Mua Cave
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Mua Cave

Ninh Binh, Viet Nam
Climb to the top of Mua Cave (Hang Mua) and witness one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking views overlooking Tam Coc’s rice fields and karst mountains.

Mua Cave, also known as Hang Mua, is one of Ninh Binh’s most iconic attractions. Located near Tam Coc, this site offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, adventure, and photography opportunities. The highlight of Hang Mua is its limestone mountain with over 500 stone steps leading to a spectacular panoramic viewpoint that has become a must-visit spot for travelers in northern Vietnam.

Where is Mua Cave (Hang Mua)?

  • Location: Khe Dau Ha Village, Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province
  • Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily
  • Entrance fee: 100,000 VND per person

Hang Mua is about 5 km from Tam Coc and 7 km from Ninh Binh City. It’s easy to reach by car, motorbike, or bicycle. The site sits within the Mua Cave Eco-Tourism Complex, surrounded by rice paddies and limestone cliffs that perfectly capture Ninh Binh’s charm.

Why visit Mua Cave?

The main attraction of Mua Cave is the hike up to the top of Mua Mountain, where visitors are rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view of Tam Coc’s winding river, lush rice fields, and majestic karst formations — often called the “miniature Great Wall of Vietnam.”

  • The 500-step hike: The climb takes around 15–20 minutes and leads to the summit crowned with a majestic stone dragon statue, symbolizing strength and protection.
  • Dragon Peak Viewpoint: The most famous photo spot in Ninh Binh — perfect for sunrise and sunset views over the Tam Coc valley.
  • The Cave (Hang Mua): Located at the mountain’s base, the cave itself is small but historically significant, said to be where King Tran used to visit and enjoy traditional dance performances — hence the name “Mua,” meaning “dance.”
  • Eco Garden Area: Around the foot of the mountain, visitors can relax by lotus ponds, bamboo bridges, and traditional-style gazebos.

Best time to visit Mua Cave

The ideal time to visit is during the rice harvest season (May – June) when the Tam Coc fields below turn golden. Another great period is September – October when the weather is cool and clear. Early mornings or late afternoons are best for hiking to avoid the heat and capture magical light for photos.

How to get there

From Ninh Binh City, Hang Mua is only about 15 minutes away by car or motorbike. You can also reach it easily from Tam Coc by bicycle, following a scenic countryside road lined with limestone cliffs and rice paddies. Private tours and group day trips from Hanoi often include Hang Mua along with Trang An or Tam Coc.

Tips for visiting

  • Wear comfortable shoes and light clothes for the climb.
  • Bring water and sun protection, especially in summer.
  • Go early in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
  • Be cautious on steep steps — some sections can be slippery after rain.
  • Don’t miss the lotus ponds near the entrance — they’re stunning during bloom season (June–July).

Nearby attractions

  • Tam Coc: Just 10 minutes away, offering a peaceful boat ride through rice paddies and limestone caves.
  • Bich Dong Pagoda: A serene temple complex built into a mountainside.
  • Trang An Scenic Landscape: UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its boat caves and temples.

With its dramatic landscapes, peaceful atmosphere, and breathtaking panoramic views, Mua Cave is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Ninh Binh. Whether you come for the adventure, the photography, or simply to soak in Vietnam’s natural beauty, Hang Mua promises an unforgettable experience.