The Hanoi/Ninh Binh day tour offers a chance to take in Vietnam’s captivating cultural heritage. Travelers will visit the grand Bai Dinh Pagoda, explore the serene Trang An Grottoes by boat, and climb to the breathtaking Mua Cave. With transportation, a buffet lunch, and an experienced English-speaking guide, the tour provides a seamless and enriching experience. What makes this day trip truly remarkable, however, is the opportunity to witness the harmony between Vietnam’s spiritual and natural landscapes.
Key Points
- A full-day excursion from Hanoi to explore the natural and cultural highlights of Ninh Binh, including Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Grottoes, and Mua Cave.
- The tour is priced at $38.63 per person and includes hotel pickup, lunch, entrance fees, and transportation.
- The tour features an experienced, English-speaking guide who provides live commentary and insights on the historical and cultural significance of each site.
- Visitors can enjoy the architectural marvels of Bai Dinh Pagoda, such as 500 stone statues and two massive bronze bells, as well as the panoramic views from Mua Cave.
- The tour package includes amenities like bottled water, a buffet lunch, and tipping for the guide and driver, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a full-day excursion from Hanoi to the picturesque regions of Ninh Binh, encompassing the Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Grottoes, and Mua Cave.
Priced from $38.63 per person, the tour lasts one day and includes hotel pickup, lunch, entrance fees, and transportation. Guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour features an experienced, English-speaking guide, and a pay-later booking option is available.
Highlights include impressive religious architecture, serene boat rides, and panoramic mountain views, providing an immersive experience of northern Vietnam’s natural and cultural wonders.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Hanoi.
Itinerary Highlights
Pickup locations for the tour include the Hanoi Old Quarter and the Hanoi Opera House for those staying outside the Old Quarter. The day begins with hotel pickup between 7-8 AM. After a 20-minute break at 9:40, the tour arrives at Bai Dinh Pagoda to explore its key features, including:
| Feature | Description |
|———|————-|
| 500 stone statues | Of La Han |
| 2 bronze bells | 27 tons and 36 tons |
| Quan Yin statue | Gautama Buddha statue |
After lunch, the tour departs for Trang An Grottoes for a traditional sampan ride through the caves. The final stop is Mua Cave, where participants hike up to the summit for panoramic rice valley views before returning to Hanoi around 7:30 PM.
Transportation and Guides
Participants are transported via an electric minibus during the Bai Dinh Pagoda portion of the tour, costing 100,000 VND per person.
An English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the day, providing live commentary and insights. The guide leads participants through the key attractions, sharing the historical and cultural significance of each site.
Guests can expect a knowledgeable and engaging guide who enhances the overall experience.
Tipping for the guide and driver is included in the tour package, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable day for all participants.
Bai Dinh Pagoda: Spiritual Harmony
Nestled in the stunning Ninh Binh province, Bai Dinh Pagoda stands as the largest temple complex in Vietnam.
Visitors are awestruck by its architectural grandeur, including 500 intricate stone statues of La Han and two massive bronze bells weighing 27 and 36 tons.
The serene atmosphere invites exploration of the Quan Yin and Gautama Buddha statues, symbols of compassion and enlightenment.
Strolling through the expansive grounds, one senses the deep spiritual connection that permeates this sacred space.
Bai Dinh Pagoda offers a profound experience, immersing visitors in the rich cultural and religious heritage of Vietnam.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyTrang An Grottoes: Scenic Waterways
After exploring the architectural marvels and spiritual serenity of Bai Dinh Pagoda, the tour proceeds to the Trang An Grottoes.
Visitors embark on a traditional sampan boat ride, gliding through the scenic limestone formations and serene waterways. The boat navigates through the Toi, Sang, and Nau Ruou caves, offering a unique perspective of the mesmerizing landscape.
Surrounded by lush greenery and towering cliffs, the Trang An Grottoes provide a peaceful and immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mua Cave: Panoramic Vistas
After completing the tranquil boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes, the tour moves on to the next highlight – Mua Cave.
Visitors will hike up to the top of Ngoa Long Mountain, where they’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas over the picturesque rice fields below. The trek up the 500 stone steps offers a moderate challenge, but the breathtaking views at the summit make it well worth the effort.
Guests can capture stunning photographs of the lush green valley and limestone peaks that define the Ninh Binh landscape. This viewpoint provides an unforgettable finale to the day’s exploration.
Included Amenities
The tour package includes several essential amenities to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
These include:
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Hotel pickup and drop-off in the Hanoi Old Quarter, providing door-to-door convenience.
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Bottled drinking water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
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A delectable buffet lunch at a local restaurant, allowing you to savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
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Entrance fees to the attractions, including the Bai Dinh Pagoda and Trang An Grottoes, eliminating the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses.
On top of that, tipping for the guide and driver is also included, ensuring a seamless and stress-free adventure.
Customer Testimonials
Travelers have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback about the Hanoi/Ninh Binh day tour. They praised the knowledgeable and engaging guides, like Tezzy and Harry, who provided insightful commentary throughout the journey. Customers also highlighted the stunning natural beauty of the Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Grottoes, and Mua Cave, describing the experiences as memorable and awe-inspiring.
| Reviewer | Rating |
| — | — |
| Cláudio (Vietnam) | Praised the guide Tezzy |
| Sahil (India) | Enjoyed the beautiful scenery and experience |
| Stacey (UK) | Appreciated the knowledgeable and engaging guide Harry |
The overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 144 reviews further underscores the tour’s popularity and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
This tour can accommodate dietary restrictions. Guests can request vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary options when booking. The tour provider will work to ensure the lunch provided meets any special dietary needs.
Is the Tour Suitable for Individuals With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for individuals with significant mobility issues. While Bai Dinh Pagoda and the boat ride are accessible, the hike up Mua Cave could be challenging for those with limited mobility. Advance notice of needs is recommended.
What Is the Group Size for This Day Tour?
The group size for this day tour is not explicitly stated. However, it’s likely a small group tour to provide a personalized experience. The tour includes hotel pickup and transportation, so the group size is likely limited to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable excursion.
Can Children Participate in the Activities at the Sites?
Children can participate in the activities at the sites, such as the boat ride through the Trang An Grottoes and the hike up Mua Cave. However, parents should exercise caution and supervision for their children’s safety.
Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price doesn’t cover optional activities like Mua Cave entry fees, which cost extra. Travelers should expect to pay for any additional experiences or souvenirs not specified in the tour inclusions.
Recap
The Hanoi/Ninh Binh day tour is an immersive experience, offering visitors the chance to explore Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. From the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda to the serene beauty of Trang An Grottoes and the panoramic vistas of Mua Cave, this tour showcases the region’s natural and architectural wonders. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and inclusive amenities, it’s an ideal way to discover the highlights of this captivating destination.
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