1 Where is Hon Trong Mai located?
1.1 An overview of Hon Trong Mai
Hon Trong Mai, also known as Hon Ga Choi (Fighting Cocks Islet), is one of the most famous islets in Ha Long Bay. Hon Trong Mai is situated near two other islets, Dinh Huong and Cho Da, only about 5km from the Bai Chay coastline. The islet has a distinctive shape featuring two massive limestone rocks facing each other across the sea surface, resembling two roosters locked in a fight. Standing steadfast through countless years, unaffected by erosion or drifting, these two rocks symbolize faithful love between two souls, defying every hardship and challenge.
Hon Trong Mai is one of the iconic symbols representing the beauty of Ha Long Bay
Each year, this destination attracts thousands of visitors who come to admire its beauty
1.2 The legend of this famous landmark
Hon Trong Mai in Ha Long is not only endowed with breathtaking scenery but is also linked to a romantic legend. According to folklore, this was a pair of roosters sent down by the Jade Emperor to summon the dragons back to the Heavenly Court after they successfully repelled foreign invaders. However, upon witnessing the majestic sea, the pair forgot their duty and fell passionately in love. They eventually turned into stone to remain together forever amidst the vast open sea. Ever since, Hon Trong Mai has become a renowned tourist attraction in Ha Long. Visit here at least once to witness this enduring symbol of eternal love with your own eyes.
Hon Trong Mai is intertwined with mystical stories and legends
2 How to get here
Hon Trong Mai is an enticing attraction in Ha Long Bay featured on Route 1 and Route 2 of the sightseeing itineraries. According to travel tips shared in the MIA.vn travel guide, you can choose one of the following two ways to reach Hon Trong Mai:
- By boat: Sightseeing tickets cost 290,000 VND/person, including port fees. You can board a shared boat with other tourists or rent a private vessel priced from 1,000,000 VND to 1,500,000 VND/boat. Traveling by boat lets you experience the tranquil and poetic charm of Ha Long Bay.
- By seaplane: At around 1,500,000 VND/person for an approximately 25-minute flight, you can admire Hon Trong Mai from above with a vast and breathtaking panoramic view. A seaplane tour will offer you an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.
You can visit at any time of the year, but it is best to avoid rainy or stormy weather
3 Admiring the unique beauty of Hon Trong Mai
3.1 A majestic symbol of Ha Long
Hon Trong Mai is the hallmark image of Ha Long Bay—a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. This landmark is also a source of pride for Vietnam, featured on official logos and across travel guidebooks. Furthermore, Hon Trong Mai serves as an endless wellspring of inspiration for poets and writers. Literary verses praising Hon Trong Mai have been deeply ingrained in the hearts of the Vietnamese people, fostering even greater love and pride for their homeland.
Viewed from afar, Hon Trong Mai rises majestically amidst the emerald waters
3.2 A unique gift bestowed by Mother Nature
Hon Trong Mai reaches a height of 12m, yet its base is only 4m wide, leading many to fear it might topple at any moment. Nonetheless, Hon Trong Mai has endured for hundreds of years, standing as a testament to the resilience and steadfast devotion of an eternal love. This place is considered a favorite destination for many travelers. Every year, countless wanderlust seekers pack their bags to travel here, capture check-in photos with Hon Trong Mai, and preserve cherished memories of a dreamlike destination.
The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful, as though masterfully sculpted by Mother Nature
4 Accommodations near Hon Trong Mai
Hon Trong Mai in Quang Ninh is an ideal getaway for anyone looking to enjoy upscale dining, entertainment, and accommodation services. You can choose from various lodging options suited to your preferences and budget. One standout recommendation from MIA.vn is the 5-star Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long—featuring top-notch amenities such as restaurants, a fitness center, swimming pools, a luxury spa, upscale guest rooms, and spacious balconies. The resort is just an 18-minute boat trip from Hon Trong Mai, making it extremely convenient to explore Hon Trong Mai and other Ha Long attractions.
There are several ideal accommodation options around Hon Trong Mai where you can unwind after your tour
5 Useful tips when visiting
- You should plan your trip to Hon Trong Mai between October and April when the weather is cool, rainfall is minimal, and the sea is calm. Avoid traveling during the peak of summer when conditions are hot, crowded, or stormy.
- Bring along a light jacket, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, motion sickness medicine, a camera, and a power bank to protect your well-being and capture unforgettable seaside moments.
- Opt for reputable, licensed tour operators with professional tour guides to ensure a hassle-free journey.
- Respect the natural environment and avoid littering to protect the marine ecosystem of Ha Long Bay. Always comply with boat safety regulations—do not jump into the water, climb, or run while on board.
Check out additional travel tips to make your discovery of Hon Trong Mai even more memorable
The magnificent, singular charm of Hon Trong Mai is a priceless gift bestowed upon this region by Mother Nature. Today, Hon Trong Mai has become an iconic site visited by countless travelers on their trips to Ha Long. If you are a nature lover eager to admire renowned destinations, this is an attraction you certainly should not miss. Remember to bring along your camera to capture stunning photographs here.
