Trung Trang Cave: Useful information for your 2025 trip

Contents

Trung Trang Cave offers stunning formations (Source: Collected)

1. Quick facts about Trung Trang Cave

On the picturesque Cat Ba Island, Trung Trang Cave is a remarkable natural attraction that beckons visitors with its unique features. Here are some quick facts to get you acquainted with this fascinating site:

• Location: Trung Trang Cave is nestled in Trung Trang Valley, approximately 15 kilometers northwest of Cat Ba Town.

• Entrance fee: 80,000 VND.
• Age: The age of the cave has not been precisely determined, but scientific research indicates that the stalactites and stalagmites here are around 6 million years old.
• Discovery: This cave in Cat Ba Island was discovered by Vietnamese and French archaeologists in 1938.
• Size: Stretching approximately 300 meters through the mountain, the cave’s spacious interior can accommodate hundreds of visitors at once.
• Other names: The locals often refer to it as Bat Cave due to its large bat population. Also, during the resistance war against America, it was used by a naval information unit for radio transmission and stationing, which earned it the name Naval Cave.

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2. The legend of the cave’s name

The history of Trung Trang Cave is closely associated with Lady Trung Trang, a heroic figure known for her valiant defense of the island. According to local legend, she rallied courageous men to battle at sea. Left with women handling support duties, the island earned the name “Cac Ba” (Island of Women). Nearby, the island where the men fortified against foes became known as “Cac Ong” (Island of Men).

After defeating the invaders, Lady Trung Trang resided in the cave for spiritual cultivation. Over time, more settlers arrived, and the islands came to be known as Cat Ba and Cat Ong. This legend highlights the courage of Lady Trung Trang and the islanders who defended their home.

Trung Trang Cave is also known as Bat Cave due to the thousands of bats inhabiting it (Source: Collected)

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3. The journey to explore Trung Trang Cave

Stepping into Trung Trang Cave in Hai Phong, visitors are greeted by the image of a maiden nestled against the wall. Above the cave entrance, a depiction of the Python, which is believed to be the guardian spirit appointed by Lady Trung Trang, watches over the cave. As visitors delve deeper, they are continuously amazed by the unique limestone formations sculpted over millions of years, which resemble vivid sculptures crafted by masterful hands of nature’s artistry.

Approximately 20 meters into the cave, visitors will be awestruck by the dazzling beauty of stalactites and stalagmites. Legend has it that this area is Lady Trung Trang’s treasure trove, adorned with columns of gold, silver, and diamond. Further along, a golden-maned Lion statue, the guardian deity of the treasure trove, captivates visitors with its mystical presence.

Moving deeper, visitors will encounter expansive chambers adorned with intricate formations, which create a labyrinthine sensation akin to navigating through different realms. Midway through the cave, a natural map resembling the shape of Vietnam and the layout of Cat Ba Archipelago emerges. It is followed by formations resembling ancient mummies, a pond which used to be inhabited by crocodiles, and a stone instrument that emits intriguing sounds when tapped.

Continuing the exploration, visitors are surprised by two pathways that seem to lead to heaven and hell, each with its own mysterious allure. A vast chamber with enigmatic markings, including footprints and handprints on the cave wall, is believed to be Lady Trung Trang’s martial training ground. Nearby, there is the image of the Cat Ba langur, a unique species gifted exclusively to Cat Ba Archipelago by nature. It stands alongside the legendary sword passed down by Lady Trung Trang through generations to safeguard Cat Ba and its surrounding islands.

Near the cave entrance, statues and altars dedicated to Lady Trung Trang, surrounded by elephant and serpent guardians, enhance the cave’s mystical ambiance. Exiting the cave, visitors will encounter peculiar rocks carved by nature’s handiwork. Here, one can immerse oneself in the vast greenery of Cat Ba National Park. Adorned with ancient trees and vines, the area offers a serene environment to unwind amidst the pristine natural surroundings.

Visitors to Trung Trang Cave are treated to a stunning exhibition of natural sculptures (Source: Collected)

Read more: Cat Ba beaches: A serene escape to pristine paradises

4. How to get there?

To reach Trung Trang Cave, visitors first need to travel to Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong. If you are still wondering how to get to Cat Ba Island, consider the following transport options:

• Speedboat: This is the most popular option for getting to Cat Ba. Make your way to Got Port or Binh Port in Hai Phong, purchase a speedboat ticket (typically priced at 250,000 VND), and hop on. 

• Ferry: This option is much cheaper, but it comes with longer travel time. Make your way to Dong Bai Port in Hai Phong and purchase a ferry ticket (typically priced at 12,000 VND). In case you are in Ha Long, you can make your way to Tuan Chau Port and purchase a ferry ticket (typically priced at 80,000 VND). An advantage of the ferry is that it allows you to bring your vehicle along with an extra fee.

• Overnight cruise: This option is for those departing from Ha Long. You can purchase a cruise tour that goes around Ha Long Bay, which can also pass by Trung Trang Cave (you should ask the tour operator about the itinerary in advance). The tour comes with much higher cost, in exchange for a wide range of amenities and activities that you will get to enjoy.

• Cable car: This option is gaining more and more attention from the locals. The cable car reduces travel time, preserves the environment, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The ticket price is 50,000 VND and free for children under 1 meter tall.

After arriving on Cat Ba Island, you can rent a motorbike to get to the cave by yourself or catch a taxi to Cat Ba National Park and explore Trung Trang Cave through a guided trekking tour.

The cable car provides scenic views of the surrounding landscapes (Source: Collected)

5. Essential tips for your excursion to Trung Trang Cave

Here are some useful tips that help ensure a comfortable journey to Trung Trang Cave and its surrounding attractions:

• Best time to visit: Cat Ba Island experiences distinct seasons including spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The best time to explore Trung Trang Cave is from April to September, when the weather is sunny and dry
• Best places to visit near Trung Trang Cave:
  • Hospital Cave offers insights into Vietnam’s wartime history, providing a glimpse into the resistance war against the United States.
  • Cat Ba National Park is known for its tranquil natural surroundings, where visitors can try eco-tourism activities such as trekking.
• What to pack: Pack light with essentials like water, insect repellent, and snacks. Sturdy, non-slip shoes are recommended for navigating rocky and mossy paths.

Trung Trang Cave offers a captivating glimpse into the natural wonders of Vietnam. Its unique geological formations have made it a must-see attraction for tourists seeking adventure.

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