Travel Guide to Hang Múa in Ninh Bình: Tips and Experiences

Hang Múa, located in the heart of the Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex in Khê Đầu Hạ Village, Ninh Xuân Commune, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình Province, is about 10 km from Ninh Bình City and over 90 km from Hanoi. Known for its ancient limestone geology and unique terrain, Hang Múa is a standout destination with its iconic Múa Mountain and remarkable architectural features. A highlight is the path to the mountain’s summit, flanked by intricately carved stone statues of dragons and phoenixes along the stairways. These majestic creatures, often seen in traditional Vietnamese architecture, symbolize spirituality and prosperity, adding a sacred aura to the site.

What to Do at Mua caves (Hang Múa)?

• Conquer Múa Mountain Summit: Climbing nearly 500 white stone steps to the top of Múa Mountain is a thrilling challenge. From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Hang Múa area, including lush rice fields, the mighty Ngọa Long Mountain, and the poetic Tam Cốc – Bích Động in the distance. The stunning scenery will leave you in awe.
• Explore the Caves: Hang Múa features a natural cave system with stalactites in various shapes and forms. Inside, you’ll find ancient wall paintings and Buddha statues, creating a mystical, spiritual atmosphere.
• Learn About History: Hang Múa is tied to the history of King Trần Thái Tông. Legend has it that the king, while residing in Hoa Lư at Am Thái Vi, often visited this area to enjoy dance performances by beautiful maidens, which is how the name “Hang Múa” (Dance Cave) came to be.
• Relax Amid Nature: Hang Múa is an ideal eco-tourism spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Stroll along small paths, admire the rice fields, breathe in the fresh air, and soak in the tranquility of the mountainous landscape.
• Stay at Hang Múa Ecolodge: For those seeking peace and a connection with nature, Hang Múa Ecolodge offers beautifully designed bungalows that blend seamlessly with the surroundings. With amenities like a restaurant, swimming pool, and spa, you can relax while enjoying the pristine air and stunning views of Hang Múa.
• Team-Building and Outdoor Activities: Hang Múa is a perfect spot for teambuilding or picnics. Its spacious, airy setting and activities like mountain climbing, cave exploration, and kayaking ensure memorable experiences with friends and family.

Hang Múa in Ninh Bình, with its majestic natural beauty, serene ambiance, and diverse activities, is an unforgettable stop on your journey to explore Vietnam.

Mua Caves Ninh Binh, located inside Ngoa Long Mountain, have been the go-to destination for shutterbugs and casual travelers alike thanks to the Instagram-worthy panoramic views from the peak above. Mua Caves are usually featured as the best Ninh Binh cave for their prime location at the center of the Trang An Landscape Complex.

Things to do to enrich your trip to Mua Caves Ninh Binh

1. Hike up to the peak of Ngoa Long Mountain

A hike to the summit of Ngoa Long Mountain reveals several picture-perfect spots overlooking the winding Ngo Dong River, verdant paddy fields, and karst limestone mountains in the distance. 

About halfway up the ascent, travelers will encounter a fork, with the left path leading to an Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva statue, while the right one leads to a small pagoda.

If a commanding view is what you are after, take the path to the right that leads to the first viewpoint, where travelers can see all the way down the rugged mountainside to Ngo Dong River. Continue a bit further up to reach the second viewpoint atop Ngoa Long Mountain. 

Also known as the “dragon mountain” by the locals, this highest overlook gains its nickname from the ornate stone dragon sitting by the ridge. 

The stone dragon that lends the overlook the nickname “dragon mountain” (Source: Collected)

2. Embark on a captivating photographic journey at the virtual tower

Ascend almost 500 steps that lead to the summit, offering an exhilarating opportunity to unveil the secrets of this extraordinary tower. The ascent to the Mua Cave’s elevated platform presents a challenging incline, requiring approximately 25 to 45 minutes for completion, contingent upon your personal vigor.

Upon reaching the pinnacle of the mountain, a splendid spectacle awaits – the preeminent tower within Mua Caves Vietnam, distinguished by its exquisite Vietnamese traditional design. Behold the breathtaking panorama that unfolds from this elevated vantage point, where azure skies meet majestic, undulating mountains, resulting in an awe-inspiring tableau that is bound to leave an indelible impression.

Let’s go for an Instagrammable shots at the virtual tower (Source: Collected)

3. Take tons of stunning photos at the lotus pond

Vietnam’s tropical climate creates the perfect habitat for lotuses to thrive. So if you time your trip to Ninh Binh between May and July – the blooming season of these flowers – you will have the chance to indulge in the sight and take scores of share-worthy pictures of lotuses. 

The lotus pond near Mua Caves Vietnam is one of the town’s largest lotus colonies. Lotus petals open in the morning, so early risers get to see them in their best at sunrise. Make your way across the pond on a simple wooden bridge, and if you fancy getting up close and personal with the flowers, you can take a boat and pick some.

Lotuses in full bloom (Source: Collected)

In addition to the lotus pond, there are many other prominent attractions near Mua Caves in Ninh Binh, such as the Trang An Landscape Complex, Tam Coc Town, Bich Dong Pagoda, and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.

Vietnam is a diverse country with lots of hidden charms, and if you are still not sure of what to do or where to visit, check out things to do in Vietnam.

What to Eat While Visiting Hang Múa?

Your trip to Hang Múa wouldn’t be complete without savoring Ninh Bình’s local delicacies. The region’s cuisine is renowned for its rustic, countryside flavors.

Must-Try Ninh Bình Specialties at Hang Múa

• Ninh Bình Burnt Rice with Mountain Goat: A signature dish featuring crispy burnt rice paired with flavorful, tender goat meat.
• Kim Sơn Fish Salad (Gỏi Cá Nhệch): A unique dish made from fresh fish, skillfully prepared and served with herbs and a special dipping sauce.
• Boiled Mountain Snails: These snails are crunchy and sweet, delicious when dipped in ginger fish sauce or chili-lime salt.
• Yên Mạc Fermented Pork Roll (Nem Chua): A tangy, mildly spicy roll with the aroma of fermented meat, often enjoyed with chili sauce.
• Nho Quan Rice Wine: A traditional wine of the Mường ethnic group, aromatic and easy to drink.

Restaurants Near Hang Múa

• Đức Dục Restaurant: Located at the foot of Múa Mountain, this spot is famous for local dishes like burnt rice with goat, fish salad, and boiled snails.
• Hang Múa Restaurant: Situated within the Hang Múa tourist area, this restaurant offers a beautiful setting with views of rice fields and serves a variety of dishes, from local specialties to common favorites.
• Roadside Eateries: Along the way to Hang Múa, you’ll find numerous affordable local diners with diverse menus at reasonable prices.

Hotels & Resorts Near Hang Múa, Ninh Bình

There are plenty of accommodation options near Hang Múa, ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to budget homestays and guesthouses. Here are a few recommendations:

• Hang Múa Ecolodge: An eco-resort with beautifully designed bungalows that blend with nature, offering a peaceful retreat.
• Tam Cốc Garden Resort: A high-end resort with a pool, spa, and restaurant, providing top-notch amenities.
• Ninh Bình Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort: A 4-star hotel with modern design, stunning views, and proximity to popular attractions.

You can also find affordable homestays and guesthouses on online booking platforms, catering to various budgets and preferences.

(This guide provides a natural and engaging tone, tailored for travelers seeking an authentic experience in Ninh Bình.)

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