History and Significance of Mua Cave
The name Mua Cave originates from a small cave located in the heart of a limestone mountain right at the foot of Mua Mountain. According to legend, this is where King Tran Thai Tong (1218-1277) often came to watch court ladies dance and sing for entertainment. Therefore, the cave is called Mua Cave, meaning the cave of dancing and singing.
Mua Cave also has significant meaning in national history, as it was where King Tran Nhan Tong (1258-1308) observed and commanded the army against the Yuan Mongol invaders in 1285. Later, Mua Cave was also a place of rescue and refuge for soldiers in the resistance wars against France and America.
Architecture and Landscape of Mua Cave
Mua Cave has geological and topographical features typical of the limestone mountain region that is millions of years old. There are many caves, limestone mountains, and underground streams flowing from the rock crevices into the river system of Trang An. This flow meanders around the foot of the mountain, creating a poetic and peaceful landscape.
Mua Cave has two stone towers 142 m and 800 m high, built in the style of a pagoda with tiled roofs and pointed tops. To reach the top of the mountain, you have to overcome 486 stone steps, with ancient dragon and phoenix bas-reliefs on both sides. When you reach the top of the mountain, you will be able to admire the beautiful natural scenery of Ninh Binh.
From Mua Cave, you can also see Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An, Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, and many other landmarks. On the top of the cave mountain, there are two white stone statues of dragons and Guanyin, symbolizing protection and blessings for tourists.
Services and Activities at Mua Cave
At Mua Cave tourist area, you can participate in many interesting and useful activities, such as:
- Cave exploration: You can explore mysterious and unique caves at Mua Cave, such as Mua Cave, Am Tien Cave, Quan Am Cave, Bach Ngoc Cave… Each cave has stalactites, stalagmites, and beautiful clear water streams.
- Mountain climbing and sightseeing: You can try the challenge of climbing to the top of Mua Mountain, and admire the beautiful natural scenery from above. You can also take photos and selfies at the most beautiful viewpoints, such as the dragon statue, the Guanyin statue, or the stone walls painted with dragon and phoenix patterns.
- Enjoying food and relaxation: You can enjoy the specialties of Ninh Binh, such as crispy rice, lam tea, hill chicken, mountain goat… at restaurants, cafes, and homestays in the tourist area. You can also rest and relax in beautiful and convenient rooms, at reasonable prices.
Mua Cave Ninh Binh is a must-visit tourist spot when you come to the ancient capital region. It will bring you memorable and unforgettable experiences, with majestic natural landscapes, mysterious caves, and attractive services and activities.
