Dong Tien Lake, or Ang Tien Cave, is located on the Bo Hon island in the core of the World Natural Heritage, Ha Long Bay.
Ang Tien Cave
The mystical name Ang Tien (Fairy Lake Cave) is linked to a local legend which says that this is the place where fairies go to bathe and rest.
The cave is made up of two main chambers linked by narrow passageways. The first chamber is characterized by its sparkling stalagmite and stalactite pairs. The entrance to this first cave is at sea level and you may only enter on kayaks or rowboats. In the second chamber, there is a shallow pond surrounded by glittering limestone stalactites and two narrow doorways that lead to the famous fairy lake.
The poetic scenery
The fairy lake is surrounded by impressive limestone mountains. The lake is quiet and peaceful due to its seclusion and a kind of magical hum fills the atmosphere. The Ho Dong Tien Caves are buzzing with wildlife; in the shadows, you may spot crabs, crickets, and bats. It is said by locals that these animals are the pets of the resident fairies.
Ang Tien’s pristine condition is currently under the protection of Halong Management to prevent the cave from being exploited for tourism, and to maintain the cave’s magnificent natural beauty. Those with an interest in ecology or geo-morphology may find this site particularly fascinating and may be able to find an Environment Education class to tour the cave with.
The stalactite system in the cave is still in the process of forming.
Stone curtains on the cave's walls.
Ang Tien is home to a number of endemic plant and animal species which are typical for Ha Long Bay's arid ecosystem.
Cat Ba eyelid gecko living in Dong Tien lake cave is a rare animal on the IUCN World Red List of Endangered Species.
By Pham Le Minh
