Tuyệt Tịnh Cốc (Am Tiên Cave): The Emerald Gem & Hidden History of Ninh Bình | Vietnam Purple Travel Guide

Today is your last full day in Vietnam. While will spend the afternoon going back to Hanoi, we still have some time in Ninh Binh in the morning.
You can either visit one of the sites that you may have missed in the last days, or spend it at a park that only few tourists visit: Tuyệt Tịnh Cốc

As for the transfer to Hanoi, many hotels in Ninh Binh will offer to organize a private driver for you, if you tell them a few days in advance.
Otherwise, you can always book a transfer via Viator of GetYourGuide, or ask one of the agencies who have arranged previous transfers.

As for the hotel in Hanoi, many hotels near the airport are much simpler than the fancier hotels in Hanoi’s French Quarter, and hotel personnel will generally be less skilled in the English language. The areas near the airport are residential areas where the locals live, and there is very little of interest to tourists. But most of all, there are very few restaurants, and most of the few are not accustomed to catering to foreign tourists.
So, unless your dinner is included in the hotel rate, you will likely need to take a Grab or a taxi to go to more touristy areas in Hanoi.
For all the inconveniences, nothing can be beat the proximity to the airport and the very short ride to the airport that comes with it, especially if you have an early morning flight.

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.

Tuyệt Tịnh Cốc

(map, reviews)

Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00am to 5:30pm.

Admission Fee: 50,000 VND per adult (at the time of writing).

Located in a secluded valley surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and serene emerald waters, Tuyệt Tịnh Cốc (often referred to as Am Tiên Cave and Lake) is a tranquil destination in the Ninh Bình region that is worth spending a few hours.

History and Background of Tuyệt Tịnh Cốc

Tuyệt Tịnh Cốc is just a short drive from the Hoa Lư Ancient Capital. Historically, this valley was part of the Dịnh and Lê dynasties' royal territory during the 10th century. As its alternative name suggests, the site includes Âm Tiên Cave (Hang Âm Tiên), which served as a prison and execution ground under King Đinh Tiên Hoàng, used for traitors and criminals.
Later, it became a place of spiritual retreat, where monks and nuns meditated in isolation. Today, it is also a popular location for Vietnamese pre-wedding photos due to its dreamlike scenery.

Key Attractions of Tuyệt Tịnh Cốc

Tuyệt Tịnh Lake

• The centerpiece of the site is a lake with crystal-clear water, which sits between steep karst cliffs. The lake was formed after limestone mining ceased in the area. Today the lake is pristine and peaceful, and reflects the sky and nearby mountains. Wooden walkways and stone paths line parts of the lakeside, perfect for slow strolls and photography. No boats are allowed on the water to preserve its natural purity.

Pagoda and Shrine Area

• Near the lake sits a small mountain temple and Buddhist shrine with statues of guardian lions and bodhisattvas tucked into alcoves in the rock.

Âm Tiên Cave (Hang Âm Tiên)

• Set high in the limestone cliffs, this cave is accessible via a staircase with 205 stone steps. The name means ‘Cave of the Hidden Fairy’ or ‘Hidden Voice Cave’ and refers to its mysterious echoing acoustics. Inside you will find a small shrine and relics that hint at its ancient religious use. From the cave entrance, you have beautiful panoramic views of the lake and valley below.

Scenic Hiking Trails

• Surrounding the lake are short trails that lead to hidden viewpoints, ancient trees, and quiet spots for reflection. The landscape is often compared to scenes from Chinese wuxia movies (martial arts movies in beautiful scenic places) or fantasy dramas, making it a good place for photographers and a romantic place for couples. The hikes in this park are not long, but often have steep parts, which

Practical Tips for Tuyệt Tịnh Cốc

• Bring water and sun protection.

• There are a few small vendors outside the entrance, but limited facilities inside.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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