Hanoi: Ninh Binh Trip to Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An, Mua Cave

Exploring the natural and cultural wonders of Ninh Binh from Hanoi can be a rewarding experience. This day trip allows visitors to enjoy the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, the serene beauty of Trang An Boat Tour, and the panoramic vistas from Mua Cave Viewpoint. With a blend of history, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey that leaves you eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• A day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, priced at $44.32 per person, includes transportation, electric car ride, and visits to Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Boat Tour, and Mua Cave Viewpoint.
• Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam, featuring 500 Arhat Statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, and a 100-ton Buddha statue.
• Trang An Boat Tour is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with tranquil rivers, limestone karst formations, ancient temples, and opportunities to encounter local wildlife.
• Mua Cave Viewpoint offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Tam Coc region, accessible through a moderately challenging hike of 500 steps.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and a Vietnamese buffet lunch, but excludes drinks, personal expenses, and tips.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

This day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is priced from $44.32 per person and lasts for 1 day.

The tour offers a live guide in Vietnamese and English. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

A live guide in Vietnamese and English is provided. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Hotel pickup is provided from the Hanoi Old Quarter, with an option for those outside the area to meet at the Hanoi Opera House.

Transportation during the activity and an electric car ride to the Bai Dinh entrance are included.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

One of the highlights of the Ninh Binh trip is the visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda, Vietnam’s largest Buddhist temple complex. This massive religious site boasts impressive features, including 500 Arhat Statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, and a 100-ton Buddha statue. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and admire the intricate architecture. The Bai Dinh Pagoda is a true marvel, showcasing the country’s rich spiritual heritage.

| Feature | Quantity |

| — | — |

| Arhat Statues | 500 |

| Bronze Bell | 36 tons |

| Buddha Statue | 100 tons |

| Pagodas | 5 |

| Monasteries | 3 |

Trang An Boat Tour

After visiting the grand Bai Dinh Pagoda, the tour continues with a serene boat ride through the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Gliding along the tranquil rivers, visitors will:

1. Admire the stunning limestone karst formations and lush, verdant landscapes.

2. Discover ancient temples and grottoes hidden amidst the towering cliffs.

3. Encounter local wildlife, including birds and monkeys, in their natural habitats.

4. Appreciate the serene, peaceful atmosphere of this natural wonder.

The Trang An boat tour offers a captivating glimpse into the beauty and history of this remarkable region.

Mua Cave Viewpoint

After climbing over 500 steps, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the Tam Coc region from the Mua Cave viewpoint. The vista showcases Ninh Binh’s dramatic limestone karsts, flowing rivers, and lush greenery.

| Viewpoint Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Elevation | 500 steps up |

| Viewing Angle | 360-degree panorama |

| Highlights | Tam Coc river, limestone formations, verdant landscapes |

| Difficulty | Moderately challenging hike |

| Duration | 30-45 minutes to ascend and descend |

The challenging trek is well worth the effort, providing a stunning vantage point to appreciate Ninh Binh’s natural wonders.

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Buffet Lunch

Guests enjoy a Vietnamese buffet lunch with a variety of vegetarian options as part of the Ninh Binh day trip.

The buffet features:

1. Pho – Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup

2. Banh Mi – Vietnamese baguette sandwiches

3. Fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce

4. An assortment of vegetable and tofu dishes

The lunch provides a chance to sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a relaxed setting, refueling visitors before they continue their exploration of the scenic Ninh Binh region.

Dietary restrictions are accommodated, ensuring everyone can enjoy the flavorful spread.

Transportation and Pickup

The hotel pickup for the Ninh Binh day trip is available from the Hanoi Old Quarter between 7:20 AM and 7:50 AM.

For those not staying in the Old Quarter, pickup is offered at the Hanoi Opera House. Comfortable transportation is provided throughout the activity, including an electric car ride to the Bai Dinh Pagoda entrance.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience. Guests should be ready and waiting in the hotel lobby or homestay to ensure a timely departure and make the most of the day’s itinerary.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Ninh Binh day trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking tour guide, a Vietnamese buffet lunch with vegetarian options, the Trang An boat tour, and all entrance fees.

The tour excludes:

The tour excludes drinks, personal expenses, tips for the driver and guide, and items not mentioned in the tour program.

1. Drinks

2. Personal expenses

3. Tips for the driver and guide

4. Items not mentioned in the tour program

Travelers should note that the trip isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and prohibited items include alcohol, drugs, and fireworks.

Being ready at the hotel lobby or homestay for pickup is essential for a smooth start to the day.

Important Information

One important point to note is that the Ninh Binh day trip isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Certain activities, like climbing the 500 steps to Mua Cave viewpoint, may prove challenging for those with mobility issues.

Visitors are also advised against bringing prohibited items such as alcohol, drugs, and fireworks.

To ensure a smooth pickup, participants should be ready in the hotel lobby or at their homestay at the designated time.

Punctuality is key, as the tour bus won’t be able to wait for latecomers.

Since You Asked

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

The tour can likely be customized to include additional activities, though this may incur additional costs. Travelers should inquire with the tour provider about personalized itinerary options and pricing.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour can be extended to a multi-day trip. Guests can inquire about adding extra days to explore more attractions in the Ninh Binh region or combine the tour with other nearby destinations.

Can I Request a Private Vehicle for the Tour?

Yes, you can request a private vehicle for the tour. This is subject to availability and may incur an additional fee. Contact the tour provider to inquire about private transportation options.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour as a Group?

Yes, there’s a group discount for the Ninh Binh tour. Customers who book the tour together in a group of 4 or more can enjoy a discounted rate per person.

Can I Purchase Additional Transportation Tickets at the Tour Sites?

Yes, additional transportation tickets, such as electric car rides to Bai Dinh entrance, can be purchased at the tour sites. However, these are not included in the tour package and will incur extra costs.

Final Words

This captivating day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh offers a diverse cultural and natural experience. Visitors can explore the grand Bai Dinh Pagoda, glide through the serene Trang An Boat Tour, and hike to the Mua Cave Viewpoint for panoramic vistas. The excursion provides a well-rounded blend of Vietnam’s renowned Buddhist architecture, UNESCO-listed landscapes, and outdoor adventure, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to enjoy the region’s beauty and heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: