1. General introduction to the Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu)
Trinh Nu Cave is an attractive tourist spot in Ha Long. (Source: Collected)
Trinh Nu Cave , located on Bo Hon Island in Ha Long Bay, stands out with its unique statue-like stalactites resembling a lying maiden and majestic natural scenery, making it a must-visit destination for exploration. This place is not only aesthetically appealing but also preserves important historical and archaeological values, reflecting traces of prehistoric coastal inhabitants.
1.1. Location of Trinh Nu Cave within the Ha Long Bay complex
Trinh Nu Cave is located on Bo Hon Island, one of the largest and most prominent islands in Ha Long Bay, approximately 12–15 km southeast of the city center. The cave is close to Sung Sot Cave, only about 3 km away, facilitating combined visits within the same itinerary.
To experience Trinh Nu Cave , visitors typically depart from Tuan Chau Port or Ha Long Port following tour route number 2, with a visiting time of about 5–6 hours. This tour route connects famous spots such as Trong Cave, Dong Tien Lake, Soi Sim, and Ti Top Beach, allowing visitors to admire the majestic limestone mountains and unique natural scenery of the world heritage area.
The specific location of Trinh Nu Cave is on the eastern arc of Bo Hon Island. Visitors can easily locate it using GPS or Quang Ninh tourism map applications to plan their visit conveniently. The journey to the cave not only offers opportunities to capture beautiful scenes but also allows for experiencing the pristine beauty and captivating legends associated with the landmark.
1.2. Distinctive Features that Make Trinh Nu Cave Stand Out in the Cave System
The special feature that makes Trinh Nu Cave attractive is its shape and internal structure. With a length of about 15 m, a width of 10 m, and an average height of 3 m, the cave possesses a natural stalactite system formed over millions of years, creating the image of a lying maiden with long, flowing hair – a unique symbol in all of Ha Long Bay.
The interior space of the cave is divided into three consecutive chambers, each featuring stalactites with fantastical shapes, possessing a beauty that is both mysterious and romantic. Prominently, there is a stone statue resembling a maiden lying and facing the sea, making the landscape here like a vibrant natural painting. When sunlight shines through the cave entrance, the stalactites sparkle like precious gems, creating a stunning light effect for visitors to admire and photograph.
Around Trinh Nu Cave , the blue sea stretches out along with large and small limestone islands, forming a landscape that is both majestic and poetic. Opposite the cave, Trong Cave is about 700–800 m away, contributing to the romantic scenic complex of Bo Hon Island, which captivates all visitors exploring Ha Long Bay.
1.3. Cultural Relics and Archaeological Value of Trinh Nu Cave
Trinh Nu Cave is not only a famous tourist spot but also belongs to a group of caves with high archaeological value. Numerous scientific studies have discovered artifacts belonging to the Ha Long culture, indicating traces of ancient coastal inhabitants who lived here over 4,000 years ago.
Trinh Nu Cave contributes to demonstrating the characteristic geological formation process of the bay and the long-standing presence of prehistoric humans. Archaeological artifacts, including tools, pottery shards, and traces of daily life, enhance the historical value of Ha Long Bay, while also strengthening the UNESCO dossier recognizing Ha Long Bay as a World Natural Heritage site.
Beyond its scientific significance, Trinh Nu Cave also holds cultural and spiritual value, reflecting the life, traditions, and connection of the local community across generations, making this place both educational and emotionally rich for visitors.
2. How to Get to Trinh Nu Cave 2025
Travel to Virgin Cave by tourist boat. (Source: Collected)
Getting to Virgin Cave is easy with many transportation options from Hanoi and surrounding provinces, from private cars, coaches to tourist boats, suitable for all needs and budgets. Planning the itinerary in advance, booking tickets, and preparing necessary equipment will help visitors enjoy a safe, convenient, and complete journey to explore Ha Long Bay.
2.1. How to travel from Hanoi and surrounding provinces to Ha Long Bay
The journey from Hanoi and surrounding provinces to Ha Long Bay is very convenient with many diverse transportation options, from private cars, coaches, limousines to trains. Choosing the right mode of transport will help visitors save time, optimize their schedule, and have a more complete exploration of Virgin Cave.
The journey from Hanoi to Ha Long is very flexible with many transportation options suitable for needs and budgets. If traveling by private car, visitors can travel along the Hanoi – Hai Phong – Ha Long expressway, taking about 2 – 2.5 hours.
Coaches and limousines are popular means of transport for travel from Hanoi to Tuan Chau or Bai Chay. Routes departing from My Dinh or Giap Bat stations have ticket prices around 220,000 – 320,000 VND/person/way, depending on the vehicle type and departure time. Many reputable bus companies have frequent schedules, especially on weekends and holidays, making it easy for visitors to choose a suitable trip.
The Hanoi – Ha Long train route takes about 6 – 7 hours but is less preferred by tourists due to limited departures, mainly serving the tourist experience. To optimize the sightseeing itinerary, visitors should depart by coach in the morning to reach Ha Long port before noon, conveniently joining day tours or overnight tours of Ha Long Bay.
