Thiên Hà Cave attracts many tourists. — VNA/VNS Photo

Lâm Giang

NINH BÌNH — Nestled in the picturesque Red River Delta, Ninh Bình is a province blessed with a unique geological landscape, giving rise to a wealth of captivating natural wonders. For those who revel in the exploration of nature's masterpieces, Thiên Hà Cave stands out as a must-visit destination.

Discovered in 2007, Thiên Hà Cave is located in the east of Sơn Hà Commune, Nho Quan District, approximately 24km from the centre of Ninh Bình City. It is known as the most beautiful cave in the Tràng An Landscape Complex in Ninh Bình Province.

Tourists on the way to explore Thiên Hà Cave. — VNA/VNS Photo

Situated within the Tràng An mountain range at an elevation of nearly 200m, the cave was once a strategic forward guard post that protected the southwestern area near the historic Hoa Lư Citadel during the reigns of King Đinh Tiên Hoàng and Lê Đại Hành.

To reach this natural wonder, visitors must first take a boat for nearly 1km along the meandering Bến Đang River, followed by a 500m walk along the forested trail at the base of Tướng Mountain. This serene, shady path sets the stage for the awe-inspiring discovery that awaits within the cave.

The cave is a true wonder, with tens of thousands of stalactites in a mesmerising array of shapes and colours. — VNA/VNS Photo

Spanning a total length of 700m, Thiên Hà Cave is divided into two main sections: a 200m dry cave and a 500m water cave.

The dry cave is a true wonder, with tens of thousands of stalactites in a mesmerising array of shapes and colours, some resembling elephants, tigers, monkeys and foxes.

As visitors enter the cave, they are greeted by a beam of light streaming down from the skylight above, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle and expansive sense of space.

Delving deeper into the cave, explorers are transported to a 'galaxy inside the mountain' as they encounter the water cave's winding river surrounded by shimmering, multicolored stalactites. Experts have determined that the stalactite system in Thiên Hà Cave is still actively developing, unlike those found in many other caves in the province.

Thiên Hà Cave stands out as a must-visit destination. — VNA/VNS Photo

In 2008, local archaeologists uncovered a wealth of evidence attesting to the cave's ancient human habitation. Traces of mollusks, charcoal ash, pebble tools, pottery and bones were discovered, providing a vivid glimpse into the lives of the region's ancient Vietnamese residents.

In addition to the remarkable geological and historical significance of Thiên Hà Cave, the Ninh Bình region is also renowned for its unique culinary specialties, such as delectable goat meat dishes.

To further attract both domestic and international tourists, local authorities are looking into developing additional tourism services, including homestays and community-based experience tours.

Thiên Hà Cave is a beautiful cave in the Tràng An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh Province. — VNA/VNS Photo

As a captivating fusion of natural beauty, historical significance and cultural richness, Thiên Hà Cave in Ninh Bình Province stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the wonders of Việt Nam's diverse and remarkable landscapes. — VNS