Ninh Binh: Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An and Mua Cave Day Tour

Nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s Ninh Binh province, the Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An, and Mua Cave Day Tour offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore ancient temples, cruise through UNESCO-listed landscapes, and hike to breathtaking viewpoints. With seamless transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises to immerse travelers in the region’s rich history and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking cultural insights or scenic wonders, this day-long excursion has something to captivate every traveler.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day tour covering Ninh Binh’s top attractions: Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An Landscape Complex, and Mua Cave.
• Includes Vietnamese lunch, optional visit to Bich Dong Pagoda, and hotel pickup and drop-off in Ninh Binh city center.
• Opportunity to trek up 500 steps to Mua Cave viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Guided tour of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former political center of Vietnam during the Đinh and early Lê dynasties.
• Highlight is the 2.5-hour sampan cruise through the serene Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, surrounded by limestone cliffs.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

The Ninh Binh Day Tour provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the region’s top destinations, including the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda, the scenic Trang An landscape, and the challenging Mua Cave.

Lasting 8.5 hours, the tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option. Travelers are picked up from their accommodations and taken on a journey through the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, a sampan boat cruise at Trang An, and a trek up 500 steps to the Mua Cave viewpoint.

The tour includes a Vietnamese lunch and an optional visit to Bich Dong Pagoda.

Pickup and Travel

When booking the Ninh Binh Day Tour, the tour operator arranges for pickup from the traveler’s hotel or homestay within the center of Ninh Binh city.

From there, the group departs for Mua Cave, the first stop on the itinerary. The drive takes approximately 1 hour, allowing time to get acquainted with the guide and fellow travelers.

Along the way, the guide provides an overview of the day’s activities and highlights the key sights. Travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic countryside views as the journey begins.

Exploring Mua Cave

After arriving at Mua Cave, travelers embark on a trek up 500 steps to reach the hilltop viewpoint. The strenuous climb rewards them with stunning panoramic vistas over the Trang An Landscape Complex. The viewpoint offers a bird’s-eye perspective of the winding rivers, lush rice paddies, and towering limestone karsts that characterize this UNESCO World Heritage site.

| Mua Cave Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Breathtaking Vistas | Challenging Trek | Scenic Landscapes |

| Sweeping views of Trang An | 500 steps to the top | Trang An’s limestone karsts |

| Panoramic landscapes | Strenuous climb | Winding rivers and rice fields |

| Impressive natural beauty | Rewarding experience | UNESCO World Heritage |

Discovering Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

After departing Mua Cave, the tour proceeds to the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former political center of Vietnam during the Đinh and early Lê dynasties.

On this guided tour, visitors explore the ancient temples and ruins, learning about the history and significance of this fascinating site.

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving guests ample time to wander the grounds and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

With an English-speaking guide providing context and insights, the visit to Hoa Lu offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Indulging in Local Vietnamese Cuisine

Following the guided tour of the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the tour group looks forward to indulging in a local Vietnamese cuisine lunch.

Served at a nearby restaurant, the meal features an array of traditional dishes. Diners enjoy fragrant pho noodle soup, savory banh mi sandwiches, and fresh spring rolls.

Complementing the entrees are refreshing Vietnamese iced coffee and tropical fruit smoothies. The group relishes the authentic flavors and vibrant colors of the meal, taking time to savor each bite.

This hearty lunch refuels the travelers before they embark on the scenic boat tour of Trang An.

Navigating the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

The group boards a sampan, a traditional flat-bottomed boat, and embarks on a captivating 2.5-hour cruise through the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.

They glide silently through a network of caves, ravines, and rivers, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery.

The guide points out ancient pagodas, temples, and historical landmarks that dot the landscape.

Visitors marvel at the serene beauty and tranquility of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

The sampan drifts through hidden grottoes and emerges into peaceful valleys, offering a unique perspective of Ninh Binh’s stunning natural wonders.

Visiting Bich Dong Pagoda (Optional)

As the sampan cruise through Trang An comes to an end, visitors have the option to make a stop at the historic Bich Dong Pagoda.

Dating back to the 15th century, this ancient temple complex is nestled amidst limestone cliffs and lush greenery.

Highlights include the three-tiered pagoda, serene grottoes, and striking natural landscapes.

Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the ornate architecture, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Though not included in the main tour, this optional stop offers a chance to delve deeper into Ninh Binh’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Tour Options and Inclusions

The tour offers two distinct options to explore Ninh Binh’s highlights.

Option 1 includes Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cave, and Bich Dong Pagoda.

Option 2 features Bai Dinh, Trang An, and Mua Cave.

Both tours provide:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off

2. English-speaking guide

3. Free bottled water

4. Vietnamese lunch and all entrance fees

The tour is highly rated, with reviewers praising the impressive Trang An boat cruise.

Since You Asked

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary. The tour operator offers two options, and you can discuss any modifications with them to create a personalized experience that fits your interests and schedule.

Are There Any Discounts Available for This Tour?

The tour company offers a few discounts. Customers can save up to 10% by booking online in advance. Group discounts are also available for parties of 4 or more. Some special offers may be available seasonally as well.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment. You’ll only need comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes. The tour company provides all necessary equipment for the boat cruise and trekking.

Can I Book This Tour in My Native Language?

Yes, you can book this tour in your native language. The tour operator provides multilingual guides, so you can enjoy the experience in your preferred language. You’ll need to communicate your language preference when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, there are two tour options that include additional sites. Option 1 visits Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cave, and Bich Dong Pagoda. Option 2 covers Bai Dinh, Trang An, and Mua Cave.

Final Words

The Ninh Binh: Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An, and Mua Cave Day Tour offers an immersive experience into Vietnam’s natural and cultural heritage. With a range of activities, delicious cuisine, and expert guidance, the tour provides an opportunity to explore Ninh Binh’s stunning landscapes and historic sites in a convenient and comprehensive manner.

You can check if your dates are available here: