Halong Bay is one of the world’s natural wonders, renowned for its thousands of majestic islands and mystical caves formed over millions of years. Among them lies a pair of caves intertwined with a deeply touching love story: Virgin Cave (Hang Trinh Nu) and Drum Cave (Hang Trống). Join us as we explore the breathtaking beauty and legendary romance of these two iconic caverns in the following article.
Virgin Cave: The Sanctuary of Immortal Love
Location and How to Get to Virgin Cave and Drum Cave
If you wish to explore one of the most celebrated caverns in Halong Bay, Quang Ninh Province, Virgin Cave is an absolute must-visit. Formed over millions of years, this pristine cavern is deeply associated with the poignant romance of a young fishing couple.
Virgin Cave and Drum Cave are situated on Bo Hon Island (one of the largest and most magnificent islands in Halong Bay). The cave resembles a shy maiden with flowing long hair and a traditional headscarf gazing out to sea. Spanning approximately 15 meters in length, 10 meters in width, and 3 meters in height, the interior boasts countless stalactites formed over millions of years, shaping fantastical and diverse formations. Directly opposite Virgin Cave, about 700 meters away, lies Drum Cave. Together, these two caverns create a breathtaking and majestic natural masterpiece amidst the azure waters and towering limestone karsts.
Virgin Cave and Drum Cave were formed millions of years ago, closely tied to the emotional love story of a young fishing couple. According to legend, there once lived a beautiful yet impoverished fishergirl who was forced to work as a servant for a wealthy local landlord in the Halong fishing region. Taken by her grace, the landlord demanded she become his concubine, but she adamantly refused as she had already pledged her heart to her true love. At that time, the young man was out at sea fishing to prepare for their upcoming wedding. Unable to break her loyalty, the ruthless landlord exiled her to a desolate island. Enduring a ferocious, stormy night plagued by bitter cold and hunger, the exhausted young maiden ultimately turned to stone. The spot where she petrified is today known as Virgin Cave.
Virgin Cave: The Sanctuary of Immortal Love
As for the young man, upon hearing that his beloved had been banished to an uninhabited island, he rushed back in frantic search of her. Caught in a violent tempest, his boat shattered against the rocks. Washed ashore on a desolate island, he caught a glimpse of his beloved signaling to him in the distance. Desperate to alert her of his arrival, the young man began striking the cliffside with a stone. Striking until his hands bled profusely and exhaustion overtook him, he too turned to stone at a site now fittingly named Drum Cave. The two caves are separated by a mere 700 meters. On stormy nights, passing locals can still hear the wind echoing against the cave walls like the beating of a drum—hauntingly symbolizing eternal love and the unwavering vows of faithful lovers.
Today, Virgin Cave and Drum Cave are included in Route No. 2 of the Halong Bay Sightseeing Tours, alongside renowned landmarks such as Soi Sim Island, Titov Island, Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot), Bo Nau Cave, Luon Cave, Ho Dong Tien Cave, Drum Cave, Virgin Cave, and Maze Cave (Động Me Cung). Although Route 2 is a popular itinerary featuring numerous day-cruise vessels, most standard day boats do not stop at Virgin Cave. Therefore, visiting this magnificent site requires chartering a private vessel or booking an overnight luxury cruise on the bay that offers cabin-sharing options.
Essential Tips and Notes for Visiting Virgin Cave
- To reach Virgin Cave, you must first travel to the Tuan Chau International Passenger Cruise Port in Halong City, then purchase a ticket for Route No. 2, which grants access to Virgin Cave alongside other iconic destinations such as Surprise Cave, Titov Island, and Maze Cave. Ticket prices generally range from 240,000 to 290,000 VND per person.
- Alternatively, you can choose a luxury Halong Bay overnight cruise to explore Virgin Cave and the surrounding islets. A cruise vacation offers an elevated, exquisitely comfortable, and deeply romantic experience. You can explore our curated selection of Halong Bay cruise packages right here.
- When entering Virgin Cave, we recommend bringing a light jacket or shawl, as the interior can be breezy and cool, with occasional water droplets from the stalactites. Flat shoes or comfortable walking sneakers are also advised for safely navigating the stone steps and rocky pathways.
- Be sure to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the mesmerizing moments inside Virgin Cave. However, please be mindful not to linger excessively or obstruct fellow travelers. We kindly ask that you respect nature by refraining from touching or damaging the delicate stalactites within the cave.
- Selecting the ideal time to travel is essential to avoid storm seasons or peak tourist crowds. The most favorable period for visiting Virgin Cave is from April to October each year, when the weather is dry, pleasantly cool, and relatively free of heavy rain and wind. It is also wise to avoid weekends and public holidays to enjoy a more serene and private experience.
This concludes our comprehensive guide to Virgin Cave. We hope this article provides you with valuable insights. If you wish to charter a boat or book a luxury cruise to explore this enchanting destination in Halong Bay, please contact us for further details.
