Immerse in Ninh Binh and Discover the magnificient: Hoa Lu, Trang An, Bai Dinh
Overview
Full-day excursion to Ninh Binh to explore its natural and historical beauty, this tour offers a rich discovery not to be missed from Hanoi. The visit will notably include Hoa Lu - the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, and the site of Trang An - a unique UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with magnificent limestone mountains rising amidst rivers - and then the gigantic Bai Dinh Pagoda.
- An exceptional landscape composed of beautiful karst formations in the fabulous 'Land-based Halong Bay'
- The magnificient ancient capital Hoa Lu
- The Colossal Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest complex of Buddhist temples in the country
- A sampan excursion to the Trang An landscape complex - a somewhat 'timeless' place that exudes serenity, classified by UNESCO as a Natural and Cultural Heritage Site
Itinerary
Ancient Capital of Hoa Lu, Bai Dinh Pagoda, exploration of the Trang An site – a mixed UNESCO World Heritage site, sampan boat ride, stroll through pagodas.
8:00 AM: Departure for Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1009. You will discover this fabulous site, rich in historical, cultural, religious, and geological wonders as you navigate through the water. The Citadel is surrounded by limestone peaks and rivers, forming a natural wall that served to protect against the Chinese invader, offering a breathtaking and astonishing setting.
Visit two temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le Dynasties. Next, head to Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam. Upon arrival, admire the 500 blue stone arhats lining the path to the main pagodas and the 100-ton Buddha statue standing at 10 meters in height. Explore its 36-ton bronze bell. Take the elevator to the 13-story Tower where a portion of Buddha's ashes is preserved. Enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful valley surrounded by rivers and karst rocks.
Lunch at a local home.
Afternoon: Visit Trang An, a mixed UNESCO World Heritage site recognized in 2014 for its natural splendor and impressive karst peak formations. This site has been featured as the natural backdrop in the latest series of the film 'Kong: Skull Island.' The highlight of this sampan boat ride: A loop circuit lasting about 2.5 hours. Board a traditional sampan boat that follows the current and enters a series of caves, immersing you in a new world hidden in the heart of the valleys, in complete tranquility.
Cruise peacefully on a paddle sampan on the river with clear emerald waters, overlooking karst mountains covered in tropical plants stretching to the horizon. Disembark for a walk through peaceful pagodas and temples venerating the most famous Mandarins of the Tran Dynasty. During your stop at the Presentation Temple, you'll see troops of red carp swimming and surfacing, a fun moment, especially for young children. The sampan excursion continues, and you'll enjoy enchanting landscapes until the return to the pier.
Return to Hanoi.
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 according to the program in a private vehicle with a driver for your group alone.
- Meals as mentioned in the program: 1L = 1 Lunch
- English-speaking guide Visit fees and entrance rights to the visited sites
- Collective rowing sampan excursion
- One liter of bottled water per day per person
- Handling fees
Excluded
- Personal travel insurance
- Bank fees Drinks, telephone, personal expenses, and anything not clearly mentioned in the 'This price includes' section
- Tips
Useful Information
The period from February to March is the peak season for Vietnamese tourists, resulting in significant crowds at the sites. If you still plan to visit during this period, it's advisable to avoid weekends to fully enjoy these places.
Out of respect for the places of worship to be visited, such as temples and pagodas, proper attire is required, and it is imperative to cover your knees and shoulders.
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