility, renting a motorbike in Ninh Binh City or the Tam Coc area allows you to explore the region at your leisure. The ride from Ninh Binh to Mua Cave takes about 15-20 minutes and passes through scenic countryside. Motorbike rentals cost around $4-$8 per day, making this an affordable option for independent travelers.

Architecture of Mua Cave in Tam Coc

When is the best time to visit Mua Cave?

The best time to visit Mua Cave is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is cool and less humid during this period, making it ideal for hiking and cave exploration. The average temperature in the dry season ranges from 17°C to 25°C, with clear skies that allow you to enjoy the majestic views of the mountains and rice fields below.

If you want to witness the most beautiful scenery, visit during the rice harvest season, from late May to June. At this time, the ripe golden rice fields create a picturesque and poetic landscape. This is a perfect time for photography enthusiasts, as the view from the base of the cave is truly stunning.

Visiting on weekdays or early in the morning is best to avoid crowds. Early mornings (6-8 AM) help you avoid the heat and offer the chance to catch a breathtaking sunrise from the summit. Alternatively, you can visit in the late afternoon to enjoy a stunning sunset over the limestone mountains.

View of the ruins of the Mua Cave

Where to stay near Mua Cave?

For those visiting Mua Cave and looking for accommodation, here are some top recommendations nearby, offering a variety of room types and amenities to suit different needs:

Mua Cave Ecolodge

• Booking: 037 869 9330
• Address: Khe Ha Village, Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province
• Price range: 2,470,000 VND (~ $95)
• More detail: hangmua.vn/cac-loai-phong
• Includes 6 types of rooms:
  • Villas: Spacious villas with 4 bedrooms, 2 family rooms (2 beds each, 1.8m x 2m), and 1 double room with a large bed (1.8m x 2m). Perfect for families or large groups.
  • Deluxe bungalow with swimming pool: 30m² bungalow with 1 King bed and 1 single bed, including a private pool. Suitable for small families or friends.
  • Family room with private pool: 60m² with 2 large beds and a 25m² private pool. It is ideal for families seeking privacy and relaxation.
  • Family room with balcony: 40m² room with 2 double beds, featuring a balcony overlooking lotus fields and mountains.
  • Treehouses: 30m² treehouse with 1 King bed and 1 single bed, offering a nature-centric experience.
  • Deluxe double/twin room: 40m² room with a 10m² outdoor bathtub, suitable for couples or friends.

Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort

• Booking: 091 474 3322
• Address: No. 9, Tam Coc – Bich Dong Tourist Area, Ninh Thang, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
• Price range: 2,700,000 VND (~ $107)
• More detail: hiddencharmresort.com/phong-nghi
• Includes 5 types of rooms:
  • Superior: 28m² room with either 1 large bed (1.8m x 2m) or 2 single beds (1m x 2m), offering mountain, garden, or field views.
  • Deluxe: 32m² room with 1 large bed (1.8m x 2m), beautifully decorated with natural wood and marble.
  • Premier executive: 38m² room with either 1 large bed or 2 single beds, with stunning mountain and rice field views.
  • Fine art luxury suite: 85m² suite featuring a reception area and balcony with mountain views, decorated with hand-embroidered art.
  • Extensive family: 70m² room combining Superior and premier executive rooms, with connecting doors, perfect for family stays.

Tam Coc Wonderland Bungalow

• Booking: 0942987801
• Address: Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh 43000, Vietnam
• Price range: 1,100,000 VND (~ $43)
• More detail: tamcocwonderlandbungalow.vn-hotels.com
• Includes 5 types of rooms:
  • Deluxe Double Room: 25m² room with a balcony and mountain view.
  • Room for 3 People with Balcony: 35m² with a balcony and air conditioning.
  • Room for 4 People: 36m² with a balcony and electric kettle.
  • Family Bungalow: 30m² family-sized bungalow.
  • Quadruple Room with Mountain View: 30m² room with scenic mountain views.

The pagoda at Mua Cave peak

Other nearby attractions

Ninh Binh is rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, offering numerous popular tourist destinations that complement your visit to Mua Cave. Exploring these sites will provide a deeper insight into the region’s history, landscape, and spirituality.

• Tam Coc: Known as “Halong Bay on land” Tam Coc is a stunning area of karst mountains and serene rice paddies that is best explored by boat. The boat ride takes you through three limestone caves, allowing you to glide under rock formations while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
• Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Trang An is famous for its boat tours through caves and waterways, surrounded by lush greenery and majestic limestone peaks. The area also features ancient temples and pagodas, adding to its spiritual significance.
• Bai Dinh Pagoda: This massive spiritual complex is the largest Buddhist temple in Vietnam. It houses many impressive structures, including giant bronze statues, a 100-ton Buddha, and a tower with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Bai Dinh is a must-see for religious architecture and Vietnamese spirituality.
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Once the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties (10th and 11th centuries), Hoa Lu is a historic site featuring ancient temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh. Nestled in the mountains, the ruins glimpse Vietnam’s royal past and ancient architectural style.

Each attraction is easily accessible from Mua Cave, making Ninh Binh a must-visit destination for those looking to experience Vietnam’s natural wonders and rich history.

Tourists float along the Tam Coc River by boat

Travel tips and visitor information

When planning your visit to Mua Cave, it’s important to consider several practical travel tips to enhance your experience and ensure a safe adventure.

• Entrance fee: The entrance fee to Mua Cave is typically around 100,000 VND (~$4) per person. This fee helps maintain the site and its facilities.
• Opening hours: Mua Cave is open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon allows you to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
• Facilities: Basic facilities are available at Mua Cave, including parking areas for motorbikes and cars. You can also find food stalls nearby offering local snacks and refreshments. However, bringing your own water to stay hydrated during the hike is advisable.
• Important safety advice: The hike to the peak involves climbing approximately 500 stone steps. Wear footwear with a good grip and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
• What to bring: Along with water, consider getting a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, especially if you plan to hike during midday. A small backpack can carry your essentials without hindering your mobility.

By keeping these tips in mind you’ll be better prepared for a memorable visit to Mua Cave and the surrounding attractions. Enjoy your adventure!

The path to the Mua Cave is decorated on holidays

Mua Cave is a stunning attraction in Ninh Binh that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. With its breathtaking views, rich history, and myriad activities, it is a must-visit destination for any traveler in Vietnam. We encourage you to add Mua Cave to your itinerary for an unforgettable adventure showcasing Ninh Binh’s natural and cultural heritage.