Travelers visit Halong Bay for an up-close look at its amazing limestone islands, rock formations and caves.
Whittled away over centuries by wind and water, they’re breathtaking. Rent a kayak or a junk boat, or take a tour to explore.
No trip to Halong Bay is complete without touring some of its most famous caves. Carved deep into Halong’s limestone karsts, each Halong Bay cave is a grand display of just how beautiful nature can be.
The caves found in this area were formed between 11,000 and 70,000 years ago and walking into one is like stepping straight into history.
Ancient tales and folklore surround each of Halong Bay’s caves, and this is usually where you can find the origin for the name for any cave.
These tales give each cave a kind of mystical, spiritual feel. Read our detailed cave guides to find out more about each cave’s given story
Nobody knows for sure how many caves can be found in Halong Bay, but there are around 30 that are accessible to the public. These caves differ in size and stature and are spread wide across the bay so be sure to visit a handful of them to get the most out of your trip.
1. Trinh Nu Cave (Virgin Cave)
Fact: Located on Bo Hon island, 3km away from Sung Sot Cave and 15 km to the south of Bai Chay wharf.
2. Luon Cave
Fact: Located on Bo Hon island, 1 km away from Sung Sot cave and 14 km from Tuan Chau tourist wharf.
3. Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)
Fact: Sung sot cave was discovered back in 1901 and initially known with the name "Grotte des Surprises".
4. Bo Nau Cave (Pelican Cave)
Fact: Located on Bo Hon island and has an area of 200 m2.
5. Thien Cung Cave (Heaven Palace Cave)
Fact: This is one of the biggest caves in Halong bay, with a total area of 10.000 m².
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