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Ngườm Ngao Cave, also known as Ngao Cave, was discovered in 1921 and opened for tourism in 1996. According to a 1995 survey by the Royal Cave Research Association of the United Kingdom, the cave is 2144m long and has three main entrances named Ngườm Lồm (hidden under the rock at the foot of the mountain), Ngườm Ngao (a few hundred steps from the foot of the mountain), and Ban Thuon (located behind the mountain, near the Thuon village of the Tay people).
Ngườm Ngao Cave, a fascinating hidden gem, resides within a majestic mountain in Dam Thuy commune, Trung Khanh district, Cao Bang. Due to its late discovery and recent inclusion in tourism, the cave has preserved its pristine beauty and uniqueness.
Ngườm Ngao Cave nestled at the foot of the mountain
In the Tày language, Ngườm Ngao translates to Tiger Cave. Legends narrate that in ancient times, the cave was home to numerous tigers that would venture into the surrounding villages, preying on the locals' livestock. In response, villagers set traps, successfully capturing all the tigers and ensuring the community's safety. Another folklore suggests that the name Ngườm Ngao originates from the sound of water flowing within the cave, resembling the roar of a tiger. These enchanting myths, combined with the untouched beauty crafted by nature, enhance the cave's allure.
Ngườm Ngao Cave boasts vast spaces and an incredibly diverse system of stalactites and stalagmites.
According to researchers, this limestone cave formed approximately 400 million years ago. The unique coloring of the stalactites, caused by a high calcium content mixed with impurities, sets it apart from other caves. Stepping into the cave reveals a magnificent and expansive space adorned with a dazzling array of stalactites in various shapes and sizes, illuminated by soft lighting.
The cave's stalactites showcase diverse shapes and intricate details, immersing visitors in a wondrous labyrinth.
Stalactites emerge from the ground or hang down from above, resembling blooming lotus buds, maidens combing their hair, mother's milk ducts, or forming layers like terraced fields—depending on the rich imagination of individuals. The intertwined details make visitors feel like they are wandering into a magical maze.
The cave extends approximately 3km, with only about 1km currently open for exploration. Venturing deeper reveals fascinating wonders within the cave. Its interior is divided into numerous passages, each adorned with a variety of stalactites in various shapes and sizes—stalagmites, columns, and ridges, offering endless possibilities for imaginative interpretations. Whether it's a coral or a ship, a place with gold waterfalls or another with silver cascades, the most prominent feature is an inverted lotus-shaped stalactite. Legend has it that a Buddha once flipped his lotus throne, resulting in the permanently inverted lotus. Each droplet falling from the tiny flower petals is a mesmerizing sight. Some narrow passages allow only one person to pass, while sections of stalactites hang down from the cave ceiling, brushing against visitors' faces, creating a thrilling experience. The vibrant yellow-hued stalactites and the circular swirling cave ceiling create a surreal landscape, with sections resembling a cascading waterfall of stalactites.
The enchanting stalactite formations take on various forms, allowing for a rich tapestry of human imagination.
The cave is divided into various zones, with the central area being the most expansive. The Treasure Zone derives its name from numerous glistening stalactites hidden like gold and silver within the rocks. This section features four stone columns forming a wall resembling celestial pillars. While exploring the cave, depending on the dry season (from October to April) or the rainy season (from May to September), visitors may encounter babbling brooks joyfully meandering, refreshing the tranquil atmosphere within the cave, or large puddles reflecting the shimmering stalactites on the water's surface. Unaltered by human intervention, the cave maintains its pristine beauty, irresistibly captivating.
Inside Ngườm Ngao Cave flows an underground stream originating from the Quay Son River, traversing the entire length of the cave and continuing beyond. Thanks to this stream, the air remains cool with a hint of moisture. The cave's temperature and atmosphere are consistently mild, offering warmth in winter and refreshing coolness in summer.
Ngườm Ngao Cave boasts a stunning array of stalactites in various shapes, sizes, and sparkling brilliance, making it one of the most beautiful caves in Vietnam.
Beyond its extraordinary beauty, Ngườm Ngao Cave offers a rare and fascinating spectacle: at a specific crevice in the cave ceiling, precisely at 2:00 PM on April 22nd each year, three beams of light converge, illuminating the cave's interior for a few minutes. This phenomenon occurs only once a year, so timing is crucial for observation. Visiting Ngườm Ngao Cave, you'll truly appreciate its well-deserved reputation as one of the most stunning caves in the country.
To reach Ngườm Ngao Cave from Cao Bang City, you'll travel over the Mã Phục Pass and Khau Liên Pass to Trùng Khánh town. From there, a journey of nearly 30km will lead you to Ban Giốc Waterfall, with Ngườm Ngao Cave just 3km away. You can explore both sites along the same route. Visiting Ngườm Ngao Cave in the dry season provides more convenient weather and road conditions compared to the rainy season. Be sure to bring a jacket, waterproof shoes, and a flashlight for an optimal cave exploration experience and capturing beautiful photos.
Author: Phung Thu Hien
*Article participating in the Mytour Golocal program
Mytour Golocal is a blog writing program introducing beautiful destinations across Vietnam, part of the Mytour Go & Share initiative. It's an excellent opportunity to promote local tourism. For each qualifying article, you'll receive 800,000 VND and a chance to become a Mytour Contributor. For detailed information about the program, visit: https://trv.lk/golocal
