1. Overview of the Kim Quang Cave Festival

1.1. Origin and meaning of the name Kim Quang Cave

Kim Quang Cave – where golden light shines, preserving faith and the legend of the sacred mountain (Photo: Collected) 

Kim Quang Cave carries a profound historical story. This name is given to the natural cave located south of Ba Den Mountain, where sunlight shines through, creating shimmering golden rays. In Vietnamese, "kim quang" means golden light, a symbol of hope and the nation's eternal faith.  

This cave is not only naturally beautiful but also holds many spiritual meanings. Local people believe that this is where deities reside, protecting this land from calamities and bringing peace to the community.

1.2. The role of Kim Quang Cave during the resistance period

During the resistance wars against the French and Americans, Kim Quang Cave played an important role as a revolutionary base. With its strategic location and favorable terrain, it became a natural fortress for the revolutionary forces, serving as a venue for many secret meetings and important combat operations. Notably, in 1961, Kim Quang Cave became the main base of the Huyen Uy Toa Thanh (District Party Committee of Toa Thanh), where crucial military resolutions were implemented and where soldiers fought valiantly in the war to protect the country.

1.3. Formation and development of the Kim Quang Cave festival

The Kim Quang Cave festival was first organized in 1983 to commemorate the soldiers who sacrificed their lives here during the resistance period. Held annually on the 14th day of the first lunar month, the festival is not only an occasion to remember and honor heroes and martyrs but also a major cultural event attracting thousands of visitors. The festival was recognized as a local intangible cultural heritage in 2010, affirming the historical and cultural value of this relic site.

2. Time and location of the Kim Quang Cave festival

2.1. Date of the traditional festival

The Kim Quang Cave festival usually takes place on the 14th day of the first lunar month, when heaven and earth harmonize, an ideal time to pray for a peaceful new year. The festival lasts for one day, with incense offering ceremonies in the early morning and cultural activities concluding in the late afternoon. Visitors participating in the festival will have the opportunity not only to learn about the history of Kim Quang Cave but also to enjoy the solemn and sacred atmosphere of this place.

2.2. Location of Kim Quang Cave at Ba Den Mountain

Kim Quang Cave was once the garrison of the Toa Thanh district military command (Photo: Collection)

Kim Quang Cave is located south of Black Lady Mountain, about 500m from the foot of the mountain along the slope. Although not at a great height, the terrain here is quite rugged and wild.

To access the cave, visitors must cross a chasm 4–5 meters deep, stretching like a dry stream bed, with a width of up to tens of meters. It is this topographical challenge that makes the journey to explore Kim Quang Cave even more attractive to those who are passionate about adventure and nature exploration

2.3. How to get to the festival venue

To reach Kim Quang Cave, visitors need to go to the Black Lady Mountain tourist area first. From Ho Chi Minh City, the distance is about 100 km, taking about 2 hours by car via National Highway 22. From Tay Ninh city, it only takes 30 minutes to reach the foot of the mountain.

3. Ceremony and Festival: Two sources creating the identity of the Kim Quang Cave festival

3.1. Rituals in the ceremony part

Some rituals in the Kim Quang Cave festival (Photo: Collected)

3.1.1. Traditional speech reading ritual

The ceremony begins with a speech reading ritual performed by local government representatives. The speech usually lasts about 15 minutes, recalling the history of Kim Quang Cave, its role during the resistance period, and the significance of this traditional festival.

The atmosphere during the ceremony in the cave is very solemn, with hundreds of people listening, recalling, and sharing heroic historical stories.

3.1.2. Speech by the younger generation

A special feature of the Kim Quang Cave festival is inviting students representing the younger generation to give speeches pledging to continue the tradition. These speeches are often very sincere and touching, expressing deep gratitude to the previous generations.

They often share their understanding of history, as well as their commitment to studying and working hard to build the country. This is a meaningful educational activity that helps transmit traditional values to the next generation.

3.1.3. Incense offering ritual for remembrance

Incense offering ceremony to commemorate national heroes and martyrs (Photo: Collected)

The most important part of the festival is the incense offering ceremony to commemorate national heroes and martyrs. The altar is placed in the deepest part of the cave, decorated with fresh flowers and national flags.

Traditionally, veterans will offer incense first, followed by representatives of the local government, and then the people and tourists. Each person offering incense carries their own thoughts and feelings, creating a sacred and moving atmosphere.

3.2. The vibrant festival activities of Kim Quang Cave festival

3.2.1. Lion dance - a unique cultural feature

After the solemn ceremony, the atmosphere becomes lively with lion dance performances. This is an indispensable traditional activity in the Kim Quang Cave festival.

Lion dance - a unique cultural feature of Southern Vietnam (Photo: Collected)

The lion dance here carries the strong cultural essence of Southern Vietnam, with powerful and graceful movements. Especially, performing in the cave space creates a special echoing sound, making the performance more impressive. Spectators often clap along to the drumbeat, creating a vibrant and exciting festival atmosphere.

3.2.2. Traditional artistic performances

The festival's artistic program often features folk artists and local art troupes. Popular performances include hat van (spiritual singing), hat boi (classical opera), and inspiring revolutionary songs.

Especially, songs about Black Lady Mountain (Nui Ba Den) and the homeland of Tay Ninh are always warmly received by the audience. Many times, both the audience and the artists sing along, creating touching and bonding moments.

3.2.3. Cultural exchange activities

Besides the official performances, the festival also hosts many other exchange activities. Veterans often gather to share old memories, while children are told interesting historical stories.

