Introduction

Nang Tien Cave is known for its untouched natural beauty and the legendary tales of “Seven Fairies”. These aspects have collectively created an image of an alluring cave, which has now become a famous attraction in Vietnam. The cave has been recognized as a National Scenic Monument.

Nang Tien Cave Overview

Nang Tien Cave Overview

From afar, Nang Tien Cave resembles a slumbering maiden. Upon entering the cave, visitors are awestruck by the ethereal beauty created by the stalactites and stalagmites. Companion with Asia King Travel to explore the masterpieces of nature inside the cave

The legend of the name “Nang Tien"

The name “Nang Tien” (Fairy) is attached to the story of “Seven Fairies”. Legend has it that in ancient times, seven fairies descended from heaven to amuse and wash out dirty. Lost in the beauty of the earthly realm, they failed to return to the heavens before nightfall. Realizing the daughters' absence, the Jade Emperor, in his compassion, created a cave for the fairies to shelter in overnight. This cave is now called by the locals “Nang Tien Cave”.

The legend of “Seven Fairies” is very famous among the locals

The legend of “Seven Fairies” is very famous among the locals

Nang Tien Cave is a massive limestone cavern that plunges deep into the mountainside, its entrance towering approximately 6 meters high. The cave's arching ceiling soars to heights between 30 and 50 meters, while lush greenery envelops the surrounding landscape.

Location of Nang Tien Cave

Nang Tien Cave is situated in Na Ri District, Bac Kan Province. The cave is located over 50 kilometers from Bac Kan City center via National Highway 3B, and approximately 180 kilometers northeast of Hanoi.

National Highway 3 in Bac Kan

National Highway 3 in Bac Kan

From the town of Na Ri District, looking to the northwest, there is a majestic mountain range running in a north-south arc. To the north of this, you can see the Khuoi Hai Stream (Moon Stream). About 150 meters from the bank of Khuoi Hai, there is a cave called Nang Tien Cave.

How to get to Nang Tien Cave

If you are departing from Hanoi, you can take the following route: Head towards Nhat Tan Bridge, then onto National Highway 3. Continue straight on this highway and you will arrive in Bac Kan City. The estimated driving time from Hanoi to Bac Kan Province is about 4 hours. 

From the center of Bắc Kạn City, follow National Highway 3B. After passing through Ang Toong Pass, you will arrive at the center of Yen Lac Town, Na Ri District. Head to the north side of the mountain range mentioned above to find Khuoi Hai Stream and you will reach Nang Tien Cave.

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Best time to visit Nang Tien Cave

You can visit Nang Tien Cave at any time of year. The temperature is always cool, even on hot sunny days, thanks to the trees and water around the cave.

The air inside Nang Tien Cave is very pleasant

The air inside Nang Tien Cave is very pleasant

However, please note that if you want to visit Nang Tien Cave from May to October, you should pay attention to the weather forecast. During these months, Bac Kan often experiences unexpected rain which can affect your visit to Nang Tien Cave.

Nang Tien Cave exploration journey

Entrance

From Khuoi Hai Stream, climbing over 132 stone steps, visitors will see a large rock with a rounded dome structure. The top is covered with dense vegetation, and the bottom has an entrance, which is the way to enter the cave.

Cave gate near Khuoi Hai Stream

As soon as you step inside the cave entrance, the light from outside contrasts with the darkness within. From here, the narrow path goes deep into the ground. The deeper you go, the quieter and cooler the air becomes. It feels like you have left the outside world behind and entered a fairyland.

Middle of the Cave

In the cave's center is a large chamber with smaller alcoves on its walls. The ceiling is a uniquely shaped rock formation. Towering stalactites grace the cave's interior, casting enchanting shadows on the floor.

Inside Nang Tien Cave is illuminated by shimmering lights

Inside Nang Tien Cave is illuminated by shimmering lights

From this point, you can behold a nearly panoramic view of the cave's interior. Two passageways from either side invite explorers to go deeper. The ethereal beauty of these hidden chambers is deeply intertwined with local folklore.

“Fairy Chamber”

The underground "fairy chamber" is a beautiful place that looks like it was made for celestial beings. The stalactites hanging from the ceiling look like pretty fairies’s strands of hair. The natural formations here are so grand that they dwarf anyone standing inside. This place is like a haven where you can appreciate nature's beauty all around you.

This is where stalactites show off

This is where stalactites show off

“Fairy Pond”

“Fairy Pond” is a large, clear body of water. The fairies are said to bathe and play in the pond every day. The water here is especially refreshing throughout the year. Many tourists wished to immerse themselves in this cool water.

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Crystal-clear water in the pond

“Fairy Paddy”

After wading through the "fairy pond," you will encounter sunken steps with the water depth varying depending on the season, much like the terraced rice fields of the highlanders. Perhaps because of this, the place is called the "fairy rice fields" - where the fairies grow and harvest crops.

The stone slabs look like terraced fields

The stone slabs look like terraced fields

Conclusion

Today, the Nang Tien Cave has been invested in traffic, so cars can easily move near the cave. Hundreds of solid steps have been built up to the cave entrance; the lighting system has been upgraded. The cave entrance area is staffed and opened when visitors come to visit. 

If you are interested in exploring the mystic beauties of Vietnam, don’t hesitate to contact us. Asia King Travel is always here to help you satisfy your passion.

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