Mua Cave in Ninh Binh: Climb to the Dragon Peak for the Best View of Tam Coc
A 360-degree awe-inspiring view awaits travelers at Mua Caves Ninh Binh. Read on to find out more about how and when to go, along with what to prepare to have an enjoyable trip here.
Mua Caves Ninh Binh, located inside Ngoa Long Mountain, have been the go-to destination for shutterbugs and casual travelers alike thanks to the Instagram-worthy panoramic views from the peak above. Mua Caves are usually featured as the best Ninh Binh cave for their prime location at the center of the Trang An Landscape Complex.
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1. Where is Mua Cave in Ninh Binh?
Mua Caves Ninh Binh, located inside Ngoa Long Mountain, have been the go-to destination for shutterbugs and casual travelers alike thanks to the Instagram-worthy panoramic views from the peak above. Mua Caves are usually featured as the best Ninh Binh cave for their prime location at the center of the Trang An Landscape Complex.
1. Where is Mua Cave in Ninh Binh?
- Address: Khe Dau Ha Village, Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Entrance fee: ~100,000 VND/person
After climbing 500 stone steps to the scenic overlook atop Ngoa Long Mountain, travelers will be rewarded with a stunning panorama of Ngo Dong River and the paddy fields below. To add to the incredible 360-degree view, there are a few worship sites along the ascent, offering visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s long-standing legacy of Buddhism.
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Mua Cave is located about 5 km from Tam Coc, 7 km from Ninh Binh city center, and about 100 km south of Hanoi. It’s easily accessible by motorbike, bicycle, or taxi, making it one of the most convenient attractions in the area.
2. The Best Time to Visit Mua Cave Ninh Binh
Mua Caves Ninh Binh can be visited all year round. The best time to visit is between November and April, when the weather is cool and dry.
Between May and October is the rainy season in Ninh Binh, characterized by heavy rainfall and high temperature. These months are usually when the town’s vegetation reaches its most verdant state.
Ninh Binh harvest season is from May to June, when the town’s paddy fields turn golden, so time your trip right if you want to see this impressive sight.
Buses traveling between Hanoi and Ninh Binh run daily and the journey takes just 2.5 hours. From the town center, take a motorbike ride and you will reach Mua Caves Vietnam in 10 minutes.
Buses traveling between Hanoi and Ninh Binh run daily and the journey takes just 2.5 hours. From the town center, take a motorbike ride and you will reach Mua Caves Vietnam in 10 minutes.
3. What to See and Do at Mua Caves Ninh Binh
2.1. Hike up to the peak of Ngoa Long Mountain
A hike to the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain reveals several picture-perfect spots overlooking the winding Ngo Dong River, verdant paddy fields, and karst limestone mountains in the distance.
About halfway up the ascent, travelers will encounter a fork, with the left path leading to an Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva statue, while the right one leads to a small pagoda.
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If a commanding view is what you are after, take the path to the right that leads to the first viewpoint, where travelers can see all the way down the rugged mountainside to Ngo Dong River. Continue a bit further up to reach the second viewpoint atop Ngoa Long Mountain.
Also known as the “dragon mountain” by the locals, this highest overlook gains its nickname from the ornate stone dragon sitting by the ridge.
2.2. Embark on a captivating photographic journey at the virtual tower
Ascend almost 500 steps that lead to the summit, offering an exhilarating opportunity to unveil the secrets of this extraordinary tower. The ascent to the Mua Cave's elevated platform presents a challenging incline, requiring approximately 25 to 45 minutes for completion, contingent upon your personal vigor.
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Upon reaching the pinnacle of the mountain, a splendid spectacle awaits – the preeminent tower within Mua Caves Vietnam, distinguished by its exquisite Vietnamese traditional design. Behold the breathtaking panorama that unfolds from this elevated vantage point, where azure skies meet majestic, undulating mountains, resulting in an awe-inspiring tableau that is bound to leave an indelible impression.
2.3. Take tons of stunning photos at the lotus pond
Vietnam’s tropical climate creates the perfect habitat for lotuses to thrive. So if you time your trip to Ninh Binh between May and July - the blooming season of these flowers - you will have the chance to indulge in the sight and take scores of share-worthy pictures of lotuses.
The lotus pond near Mua Caves Vietnam is one of the town’s largest lotus colonies. Lotus petals open in the morning, so early risers get to see them in their best at sunrise. Make your way across the pond on a simple wooden bridge, and if you fancy getting up close and personal with the flowers, you can take a boat and pick some.
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In addition to the lotus pond, there are many other prominent attractions near Mua Caves in Ninh Binh, such as the Trang An Landscape Complex, Tam Coc Town, Bich Dong Pagoda, and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
Vietnam is a diverse country with lots of hidden charms, and if you are still not sure of what to do or where to visit, check out things to do in Vietnam.
4. Tips for your most comfortable trip to Mua Caves Ninh Binh
There are some things travelers need to keep in mind before embarking on their trip to Mua Caves Vietnam:
- Clothing: the trail leading up to the summit of Mua Caves Vietnam is an easy hike, however, it is recommended that travelers prepare hiking footwear and breathable clothing, especially during hot days in summer.
- Food and drink: bring your own water, as there are not many shops along the way.
- Parking: free parking is included in the entry fee, so go straight to the ticket booth and leave your vehicle at the parking lot right next to the booth.
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Safety: make sure you have an adequate level of fitness in order to tackle the hike.
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With its breathtaking views, cultural legends, and peaceful atmosphere, Hang Múa Ninh Binh is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to northern Vietnam. Whether you’re chasing the perfect photo, exploring ancient caves, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Mua Cave promises an unforgettable experience.
After an exciting day exploring the breathtaking Mua Cave in Ninh Binh - famous for its panoramic views of limestone mountains and rice fields - unwind in comfort at La Mejor Hotel & Sky Bar in Hanoi.
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Located just a short walk from the Old Quarter and Truc Bach Lake, this elegant boutique hotel combines traditional Vietnamese charm with modern sophistication. Guests can relax in beautifully designed rooms, enjoy soothing spa treatments, and experience personalized hospitality in a peaceful atmosphere.
Whether you’re seeking a cozy retreat after your Ninh Binh adventure or a convenient base to explore Hanoi’s historic streets, La Mejor Hotel & Sky Bar offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and authenticity.
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