Thien Ha (Galaxy) Cave: Exploring the Enchanting Beauty of Ninh Binh

Nestled in the picturesque province of Ninh Binh in Vietnam, Thien Ha Cave, also known as Galaxy Cave, is a hidden gem that offers a truly mesmerizing travel experience. Away from the bustling tourist crowds, this untouched natural wonder is a must-visit for a day tour or overnight tour to Ninh Binh. In this comprehensive guide, Vivu Halong will provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit to this fantastic cave in Ninh Binh

Where is Thien Ha Cave?

Thien Ha Cave is located in Son Ha Commune, Nho Quan District, in the stunning province of Ninh Binh. This hidden treasure was discovered by local residents in 2007 and has since become a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The cave is nestled behind the Tuong Mountain range, which is believed to have protected the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Its name, Thien Ha, translates to “galaxy” in English, reflecting the awe-inspiring beauty that awaits explorers.

• Direction to Thien Ha cave 

The Natural Beauty of Thien Ha Cave

Thien Ha Cave stretches for 700 meters, offering visitors a captivating journey through its mystical chambers. The cave is divided into two sections: a 200-meter dry cave and a 500-meter water cave. As you venture into the dry cave, you’ll be mesmerized by the natural formations of stalagmites and stalactites, which glisten in a myriad of colors, creating a truly ethereal atmosphere. The play of light and shadows adds to the enchantment, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a hidden paradise.

Entrance ticket & time to visit

• Adults: 120,000 VND per person
• Children: 40,000 VND per person

To visit the Galaxy Cave, you will take a boat to explore the cave, followed by a walking tour inside the dry cave. During the cave tour, you will discover the enchanting and mystical beauty of the cave.

The duration of the cave visit, including both the walking and boating, is about 2 hours. It is advisable to go in the morning to avoid excessive heat during the summer, while in winter, you can visit the cave in the afternoon.

What to explore in Thien Ha cave

Explore Thien Ha water cave on rowing boats

To fully experience the magnificence of Thien Ha Cave, you’ll embark on a boat ride through the water cave. Starting from Son Ha Commune, you’ll glide along a small canal for approximately 1 kilometer before reaching the entrance of the cave. As you journey deeper into the cave on the small rowing boats, you’ll be surrounded by the serene beauty of the limestone formations and the tranquil sounds of the water droplets. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the cave, allowing you to witness its hidden wonders up close.

Experience the beauty of Thien Ha Water Cave, also known as the Milky Way hidden within the heart of the mountain—journey through this enchanting cave by boat, navigating along a winding underground river.

As you drift along, prepare to be mesmerized by the sight of numerous glistening and vibrant stalactites, resembling stars and moons. These stunning formations have been given poetic names such as Fairy Island, Mother’s Milky Breast, and Dragon Transforms into Carp.

The cave is alive with the soothing sounds of wind gently entering through its passages and the soft splashing of oars in the water, creating an immersive atmosphere that sparks your imagination.

Come and discover this captivating wonder – Thien Ha Water Cave, a celestial experience amidst nature’s embrace.

Explore the dry cave by walking

The dry part of the Thien Ha Cave has an entrance that opens to the southern mountain slope, approximately 2.5-3 meters wide and 3-6 meters high, with a cave floor spanning about 40 meters.

Despite its relatively small size, the interior of the cave boasts numerous stalactite formations, illuminated by light streaming in through a circular opening resembling a “natural skylight.” This creates a vast space adorned with enchanting shades of gold and silver, along with various formations that stimulate viewers’ imagination, such as stone castles, elephant shapes, tiger, fox, and monkey…

On sunny days, the sunlight reflects upon the stalactites, casting shimmering rays of light, sometimes golden, sometimes purple, making the cave come alive with vibrant colors.

Planning Your Visit to Thien Ha Cave

Best Time to Visit

To make the most of your visit to Thien Ha Cave, it is recommended to go during the summer months when the weather is pleasant and conducive for exploration. The cool temperatures inside the cave provide a refreshing respite from the summer heat.

How to Get to Thien Ha Cave

You’ll first need to travel to Ninh Binh City to reach Thien Ha Cave. From there, you can choose from various transportation options, including buses, self-driving cars, taxi, private car, and motorbike to reach Son Ha Commune.

Once you arrive in Son Ha Commune, you’ll be just a short distance away from the entrance of Thien Ha Cave.

Exploring Thien Ha Cave: Tour Options

There are several tour options available to explore Thien Ha Cave and its surrounding attractions. There is no joining group tour to Thien Ha cave from Hanoi but available for private tour and combined with another famous visiting sites in Ninh Binh as Trang An, Bai Dinh, Hang Mua viewpoint…

These tours offer convenience and expert guidance to ensure you make the most of your visit. Here are two popular options to consider:

Full-Day Tour with Private Transportation

A full-day tour with private transportation allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. With an English-speaking tour guide and a comfortable car at your disposal, you’ll be able to explore Thien Ha Cave and other nearby attractions hassle-free. The tour typically includes a boat ride through Thien Ha Cave, a visit to Bich Dong Pagoda, and a climb up to Hang Mua Peak for breathtaking views of the region. Lunch at a local restaurant is also included, offering you a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Motorbike Tour with Local Riders

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, a motorbike tour with local riders is an excellent option. Accompanied by experienced riders, you’ll embark on an exhilarating journey through the scenic backroads of Ninh Binh. This tour includes a boat ride through Thien Ha Cave, a visit to Thung Nang Valley, and a hike up Hang Mua Peak. Lunch at a local restaurant is also provided, giving you the opportunity to savor the flavors of the region.

Tips for visiting Thien Ha Cave & Ninh Binh

To ensure a memorable and enjoyable visit to Thien Ha Cave, here are some essential tips:

• Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and climbing.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
• Carry a camera or smartphone to capture the mesmerizing beauty of the cave.
• Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle with you during the tour.
• Respect the natural surroundings and follow the instructions of your tour guide.
• Take your time to explore and appreciate the intricate formations within the cave.
• Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.
• Engage with the local culture and interact with the friendly residents of Ninh Binh.

Thien Ha Cave, with its ethereal beauty and serene atmosphere, offers a truly enchanting experience for travelers seeking an escape from the crowds and a connection with nature. Whether you choose to embark on a full-day tour with private transportation or opt for a motorbike adventure with local riders, Thien Ha Cave promises to leave you in awe of its natural wonders. Plan your visit to this captivating destination, immerse yourself in its mystical charm, and create memories that will last a lifetime.