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, has 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 caves for their prime location at the center of the Trang An Landscape Complex.
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Mua Caves Ninh Binh Vietnam: Location and entry fee
After climbing 500 stone steps to the scenic overlook atop Ngoa Long Mountain, travelers will be rewarded with a stunning panorama of the 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.
Mua Caves Ninh Binh is 5 kilometers north of Tam Coc. A journey there usually takes a 10-minute motorbike ride from the town center.
Things to do to enrich your trip to Mua Caves Ninh Binh
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 at 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
When is the best time to visit Mua Caves?
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 temperatures. 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.
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.
- Safety: make sure you have an adequate level of fitness in order to tackle the hike.
Mua Caves Ninh Binh stands out thanks to the commanding view over karst limestone mountains, paddy fields, and Ngo Dong River. The caves and nearby tourist attractions will provide visitors with a welcome respite from the hectic pace of life.
