Mua Cave (Hang Múa), also known as Ngoa Long Mountain, is one of the prominent icons of the Trang An World Heritage landscape complex, combining natural beauty and historic value in perfect harmony. Legend has it that under the reign of King Dinh Tien Hoang (10th century), this area was a place where royal court dance and music performances were held for the king and queen, hence the name “Hang Múa” (Dancing Cave) was born and passed down to this day.

Currently, Mua Cave is famous for its nearly 500 stone steps hugging the mountainside, leading travelers to the top of Ngoa Long Peak, opening up a magnificent panoramic view covering the Ngo Dong River, Tam Coc, and vast golden rice fields. Not only a photo paradise for young travelers, Mua Cave is also an ideal stop to experience local culture, learn about ancient capital history, and enjoy the tranquil pace of life unique to the Northern Vietnamese countryside.

Mua Cave is located in Khe Dau Ha village, Ninh Xuan commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province, about 5km from Ninh Binh city center and around 100km from Hanoi. This location makes it very convenient to combine with nearby attractions such as Trang An (a 10-minute drive), Tam Coc – Bich Dong, or the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.

How to get there from Hanoi:

• Motorbike or self-drive car: Take the Hanoi – Ninh Binh expressway (approx. 1.5–2 hours). From Ninh Binh city, turn onto Highway 38B towards Hoa Lu, then follow the road signs to Mua Cave. There is a spacious parking area at the foot of the mountain.
• Bus or coach: Catch a bus from Giap Bat station (Hanoi) to Ninh Binh (around 80,000–100,000 VND/one way), then rent a motorbike or take a taxi (around 50,000 VND) to Mua Cave.
• Train: From Hanoi Railway Station to Ninh Binh Station (2–3 hours), then travel by taxi or motorbike taxi (xe ôm).

If traveling from Ho Chi Minh City, you can fly to Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) and continue your journey to Ninh Binh. 

Note: The road to Mua Cave is quite easy to navigate, but it can be slippery during the rainy season, so check the weather forecast in advance.

To have the best experience at Mua Cave, choosing a travel time that suits your personal interests and travel goals is essential.

Golden time: May to June (ripe rice season)

This period is considered the most beautiful time of the year to visit Mua Cave.

• Scenery: The rice fields in Tam Coc below turn a brilliant golden color, creating a magnificent natural picture when viewed from the peak. This is the multi-million dollar view that every traveler dreams of capturing.
• Weather: Warm and sunny weather, ideal for mountain climbing, photography, and panoramic sightseeing, yet not as harsh as mid-summer.

To ensure safety and the best experience, visitors should avoid heavy rains or the monsoon season (usually falling between July and September), as the climbing trail can become slippery and visibility may be limited.

Below is official information regarding ticket prices and opening hours at the Mua Cave Tourist Area, based on the latest update from the Ninh Binh Department of Tourism in 2025:

• Ticket price: 100,000 VND/adult (applies to children from 1m in height and above). Free for children under 1m. This price includes entry and access to the entire area.
• Opening hours: From 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. It is recommended to arrive early (around 6:00–7:00 AM) to avoid crowds and enjoy the sunrise, or late afternoon to watch the sunset.

Visitors should arrive early in the morning (around 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM) to avoid large crowds and enjoy the fresh air, or visit in the late afternoon to admire the gorgeous sunset scenery.

The Mua Cave Tourist Area offers an exploration journey that goes far beyond simple mountain climbing, delivering a harmonious combination of natural challenge, awe-inspiring scenery, and unique cultural experiences.

• Climbing 486 steps to Ngoa Long Peak: This is Mua Cave's signature activity. From the summit, you can take in a panoramic view of Tam Coc with winding rivers and rolling mountain peaks resembling a vivid ink wash painting. The climb takes about 20–30 minutes depending on your fitness level.
• Exploring the cave: Mua Cave itself is a small natural cave at the foot of the mountain, featuring a mysterious entrance and cool air. Inside are natural stalactites, suitable for those who love exploring.
• Check-in and photography: This place is a photo lover's paradise with iconic spots like the Great Wall style path, the dragon statue on the summit, the lotus pond, and the rice fields. Don't forget comfortable outfits for posing!
• Cultural experiences: Participate in activities such as picking lotus flowers (in summer) or listening to Quan Ho folk songs in nearby rural villages.

After leaving Mua Cave, travelers can easily head to Tam Coc (experience a boat trip on the Ngo Dong River), Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (UNESCO World Heritage Site), or Hoa Lu Ancient Capital to complete a day of history and nature.

To make your exploration of Mua Cave seamless, safe, and comfortable, travelers should keep in mind the following important tips:

• Ideal attire includes breathable clothing, slip-resistant sneakers, and strictly avoiding high heels. 
• Bring drinking water, sunscreen, a hat, and a small towel to wipe sweat to stay comfortable throughout the hike.
• Do not attempt to climb during rainy weather as the stone steps become slippery. 
• Children, the elderly, or those with weak physical health should receive support throughout the journey. 
• Follow warning signs, do not climb over safety railings, and maintain general cleanliness.

If you prefer a private atmosphere to admire the scenic views or take photos, prioritize visiting on weekdays, or choose to climb early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These are also the two times of day with the best lighting for capturing impressive photos.

The journey to conquer 486 stone steps, admire the sweeping view of Tam Coc, and immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of Ninh Binh's mountains is always a worthwhile experience for every traveler. And to make your trip lighter, more convenient, and completely hassle-free, partnering with a reputable tour company is a smart choice. If you want to fully enjoy the beauty of Mua Cave without worrying about schedules, transportation, or hidden costs, check out the all-inclusive Mua Cave Tour by Sovaba Travel. The tour is optimized for both individual travelers and families, combining top attractions to help you spend a day in Ninh Binh filled with emotion and truly "worth every moment".