Nguom Ngao Cave is considered a natural masterpiece bestowed upon the scenic region of Cao Bang, with its picturesque landscape like a painting.
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ToggleAn overview of Nguom Ngao Cave
Nguom Ngao Cave, with its pristine beauty and unique shape, is often referred to as the “footprint of paradise” of Cao Bang. Located in Gun Village, Đam Thuy Commune, Trung Khanh District, about 3km from Ban Gicc Waterfall, the cave is conveniently close for travelers heading travel to Ban Gioc Waterfall. Formed approximately 300 million years ago, it was discovered in 1921, opened for tourism in 1996, and recognized as a national scenic spot in 1998.

Since it has only been recently developed for tourism, the cave retains its primitive charm. Locals say the cave was once home to many fierce tigers, or perhaps the sound of the underground stream resembled a tiger’s roar, hence the name Nguom Ngao, meaning “Tiger Cave” in Tay language.
History of Nguom Ngao Cave
According to a 2016 survey, Nguom Ngao Cave is 2,769.6 meters long, 61.1 meters deep, and has two levels: one at the stream level and a fossil level about 50 meters higher. The cave contains many coral and crinoid fossils, dating back approximately 400 million years.

In summer, the cave remains cool due to the rising moisture, while in winter, it stays warm thanks to the heat-retaining rock walls. Nguom Ngao Cave has five entrances, but currently, only three main entrances are open to visitors: Nguom Ngao Entrance, Nguom Lom Entrance, and Ban Thuon Entrance.
How to get to Nguom Ngao Cave from Hanoi
By bus or car
From Hanoi, you can take a bus or car to Cao Bang City. Once you reach the city center, continue on the road through Ma Phục Pass and Khau Lien Pass for about 60km to Trung Khanh Town. From there, travel an additional 30km to reach Ban Gioc Waterfall. Near the waterfall, follow the provincial road 206, and you will see signs directing you to Nguom Ngao Cave.

By motorcycle
For those who enjoy adventure and scenic views, you can travel from Hanoi by motorcycle. From Cao Bang City, ride through Ma Phuc Pass and Khau Lien Pass for about 60km to reach Trung Khanh Town. Continue for another 30km to Ban Gioc Waterfall. Near the waterfall, follow provincial road 206 to find the signs to Nguom Ngao Cave. The road to Nguom Ngao Cave features many high, winding, and dangerous passes, so ensure you have strong riding skills or go with an experienced rider. For safety, you might consider a guided motorbike tour with a local guide. Traveling by motorcycle allows you to admire the majestic and poetic mountains of Cao Bang.

The best time to visit Nguom Ngao Cave
The weather in Cao Bang is divided into two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Each season brings its own unique beauty, enhancing the enchanting scenery of Nguom Ngao Cave.
During the rainy season
The rainy season in Cao Bang lasts from May to September. During this time, there are many streams flowing inside Nguom Ngao Cave. When illuminated by light, the cave’s interior glows with sparkling reflections from the water and shimmering light from the surrounding stalactites.
In this period, the cave’s atmosphere is incredibly fresh and cool, with rising moisture creating a pleasant, chilly feeling.

During the dry season
From October to April, Cao Bang enters the dry season. During this time, there is no water inside Nguom Ngao Cave, making it easier for visitors to explore and navigate.

>> See more articles: Exploring God’s Eye Mountain in an exciting Cao Bang Loop
Discover the pristine beauty of Nguom Ngao Cave
Nguom Ngao Cave stands out with its magnificent natural scenery and unique system of stalactites, featuring strange shapes that sparkle under the lights. The cave has four main sections: the four great pillars like sky supports, the largest central area, and the treasure area with many glittering stalactites. The cave’s structure includes multiple chambers, levels, staircases, and corridors with stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations shaped like coral, ships, silver waterfalls, and terraced fields.

The stalactites in Nguom Ngao are glittering due to the high calcium content mixed with impurities, creating a shimmering landscape. Notably, there is a solitary stone pillar and an inverted lotus pedestal associated with the legend of a Buddha. In the rainy season, water drips from the lotus petals, creating a beautiful, pleasant scene and bringing good luck.

Particularly unique are the terraced fields inside the cave, formed by the erosion and weathering of limestone over many years. This feature makes Nguom Ngao Cave a “footprint of paradise,” capturing the shapes and objects of the earth, creating an incredibly beautiful and magical landscape.
Although only about 1km has been developed for tourism, Nguom Ngao Cave has quickly become a famous destination in Cao Bang province. The cave’s pristine and unique beauty is a wonderful natural wonder, captivating the hearts of many visitors from both within and outside the country.
MotorbikeViet – Provider of Cao Bang Loop Tours and Nguom Ngao Cave exploration
MotorbikeViet is one of the leading providers of motorbike tours in Vietnam. With the mission to offer visitors unique and unforgettable experiences through Cao Bang cheap tours, MotorbikeViet continuously strives to improve its services and expand its range of exciting travel routes. One of the standout journeys that MotorbikeViet proudly introduces to travelers is the Cao Bang Loop tour, which includes the exploration of Nguom Ngao Cave.
- High-quality motorbikes: We have a fleet of modern motorbikes, regularly maintained and inspected to ensure smooth and safe operation on all terrains.
- Competitive pricing: We are committed to providing you with reasonable rental rates that fit any budget.
- Locale expertise: Our knowledgeable staff is always ready to provide you with useful information about routes, destinations, local culture, and cuisine, ensuring you have the most fulfilling journey.

MotorbikeViet – Provider of Cao Bang Loop Tours and Nguom Ngao Cave exploration
Tour prices for Cao Bang Loop with MotorbikeViet
| TOUR | PRICE/PERSON | ||
| Cao Bang tour 2 days 1 night | 3.975.000 VND | 159 USD | |
| Cao Bang tour 3 days 2 nights | 5.725.000 VND | 229 USD | |
| Cao Bang tour 5 days 4 nights | 9.500.000 VND | 380 USD | |
Note: The prices in the above table are for reference only. For the most accurate tour prices at any given time, please contact us for the latest information and quick consultation.
If you are looking for a unique and exciting travel experience, contact MotorbikeViet to book the Cao Bang Loop tour and explore Nguom Ngao Cave. We are committed to providing you with a memorable journey filled with joy and unforgettable memories.
Contact Info
Address: 57 Bat Su Str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Hotline/Whats app: +84 9 1122 8968
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