Phat Diem Cathedral and Local Life in Ninh Binh
Overview
This journey is for those who spend several nights in Ninh Binh and wish to explore more than just the karst landscapes, including rural life, craftsmanship, and the famous Phat Diem Cathedral.
- Visit to Phat Diem Cathedral, the cradle of Vietnamese Catholicism.
- Exploration of rural life and craftsmanship in Ninh Binh.
Itinerary
Ninh Binh, Phat Diem Cathedral, rural life, and crafts.
8:00 AM: Depart for Phat Diem Cathedral, known as the "Catholic capital" of Vietnam. Built between 1875 and 1899, this stone and wood construction is a perfect fusion of traditional Buddhist pagoda architecture and European Catholic churches. The Phat Diem Cathedral complex includes a lake, a cathedral, four side chapels, a Phuong Dinh bell tower, a small stone church, and three artificial caves.
Take a leisurely walk to explore the cathedral and its surroundings. You'll admire the skill of stone sculpture artisans: the stone sanctuaries and chapels.
Upon leaving the cathedral, you'll visit the old tiled-covered bridge.
Then head to the village of Phu Hau. Stroll peacefully through this village to discover local craftsmanship, including the production of rice noodles, water hyacinth basket weaving, sedge mat weaving, tofu making, and the traditional Banh Chung, a dish made from glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, which is a Vietnamese Lunar New Year specialty. You'll have the opportunity to meet local residents.
Lunch will be hosted by a local family, featuring local specialties. Return to Tam Coc.
Prices and Accommodation
How to book?
Enter your travel date, the number of adults, and the language
Click "Book this tour" for price, then "Book now" to reserve.
"Pricing is for up to 6 adults. For larger groups, please request a customized offer in your 'special requests'
Included
- Transportation as per the itinerary in a private vehicle with a dedicated driver exclusively for your group.
- Meals as mentioned in the program: 1L = 1 Lunch.
- English-speaking guide.
- Entrance fees for the sites to be visited.
- Rural life experience.
- One bottle of water per person per day.
- Administrative fees.
Excluded
- Travelers' personal insurance.
- Bank fees.
- Beverages, phone expenses, personal expenses, and anything not explicitly mentioned in the "What's Included" section.
- Gratuities.
Useful Information
- An off-the-beaten-path journey.
- It's essential to note that proper attire is required to visit places of worship, such as temples and pagodas. You must, without fail, cover your knees and shoulders as a sign of respect.