Tourists also have the opportunity to interact with local people, learning more about the culture and history of this land. These natural conversations often provide deeper insights than any document.

4. Characteristic Cuisine at Kim Quang Cave Festival

4.1. Specialty Vegetarian Dishes of Tay Ninh

Specialty vegetarian dishes in Tay Ninh you cannot miss (Photo: Collected)

Due to the influence of Cao Dai culture, the cuisine at the Kim Quang Cave festival is mainly special vegetarian dishes of Tay Ninh. Tay Ninh grilled rice paper is a must-try dish, with a thin, crispy layer, served with vegetarian floss and fresh herbs.

Vegetarian river crab noodle soup is one of the dishes loved by tourists. The broth is cooked from mushrooms and vegetables, creating a natural sweetness. The chewy noodle soup, combined with "crab" made from taro and mushrooms, creates an unforgettable unique flavor.

In addition, Tay Ninh vegetarian grilled pork sausage is also a dish sought after by many people. Made from mushrooms and tofu, the sausage has a beautiful golden color and an attractive aroma. Served with rice paper, fresh herbs, and sweet and sour dipping sauce, it creates an interesting culinary experience.

4.2. Food stalls during the festival season

During the festival, along the road leading to Kim Quang Cave, dozens of food stalls run by local people will appear. The dishes sold are diverse, from traditional vegetarian dishes to local specialty fruits.

Tay Ninh sweet soup is an indispensable drink, with many varieties such as black bean sweet soup, pomelo sweet soup, Thai sweet soup. Especially, fresh sugarcane juice pressed on the spot always attracts a large number of tourists, helping to quench thirst after a tiring mountain climb.

Prices at the stalls are quite reasonable, ranging from 15,000 - 30,000 VND for a meal. The sellers are usually local mothers, always friendly and ready to explain the origin of the dishes.

5. Cultural and historical significance of the Kim Quang Cave festival

5.1. Revolutionary tradition education value

Educational value of the revolutionary tradition of Kim Quang Cave Festival (Photo: Collected)

Kim Quang Cave Festival plays an important role in educating the revolutionary tradition for the young generation. Through the festival activities, they are told true stories about life during the resistance period, about the difficulties and sacrifices that previous generations have experienced.

Many schools in the area often organize students to participate in the festival as a meaningful extracurricular activity. They not only learn about history but also train their willpower to overcome difficulties through mountain climbing and participating in group activities.

5.2. Role in the spiritual life of the people

For the local people, the festival is not only an occasion to remember the past but also an opportunity to meet and interact after a year of work. Many families consider participating in the Kim Quang Cave Festival a family tradition, passed down from generation to generation.

The festival also carries deep spiritual significance. People believe that lighting incense at Kim Quang Cave will bring good luck and peace for the whole year. Many people also pray for health, work, and family at this sacred place.

6. Experience attending the Kim Quang Cave Festival

6.1. Ideal time to participate

To have the best experience at the Kim Quang Cave Festival, visitors should arrive early, around 6-7 AM. At this time, the air is still cool, which is convenient for climbing. Moreover, arriving early helps visitors participate in all the rituals from the beginning and find a good spot for observation.

The weather in February-March in Tay Ninh is quite pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 22-28 degrees Celsius. Due to the mountainous terrain, there may be sudden rain showers, so visitors should prepare raincoats or small umbrellas.

6.2. Notes when attending the festival

Maintain solemnity and cleanliness – behave consciously when participating in the festival (Photo: Collected)

When participating in the festival, visitors should pay attention to environmental hygiene and avoid littering. This is an area of historical and spiritual value, and everyone needs to respect and protect it.

During the rituals, visitors should remain silent and solemn. Avoid making noise or using phones during sacred moments. When taking photos, ask for permission and avoid using flash in caves.

6.3. Clothing and items to bring

Due to the need for climbing and considerable movement, visitors should wear comfortable, polite attire and non-slip sports shoes. Avoid wearing overly thin or revealing clothing out of respect for the spiritual space.

It is advisable to bring drinking water, some light snacks, and a sweat towel. Phones should be fully charged, and a power bank can be brought as there are no power sources in this area. Importantly, prepare some small change for incense and to support charitable activities.

7. Exploration activities combined with attending the Kim Quang Cave festival

After visiting Kim Quang Cave, visitors can continue their journey up to Linh Son Tien Thach Pagoda (Ba Pagoda) by cable car, a place with a sacred atmosphere and long history. The pagoda is located at an altitude of 350m amidst mountains and forests, and is a famous pilgrimage site with mystical caves.

Next, visitors can walk or take the cable car to Linh Son Phuoc Trung Pagoda (Trung Pagoda), which is surrounded by a serene atmosphere and greenery.

From Ba Pagoda, you can follow the trails to Linh Son Hoa Dong Pagoda, an ideal stop for those who love tranquility.

Finally, Linh Son Long Chau Pagoda (Hang Pagoda) is located in a fascinating cave, not far from Trung Pagoda. To get here, you just need to walk along cool and airy trails.

Linh Son Tien Thach Tu Pagoda at Ba Den Mountain (Photo: Collected)

>>  Famous attractions at Ba Den Mountain that you must visit

Kim Quang Cave Festival is a special bridge between a heroic past and the present, where people remember martyrs and experience Tay Ninh's traditional culture. Please arrange your time to attend this festival as well as explore Ba Den Mountain for a memorable journey steeped in cultural and historical colors!