Audio Guide of Cave Hospital

Cave Hospital is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. To get there, take a boat from Cat Ba Port and then a taxi or motorbike to the national park, where it is located about 15 km from the town center; consider joining a guided tour for greater convenience. More details are available on the official Cat Ba Government website.

Admission costs approximately 40,000 VND (about USD 1.50) per adult, and it is free or discounted for children under 12. If you are traveling in a group, some tours offer combined packages with other attractions for around 100,000 VND; check updated prices on TripAdvisor.

It is recommended to allow 1 to 2 hours to explore the cave, including the climb up the stairs and the visit to the historic rooms. If you go with a guide, you may want to extend it to 2.5 hours for a fuller and more educational experience.

Cave Hospital was built in 1963 during the Vietnam War and served as an underground hospital to treat thousands of wounded soldiers and civilians, with operating rooms, dormitories, and anti-aircraft defenses. It stands as a symbol of Vietnamese resistance and wartime ingenuity, attracting visitors interested in Vietnam’s modern history.

The best time is during the dry season from May to September, when the weather is warm and dry, ideal for the walk. Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, around 8:00 AM, when the natural light highlights the rock formations best.

Access involves climbing about 300 steep steps, so it is not ideal for people with reduced mobility; there are no elevators or ramps. It is recommended to check with a tour operator for alternative options or assistance, and if you have questions, contact the national park at +84 225 388 3996.

Nearby you will find Cannon Fort, just 2 km away, with panoramic bay views, and Cat Co Beach, 10 km away, for relaxing afterward. You can also explore Cat Ba National Park for hiking and monkey watching; consider a combined itinerary to make the most of your day.

Wear comfortable shoes for the stairs, and bring water and insect repellent, as the interior is humid and cool. Hire a local guide for detailed explanations in English and join a tour from Cat Ba Town if you are traveling alone; respect the site by not touching historical artifacts to help preserve them.