How many steps does Mua Cave have? The challenge of conquering Ngoa Long Mountain Peak

Mua Cave Tourist Area, located at the foot of the majestic Ngoa Long Mountain, is a must-visit destination when visiting Ninh Binh.

• Address: Mua Cave is located in Khe Dau Ha Village – Ninh Xuan Commune – Hoa Lu District – Ninh Binh Province, a convenient location to combine with visits to other scenic spots in the region.
• Ticket price and opening hours: Currently, the entrance ticket price for Mua Cave is 100,000 VND/person. The tourist area is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, allowing tourists to choose the ideal time to watch the sunrise or sunset.
• Geographical location: Mua Cave is located on Ngoa Long Mountain, about 10km from the center of Ninh Binh City and about 100km from Hanoi capital, making it very suitable for short weekend trips.

With its convenient location on Ngoa Long Mountain and reasonable ticket prices, Mua Cave is an ideal weekend getaway destination, open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

The exact number recorded is 486 stone steps, although many people often say nearly 500 steps. The climbing path is designed in a zigzag pattern along the mountain slope, with intricately carved bas-reliefs of dragons, phoenixes, nghes, and eagles in the Tran Dynasty style on both sides.

• Design: The path to the top of Ngoa Long Mountain is designed with stone in a zigzag (wavy) shape, featuring meticulously crafted, large-sized steps decorated with intricate dragon and phoenix bas-reliefs, creating a stunning appearance.
• Challenge: Although 486 is not a huge number, the large size of each step combined with the steep terrain makes the conquer a physical challenge that requires perseverance.
• Conquering time: Visitors usually take about 1 hour to climb all 486 steps, including rest stops and sightseeing time.

With 486 stone steps carved with dragons and phoenixes, the journey to conquer Ngoa Long peak is a challenging yet fascinating trip lasting about 20-45 minutes, requiring perseverance from visitors.

Conquering Ngoa Long Mountain Peak at Mua Cave Tourist Area is a perfect blend of physical exercise and natural landscape exploration. The climb begins at the base of the mountain, passing a calm artificial lake and lush green gardens, before becoming more challenging with the 486 stone steps winding around the mountain slope. Although the peak is only about 200m above sea level, the continuous steep slope can tire you out if you are not well-prepared.

According to feedback from many tourists, the hardest part lies in the middle section, where the steps are high, steep, and gusty winds blow. However, the reward for this effort is truly worthwhile: hiking boosts cardiovascular health while offering a sense of relaxation thanks to the fresh air. Reaching the top, you will admire the majestic dragon and phoenix statues, symbols of ancient Vietnamese culture, along with ideal resting spots to take in a panoramic view of Tam Coc from above. Not just a challenge, this is also a memorable journey for anyone who loves nature and wants to recharge with positive energy.

From Ngoa Long Mountain Peak, you will admire a vibrant natural painting: the Ngo Dong River winding through lush green rice fields, rolling limestone mountains, and in the distance, the Trang An complex - a UNESCO World Heritage site. During the ripe rice season (May-June), the landscape turns a brilliant golden color like an ink wash painting. Sunset here is also an ideal moment for "photo hunting," as the sunlight dyes the entire sky red.

To make your Mua Cave climbing journey as smooth and complete as possible, you should note:

Ideal time to visit

• Time of day: It is recommended to go early in the morning (around 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM) or late in the afternoon to avoid harsh sunlight, protect your health, and enjoy the fresh air.
• Sightseeing time:
  • Sunrise: From 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM, when the sun rises over the mountain peaks, creating a brilliant light display.
  • Sunset: From 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM, when the fading sunlight creates a warm and romantic space.
• Best season: Summer (May – July) is when the rice in Tam Coc ripens to a golden yellow and the lotuses at the foot of the mountain bloom vibrantly. Spring is also ideal with cool weather (20 – 25°C).

Packing preparation

• Clothing: Lightweight and easy to move in.
• Footwear: Athletic shoes with good grip are mandatory to prevent slipping on stone paths.
• Essential items: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and drinking water to replenish energy during the climb.

Thorough preparation regarding timing and equipment will help you conquer Mua Cave successfully and have the most wonderful, fulfilling experience on Ngoa Long Peak.

The journey to conquer the 486 stone steps at Mua Cave is not just a trip, but a worthwhile experience to test your willpower and fully appreciate the beauty of nature. From Ngoa Long Mountain Peak, all difficulties seem to dissolve, giving way to a feeling of satisfaction as your eyes embrace the picturesque landscape of Trang An. Whether you explore on your own or choose an all-inclusive Mua Cave tour from Sovaba Travel, this will certainly be an unforgettable highlight of your Ninh Binh trip. Pack your bags, stay motivated, and get ready to capture the most glorious moments on this magnificent "Great Wall"!