Sights - One Thousand Steps at Hang Mua peak

Constructed in one of the largest limestone karsts in the region, the “One Thousand Steps” is actually about 486. However you have to come back down again - so its counted twice! A little cheeky on the promotion but a relief on the legs! Getting top the top takes about half an hour. The steps themselves are a little worn in places, so care should be taken as there are few handrails. The view from the top is well worth it though. On one side you can see the Ngo Dong River down below, flanked by the limestone karsts. From the top looking the other way you can see the dragon sculptures as well as a small shrine and in the distance the town of Ninh Binh.

Hang Mua Caves

When you have done climbing to the top, there are actually some caves underneath worth exploring. The caves have the same name - Hang Mua (Hang means cave, and Mua means Dancing) – the name comes from a folk tales about a King Vua Tran Thai Tong that often went to the cave below the mountain to hear the beautiful female singers singing and dancing. In the cave is also the “fairy stream”.

Floating Lotus Garden

A beautiful garden next to the karst. Filled with water flowers & an elevated path above the water to guide you. Also a very popular place for taking photos.

Image Missing

An early morning view from half way up the steps. The sky really is that blue this time of the day.

Image Missing

A view from the other summit with the dragon temple on the top. You can see the visitors all climbing the steps.

Image Missing

The love garden aka lotus garden. A popular place for people to take photos when the lotus flower is in bloom

Image Missing

Under the giant limestone karst is the cave and stream. Mind your head though - clearances can be low in places.