Sung Sot Cave

Sung Sot Cave is the largest and most stunning cave in Halong Bay with its dazzling stalactites and fascinating rock formations, it has grabbed the hearts of many local and foreign visitors. Visiting Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) on your trip to Halong should be the must-come list. The cave is located in a limestone mountain with a well-developed karst environment and has two large chambers with a plethora of stalagmites of varied kinds. Besides, Sung Sot Cave becomes famous because of the historical legend behind it.

Legend

Thousands of visitors flock to Halong Bay to visit Sung Sot Cave every year. This cave was discovered by the French in 1901 and originally named "Grotte des Surprises". In addition, Sung Sot Cave related to the ancient legend that after defeating the Enemy, Thanh Giong flew to Heaven and then left his sword and horse to reassure local people and dislodge demons. Inside the cave, there are many natural signs as the marks of that fierce battle and the trail of his horse became many little lakes and smashed rocks. 

Sung Sot Cave in Halong Bay

Structure

Sung Sot Cave welcomed its first visitors in 1993, a mere one year before Halong Bay would receive its first bestowment of World Heritage site status from UNESCO. Visitors will be able to step into another world after 50 steps of climbing to get to the mouth of the cave - which is sheltered by natural vegetation: A combination of the mysterious structure and soft, diffused light from the outside.

Sung Sot Cave has two chambers. Set your foot on the first chamber then an “Opera House” appears in front of you with several stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and columns forming throughout millions of years. There is a short tunnel that connects the first and second chambers. The second chamber which is so enormous that it could hold a thousand people has a meandering path around the chamber. It gives tourists a view of the light from outside and different angles of the cave. Moreover, the inner chamber will astonish every visitor with its massive freshwater lake, and spectacular rock formations. You may witness monkeys rushing around to ask for food. 

Sung Sot Cave in Halong Bay

Transportation

To get to Sung Sot Cave from Halong City's downtown, go Hai Quan Street for about 4 kilometers until you reach Bai Chay Tourist Wharf. Tourists can select between two modes of transportation from here: canoes and boats.

Visitors can explore there by canoe and boat from nearby towns and cities such as Halong City or Cat Ba Island. Especially, if you choose Halong Bay Cruise Deals you will experience a memorable trip when visiting Sung Sot Cave and other destinations by kayaking or going with the local boat. Athena Cruise or Pelican Cruise is an impressive choice for you due to its best service. Meanwhile, you may unwind and contemplate the incredible rock formations and crystal-clear waters.

Up to now, there are 59 caves listed on the official registry and belonged to Halong Bay. Sung Sot Cave is the most famous which has rightfully earned its near legendary status among visitors to the world-famous bay.

In addition to this location, you can refer to Lan Ha Bay Cruise/Bai Tu Long Cruise to visit more pristine locations with Halong Bay Cruise Deals.