Lotus blossoms in Hang Mua

Tourists immerse themselves in the majestic mountains and the charming lotus blossoms of the lotus pond at Hang Mua. (Photo: Ngoc Linh)

At 6 a.m., the road to Mua Cave (Hoa Lu city) was already bustling with people. At the foot of Ngoa Long mountain, the lotus pond resembled a giant silk cloth, exuding a gentle, refreshing fragrance. In the middle of the pond, the winding wooden bridge shaped like a lotus flower stood out, becoming a meeting point for countless cameras, women in traditional ao dai dresses, and conical hats.

*A panoramic view of the lotus pond at Hang Múa in the early morning. (Photo: Ngọc Linh)*

*The allure of the Hang Mua lotus pond attracts a large number of tourists (Photo: Ngoc Linh)*

Many young people choose to arrive at Hang Mua early to "hunt for photos." Trieu Phuong Nhu Ngoc, from Hanoi , traveled over 100 km to catch the lotus blossoms: "I started preparing at 5 am to have time to do my makeup, rent an outfit, and take photos in the early morning sunlight. Because this is my first time at Hang Mua, I was truly surprised by the vast, vibrant, and very poetic lotus pond. No other place I've been to has impressed me as much as the lotuses at Hang Mua; they are beautiful, pure, and possess a unique peacefulness characteristic of Ninh Binh."

*The best time to take photos at the lotus pond is early in the morning. (Photo: Ngoc Linh)*

*Lotus flowers bloom early in the season under the summer sun. (Photo: Ngoc Linh)*

The lotus flowers at Hang Mua didn't appear naturally. They are the result of months of cultivation and care by skilled farmers and the tourism management team.

The Hang Múa lotus pond stretches across a vast swamp area of over 1 hectare, primarily planted with Japanese lotus (red lotus). This year, in particular, the pond is further enhanced by water lilies and blood-red lotus, creating a vibrant, colorful, and captivating scene like never before.

Mr. Do Duc Hoi, the technical supervisor at Hang Mua lotus pond, shared: “From January onwards, we started preparing the soil, improving the field surface, and removing old lotus roots to prepare for the new season. Lotus care is done systematically, from applying base fertilizer to top dressing and pest control. Every morning I have to go to the pond to check, remove any trash, and cut off any withered leaves to maintain a clean environment.”

According to him, during peak season, the Hang Mua lotus pond receives between 1,500 and 2,000 visitors daily. On peak days, the number can double. The pressure is immense, but it also motivates the staff to meticulously care for the flowers every day, ensuring the pond's beauty is preserved for visitors.

Having been associated with Hang Mua throughout all four lotus seasons, Hoang Truong Son, a freelance photographer, is usually present here from 5 am, ready to assist tourists in taking lotus photos early in the morning: “We always try to adjust our poses and find the best angles so that tourists can get satisfactory lotus photos. Typically, each photographer at Hang Mua can earn from 1.5 to 2 million VND a day. Especially on weekends, we photographers can't keep up with the demand because of the overwhelming number of visitors.”

*The most beautiful spots by the lagoon are crowded with tourists checking in and taking photos. (Photo: Ngoc Linh)*

Visiting Hang Mua during the lotus season, tourists can not only immerse themselves in the stunning lotus pond amidst the majestic mountains and waters of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, but also enjoy a cup of fragrant lotus-infused tea, feeling a rare sense of peace. All of this combines to create an unforgettable experience, fulfilling a journey in search of tranquility.