Join iVIVU in exploring Thien Cung Cave, known as a paradise on earth hidden within Ha Long Bay – a World Natural Heritage Site.
Thien Cung Cave – A hidden paradise in Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is perhaps no longer an unfamiliar name on the domestic and international tourism map. It can be said that nature has been exceptionally generous in bestowing Ha Long Bay with so many stunning and unique landscapes, featuring limestone islands of all shapes and sizes rising from the sea. Hidden within these mountainous islands are beautiful, mysterious caves.
Photo: @djoker_play
Ha Long Bay is home to many caves, but one of the largest, most beautiful, and most popular is Thien Cung Cave. Thien Cung Cave is always included in visitors’ tour itineraries when they come to Ha Long Bay. Let’s explore what lies inside this cave!
Photo: @saki_sekamaru
Thien Cung Cave – A hidden paradise in Ha Long Bay is located in the southwestern part of Ha Long Bay and covers a fairly large area of approximately 10,000 square meters. The cave’s interior structure is also highly diverse, comprising many levels and chambers filled with countless exceptionally shaped and magnificent limestone stalactites.
Photo: @_daichi_0613
The cave was named “Thien Cung,” meaning “Heavenly Palace,” because it has a skylight through which light enters the cave. These rays reflect off the limestone stalactites, creating a magical, sparkling glow reminiscent of a royal banquet. The cave’s surface is also covered with a layer of phosphorescent material (fluorescent powder), which further contributes to its shimmer and splendor.
“Skylight.” Photo: @yu_kuike
In addition, when visiting Thien Cung Cave you can hear a legend about a Dragon wedding held here. According to legend, the cave was once the home of the Dragon King. One year, a drought struck, and the villagers went to seek the Dragon King’s help, but none of them returned. However, one couple was determined to find the king and ask him to help the villagers. After enduring many hardships and difficulties, they finally found him. Later, the Dragon King’s son, the Dragon Prince, fell in love with the couple’s daughter. This cave was where their grand wedding ceremony was held for 7 days and 7 nights.
The cave’s magnificent scenery. Photo: @jetsetpandaz
To reach the entrance of Thien Cung Cave, you will follow a steep cliff covered by lush green tree canopies. In contrast to the seemingly narrow cave entrance, the interior opens into a brilliantly illuminated cavern that will leave you amazed.
The cave entrance. Photo: @pyeiphyolin
The cave can be divided into 3 main chambers. Each chamber presents a completely different scene, with strangely shaped rock formations that stimulate the imagination of visitors. The limestone stalactites hang down like grand and magnificent chandeliers.
Photo: @saki_sekamaru
Visitors to Thien Cung Cave often say that the central chamber is the most beautiful in the cave. However, each chamber has its own unique beauty that cannot be found anywhere else. Depending on your imagination, the limestone stalactites may resemble different images and tell different stories, all rich in fascination.
Photo: @lo.randomsnaps
