According to folklore, the name "Dau Go" originated from three different fascinating stories:
The first legend: During the battle against the Mongol invaders in the 13th century, General Tran Hung Dao, the supreme commander, ordered wooden stakes to be driven into the sea to destroy the enemy's ships. After a resounding victory, many wooden stakes were left inside the cave, and the name "Dau Go" is derived from the phrase "giấu gỗ," meaning "hidden wood" in Vietnamese.
The second legend: It is believed that there was a series of crescent-shaped islands in front of Dau Go Cave, which provided shelter for fishermen during storms. While seeking refuge and repairing their boats, the fishermen left behind pieces of wood, giving rise to the name "Dau Go."
The third legend: The name of the cave is explained by its distinctive shape. When viewed from a distance, the cave resembles a giant wooden log with two holes at both ends, resembling the shape of a wooden log.
Regardless of the explanations, it cannot be denied that these legendary tales have contributed to the allure of this place. Today, Dau Go Cave has become a captivating and unmissable destination in Halong Bay for travelers.
Dau Go Cave is a limestone cave located within the scenic complex of Halong Bay. The cave is approximately 3km away from Tuan Chau Island and 6km away from the Bai Chay tourist area. Visitors to this cave can experience a unique blend of pristine and ancient beauty, adorned with various naturally formed and oddly shaped stalactites and stalagmites.
Covering an area of around 5,000 square meters, Dau Go Cave's entrance features a large star-shaped structure that is situated about 20km above sea level, creating an incredibly distinctive and captivating sight. Scientists estimate that the cave was formed around 2 million years ago, during the same period as Thien Cung Cave, which is only 300m away.
Dau Go Cave has been honored by the famous French travel magazine, Merveille de Monde, as the "Cave of Wonders" - Grotte des Merveilles. When visiting Dau Go Cave, tourists cannot miss the breathtaking details inside the cave, which provide unique photo opportunities. Inside Dau Go Cave, a pristine and tranquil beauty emerges, with towering columns, stalactites, and stalagmites that seem to reach up to the blue sky.
Due to the cave's characteristic of having a spacious entrance, the interior of the cave has relatively high humidity. Under the influence of sunlight, the vegetation carpet inside the cave is rich and diverse, with flourishing moss and ferns. This is also what sets Dau Go Cave apart from other caves in Halong Bay.
First Chamber: The system of stalactites takes various familiar forms, such as lions, pythons, and turtles. The outer part of this chamber is filled with natural light, creating a reflection that envelops the surroundings. The cave ceiling resembles a magnificent oil painting, depicting outstanding natural scenery with unique shapes that stimulate the imagination of visitors.
Second Chamber: The second chamber of the cave is likened to a magnificent painting with large rocks protruding above the water. These unusual formations create a sparkling and mysterious atmosphere unique to Dau Go Cave. In addition, the hidden clusters of stone flowers add a touch of surprise and curiosity for visitors.
Third Chamber: The third chamber is the largest, with an expansive size. Inside the cave, there is a clear water well that provides fresh water all year round. The peculiar shapes of the natural stalagmites may remind visitors of an ancient castle with grand and majestic architecture.
According to the experiences of those who have been here, the ideal time to visit Dau Go Cave is from April to October. Among them, the period from June to August is considered the peak season. During this time, the air in Halong Bay is extremely pleasant and comfortable, making it convenient for sightseeing.
Careful preparation before your trip to Halong Bay will enhance your overall experience and minimize unnecessary risks. Here are some small tips for visitors when visiting Dau Go Cave:
Choose lightweight and comfortable clothing, paired with sports shoes to easily conquer the complex terrain.
Avoid touching artifacts and refrain from littering to preserve the natural landscape of the cave.
Due to the spaciousness of the cave, remember to bring water and apply mosquito repellent throughout your journey.
Don’t forget to bring your phone or camera to capture the magnificent scenery.
A visit to Dau Go Cave is undoubtedly a unique journey of exploring nature that every traveler should not miss when visiting Halong Bay.
