Halong Bay is famous for its beautiful caves that attract tons of tourists every year. Perhaps, the most legendary dry cave with a uniquely breathtaking pathway is Thien Cung cave.

Thien Cung Cave also knows as heavenly palace cave is the most beautiful primitive cave in Ha Long Bay and the longest dry cave in Asia. The cave is located in the Southwest of Halong Bay, about 4km away from Dau Go Island. With complex interior structure, multi floors with high ceiling, Thien Cung Cave has become a worldwide tourist attraction for such a magnificent system of stalactites and stalagmites.

Thien Cung Cave

Why is it called Thien Cung Cave?

There are various-sized sculptures with strange shapes of birds, fishes, celestial maidens dancing, etc. created by Mother Nature. The locals believe the cave has such natural beauty thanks to the legend about an ancient Dragon King, who defeated invaders and returned to his cave, refusing to be awarded. Afterward, Dragon Prince married to a girl named May. The wedding took place inside the cave with the visit of many dragons, huge pythons, and giant eagles. Wandering around the Northside, you can see the scene engraved here and there on the wall and stones. You would not need outstanding imagination to see the engraved images indeed. Therefore, this cave is named Thien Cung Cave (means “Heaven Palace” in Vietnamese).

Exploring the craggy cliffs is definitely no easy journey with many great scenes to stop for a look at. Behind a narrow door is a tremendously large space, in which the further you reach, the more fascinated you will be. In the center lied a natural stone curtain, which is created by a cluster of stalactites hanging down and placed under the arch of the cave. The last area is filled with colored lights, creating magnificent shots. The legend tells that this is where the Dragon Price and his wife gave birth to 100 children, who split to explore new areas of Vietnam, forging pathways and form new villages with their mother while and the other half continue to guard the Bay. These children are told to be Vietnamese ancient origin. Leaving the cave, an impressive vantage point that overlooks the whole Bay is waiting for you to be amazed. A short trek will take you back down a set of stairs and return to your cruise, ending the great journey with your heart left behind.