Inside the mountainous area of Ninh Binh, lies the majestic architecture of Mua Cave. With a massive structure and history, this site has been favored for a long time. However, some may wonder if they should go inside that cave on their journey – and that’s what we’ll find out.
Situated among massive rice fields and towering limestone mountains, Mua Cave has long been acknowledged for its allure and rich history. Stepping inside this majestic destination, you will be captivated by all the wonders – from wild marble sculptures that have been around for ages to hidden sinkholes and rivers.
However, due to the sophisticated demands and other requirements of visitors, some may consider the chance to venture inside this cave. That’s why you should keep on reading this article to find out everything you might need to know about Mua Cave, so you can answer the question: Is this place still worth a visit in 2025?
I. Introduction of Mua Cave
Mua Cave, also known as Hang Mua, is a well-known historical and cultural site situated within the heart of the Trang An Landscape Complex. The cave is situated in Khe Dau Ha Hamlet, Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh. From Hanoi, it will take at least 1.5 hours to get there, since the distance is about 90 kilometers. You can travel to this place by bike, car, or reserve a seat on SJourney Luxury Train Tours. For more information, please visit SJourney.
→ Discover the full SJourney itinerary from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, with unique stops along the way HERE
According to folklore, the cave’s name was related to an association with King Tran Thai Tong. Upon returning to this region, the former emperor of Dai Viet is said to have established the Am Thai Vi, a venue where he would frequently enjoy music and dance performances by the best local women in Hoa Lu – therefore, the name “Hang Mua” was invented.
II. The highlights of Mua Cave in 2025
1. Massive structure
With an enormous karst landscape featuring marble sculptures, sinkholes, and hidden rivers, Mua Cave’s massive structure will enchant everybody who steps inside. You might have to endure 486 stone steps in order to truly experience the allure of this cave, but with all the beauty inside: from both natural and artificial statues to the path leading to the top, it’s all worth a visit.
The climbing road that leads to the top of Ngoa Long Mountain – which is the container of the cave – was built according to the design of the citadel, which attracts multiple young visitors who would like to immerse in the culture and challenge themselves. Some people even call this road “The Miniature Great Wall of China” – showing all the beauty and tranquility when visiting this mesmerizing structure.
2. Breathtaking view at the top of the cave
Once you conquer a 486-step journey to the top, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the Ngo Dong River along with the whole beauty of the rice fields – which will act as the highlight of your journey. On top of the mountain, the surroundings are also poetically furnished by the majestic rocky cliffs that rise in diverse formations. These dramatic structures create a captivating space for visitors to take in the panoramic vistas.
3. Rich cultural history
Inside Mua Cave, you may encounter not only the natural sculptures of stalactites, but also the man-made designs of mythical creatures such as dragons and phoenixes as well. These statues are pieces of evidence of Vietnamese’s rich heritages and cultures, typically during the Tran Dynasty.
Moreover, in terms of the spiritual cultures that have been around in Vietnam for ages, multiple venerated worship sites will provide visitors with a glimpse into Vietnam’s long-lasting Buddhist heritage and cultural traditions.
4. Traditional and bold cuisine
Trying out all the food during the tour to Mua Cave is truly fascinating. Ninh Binh has long been acknowledged for having one of the most diverse cuisines in Vietnam, and some of them are quite bold for first-timers. Notably, goat dishes and freshwater snails – seem to be a little scary when hearing, but once you try them out yourself, they will be stunning in both texture and flavor.
III. Activities you can do in Mua Cave, Ninh Binh
1. Climbing on the top of Ngoa Long Mountain
For those seeking a comprehensive view of the magnificent area of Mua Cave, Ninh Binh, the right-hand path that leads to the top is the way to go. The first lower viewpoint is where you can gaze down the wild, rigged mountainside of the cave. Continuing further up the path, you will reach the second peak – the top of Ngoa Long Mountain.
By ascending on top of the Ngoa Long Mountain, you will be offered a series of picture-perfect vantage points overlooking the Ngo Dong River, rice paddy fields, and distant karst limestone which form the whole Tam Coc area.
2. Take a photo at the virtual tower
While you are done challenging yourself to climb on top of the cave, a spectacular model of architecture awaits: the virtual tower with an exclusive design dated back to the Tran Dynasty. This extraordinary structure represents the tranquility of the culture, surrounded by multiple structures of mountains and lakes. You can take multiple photos from different angles and capture all the allure of nature’s wonders.
3. Unveil the beauty of Ngoa Long Peak & Lady Buddha Statue
Coming on top of the Ngoa Long Mountain, you will encounter a sculpture of the stone dragon – also known as the Ngoa Long Peak. You can climb on the back of the dragon, take some photos and enjoy the view below. Beside the statue, there should be a shrine dedicated to the Lady Buddha. You must not forget to pay respect to the shrine – legends once said you will have good fortune after paying respect to the Lady Buddha.
4. Visiting the vast lotus pond near Mua Cave
If you are lucky to have time to visit Mua Cave in July – August, a vast lotus pond is waiting for you to explore and admire. Located right beside the cave, this pond is well-known for its undying beauty and modesty – which represents the characteristics of Vietnam. We highly recommend you spare some time in the early morning to visit this place, so that you can truly see the attraction that lies in each petal of the whole lotus pond.
IV. Is Mua Cave Still Worth A Visit In 2025?
With all that being said, we do believe that in 2025, and probably thousands of years to come, Mua Cave is, and will still be a place worth visiting due to its allure in nature, history and culture. So if you desire to explore Ninh Binh as immersively as possible, this place will not disappoint. You can take a bus, hire a car, or choose any type of transportation that suits your needs.
However, if you want to fully immerse in the alluring beauty of Vietnam – typically in Mua Cave – we highly suggest you take the tour from SJourney – The First Luxury Train In Vietnam. This cross-nation train tour covers everything you need to know about Vietnam, and Ninh Binh in particular. Amidst the dramatic limestone peaks, you can step back in time and immerse yourself in the enduring legacy of the Tran dynasties.
Lunch will be served beside the captivating landscapes and tranquil atmosphere of Tam Coc’s limestone mountains, which combine a private experience of luxury and an open view of the alluring nature. You will be presented with a handful of local specialties, including mountain goat meat, snail dishes, crispy rice crackers, and eel vermicelli. These dishes will add to your overall experience, which will make your trip more fulfilling than ever.
The immersive outdoor session after lunch will take you on an adventure of historical and natural wonders. You can see multiple temples and old buildings, climb on top of the cave, and participate in local activities to truly experience the culture of Ninh Binh, as well as the culture of Vietnam.
As evening approaches, return to the elegance of your train to refresh before bidding farewell to this magnificent site. Whether you are taking the tour from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you will have a full-on experience when coming to Ninh Binh – especially when visiting Mua Cave.
For more information about the whole course, please visit our official website: SJourney – The First Luxury Train In Vietnam.
Reserve a seat in our 2025 train tours with a 10% discount on your cross-nation journey. This limited-time offer lasts before September – book now to experience the most fulfilling voyage of your life!
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