January
19.5°C ~ 67°F
19 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
Eight Ladies Cave
A historic memorial site located within the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
- Location
- Phong Nha
- Time needed
- 45 – 60 minutes
- Best months
- Feb – Aug
Overview
Eight Ladies Cave is a historical memorial site located along the 20 Road in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, famous for its significance as a wartime shelter for youth volunteers. The site serves as a place of remembrance for eight individuals who were trapped inside the cave during an aerial bombing in 1972.
Visitors reach the site by traveling along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, a route that was critical for logistics during the conflict. The entrance is marked by a small shrine and a series of memorial plaques located near the base of the limestone cliffs. The surrounding area remains quiet and forested, providing a somber atmosphere for those reflecting on the local history. It is common for local visitors to bring incense to offer at the memorial altar located near the cave entrance.
Highlights
- View the memorial shrine dedicated to the eight youth volunteers
- Read the historical plaques detailing the events of 1972
- Observe the cave entrance located at the base of the limestone mountain
- Walk the quiet surrounding forest paths within the national park
Visitor information
| Time needed | 45 – 60 minutes |
|---|---|
| Best time of day | Morning |
| Good for | History enthusiasts, solo travellers, cultural tourists |
| Accessibility | The site features flat paved paths around the memorial, but reaching the cave entrance requires climbing stairs. |
| Facilities | Toilets, parking, memorial shrine |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Phong Nha by month.
February
20.4°C ~ 69°F
16 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
March
23.9°C ~ 75°F
15 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
April
27°C ~ 81°F
14 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
May
28.9°C ~ 84°F
18 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
June
30.6°C ~ 87°F
10 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
July
29.7°C ~ 85°F
17 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
August
29.4°C ~ 85°F
17 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
September
27.7°C ~ 82°F
23 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
October
24.9°C ~ 77°F
27 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
November
22.8°C ~ 73°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
December
19.8°C ~ 68°F
22 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
How to get there
- From Phong Nha centre
Eight Ladies Cave is located 20 km from Phong Nha town centre along the historic Road 20 Quyet Thang. The easiest way to reach the site is by renting a motorbike or hiring a private car with a driver for a half-day trip. Expect to pay between 300,000 VND ($12) and 500,000 VND ($19) for a private car hire. Be cautious on the mountain roads, as they can be narrow and winding.
- Eight Ladies Cave
Tips before you go
- Visit in the morning to avoid the high afternoon heat during the summer months
- Dress modestly as this is a solemn memorial site
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat if visiting between September and November due to heavy rainfall
- Bring cash for any small offerings or local snacks sold near the entrance
- Check road conditions before travel during the rainy season
Location
Road 20 Quyet Thang, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Phong Nha
20 km from Phong Nha town centre
More attractions in Phong Nha
FAQs
How much time is needed to visit Eight Ladies Cave?
Visitors typically spend 45 to 60 minutes at Eight Ladies Cave. This duration allows enough time to view the memorial shrine, read the historical plaques, and observe the cave entrance at the base of the mountain.
Is there an entry fee for Eight Ladies Cave?
There is no official entry fee for Eight Ladies Cave. It is a memorial site located within the national park, though visitors should bring some cash for small offerings or local snacks sold near the entrance.
When is the best season to visit Eight Ladies Cave?
The best time to visit is from February to April or July to August. These months offer the most comfortable weather conditions for exploring the site, avoiding the heavy rainfall experienced during the autumn and early winter months.
Is Eight Ladies Cave accessible for all visitors?
The site features flat paved paths around the memorial area, which are easy to navigate. However, reaching the actual cave entrance requires climbing stairs, which may be challenging for visitors with limited mobility. Check before you go regarding specific assistance needs.
Should I visit Eight Ladies Cave during the rainy season?
Visiting between September and November is not recommended due to heavy rainfall in the region. If you do visit during these months, carry an umbrella or raincoat and check weather forecasts before you go, as paths can become slippery.