Trung Trang Cave in Cat Ba Island
Trung Trang Cave is a unique and fascinating destination located in the heart of Cat Ba Island. It is an important historical site, as it was used as a hospital cave during the Vietnam War, and sometimes called as Hospital Cave as nowadays. The cave has been preserved for many years, and it is now open to visitors who are looking for an unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, explore its hidden chambers, and learn about its history and cultural importance. It is a great way to experience a different side of Vietnam’s history and culture.
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The story of Trung Trang Cave
Trung Trang is well known for its spectacular stalagmites and stalactites, which were formed over thousands of years. The cave was discovered by the French in 1885, who named it Grotte du Trung Trang. It soon became a popular destination for tourists, until the Vietnam War began. The cave became a shelter during the war and an old tunnel was made into a water well to provide drinking water for soldiers.
Trung Trang Cave is renowned for its various hues and titles. Previously known as the Bat Cave due to its large bat population, it was used by Vietnam’s Navy of Information and Communication as a radio base during the Vietnam War, henceforth earning its other title of ‘Navy Cave’.
Nowadays, it is one of Cat Ba’s major tourist attractions where visitors can go underground and enjoy the natural beauty of stalagmites and stalactites on both sides of the main passageway as well as marvel at its interesting history.
Facts about Trung Trang Cave
The journey from the Port to Trung Trang Cave takes approximately 20-30 minutes on feet. It is located atop a lush tropical forest and has a peaceful atmosphere. The cave stretches for about 300 meters through the mountain.
Trung Trang Cave is the largest cave in Vietnam and the third-largest limestone cave system in the world. The cave is notable for its large entrance room with a diameter of 127 meters, and it contains over 1,400 meters of galleries. The cave has three main entrances and exits on its eastern side near Gia Viet Village and is accessible through boats which can be found at Halong & Lan Ha bays.
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The further in you go, the more unique features of Trung Trang Cave you’ll find, such as limestone pillars and stalks. There’s this trick when rubbing the stalk on the pillar, an interesting sound is created. One way to find out is to check with our guide.
The main entrance has many steps and spaces that are wet and narrow. The further you going, the ceiling gets lower. The cave is also the ‘home’ of many reptiles, birds, and bats.
What is the best way to visit Trung Trang Cave?
If you’re planning to spend most of the time in Cat Ba Island, it is very easy to explore the cave transported from Hai Phong or from Cat Ba Town. Make sure to check with your homestay host or hotel/hostel receptionist to get the direct guidance while planning for this mini-adventure.
Otherwise, Trung Trang Cave is also included in some cruise experience. It is highly recommended to give this way a try when your budget is generous. On the third day of the 4-day-3-night itinerary with Capella Cruise, passengers will have the chance to discover Trung Trang and be manifested by its raw beauty and amazing biosphere. Meanwhile, this journey lets guests travel to further sides of Lan Ha Bay and immerse in many exciting activities.
*All photos of Trung Trang Cave are credited to Ha Truong.