Kim Quy Grotto (Golden Tortoise) in Halong Bay

Kim Quy Grotto in Halong Bay

This grotto is situated on Dam Nam Island, with a peak 187m above sea level. The grotto is 100m long and 5 to 10m wide, running in a north-south direction.

Kim Quy Grotto of Halong Bay

It is linked to the ancient legend of the Golden Tortoise: after having helped Emperor Le Loi defeat his enemies, the Golden Tortoise took back the magic sword he had given him, and swam towards the sea. Arriving in Ha long Bay, it met with so many evil spirits and demons hindering its journey that it remained to do battle. After having defeated them all, the Golden Tortoise was so exhausted that it searched for a grotto to rest in, and once inside, turned to stone.

A narrow way leads to the interior of the grotto where a stream flows. The stalactites here are snow white and lightly hang from the ceiling. Today in the grotto, it can be found dozing, still with ancient wounds covering its body.

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