Mua Cave & Ngoa Long Mountain: Travel Guide for Ninh Binh Travelers
People say, "You must have climbed Mua Cave to understand Ninh Binh.
I thought that all mountain landscapes were alike until I could climb Mua Cave (Hang Mua).
At the top of the mountain, looking down at the Tam Coc rice fields, I understood why that place has become the iconic viewpoint of the whole region.
Let's discover this Mua Cave hiking guide with VIET DOVE Travel.
What is Mua Cave?
Mua Cave is a great experience. When I walked here, I had to keep stopping every few steps to look at the scenery.
As I went up the mountain, the view became larger, with the green rice fields, the winding river, and the white clouds wandering in the sky.
One stop that travelers love is the lotus lagoon - right at the foot of the mountain - with the wooden walkway stretching across the water - an excellent spot for tranquil photos before the hike.
Entrance ticket: 100.000 VND
Quick Facts About Mua Cave
- Steps: 486–500 steps (one way).
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time needed: 1.5–2 hours
- Location: Near Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh
Two Hiking Paths - Which One Should You Choose?
The Left Path - Ngoa Long Dragon Mountain
If you can only do one view, take this one. Hiking up the left path takes you to visit the Ngoa Long mountain viewpoint, with a dragon statue sprawled across the ridge.
A higher viewpoint compared to the other way.
Two resting spots.
The best panoramic view of Tam Coc.
A brilliant view of the Ngo Dong River winding through the mountains. This path is a bit steeper but well worth the effort.
The Right Path - The Old Tower View
On the right side, the hike takes you to a small stone tower on the hillside.
This viewpoint is slightly lower, but it will afford a dramatic view over the fields and cliffs instead. Many travelers like this spot for portraits and for symmetrical photographs of the stone stairs.
The Best Time to Visit Mua Cave
Choosing the right time can make you trip. For cooler temperatures and the best light for photographs, you will want:
Early Morning: light, calm to cool temperature and peacefulness.
Late Afternoon: warmer golden light and hues of sunset.
Avoid heavy rains for hiking; Mua Cave stairs can be mighty slippery.
Tips for Hiking Mua Cave
- Wear comfortable shoes (sandals are not recommended)
- Bring along a bottle of water, you will need it
- Climb slowly, taking short breaks. Don’t hurry.
- If visiting in summer, bring sunscreen or a small towel.
- Most importantly: enjoy taking your time. The beauty of the place deserves to be enjoyed slowly.
Closing Thoughts - A Hike Worthy of the Steps
Taking Mua Cave, you will see the countryside of Vietnam from a height and be conscious of your insignificance, which may be the best feeling in the world.
If you are in the process of making plans for your journey and are looking for the best viewpoints in Ninh Binh, do not miss this hike.
VIET DOVE Travel hopes the guide helps you in making the most of your adventure. Happy Hiking!
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