1. Overview of Hang Bua Cave
Hang Bua Cave (also known as Tham Bua Cave) is located in Hong Tien Village, Chau Tien Commune, Nghe An Province (formerly Na Nhang Village, Chau Tien Commune, Quy Chau District), approximately 170 kilometers northwest of Vinh. Set in the Pha En limestone mountain range, this cave is famed for its natural beauty and the deep ties to the life of the local Thai ethnic group.
Formed millions of years ago, Hang Bua Cave is believed to have once been part of a fertile land, where people lived in peace under the protection of mountain spirits. The discovery of the 250,000-year-old Tham Om Cave nearby and the traces in Hang Bua Cave mark it as one of the earliest known locations of Sapiens worldwide.
In 1998, Hang Bua Cave was recognized as a National Scenic and Historical Site.
2. Legend of Hang Bua, Nghe An
The legend of Hang Bua Cave tells of a great flood that drove the local people into the cave for shelter. To avoid turning to stone under a mysterious curse, they stayed awake by singing and dancing. Despite their efforts, a princess and several villagers were petrified along with objects like rice baskets, gongs, and a bed. Inside the cave, stone formations resemble these ancient items. A sacred well with cool water adds to the cave's mystical atmosphere.
3. Inside Hang Bua Cave (Nghe An Province)
Hang Bua Cave has two entrances: the main one opens into a vast chamber while the side one leads to a smaller chamber. Near the main entrance, there is a peculiar frog-shaped rock. Inside, a towering stone formation stands like a natural wall, separating the cave from the outside world. The floor is broad and level, spacious enough for an entire village to gather and celebrate.
Inside the vast chamber, tourists can see evenly layered stalactites that produce melodic sounds when tapped. Nearby, there is a stone figure of a man playing the flute, followed by stone formations shaped like a rice basket and a chicken coop. Climbing about 17 meters up to the second level, tourists will discover a large stone slab with a smooth surface, known as the fairy’s bed.
The smaller chamber opens to a world of stone wonders, where a guardian lion, a resting turtle, and a water basin await. Most enchanting is the Fairy Stream with its cool water flowing gently from rock crevices. Above, stone formations release drops of water onto natural terraces. The ceiling shimmers with shapes that resemble lanterns, sweeping arms, and dragons in playful motion.
>>> Check out: Top 11 things to do in Nghe An for an unforgettable trip
4. Things to know about the Hang Bua Festival
The Hang Bua Festival takes place annually on the 20th, 21st, and 22nd days of the 1st lunar month, honoring the heritage of the local Thai ethnic group. The festival begins with sacred ceremonies held at Chieng Ngam Temple, where villagers perform traditional offerings to pray for peace, good harvests, and prosperity. After the ceremonies, the festival transforms into a lively celebration filled with folk games, singing and dancing, beauty contests, sports, food competitions, and displays of embroidery and ancient Thai script. As one of the unique festivals in Vietnam, the Hang Bua Festival offers a vivid experience of communal spirit, cultural pride, and ancestral reverence.
5. Tips for visitors to Hang Bua Cave
5.1. Directions
To reach Hang Bua Cave from Vinh, follow National Road 1A north, then turn left onto National Road 16. Follow National Road 16 until it merges with National Road 48. Follow National Road 48 all the way to Chau Tien Commune. The journey covers around 170 kilometers and takes nearly 3 hours by road.
5.2. Notes
To ensure a smooth visit to Hang Bua Cave, keep the following notes in mind:
- Check the weather and avoid rainy days.
- Wear non-slip shoes suitable for wet, rocky terrain.
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp due to limited lighting inside.
- Dress comfortably.
- Be cautious on slippery steps.
- Avoid touching or damaging stalactites.
- Carry water and snacks, and dispose of trash properly.
- Follow guides and respect all signs in the area.
5.3. Nearby attractions
Near Hang Bua Cave, there are many attractions that offer tourists a journey through both nature and tradition:
- Tham Om Cave preserves stone tools, bronze relics, and fossilized human bones and teeth, offering evidence of ancient Vietnamese settlements dating back nearly 200,000 years.
- The Museum of Ethnic Cultures of Quy Chau District, built in the style of a traditional stilt house, showcases the customs, traditional crafts, and daily life of local ethnic communities.
- Hoa Tien Village is a thriving community-based tourism village known for its picturesque landscapes, homestays, and authentic experiences such as brocade weaving, folk singing, and Thai dancing.
- Lang Van Thiet Relic Site honors Lang Van Thiet, a prominent Thai leader in the Can Vuong movement against French colonial forces. It stands as a symbol of patriotism in western Nghe An.
With its breathtaking natural beauty, rich legends, and deep cultural roots, Hang Bua Cave offers a journey into the heart of heritage, history, and myth. Whether drawn by its mysterious rock formations, sacred festivals, or the stories etched in stone, every visitor will leave with a lasting impression of wonder and reverence.
While in Nghe An, you can enjoy a truly relaxing stay at Vinpearl Cua Hoi Resort, Affiliated by Meliá. Nestled along the serene Cua Hoi Beach, this upscale resort offers a perfect balance of comfort and experience, with world-class services provided in a peaceful seaside setting.
