Exploring a ‘underground galaxy’ in Trang An Heritage Site
Thien Ha cave is located in Tuong Mountain in Son Ha residential quarter, Tay Hoa Lu ward. Historical records describe Tuong mountain as a natural defensive wall protecting the southwestern side of the ancient Hoa Lu Capital.
To reach Thien Ha cave, visitors first take a boat along the Ben Dang river before arriving at the foot of Tuong mountain. One of the first sights to capture their attention is the Hoa Lu persimmon tree, believed to be more than 1,000 years old.
What makes the tree remarkable is that it grows on a rocky outcrop, with gnarled roots stretching along the crevices and winding around the entire limestone formation.
Following the foothills of Tuong mountain and passing through a path lined with thousands of bamboo trees, whose branches curve towards one another to form a cool green canopy, visitors arrive at Thien Ha cave.
From the moment they step through the cave entrance, the heat outside gives way to a gentle stream of cool air flowing from within.
Thien Ha cave is about 700m long and covers an area of approximately 13,000 sq.m. It is divided into two distinct sections, a dry cave and a water cave. The cave is dubbed a “underground galaxy” as layers upon layers of limestone stalactites stretch throughout its chambers, taking on myriad shapes and shimmering like stars in the night sky.
In the dry cave, nature has created countless glittering stalactite formations in unique shapes, resembling a dragon carp, a mother’s breast, a seashell and fairy flowers, among others. Although only about 200m long, the dry cave receives more natural light, allowing visitors to easily admire the formations that sparkle as if covered in silver.
The most distinctive feature of the dry cave is the “skylight” in its centre. On sunny days, sunlight streams directly from the summit of Tuong mountain into the cave, creating shimmering and magical shafts of light.
The water cave is the highlight that makes Thien Ha cave truly special. To explore this section, visitors board small boats and gently glide along a cool, crystal-clear underground river, while taking in vast stretches of stalactites hanging from the cave ceiling as far as the eye can see.
Millions of glittering stalactites are reflected on the still surface of the water. The outside world seems to disappear, leaving visitors with the sensation of drifting through a mystical galaxy filled with tens of thousands of shining stars.
Inside the water cave, the gentle sound of oars touching the water is accompanied only by the soft drip of water from the ceiling and the fluttering wings of bats. Together, these sounds create a magical experience for visitors, both visually and aurally.
For those seeking a moment of tranquillity amid nature, away from the bustle of everyday life and surrounded by the majestic beauty created over time, this “underground galaxy” is certainly a destination not to be missed on a journey through the Trang An Heritage Site./.