2.2. Notes when cruising on the bay
Before cruising to Virgin Cave, thorough preparation and choosing a safe tourist boat are key factors for a smooth trip. Preparing clothing, personal items, and monitoring the weather will help visitors fully enjoy the majestic beauty of Ha Long Bay.
When choosing a tourist boat to Virgin Cave, visitors should prioritize large boats with full registration and equipped with life jackets, ensuring maximum safety throughout the journey.
The ideal time to visit the cave is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant, the sky is clear, and it avoids the storm season.
Before entering the cave, visitors need to prepare adequate personal items such as drinking water, hats, sunglasses, and insect repellent. Neat, comfortable clothing combined with sturdy sports shoes will ensure safe and convenient movement.
Additionally, it is advisable to bring a power bank for phones and cameras to not miss any beautiful moments.
Checking the weather forecast before departure is an important step to help visitors plan their sightseeing reasonably, ensuring the experience of Virgin Cave is the safest, most complete, and most enjoyable.
3. Legends and spiritual values of Virgin Cave
Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) is associated with a tragic love legend. (Source: Collected)
Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) stands out not only for its natural beauty but also for its association with a tragic love legend, becoming a symbol of fidelity and purity. The sacred space of the cave offers a unique spiritual experience, attracting tourists who want to explore the touching story and preserve memorable moments in Ha Long Bay (Vinh Ha Long).
3.1. The tragic legend of the young couple from the fishing village
According to folk legends passed down through generations, once upon a time in a poor fishing village, there was a beautiful girl but from a difficult family background. Due to economic pressure, she was forced to marry a rich landlord as a concubine, but she firmly refused because she already had someone she truly loved.
The angry landlord ordered her to be exiled to a deserted island. During days of hunger and despair waiting for her lover, she turned to stone on a night of fierce storm. The young man heard the news and went to find her, but also met with disaster and turned to stone in the opposite cave, creating a tragic but emotional love story.
Today, Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) still preserves a stalactite shaped like a waiting girl, while the opposite Drum Cave (Hang Trong) has a stone statue believed to be the embodiment of the young man, facing towards Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu). The two caves have become unique natural symbols, possessing spiritual value and serving as a testament to faithful love, attracting many tourists to explore and take photos.
3.2. Symbol of purity and waiting love
Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) has become a symbol of fidelity, purity, and unwavering love, attracting the attention of both locals and tourists. The stone statue of the maiden in the cave is a famous check-in spot, especially for couples wishing to capture commemorative moments in this sacred and romantic space.
Most tourist tours recommend combining visits to Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) and Drum Cave (Hang Trong), helping tourists fully experience the love story passed down through generations. Bo Hon Island (Dao Bo Hon) offers an opportunity to explore the unique culture, traditions, and spiritual values of the Ha Long Bay (Vinh Ha Long) region.
Many couples choose Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) not only to admire the beautiful scenery but also to pray for love and wish for a love as enduring as the legend. The peaceful, poetic space of the cave creates memorable moments, contributing to enriching the tourist experience and the romantic journey of visitors.
4. Archaeological value and discovery of relics at Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu)
Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) possesses unique archaeological value. (Source: Collection)
Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) not only attracts tourists with its natural beauty but also possesses unique archaeological value, preserving traces of prehistoric residents and artifacts dating back thousands of years. Discoveries in the cave play an important role in reconstructing the ancient life, culture, and trade of the coastal areas of Ha Long Bay, contributing to enriching the understanding of Southeast Asian history.
4.1. Traces of Prehistoric Residents and Archaeological Artifacts
Since 2000, archaeological excavations at Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) have revealed many precious artifacts belonging to the Ha Long culture, with great historical and archaeological value. Artifacts such as stone tools, ancient pottery shards, animal bones, mollusk shells, and charcoal layers have been dated to over 4,000 years old, confirming the cave's important role in prehistoric times.
These discoveries prove that Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) was once a dwelling place for ancient coastal communities with a developed civilization. The artifacts reflect daily life, and also demonstrate the tool-making techniques and sophisticated craftsmanship of prehistoric residents.
Notably, the presence of polished stone tools and meticulously decorated pottery shards indicates that Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) was not just a shelter but also served as an important cultural center, contributing to enriching the archaeological picture of the life and culture of prehistoric people in the Ha Long Bay region.
4.2. Discovery of Pottery and Porcelain and Connection to the Ancient Port of Van Don
Numerous artifacts such as pottery shards and ancient hearths discovered at Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) indicate that the cave was once an important stop on prehistoric trade and transportation routes. These discoveries are closely related to the ancient port of Van Don, demonstrating the bustling trade activities and vibrant cultural exchange of the Northeast region of Vietnam from ancient times.
Archaeologists believe that Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) may have served as a transshipment center on ancient sea routes. The discovery of pottery shards originating from various regions proves the remarkable development of trade and cultural exchange among coastal communities.
