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Cat Ba Island Hospital Cave
Hospital Cave is a unique and historic site located on Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong, Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, the cave was used as a secret hospital and bomb shelter by the North Vietnamese Army. Today, it is open to visitors and offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Hospital Cave.
Getting to Hospital Cave
Hospital Cave is located about 10 kilometers from Cat Ba town and can be reached by motorbike or taxi. If you’re staying in Cat Ba town, you can easily rent a motorbike for around 150,000 VND per day and ride to the cave. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi from Cat Ba town for around 300,000 VND.
The road to Hospital Cave is well-paved and easy to navigate. However, it can be narrow and winding in places, so it’s important to drive carefully and follow local traffic laws.
Ticket Price and Hours of Operation
The ticket price for Hospital Cave is 40,000 VND per person. The cave is open daily from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, with the last entry at 4:30 pm. It’s recommended to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
What to Expect at Hospital Cave
Hospital Cave is a unique and fascinating site that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history. The cave is located within a mountain and was used as a hospital and bomb shelter during the Vietnam War. The cave was constructed in three levels and was equipped with basic medical facilities, including an operating theater, pharmacy, and living quarters for medical staff and patients.
Today, the cave has been preserved as a museum and visitors can explore the various rooms and corridors. The cave is well-lit and easy to navigate, with informative signs in both Vietnamese and English.
As you explore the cave, you’ll see a range of rooms and facilities, including the operating theater, the pharmacy, and the living quarters. The cave also features a small pond and a garden, which were used to grow medicinal herbs and plants.
One of the most interesting features of Hospital Cave is the secret tunnel that leads out of the cave and into the jungle. This tunnel was used by medical staff and patients to escape in case of a bombing raid. Today, visitors can walk through the tunnel and imagine what it would have been like to use it during the war.
Tips for Visiting Hospital Cave
- Wear comfortable shoes: Hospital Cave involves a fair amount of walking, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes that are suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring water: It can get hot and humid inside the cave, so it’s important to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Respect the site: Hospital Cave is a historic and sacred site, so it’s important to respect the rules and regulations. Visitors should not touch or remove any artifacts, and should not litter or damage the site in any way.
- Take your time: Hospital Cave is a fascinating and unique site, so it’s worth taking your time to explore and appreciate it fully.
In conclusion, Hospital Cave is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Vietnam’s wartime history. With its fascinating history and unique setting, the cave offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. By following the tips and guidelines outlined above, you can make the most of your visit to this historic site.