Hua Mạ Cave, one of the most magnificent caves in Northern Vietnam, is nestled to the south of Ba Bể Lake along the tranquil Lèng River. Perched halfway up the Lone Mountain within the lush, verdant Lèo Pèn forest, Hua Mạ Cave captivates visitors with its grandeur and natural splendor.
A Natural Masterpiece
Spanning over 700 meters in length, the cave features ceilings soaring as high as 40–50 meters at some points. Hua Mạ is adorned with mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites that shimmer in the dim light. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a cool and airy atmosphere created by the interconnected chambers. The intricate formations inside the cave include cascading rock curtains that flow from the entrance to the depths of the cavern, resembling terraced fields in their layered beauty.
Dozens of towering stone columns, some as high as 10–15 meters, stand majestically within the cave. These formations, intricately sculpted by nature, resemble the stately pillars of ancient temples and pagodas, evoking a sense of awe and reverence.
The Legend of Hua Mạ Cave
Hua Mạ Cave is steeped in a mysterious and haunting legend. The Tày people refer to the Lèo Pèn forest as “Rừng Thiêng” or “Sacred Forest.” According to local lore, strange, eerie howls would emanate from the cave at dusk, reverberating throughout the area and persisting until late at night, striking fear into the hearts of villagers.
The legend tells of a general from the royal court who once passed through this region. While attempting to cross the Lèng River near the cave as nightfall approached, his horses inexplicably refused to enter the water, neighing loudly as if warning of impending danger. At the same time, haunting cries echoed from the direction of the cave.
Curious and alarmed, the general summoned the villagers, who revealed that the cries came from the restless spirits of soldiers who had perished in the cave. These soldiers had taken refuge in the cave during a battle but were sealed inside by the enemy, leaving their souls trapped for eternity.
Understanding the gravity of the situation, the general and his troops set up camp by the Lèng River and performed a ceremonial offering. They sacrificed a horse, using its head as an offering to appease the spirits. Miraculously, as the ritual concluded, the cries gradually faded, leaving an eerie silence. Over time, the cave’s interior began to take on astonishing formations, with some resembling a stone lotus, others evoking the figure of Avalokiteshvara, and even scenes reminiscent of a royal court in session.
The Name “Hua Mạ”
The cave’s name, Hua Mạ, translates to “Horse Head Cave” in the local language, commemorating the mysterious events and the general’s ritual that brought peace to the area. The cave’s stunning stalactites and stalagmites are considered by locals to be remnants of this mystical tale, adding a sense of wonder and spirituality to its natural beauty.
A Journey into the Mystical
Hua Mạ Cave is not just a geological marvel but also a spiritual and cultural treasure. Its intricate rock formations, rich legends, and serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for those exploring Ba Bể National Park. Visitors will find themselves transported to a world of natural artistry and mythical wonder, where every step reveals a new story carved in stone by time and nature.
Whether you seek adventure, history, or simply a moment of awe in nature’s embrace, Hua Mạ Cave offers an experience that is as unforgettable as it is enchanting.
