From Ninh Binh, 4 Places: Hoa Lu, Bai Dinh, Trang An, Mua Cave

Ninh Binh is a captivating destination in northern Vietnam, offering visitors a chance to explore four exceptional sites. From the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to the grand Bai Dinh Pagoda, the tranquil Trang An boat ride, and the challenging climb of Mua Cave, each location showcases Vietnam’s rich heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to history, architecture, or scenic landscapes, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable experience. Discover the highlights that make Ninh Binh a must-visit destination for any traveler to Vietnam.

Key Points

• Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, learning about the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties and their historical significance.
• Visit the second-largest pagoda in Southeast Asia, Bai Dinh, featuring thousands of Buddha statues and a giant bronze bell.
• Set out on a 1.5-hour boat ride through the Trang An Scenic Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to witness the serene karst landscape.
• Climb 500 steps to the top of Mua Cave for panoramic views of the Tam Coc landscape, providing an exhilarating workout.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a local Vietnamese lunch.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This day tour offers an immersive exploration of Ninh Binh‘s captivating landscapes. Priced at $54.31 per person, the tour covers key attractions like Hoa Lu, Bai Dinh, Trang An, and Mua Cave.

Pickup from hotels or homestays in Ninh Binh is included, along with an English-speaking guide. Highlights include visiting the historic capital, the second-largest pagoda in Southeast Asia, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Guests can enjoy a local Vietnamese lunch and take in panoramic views from Mua Cave. The tour lasts one day and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Small group options are available, ensuring a personalized experience.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from hotels or homestays in Ninh Binh, scheduled between 8:10 AM and 8:40 AM.

First, visitors explore the historic capital of Hoa Lu, learning about the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties for about an hour.

Next, they spend 80 minutes at the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the second largest in Southeast Asia.

After a local lunch at noon, the group embarks on a 1.5-hour boat ride through the scenic Trang An UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The final stop is the Mua Cave, where guests climb 500 steps for panoramic views before departing around 4:00 PM.

Pickup and Dropoff

Pickup from hotels or homestays in Ninh Binh is scheduled between 8:10 AM and 8:40 AM. The tour departs around 4:00 PM, returning participants to Ninh Binh. The tour includes transportation in a small group with an English-speaking guide.

Pickup	Duration	Dropoff
8:10 AM – 8:40 AM	Around 8 hours	Around 4:00 PM
From hotels/homestays in Ninh Binh	–	Back to Ninh Binh
Small group with English-speaking guide	–	–

This comprehensive tour ensures a seamless experience, allowing travelers to make the most of their time in Ninh Binh and its captivating landscapes.

Hoa Lu Excursion

After pickup, the tour begins with a visit to the historic capital of Hoa Lu. Guests will spend an hour exploring this significant site, learning about the Dinh, Le, and Ly Dynasties that ruled over the region.

The tour highlights include:

1. Visiting the ancient temples and pagodas that showcase the architectural wonders of the Hoa Lu capital.
2. Discovering the historical significance of Hoa Lu as the seat of power for several Vietnamese dynasties.
3. Gaining insights into the cultural and political history that shaped the region.
4. Appreciating the picturesque landscapes and natural beauty that surround the historic capital.

From Hoa Lu, the tour continues to the next destination, the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda.

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Bai Dinh Pagoda Visit

From Hoa Lu, the tour proceeds to the second largest pagoda in Southeast Asia – the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda.

Visitors spend 80 minutes exploring the sprawling complex that features thousands of Buddha statues, a giant bronze bell, and the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam.

The tour group marvels at the ornate architecture and intricate carvings that adorn the pagoda’s buildings.

They learn about the pagoda’s history and cultural significance from the knowledgeable English-speaking guide.

The visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda provides a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich Buddhist heritage and leaves the group in awe of the site’s scale and grandeur.

Trang An Boat Ride

Next, the tour group embarks on a 2-hour boat ride through the stunning Trang An Scenic Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This serene journey takes them through a network of emerald green waterways, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush vegetation.

The experience offers:

1. Glimpses of ancient temples and villages nestled within the karst landscape.
2. Opportunities to spot native wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
3. Peaceful moments of tranquility, allowing visitors to disconnect from the outside world.
4. A unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The Trang An boat ride is a highlight of the tour, providing a tranquil and immersive experience in this picturesque corner of Ninh Binh.

Mua Cave Climbing

The tour then proceeds to the captivating Mua Cave, where visitors are challenged with a strenuous climb up 500 steps to reach the summit. From the top, they’re rewarded with panoramic vistas of the captivating Tam Coc landscape. The climb takes approximately 75 minutes, offering an exhilarating workout and breathtaking views.

Difficulty	Duration	Reward
Strenuous	75 minutes	Panoramic views
Challenging	Moderate Hike	Stunning Scenery

The Mua Cave experience is a highlight of the tour, blending cultural exploration with an adventurous physical activity and scenic payoff. Visitors are encouraged to bring appropriate clothing and footwear to tackle the climb comfortably.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes several key components to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

The tour includes:

1. Pickup from hotels or homestays in Ninh Binh.
2. An English-speaking guide to provide commentary and information throughout the day.
3. Entrance fees to all the attractions, including Hoa Lu, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An, and Mua Cave.
4. A local lunch featuring regional specialties like goat meat, fish, chicken, and vegetarian options.

However, the package excludes personal expenses such as drinks, tips for the guide and driver, and any items not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.

There’s also an additional fee of $12 during national holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour offers small group tours, though the maximum group size is not explicitly stated. According to the information provided, the tour includes pickup from hotels/homestays in Ninh Binh, suggesting a small group experience.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group?

Yes, travelers can request a private tour instead of a small group tour. Private tours provide a more personalized experience and allow for greater flexibility in the itinerary. Additional fees may apply for private tour bookings.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized. Customers can request changes to the itinerary, such as adding or removing stops, adjusting the duration, or focusing on specific interests. The tour operator offers flexibility to meet individual needs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t explicitly offer discounts for students or seniors. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider as they may have special pricing or policies for those groups that aren’t listed on the overview.

Can I Leave Any Luggage on the Bus During the Tour Activities?

The tour company allows participants to leave small personal belongings on the bus during the tour activities. However, it’s recommended to avoid bringing large luggage to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience throughout the day.

Recap

Ninh Binh’s diverse destinations provide an immersive experience into Vietnam’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, marvel at the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, embark on a serene boat ride through Trang An’s UNESCO-listed site, and challenge themselves with a climb to the top of Mua Cave for breathtaking panoramic views. This captivating tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the cultural and natural wonders of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: