Dau Go Cave stands out among the stunning scenery of Ha Long Bay draws countless tourists each year with its historical tales and natural beauty. In this blog, let’s uncover the stories behind its name and explore its unique features. Join us as we delve into why this cave is a must-see spot for travelers looking to experience the wonders of Ha Long Bay.
What Does “Dau Go” Mean?
Dau Go Cave, also known as the Wooden Stakes Cave, has a name with interesting stories behind it. The most popular story goes back to the 13th century during the Vietnamese-Yuan Mongolian War. Vietnamese commander Tran Hung Dao used wooden stakes as a defense in the Bach Dang River. After the war, some of these wooden stakes were found in the cave, giving it the name “Dau Go Cave” (Wooden Stakes Cave).
Another story says that the cave’s bow shape made it a perfect spot for fishermen to take shelter during big storms. They would fix their boats and leave wooden pieces behind, leading to the name.
Lastly, some believe that the cave’s unique shape resembles a giant timber tree, which is why it’s called “Dau Go Cave.” For now, the real reason for the cave’s name is still a mystery. However, these stories make Dau Go Cave even more interesting and appealing to travelers.
Location
Dau Go Cave is located on Dau Go Island in the beautiful Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. It’s about 6 kilometers from Bai Chay Tourist Port and just 3 kilometers from Tuan Chau Island, next to Thien Cung Cave.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Dau Go Cave and Ha Long Bay as well, is from April to June. During this period, the weather is delightful with pleasant temperatures and a low chance of rain. These favorable conditions provide ideal opportunities for exploring the attractions of Halong Bay, such as Thien Cung Cave and Dau Go Cave.
How To Get There
To visit Dau Go Cave, first, you need to make your way to Ha Long. Depending on where you’re starting from, you can take a coach, tourist bus, plane, or car. Once you are in Ha Long, you have two main options to reach Hang Dau Go:
Option 1: Book a cruise tour of Ha Long Bay. These tours typically include a visit to Dau Go Cave and are a great choice if you prefer traveling with a group. When booking, make sure to ask about the specific points of interest to avoid any confusion.
Option 2: Travel to Ha Long City and head to Tuan Chau Pier. From there, you can take a boat trip to explore the cave at your own pace, which is perfect if you prefer to explore independently.
What To Expect When Visiting Dau Go Cave
Dau Go Cave is situated at an elevation of 27 meters above sea level, covering approximately 5,000 square meters. Its entrance measures 17 meters wide and 12 meters high. Scientists estimate its formation around 2 million years ago.
Among the caves in Ha Long Bay, Hang Dau Go is notably favored by nature, boasting a diverse ecosystem of plants and animals. Inside Dau Go Cave is a vast space divided into 3 chambers, each of which has its beauty.
The first chamber
The first chamber of Dau Go Cave is filled with natural light because it’s close to the entrance. This light shows off the unique limestone formations, inviting visitors to marvel at the sights and imagine different animal shapes. The chamber has an arched shape and is full of colorful stalactites and stalagmites.
The ceiling looks like a giant, beautiful painting, and many visitors see different images in it, like deer, elephants, lions, and turtles. Standing under the domed ceiling feels like being in a grand, majestic castle. The first part of Hang Dau Go is truly a sight to behold.
The second chamber
Moving deeper into Dau Go Cave, you’ll encounter the second chamber, which showcases large, wavy rock formations surrounded by flowing water. The lighting here is soft and adds to the beauty of the scene. Among these formations, you’ll find clusters of stalactites hidden away, which add a sense of mystery and fascination to the cave exploration.
The third chamber
Entering the third chamber of Dau Go Cave is an awe-inspiring experience as visitors encounter its unexpectedly large size. At the center of this chamber is a clear water well that immediately catches the eye. The stalactites hanging here take on shapes that resemble the detailed architecture of castles, which sparks the imagination. As you explore deeper into the chamber, the light grows dimmer, which adds a mystical atmosphere and enhances the sense of wonder and enchantment.
Tips For Visiting Dau Go Cave
- Bring your food and drinks because there are no stores on the island.
- Wear sports shoes instead of sandals or flip-flops for a more comfortable trip.
- If you’re traveling alone, consider asking for a tour guide before entering the cave.
- Because the cave is large and humid, bring water and apply mosquito repellent. Please respect the cave by not touching artifacts and avoiding littering to preserve its natural beauty.
- Make sure your camera and phone batteries are fully charged to capture beautiful moments during your visit.
Dau Go Cave, with its fascinating history and breathtaking natural beauty, promises an immersive experience that will truly impress you with the wonders of nature. If you’re planning a trip to Halong Bay, make sure not to miss the opportunity to explore Dau Go Cave and enjoy its enchanting surroundings, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Take a look at our Vietnam tour packages for more interesting options which can be customized due to your preferences.
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