Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave, is arguably the most famous and popular cave in Halong Bay. Discovered by the French in 1901, it is located on Bo Hon Island and is accessible via a short but steep climb. Visitors are greeted by a vast, cathedral-like chamber filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Divided into two main sections, the first chamber has an open ceiling that allows sunlight to filter in, while the second is much larger, resembling an auditorium with fascinating rock formations that resemble animals and people. Its sheer size and unique shape make it one of the most remarkable caves in the Halong bay.

To visit Sung Sot cave, you need to follow route 2 regulated by Halong Bay Management Board. This route offers visits to many beautiful sites, including Titov island, Bồ Nâu Cave, Luon Cave, Fairy Lake Cave, Drum Cave, Virgin Cave, Maze cave.

Thien Cung Cave, or Heavenly Palace Cave, is renowned for its stunning interior. Legend has it that this cave was the site of a wedding between a dragon prince and a fairy princess. Inside, the cave is illuminated by colored lights, revealing stalactites and stalagmites that resemble mythical creatures and deities. 

The cave’s chambers are adorned with hanging curtains of rock, delicate needle-like formations, and dramatic landscapes. The mystical ambiance and intricate formations make it a must-see for visitors. 

To visit this cave, follow route 5 which also visit Dau Go Cave, and Incense Burner Islet.  

With its intricate carvings and ethereal atmosphere, Thien Cung Cave enchants visitors with its fairy-tale-like beauty and mysterious allure.

Luon Cave is a distinctive water cave that offers a unique experience compared to other caves in Halong Bay. Accessible only by kayak or small boat, the cave forms a natural arch that leads to a serene, enclosed lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs. The tranquil waters inside the lagoon are home to schools of fish, and the peaceful surroundings offer a perfect escape from the busy tourist areas. 

Paddling through the archway of Luon Cave, visitors can enjoy the beauty of Halong Bay up close, immersing themselves in the natural tranquility and charm of the lagoon. 

Tien Ong Cave, also known as Fairy Cave, is one of the lesser-known gems of Halong Bay. Discovered relatively recently, it is located on Cai Bau Island and offers a glimpse into prehistoric life in the region. The cave features wide, open spaces with stalactites and stalagmites that are not as dense as in other caves but are uniquely shaped. 

The cave is named after a figure that resembles an old man, adding a sense of legend to the site. Archaeologists have found evidence of ancient human habitation inside the cave, making it an important archaeological site. 

To explore Tien Ong Cave, choose a cruise that follows Route 3, which takes you through the southern regions of Halong Bay. 

The Dark and Bright Cave is a pair of contrasting grottoes located near Cat Ba Island. The “Bright Cave” is a short tunnel that leads to an open area bathed in natural light, while the “Dark Cave” is a much deeper, more mysterious tunnel that requires a flashlight to explore. 

Both caves are accessible by kayak or boat, and the surrounding waters are calm and clear, making the experience of paddling through them peaceful and meditative. The Dark and Bright Cave is especially popular for its pristine lagoon and the rich wildlife, including birds and monkeys, that inhabit the area. 

To visit Dark and Bright Cave in Lan Ha Bay, follow either Route 2 or Route 3.

Trinh Nu Cave, or Virgin Cave, is one of Halong Bay’s most romantic and legendary caves. It is linked to a local story of a young woman who took refuge in the cave after being forced into an unwanted marriage and transformed into a stone figure. The cave contains a rock formation that resembles a reclining woman, and nearby Trong Cave (Drum Cave) is said to represent her lover. 

The tranquil location of Trinh Nu Cave, combined with its legend, makes it a peaceful and thought-provoking stop for visitors.  

Drum Cave, or Trong Cave, is located near Trinh Nu Cave and is named after the echoing sound of waves that bounce off the cave walls, creating a drum-like effect. The cave’s interior features towering stalactites and stalagmites, and the natural acoustics of the cave make it a popular destination for those seeking to experience the otherworldly sounds created by nature. 

Linked to the same love story as Trinh Nu Cave, Drum Cave adds a deeper sense of mystery and romance to any visit to Halong Bay. 

 Take the route 2 of Halong Bay tourist route to visit both Virgin Cave and Drum Cave. 

Located on Cat Ba Island, Trung Trang Cave is a spectacular cave system stretching over 300 meters. This ancient cave is filled with stunning stalactites that have taken thousands of years to form. Unlike other caves in Halong Bay, Trung Trang Cave is known for its dry interior, making it easier to explore without the need for boats or kayaks. 

The cave’s entrance is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a beautiful contrast to the dark, mysterious interior. Inside, visitors are treated to views of limestone formations that look like giant mushrooms, towers, and even animal shapes. 

To visit Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, head to Cat Ba National Park, located 15 kilometers from the town center. The cave is accessible by motorbike, car, or guided tour, with an entrance ticket costing around 80,000 VND. 

Maze Cave, or Hang Me Cung, is a stunning natural wonder in Halong Bay, Vietnam, located on Lom Bo Island. Accessible via a scenic hike, the cave welcomes visitors with a small entrance that opens into a labyrinth of chambers adorned with intricate stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. The cave’s maze-like interior, enhanced by natural light filtering through its crevices, creates a mystical atmosphere.

The largest chamber, known as the “palace,” features vivid rock formations resembling mythical creatures. Beyond its geological beauty, Maze Cave holds historical significance as a shelter for ancient Vietnamese people during wartime. Its location offers a panoramic view of Halong Bay’s emerald waters and towering limestone karsts, making it a popular spot for photography.

A visit to Maze Cave combines adventure, history, and breathtaking scenery, making it an essential stop in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.