Surprise Cave – The Most Stunning Cave in Halong Bay

Whenever mentioning Halong Bay, the very first image that appears in the mind of tourists is a system of magnificent caves and impressive islands.  Of all the caves in Halong Bay, the most famous one that should be included in the itinerary of all tourists is Surprise Cave. Are you wondering what makes this cave much more outstanding than others in Halong Bay? To help you find out your own answer, we will reveal all the things you need to know about Surprise Cave in Halong Bay so that you can make the best plan for your journey.

I. History of Surprise Cave

Surprise Cave, also known as Sung Sot Cave, is one of Halong Bay’s most famous attractions. According to legend, during King Hung’s reign, the Yin invaders from China attacked Van Lang (ancient Vietnam). In this time of crisis, Thanh Giong, a three-year-old child, helped defeat them. After the battle, he left behind his iron horse and sword before ascending to heaven.

Today, the battle site is part of Halong Bay. Small ponds and islets near Surprise Cave are said to be the footprints of Thanh Giong’s iron horse. Inside the cave, rock formations shaped like swords and spears remind visitors of this legendary fight.

In reality, French explorers discovered Surprise Cave in 1901 and named it “Grotte des Surprises” (Surprise Grotto) due to its breathtaking beauty. Although known for over a century, the cave only opened to tourists in 1993. Today, it is one of Halong Bay’s most visited attractions.

II. Highlights of Surprise Cave

Surprise Cave is more than 12,000 square meters and is the largest cave in Halong Bay. Located in the heart of the bay, it sits about 14 kilometers from Bai Chay Tourist Wharf on Bo Hon Island an near Luon Cave and Trinh Nu Cave.

Bo Hon Island is famous for its stunning caves and rich biodiversity. As a world heritage site, the natural beauty around Surprise Cave remains well-preserved.

The cave is 25 meters above sea level. To reach it, visitors must climb over 100 stone steps, surrounded by lush greenery. The entrance is narrow, but the cave’s interior is vast.

This dry cave is easy to explore on foot. It can accommodate up to 1,000 visitors at a time. The ceiling rises about 30 meters, and the cave stretches over 800 meters. Inside, a dazzling world of stalactites and stalagmites awaits, divided into three sections, each offering a unique experience.

III. What to See at Surprise Cave?

1. The first part

The floor of this cave is 5 meter lower than the doorstep at the entrance. Of all the three parts of Surprise Cave, this part is the smallest one: the area of this surprise cave is nearly 300 square meters.

The first impression tourists will have when setting foot on this part is a small and shallow lake, which has been formed by the rain water flowing into the interior through the limestone cracks on the cave ceiling. So clear is the cave that you can even see the lake bottom hovering in the light and dark of the cave.

The first part of Surprise Cave is considered as an opera house of the ocean. The combination of light and stones in this part draws a lively picture that can break the empty and cold feeling of the cave.

2. The second part

Deeper inside, the second chamber is twice the size of the first, covering about 600 square meters. Its ceiling has thousands of tiny holes, created by millions of years of water erosion. This section has more air vents, making it feel cooler and more spacious.

Many formations here resemble objects from the legend of Thanh Giong. Near the exit, a rock shaped like a horse and a sword-shaped stalagmite symbolize the warrior’s final battle. Pools of water on the cave floor resemble the footprints of his iron horse. The entire cave seems to tell a story that has endured for thousands of years.

3. The third part

The third part of Sung Sot Cave is the area which makes you the most surprised. Entering this part, you cannot help but be astonished by the marvelous appearance of this cave. Along with the brilliant light from all the corners of the cave, a royal garden will appear in front of your eyes. This garden is full of sunlight, fresh air, fragrance of flowers and colors of life. This garden will make you feel as if you were entering a fairy tale in a wonderland, where mysterious and amazing things are waiting for you to explore.

The interesting thing always appears at the last part, and that is so true in the case of Surprise Cave. The royal garden with the crystal lake, lush bushes and stunning cave is such an ink-wash painting of nature, where you can enjoy the breath-taking picture and listen to the sounds of birds and monkeys every morning. The beauty of the cave will give you the exact answer why it is called “Surprise Cave”.

IV. How to Get to Surprise Cave?

Surprise Cave is about 14 kilometer from Bai Chay Wharf, and the main transportation to get to this cave is a cruise ship. Due to the ideal position at the heritage core, it is not hard for you to get a ship whose itinerary consists of Surprise Cave. You can go on a journey arranged by a travel agent, or you can also make a tour yourself. Here are some options for you:

Day Cruise from Halong Bay:

• Price: 300,000 – 350,000 VND/person (~$12 – $15)
• Duration: 4 – 6 hours
• Includes: Surprise Cave, Luon Cave, Ti Top Island, and kayaking or bamboo boat

Day Tour from Hanoi (Including Halong Bay Cruise):

• Price: 1,200,000 – 1,700,000 VND/person (~$50 – $70)
• Duration: 10 – 12 hours
• Includes: Transportation, lunch, cruise, entrance fees

Overnight Cruise (2D1N or 3D2N):

• Price: From 2,500,000 VND/person (~$100+)
• Includes: Private cabin, meals, Surprise Cave, Titop Island, kayaking, night squid fishing

>>> See more: Luxury Halong Bay Cruise | Halong Bay Cruise 2 Days | Halong Bay Cruise 3 Days

V. Extra Tips

• A nice day with light sunlight and mild wind is the best condition for your trip to Halong Bay. You should avoid going on a day that is too hot or too wet. The bad weather can prevent you from enjoying your trip.
• Besides Surprise Cave, you can visit Dong Tien Lake, Luon Cave and Trinh Nu Cave in the nearby area.
• Bring all the things you need for outside activities, including sunscreens, sunglasses and hats.
• Since you have to walk over stairs to reach Surprise Cave, comfortable clothes are better for movement.
• In case you intend to visit Halong Bay during the tourism season, you need to book the tour and hotel in advance. Tourism season is the most crowded time in Halong Bay.
• Don’t forget to protect the environment in the area of Surprise Cave and Bo Hon Island.

Are you excited about the trip to Surprise Cave in order to discover the beauty of the cave yourself? As one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay, Surprise Cave is such a masterpiece of the Creator in Halong Bay. If you have a chance to visit this cave, don’t forget to share with us your memorable moments there! Hope you have a journey safe and sound.