Sung Sot Cave, Halong Bay: Travel Guide
Out of hundreds caves in Halong Bay, Vietnam, Sung Sot Cave or Surprising Cave is probably the most well known name. And it's not being famous for no reason. It's safe to say that Sung Sot is one of the most magnificent caves in Halong Bay, with massive stalactites and stalagmites as well as many stunning rock formations that took root thousands of years ago. The cave has also won numerous notable travel awards for its "surprising" beauty.
In this post, we'll guide you on a journey through the magnificent Sung Sot Cave and let see what you should expect when visiting it.
General Information
Sung Sot or Surprising Cave is a familiar name to any travelers when they doing their research about Halong Bay. The cave is located on Bo Hon Island, approximately 14 kilometers from Tuan Chau Port in Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam. It's is also a part of the Halong Bay core region, which has been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site on 1994.
Sung Sot, also known as Surprising in English, was named by a French explorer who set foot on the island in 1901. The explorer was so taken with the beauty and gorgeousness of the cave at the time that he named it "Grotte de la surprise," which translates as "the cave of surprise" However, it wasn't until 40 years later, in 1993, that the cave was opened to the public, allowing them to confirm the accuracy of this exclaim. And Sung Sot Cave indeed, keeps surprising visitors until this day, becoming one of the most worthwhile attractions in Halong Bay.
The "surprising beauty" of Sung Sot Cave
Once again, as you arrive at Bo Hon Island, where the cave is located, the first thing you'll notice is the stunning mountains covered in thick green forest. But the real surprise is yet to come. To reach Sung Sot Cave, you'll need to climb about 200 stone steps at the entrance. As you go higher, you'll enjoy wider and more beautiful views of Halong Bay.
The cave entrance is quite narrow, low, and only allows one person to pass at a time. But don't let that fool you; what's waiting inside is truly surprising.
Sung Sot Cave covers almost 10,000 m², is 30 m high, and sits 25 m above sea level. It has 2 chambers, each with its own charm.
After walking through the narrow entrance, you arrive in the first chamber. It is only about 300 m², so it feels small, but it is full of beauty. The entire chamber resembles an opera hall. On the ceiling, sparkling stalagmites and stalactites form shapes that look like a huge chandelier. Nearby are small dents made by water over thousands of years, making the roof look carefully decorated. In one corner, there is a small pond with crystal-clear water. Drops of water from the ceiling have created gentle sounds and a cool atmosphere for centuries.
After the “opera hall,” you will walk down a narrow stone path lit by lamps. Then, through another small doorway, the space suddenly opens wide - that’s the second chamber. It is almost 5 times bigger than the first one and can hold thousands of people.
Inside both chambers, you will see many rock formations shaped like animals, furniture, and even imaginary creatures like dragons, gods, and fairies. There are also several water tanks, which locals believe were created during a legendary battle between Giong God and foreign invaders thousands of years ago. All the rocks, shapes, and ponds blend perfectly together, creating a magical scene that feels like heaven on Earth.
If you continue following the stone path toward the exit, you’ll discover the final surprise: a small “Royal Garden.” This natural area includes clear water, a small lake, green plants, and the sounds of birds which regular visitors to the cave.
Best time to visit in Sung Sot Cave
You could visit Sung Sot Cave at anytime of the year. However, the best time to visit Sung Sot Cave in Halong Bay is from October to April. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. Traveling during this period also help you to avoid the massive local tourists crowd.
How to get there
As it’s located in the middle of the bay, by boat or cruise are the only option to visit Sung Sot Cave.
By day boat
Taking a day boat from Tuan Chau Marina should be the most convenient and cost-effective way. You could buy tickets for Halong Travel Route 2, which includes a visit to Sung Sot Cave in addition to Ti Top Island, Beautiful caves like Bo Nau Cave, Me Cung Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, and Luon Cave.
Besides, you’ll need to hire a boat to travel to Sung Sot Cave. A sharing group boat normally cost 200,000vnd per person which will take you around the bay for 6 – 8 hours. These boat will depart every 1 hour, daily from 09:00.
If you opt to a more private way, you can rent the whole boat for yourself with the cost of 1,800,000vnd (70USD) – 2,000,000vnd (80USD) for 6 hours. That way, you could leave at any time you’d prefer.
Overnight Cruise
This is the best way to see Halong Bay's features and Sung Sot Cave. Typically, overnight cruises schedule is included a visit to all popular attractions like Sung Sot or Ti Top , food while traveling, and room – just like any hotels, on board. In addition to sightseeing, you could also engage in other exciting water sports like kayaking or swimming.
It’s also an extremely convenient way if you’re staying in Hanoi as they’re normally offering a package included transfer, with pick up at your hotel door.
The cost might vary, but ranging from 100USD – 200USD per person, depending on your budget.
