Dau Go Cave: A Guide To The "Wooden Head" Cave
Dau Go Cave or “Wooden Head" or "Wooden Stakes", is on Dau Go Island and is the biggest cave in the Halong area. Dau Go is quite far from Bai Chay Tourist Wharf at around 7 km, and 3.5 km from Tuan Chau Marina.
The cave
Don't let the distance deter you; Dau Go Cave remains one of Halong Bay's most renowned caves, celebrated for its impressive size and volume. Initially explored by French tourists in the 19th century, it was dubbed “Grotte des Merveilles” or "Cave of Wonders" in English. Truly, it is a cave of wonders—its beauty is beyond words, making a visit essential to appreciate its splendor fully!
Inside Dau Go cave
Dau Go Cave sits 27 meters above sea level, and visitors must ascend 90 rocky steps to reach its entrance. Within the cave are three expansive chambers, each showcasing remarkable stalactite and stalagmite formations along with historic inscriptions dating back to the French exploration. The large front opening gives the cave a humid atmosphere, and a significant feature in the third chamber is a vast freshwater lake.
In 1918, the 12th Emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty visited Dau Go Cave and was so moved by its beauty that he composed a poem in its honor. This poem can still be found etched onto the left side of the cave.
Name origins
Dau Go Cave derives its name from wooden stakes, as it is believed that during a Mongol invasion, General Tran Hung Dao utilized the cave to store wooden stakes from the mainland before sending them down the Bach Dang River. These stakes were employed in a strategic maneuver to sink enemy boats during battle.
Many visitors consider exploring Dau Go Cave to be a highlight of their Halong Bay experience; it is a stunning cave well worth the 90-step climb!
