Hidden Trip to Bai Dinh Pagoda- Van Long or Thien Ha Grotto

Set out on a journey to uncover the hidden wonders of Vietnam’s spiritual and natural landscapes. Enjoy the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest religious complex in Indochina, where towering bell towers and a colossal bronze Buddha statue captivate the senses. Continue your adventure with a choice between a serene boat cruise amidst the limestone mountains and lush rice fields of Van Long Natural Reserve or a tranquil bamboo boat ride through the enchanting Thien Ha Grotto, revealing intricate rock formations and serene waters. Prepare to be transported to a realm where history, spirituality, and natural beauty intertwine, offering a glimpse into the hidden wonders that await.

Key Points

• The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam – Bai Dinh Pagoda, including its iconic bell tower and colossal Buddha statue.

• Travelers can choose between a guided boat cruise at the serene Van Long Natural Reserve or a bamboo boat ride through the picturesque Thien Ha Grotto for a scenic complement to the spiritual journey.

• The tour includes round-trip transportation, electric car access within Bai Dinh Pagoda, local lunch, and an English-speaking guide, providing a hassle-free and immersive cultural experience.

• The tour’s flexibility allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, catering to the needs of various travelers.

• Scenic vistas of the Red River Delta, verdant rice fields, and towering limestone mountains during the journey to Bai Dinh Pagoda offer opportunities for stunning photography and sightseeing.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a hidden trip to the Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest religious complexes in Indochina. Priced from $91 per person, the 9-hour tour has a group size limited to 10 participants.

It includes round-trip transportation, an electric car for exploring the pagoda, boat fees, and a local lunch. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour provides an opportunity to see the tallest bell tower, longest Arhat statue corridor, and largest Buddha statue in the region.

In the afternoon, visitors can choose between a boat cruise at the Van Long Nature Reserve or an adventure through the Thien Ha Grotto.

Itinerary Highlights

Beginning with the tour’s pickup location in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, participants embark on a journey to the renowned Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest of its kind in Indochina.

They’ll explore this impressive complex, admiring the towering bell tower, the intricate Arhat statue corridor, and the massive golden Buddha statue.

After the pagoda visit, the group enjoys a local lunch buffet in Ninh Binh.

The afternoon offers two options:

1. A guided boat cruise through the scenic Van Long Natural Reserve, with its limestone mountains and water cave.
2. A bamboo boat ride to explore the unique Thien Ha Grotto, passing rice fields and Melaleuca forests.

Transportation and Inclusions

Round trip transfer via 4-19 seat bus is provided, including 2 complimentary bottles of water per trip.

An electric car is used for exploring the Bai Dinh Pagoda. Boat fees and entrance tickets for the Van Long Reserve and Thien Ha Grotto are included in the tour.

An English-speaking guide accompanies participants throughout the trip. Lunch at a local restaurant, drinks, government tax, and travel insurance are also provided.

Tips for the boat rower and tour guide are covered. Travelers should bring sunglasses, a camera, cash, and any necessary medication.

Plus, a contact phone number is required for local operator communication.

Important Information

Prepare for the tour by bringing along sunglasses, a camera, and cash in Vietnamese dongs or US dollars to cover personal expenses.

It’s essential to leave a phone number with the local operator for communication via WhatsApp, Kakaotalk, Line, Viber, or WeChat.

Plus, be aware of the surcharge of 300,000 VND per person for holidays, which include April 30, May 1, September 1-3, December 31, and January 1.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Experience and Scenic Views

The journey to Bai Dinh Pagoda and the surrounding areas promises scenic vistas that showcase the captivating daily life of the Red River Delta.

Along the way, travelers will have ample opportunities for stunning photography and sightseeing. From verdant rice fields to towering limestone mountains, the natural landscapes offer a breathtaking backdrop.

Visitors can also gain insights into Vietnam’s Buddhist philosophy and local practices by exploring the expansive Bai Dinh Pagoda complex.

With its towering bell tower, impressive Arhat statue corridor, and the largest gold and bronze Buddha statue, the pagoda provides an immersive cultural experience.

Bai Dinh Pagoda Exploration

Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam, beckons visitors with its grandeur and spiritual significance.

As part of the Hidden Trip tour, guests have the opportunity to explore this remarkable site:

1. The towering Bell Tower, standing at 37 meters high, is an impressive architectural marvel that dominates the skyline.

2. The Arhat Statue Corridor, at 3,000 meters long, is the longest of its kind, housing over 500 lifelike statues.

3. The colossal 100-ton bronze Buddha statue, the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, is a testament to the devotion and craftsmanship of the Vietnamese people.

Visitors are captivated by the serene atmosphere and the chance to gain insights into Vietnamese Buddhism.

Van Long Natural Reserve

After exploring the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, the Hidden Trip tour takes visitors to the serene Van Long Natural Reserve.

Here, visitors embark on a guided boat cruise through the protected area, which boasts rich flora and fauna, scenic limestone mountains, and a tranquil water cave adorned with stalactites.

The boat glides past lush rice fields and Melaleuca forests, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

This pristine natural landscape provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city, allowing travelers to enjoy the beauty and serenity of northern Vietnam.

The Van Long Natural Reserve experience complements the spiritual journey at Bai Dinh Pagoda, creating a well-rounded and memorable tour.

Thien Ha Grotto Adventure

Departing the serene confines of Van Long Natural Reserve, the Hidden Trip tour next ventures into the captivating Thien Ha Grotto.

Guests embark on a bamboo boat ride to explore this unique dry grotto and adventurous water cave, passing by picturesque rice fields and Melaleuca forests.

The experience offers:

1. A chance to marvel at the grotto’s intricate rock formations and stalactites.
2. An opportunity to paddle through the water cave, immersed in the tranquil surroundings.
3. Insight into the local ecosystem and Vietnamese countryside as the boat glides through the waterways.

This component of the Hidden Trip showcases the diverse natural wonders that Ninh Binh has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary for This Tour?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Customers can work with the tour operator to adjust the schedule, activities, and destinations based on their preferences and interests within the tour’s overall structure and duration.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

No, travelers cannot bring their own food and drinks on this tour. The package includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch at a local restaurant. Outside food and drinks are not permitted during the group excursion.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Bai Dinh Pagoda?

For visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda, modest and respectful attire is recommended. Visitors should avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing out of consideration for the sacred nature of the site.

Is There an Option to Explore the Sites Independently During the Tour?

Yes, there is an option to explore the sites independently during the tour. Participants can choose between visiting Van Long Natural Reserve or Thien Ha Grotto in the afternoon, allowing for independent exploration of these scenic locations.

Can I Reschedule the Tour if I Need to Change the Date?

Yes, the tour can be rescheduled if needed. The operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers to reschedule their tour at no additional cost.

Recap

This hidden journey offers a unique opportunity to explore the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda and take in Vietnam’s natural wonders. Whether it’s a serene boat cruise at Van Long Natural Reserve or an adventure through the enchanting Thien Ha Grotto, this experience promises a captivating blend of cultural and natural exploration. With its comprehensive itinerary and inclusions, it’s an ideal way to discover the hidden gems of Vietnam’s Ninh Binh province.

You can check if your dates are available here: