Nestled in the heart of northern Vietnam, the Ninh Binh province offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures. The Bai Dinh – Trang An day trip promises an immersive exploration of this enchanting region, transporting visitors through awe-inspiring landscapes and ancient Buddhist sanctuaries. From the grandeur of the Bai Dinh Pagoda complex to the serene boat ride through the UNESCO-recognized Trang An, this excursion unveils a tapestry of natural beauty and spiritual significance that has captivated travelers for generations. With a delectable local lunch and seamless transportation, the stage is set for an unforgettable journey that delves deeper into the heart of Vietnam’s captivating heritage.
Key Points
- This full-day tour from Hanoi offers visits to the Bai Dinh Pagoda complex and a boat ride through the UNESCO-recognized Trang An landscape.
- The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, a buffet lunch with local Vietnamese dishes, and use of conical hats and raincoats.
- Highlights of the Bai Dinh Pagoda include 500 unique stone Arhat statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, and a colossal 100-ton Buddha statue.
- The 2-hour boat ride at Trang An showcases the UNESCO World Heritage site’s towering limestone cliffs, lush landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna.
- The tour offers a flexible booking process with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option.
Tour Overview
The Ninh Binh Day Trip offers a comprehensive exploration of two renowned destinations in northern Vietnam – Bai Dinh and Trang An. Priced from $44.49 per person, the tour lasts a full day and boasts free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later. The day begins with hotel pickup in Hanoi, followed by visits to the massive Bai Dinh Pagoda complex and a boat ride through the UNESCO-listed Trang An landscape.
Highlights include 500 stone arhat statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, a 100-ton Buddha statue, and a buffet lunch featuring local Vietnamese dishes.
The day concludes with return transportation to Hanoi hotels.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ninh Binh.
Itinerary Highlights
Kicking off the day, travelers are picked up from their Hanoi hotels between 7:25 and 8:00 AM for the scenic drive to Ninh Binh.
After a 15-20 minute break, they arrive at the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest temple complex in Southeast Asia. Highlights include 500 stone Arhat statues, a 36-ton bronze bell, and a 100-ton Buddha statue.
Following a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, the group heads to the UNESCO-recognized Trang An landscape complex, where they embark on a 2-hour boat tour through its unique tunnel cave system.
The tour wraps up with a drop-off at Hanoi hotels around 6:30 PM.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the Ninh Binh day trip are a limousine bus with 17 seats, an English-speaking guide, bottled water per person, entrance fees, 2-way electric car usage, and a buffet lunch at the NinhBinh Excursion Restaurant.
The buffet features a variety of local Vietnamese dishes, including vegetarian options. However, drinks, taxes, tips for the guide, and personal expenses aren’t included.
Travelers are provided with free use of conical hats and raincoats based on the weather conditions.
Bai Dinh Pagoda Wonders
One of the highlights of the Ninh Binh day trip is a visit to the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest temple complex in Southeast Asia.
Visitors can marvel at the impressive scale of this sacred site, which boasts:
- 500 stone Arhat statues, each one unique.
- A 36-ton bronze bell, one of the largest in Vietnam.
- A colossal 100-ton Buddha statue, the largest of its kind in the country.
- Intricate architecture and detailed carvings that showcase the skill of Vietnamese artisans.
Exploring the grand halls and serene grounds of Bai Dinh Pagoda is a captivating experience that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyTrang An Boat Tour
After exploring the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, visitors embark on the Trang An boat tour, which takes them through the stunning Trang An landscape complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized in 2014.
The 2-hour boat ride navigates a unique tunnel cave system, offering breathtaking views of towering limestone cliffs, serene rivers, and lush, verdant landscapes.
Visitors can marvel at the natural beauty of this geological wonder, which features a diverse array of flora and fauna.
The boat tour provides a serene and immersive experience, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the enchanting Trang An region and its rich cultural heritage.
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Buffet Lunch Experience
The buffet lunch at the NinhBinh Excursion Restaurant offers visitors an opportunity to savor a diverse array of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
The spread includes:
- Local specialties such as pho, bun cha, and banh mi showcasing the region’s flavors.
- Vegetarian options catering to all dietary preferences.
- A selection of freshly prepared seasonal fruits and vegetables.
- Beverages including Vietnamese coffee and tea to complement the meal.
Visitors can indulge in this delectable spread while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding landscape, making it an integral part of the overall Ninh Binh day trip experience.
Pickup and Drop-off
The day trip to Ninh Binh begins with a convenient pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House, typically between 7:25 am and 8:00 am.
After a short break around 9:15 am, the tour continues to the stunning Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest temple complex in Southeast Asia.
Following the temple visit, a buffet lunch is served at the NinhBinh Excursion Restaurant, offering a variety of local Vietnamese dishes and vegetarian options.
The final stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An, where visitors enjoy a 2-hour boat trip through the unique tunnel cave system.
The tour concludes with a return to Hanoi, with drop-off at hotels by approximately 6:30 pm.
Booking and Availability
Booking a spot on this immersive Ninh Binh day trip is a straightforward process.
Visitors can easily check availability for desired start times and select the number of participants and date for the trip. To book, travellers can follow these steps:
- Check the calendar for open tour slots.
- Choose the preferred departure time and number of guests.
- Submit the booking request and pay securely online.
- Receive a confirmation email with all trip details.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers flexible booking options to fit any traveler’s schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour appears moderately accessible for individuals with disabilities. It includes transportation, guides, and some assistance like electric carts. However, the terrain and boat tour may present challenges. Visitors should check with the tour operator about specific accessibility accommodations.
Are Photography and Videography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography and videography are generally allowed during the tour, but participants should be mindful of any restrictions or rules at specific sites. It’s recommended to check with the tour guide for guidance on permitted activities.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
According to the tour details, the buffet lunch at the NinhBinh Excursion Restaurant includes vegetarian options. Travellers with dietary restrictions can communicate them to the tour guide, who’ll work to accommodate their needs.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Boat Tour in Trang An?
Yes, the tour offers an option to extend the Trang An boat tour duration. Travelers can upgrade to a longer 3-hour boat ride for an additional fee, allowing more time to explore the UNESCO-listed landscape complex.
Can the Tour Be Combined With Other Attractions in the Ninh Binh Region?
The tour can be combined with other popular attractions in the Ninh Binh region, such as Mua Caves, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and Tam Coc, providing visitors with a more comprehensive and immersive experience of the area’s natural and cultural wonders.
Recap
The Ninh Binh Day Trip to Bai Dinh and Trang An offers a unique opportunity to take in Vietnam’s captivating landscapes and cultural heritage. From the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda complex to the serene boat ride through the UNESCO-recognized Trang An, this tour provides an unforgettable experience that combines the country’s natural beauty and spiritual significance. With a delectable buffet lunch and seamless transportation, it’s an ideal way to explore the wonders of Ninh Binh.
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