Highlights of Lung Khuy Cave
Lung Khuy Cave is a natural wonder with a history spanning millions of years, boasting remarkable geological significance. Nestled in Ha Giang’s Quan Ba district, it stands as one of the region’s most exquisite caves and is part of Dong Van Karst Plateau. Situated in proximity to the renowned Twin Mountains and Quan Ba Heaven Gate, both iconic sights along the Ha Giang Loop, the cave can be easily added as an extra stop for travelers riding the loop to pause and explore its beauty.
Added to the list of attractions in December 2015, the cave’s accessibility was ensured with an investment exceeding 200,000 USD. To reach the entrance, you have to ascend a picturesque mountain path. Within the cave, well-laid pathways facilitate exploration, aided by provided flashlights. Among the sights are grand stalactite formations, unique cave structures, and subterranean cave ponds.
While Lung Khuy Cave serves as a focal point, the surrounding natural beauty remains unmissable (depending on visibility). The entire area remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, preserving the authentic way of life in local ethnic villages. This creates a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the genuine culture of the region.
How to get to Lung Khuy Cave
1. From Hanoi to Ha Giang
The Lung Khuy Cave is located in the district Quan Ba, part of Ha Giang province. A visit to the cave can be best done in combination with the Ha Giang Loop, where you will be visiting some of the major highlights in Ha Giang province.
The most convenient access point is from Hanoi. The journey from Hanoi to Ha Giang, the starting point of the loop, takes approximately 6 to 7 hours by road. While there are no airports or train stations in Ha Giang City, you can choose from the following options:
- Sleeper Buses: These overnight buses allow you to travel during the night, saving daytime hours for exploration.
- Limousine Buses: Comfortable buses that operate during the day, providing a more relaxed travel experience.
- Private Transfer: Opt for a private car with driver for added flexibility.
2. From Ha Giang to Quan Ba
Once in Ha Giang City, you’ll need to travel around 50 km (approximately 1.5 to 3 hours) to reach Tam Son town, the principal town in Quan Ba district. Your transportation options include self-driving a motorbike, riding on the back of a motorbike, or hiring a car with a driver.
3. Navigating to the Cave
Leaving the main road QL4C in Tam Son, follow a side road that ascends into the mountains. Drive for approximately 4 km until you reach the designated parking area for Lung Khuy Cave. This route offers pleasant views and passes through a local village.
Visiting Lung Khuy Cave
Parking
As you approach the cave area, you’ll find a parking area on the left side of the road, conveniently located near a village. There is a small parking fee applied, which amounts to 5,000 VND for a bike and 20,000 VND for a car. This fee supports the local community.
The path to the cave
From the primary parking area, a roughly 1-kilometer path leads you to the entrance of the cave. The ascent involves a bit of uphill trekking. Halfway along the path, a nice viewpoint offers a chance to pause and take in the scenic surroundings. Along this path, you’ll encounter local ethnic women selling a variety of seasonal produce like rock honey, turmeric, and radishes.
Entrance fee
As you near the cave’s entrance, you’ll come across amenities including a small café, restroom facilities, and a ticket booth. To explore the cave, there is an entrance fee of 50,000 VND for adults and 20,000 VND for children. Visitors under the age of 6 or over 60 are granted free admission.
Exploring the cave
Stepping inside the cave, you’ll find approximately 400 meters of well-constructed metal walkways that function as viewing platforms. These walkways facilitate easy exploration of the cave’s interior, providing excellent vantage points to admire the astonishing rock formations that have formed over the course of time.
Tips for visiting
- Carry Cash: Make sure to bring cash with you to cover parking fees, entrance charges, and any purchases you might want to make, such as drinks or local products.
- Visit in the Morning: To avoid the heat during the afternoon, plan your visit to the cave in the morning. This way, you can enjoy a more comfortable walk up to the cave entrance.
- Mind the Stalactites: As you navigate the cave’s pathways, be cautious when passing through areas with low-hanging stalactites. Safely pass by and use your hands to protect your head.
- No Touching: Refrain from touching the stalactites within the cave. Even light contact can disrupt their natural development, so it’s important to observe without physical interaction.
- Lunch in Tam Son Town: Before or after your visit, consider having lunch in nearby Tam Son town. There are several restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and replenish your energy for the rest of your journey.
- Sturdy Footwear: Wear comfortable and durable walking shoes. You’ll need them for the 1-kilometer walk to the cave entrance, as well as exploring the interior of the cave.
Other things to do in Quan Ba
Surrounded by natural beauty, the area around Lung Khuy Cave offers an array of nice places to visit. Nearby attractions like the Quan Ba Heaven Gate and Twin Mountains provide stunning viewpoints. The presence of a meandering river that runs through the valley makes a picturesque scenery. The cultural charm of the Lung Tam weaving village is another highlight, providing insights into the local way of life and the intricate art of traditional weaving.
