The Tam Cung Grotto or Three-palace Grotto is situated in the center of Hạ Long Bay, 5 km from Sửng Sôt Grotto to the northeast. The grottoitself is divided into three parts; after threading the stone cracks,you find the first chamber. Many beautiful forms can be garnered fromthe rocky shapes.

Continuing on to the second chamber, thebumpy way leads to a spring with fresh water. The last room containsfurther incredible stone depictions.

Tam Cung Grotto lies in Mây Đèn, aluxuriant island nearly isolated from other islands. Mây Ðèn’s cliffsare extremely vertical, while its forest is flourishing.

Entering its first chamber, one can hearthe sound of t’rung or stone musical instrument from near and far.Pushing further inside, tourists meet a “fairy” whose white beard fliesin the wind climbing the mountain. High in the wall of the chamber therestand three statues representing prosperity, happiness and longevity,looking down at the earthly world. From the ceiling falls down astalactite which resembles the bud of a hydrangea among a garden ofstone flowers. Going through a narrow passage, one comes to a naturalmuseum of lively animals, including lions, seals, even god of the sea.In the middle of the second chamber lies a stream murmuring all yearround, making the two surrounding cliffs rustle. In the last chamber,tourists can find an imposing beys-relief in which are carved elaboratestrange images, lying layer after layer in a harmonious layout. One canfigure out flowers, bamboos, stone curtains, or sleeping elephants.

(halong cruise.info)