Where is Mua Cave?
Mua Cave is situated approximately 90 km from Hanoi, deep within Ninh Binh's cultural heartland. It is located in Khe Dau Ha village, Ninh Xuan commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province, forming part of the Trang An ecological tourism complex. Mua Cave has a beautiful scene, with big mountains surrounding a large flat area, looking like a protective barrier around the land.
Hang Mua Ninh Binh
Have you ever wondered about its name? Legend has it that King Tran, during his visits to Hoa Lu capital, witnessed royal maidens dancing here, so the name of the cave is “Mua” (dancing).
Best Time to Visit
Mua Cave welcomes visitors year-round. However, based on experience, the dry season (typically from April to September) is preferable due to pleasant weather and less rain. In particular, if visitors come to Mua Cave in May or June, they can admire the breathtaking picture. The vast golden rice fields and majestic mountain scenery create a harmonious combination.
Tourists are excited to visit Mua Cave
However, many tourists are coming to Mua Cave at that time to admire this beautiful scene, and tourists who are not into large crowds may feel uncomfortable. For these visitors, it is recommended that they go during the rainy season (which lasts from October to March) to avoid getting stuck in tourist crowds. Going at this time means you can only see the green of nature instead of the yellow of rice fields.
How to Get There?
Mua Cave is located in Ninh Binh province, Vietnam, about 90 kilometers south of Hanoi. There are several ways to get there, depending on your budget and preferred mode of transportation. Generally, there are two main ways to get there: by bus and by motorbike.
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By bus: This is the most convenient and highly recommended option. Travelers can easily catch a bus to Ninh Binh from either My Dinh Station or Giap Bat Station. However, the bus will only take you to the city center. From there, you'll need to take a taxi to Hang Mua. Expect to spend around 70,000 VND (~$3) for the bus fare.
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By motorbike: If you're an adventurer looking to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, then a motorbike is undoubtedly the perfect mode of transportation for you. While this option is more suitable for those with adequate stamina, it offers a unique experience tailored to your preferences. From downtown Hanoi, you can take the old National Highway 1A to Ha Nam and then continue to Ninh Binh. Once in Ninh Binh, follow road 491C to Khe Dau Ha village, where Hang Mua is located.
What Should You Do in Mua Cave Ninh Binh?
Enjoy Stunning View
Hang Mua is renowned as one of the poetic beauties of Tam Coc, with vast fields, serene flowing rivers, and majestic limestone mountains. From the peak of Hang Mua, you can genuinely admire the panoramic view of Tam Coc, creating a stunning landscape painting.
The scene of golden ripe rice fields
The scenery of Hang Mua will undoubtedly captivate your heart, leaving an unforgettable impression on your journey. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts should not miss this spot on their travel itinerary.
Climb to the Mountain’s Top
Follow the path leading to the base of the mountain and climb nearly 500 steps to reach this peak. The climb to the viewpoint in Hang Mua is quite steep, taking between 25 to 45 minutes depending on your pace. Once atop, you'll encounter the tallest tower in Hang Mua, featuring traditional Vietnamese architecture. The view from above is stunning, with clear blue skies and majestic mountains.
A mountain top that many people take photos
Take Photos at the Lotus Pond
Vietnam's tropical climate provides the perfect environment for the lotus to thrive. Therefore, if you plan a trip to Ninh Binh between May and July, you'll have the opportunity to admire and capture vibrant lotus blooms. The lotus pond near Hang Mua in Vietnam is one of the largest lotus gardens in the town. Early mornings or sunrise is the best time to visit this place.
A lotus pond at Hang Mua
What other sights are around Mua Cave?
On the way to Hang Mua, you'll have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the picturesque natural landscapes, all of which are renowned tourist destinations in Ninh Binh. If you're not in a hurry, visiting these places before reaching Hang Mua is a great idea.
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Trang An: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its beautiful karst formations, calm waterways, and intricate caves. Tourists can enjoy peaceful boat rides along winding rivers, glide under limestone formations, and discover the enchanting caves throughout the area.
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Tam Coc: Called "Halong Bay on Land," with beautiful rice fields and tall limestone cliffs. Visitors can take a boat ride on the Ngo Dong River, which shows caves in the Bich Dong area, showcasing stunning nature and history.
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Bai Dinh Pagoda: An extensive Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia, located within the Trang An area. It features ancient pagodas, large statues, and peaceful courtyards, providing a spiritual experience and insight into Vietnamese religious traditions.
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Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Vietnam's capital in the 10th and 11th centuries, with historical relics showcasing its importance. Tourists can visit temples honoring the Dinh and Le dynasties, set in beautiful gardens, offering a view into Vietnam's vibrant history.
To get the full picture, visit our article on Ninh Binh travel guide!
Hang Mua Ninh Binh stands out for its sweeping views of limestone mountains, rice fields, and the Ngo Dong River. The nearby caves and tourist spots offer travelers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of life. If you're looking for more detailed advice on fully exploring Ninh Binh, don't hesitate to reach out to New Asia Tours. We are eager to make your trip to Vietnam truly memorable.