Studies on ancient pottery and porcelain at Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) are contributing to enriching the maritime economic history of Vietnam, while also affirming the strategic position of Ha Long Bay within the ancient Southeast Asian trade system, laying the foundation for the preservation and development of local archaeological heritage.
4.3. Contribution of Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) to the Cultural and Archaeological Research of Ha Long Bay
Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) is assessed by scientific reports as an "open-air natural museum", preserving precious traces of the prehistoric residents of the Ha Long Bay region. Archaeological studies here provide important data, helping to reconstruct the daily life, customs, and ancient culture of the Ha Long community through many historical periods.
The archaeological discoveries at Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) played a key role in Ha Long Bay being recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site and a World Cultural Heritage site. The scientific value of the artifacts is not only significant nationally but is also highly regarded internationally, contributing to enriching knowledge about Southeast Asian archaeology.
Currently, Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) continues to be a crucial research site for domestic and international archaeologists. Further research into the cultural heritage and archaeological artifacts in the cave promises to open up new discoveries, providing a more comprehensive view of the civilization history and life of the coastal residents of Ha Long Bay.
5. Unique Tourist Experience at Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) 2025
It is possible to combine visits to many caves in Ha Long Bay. (Source: Collected)
Virgin Cave in 2025 offers visitors an emotional travel experience with maiden-shaped stalactites and a romantic love legend. Combining a visit to Drum Cave, exploring the highlights around Bo Hon Island, and admiring the majestic Ha Long Bay, the journey becomes complete and unforgettable.
Taking check-in photos at Virgin Cave with the maiden-shaped stalactites is the most beloved experience by tourists. Here, guides will recount the touching love legend, creating a romantic and emotional atmosphere, making the cave exploration journey memorable.
Visiting the opposite Drum Cave is an unmissable activity to fully understand the tragic love story. Tourists can take a light walk around Bo Hon Island, admire the majestic limestone mountains, and capture beautiful panorama photos of Ha Long Bay.
Combining a visit to Virgin Cave with other highlights such as Surprise Cave, Fairy Lake Cave, and Ti Top Beach will provide a complete experience on tour route number 2. Many tourists also choose to stay overnight on the bay to enjoy the brilliant sunrise, savoring the peaceful and mystical beauty of Virgin Cave in the morning.
6. Suggested Itinerary for Visiting Virgin Cave
Experience Sun World Ha Long with many attractive games. (Source: Collected)
Visitors can completely combine visiting Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) with the experience at Sun World Ha Long in one complete journey.
In the morning, explore the cave to avoid the harsh sun and enjoy the fresh air.
In the afternoon, visitors continue to entertain themselves at the modern water park or experience the Queen Cable Car at Sun World Ha Long.
In the evening, visitors can also enjoy Quang Ninh's specialty cuisine in the Bai Chay area, from fresh seafood to local traditional dishes.
Combining visits to natural heritage sites and modern entertainment areas creates a perfect balance for the trip, suitable for all ages and preferences. Many families choose this itinerary for a complete holiday in Ha Long, exploring beautiful scenery and enjoying diverse entertainment activities.
7. Notes when visiting Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu)
Comply with safety regulations when visiting the Cave of the Virgin (Hang Trinh Nu). (Source: Collected)
When visiting the Cave of the Virgin (Hang Trinh Nu) , complying with regulations and being fully prepared will help visitors stay safe and protect the pristine beauty of the cave. From preserving stalactites and stalagmites to choosing appropriate attire and necessary equipment, every small detail contributes to a complete and memorable exploration experience.
Visitors must absolutely not touch, climb on, or damage the stalactites and stalagmites in the Cave of the Virgin (Hang Trinh Nu) , as these actions can diminish the value of a natural heritage formed over thousands of years. Any act of carving, drawing, or leaving marks on the stalactites is strictly prohibited and may be subject to legal penalties. This not only protects the pristine beauty but also allows future generations the opportunity to admire this sacred cave.
Waste must be disposed of in designated areas to avoid polluting the cave environment and surrounding bay area. Each visitor needs to be conscious of environmental preservation, helping the Cave of the Virgin (Hang Trinh Nu) maintain its wild and mysterious beauty.
Attire for visiting should be comfortable and sweat-absorbent, prioritizing sports shoes or non-slip sole shoes for safe movement within the cave. A light jacket is necessary as the temperature inside the cave is usually cooler than outside.
Visitors should also prepare drinking water, insect repellent, fully charged electronic devices, and personal trash bags for a convenient and environmentally friendly visit. Avoid bringing bulky items or expensive jewelry to ensure maximum safety.
The Cave of the Virgin (Hang Trinh Nu) not only attracts visitors with its magnificent scenery but also with the touching legend associated with it. Visiting this site in Ha Long 2025 will offer you an experience that combines natural exploration with a moment of reflection on cultural and historical depth. This is an ideal destination for those who love the blend of natural beauty and spiritual value.
