Dau Go Cave
Halong, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam Halong, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam
2 reviews
#2 of 30 tourist attractions in Halong Bay
- PHOTOS
Overview
Dau Go Cave is situated on Dau Go Island, which is about 6 kilometers from Bai Chay tourist pier. This is one of the largest and finest caves in Halong Bay with a huge inner space of 5000 square meters. You will be astonished with the breathtaking natural beauty of stalactites and stalagmites in various shapes and sizes inside of the cave.
How Dau Go Cave got its name
There are several explanations of how this cave got its name. Some say that Dau Go Cave (or Wooden Stake Cave in English) was named after its shape - a wooden stake, which is very similar to some other islands and islets in Halong Bay. Some others believe that it is related to a historic battle in 13th century under Tran dynasty against Mongolian invaders. It is said that they hid wooden stakes in Dau Go Cave then moved them to Bach Dang River, where they made a trap for the enemy when their ships cruised into this area. That is why the cave got this name (wooden stake).
Breathtaking natural beauty inside the cave
This cave is said to be created 2 million years ago with a large entrance of 12 meters wide and 17 meters high. Being seen from a far distance, the shape of the cave entrance will stir up your imagination with the image of a enormous blue jellyfish, which is reached after you go up a 90-step-stair. The ceiling of the cave is about 25 meters high, with hundreds of extensive stalactites falling down like a marvelous waterfall.
Stepping into Dau Go Cave, you will be overwhelmed with thrilling stalactites and stalagmites in different shapes and sizes which were undergone a long period of karst process. The cave can be divided into three main parts. The first outer area has a curved ceiling that is filled with natural light. The ceiling looks like a gigantic oil painting of wildlife with various stalactites shapes that reflect the light, depending on your imagination: a herd of elephants or deers, a sleeping lion and a swimming turtle...
Passing through the first area by going through a small entrance, you now be in the second area of the cave with a bit lack of light. New pictures appear in mysterious light that bring up curiosity in your mind. It is all leave for you imagination.
The third area of this cave is widely opened. At the end of the cave you will find a well with clear water. Looking up to the ceiling, you will find yourself amaze at the image of an ancient citadel and a great battle up there with elephants and horses, men and their weapons...
The impressive beauty of Dau Go Cave was listed in “Merveille de Monde” (World’s Wonders - a famous book that introduces spectacular tourist attractions in the world) which was published in 1938. Dau Go Cave was called as “Grotte des merveilles” (Cave of Wonders). These masterpieces of the Creator will surely captivate your mind and heart and become a memorable highlight for your adventure in Halong Bay.
