Ninh Binh Small Group Of 9 From Hanoi Via Incense Village

Nestled in the heart of northern Vietnam, a captivating journey awaits a small group of nine travellers from Hanoi. Their exploration begins in the charming Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, where they’ll witness the time-honoured craft of incense production. From there, the group will venture to the breathtaking Tam Coc, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a serene boat cruise along the Ngo Dong River. As they savour authentic Vietnamese cuisine and uncover the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the travellers are about to embark on an unforgettable experience that showcases the rich cultural tapestry of this remarkable region.

Key Points

1. Small group tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh province, visiting the Quang Phu Cau Incense Stick Village to witness the traditional incense-making process.

2. Journey to Tam Coc, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a 2.75-hour boat cruise along the Ngo Dong River surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush rice paddies.

3. Exploration of the Tam Coc boat cruise, often referred to as ‘Halong Bay on land’, showcasing the region’s stunning natural landscape.

4. Enjoyment of a delectable Vietnamese lunch featuring authentic local dishes, including traditional noodle soup (Pho) and turmeric-infused grilled fish (Cha Ca).

5. Visit to the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the seat of power for the Dinh and Early Le dynasties in the 10th century, providing insights into Vietnam’s enduring history.

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Quang Phu Cau Incense Stick Village

The quaint Quang Phu Cau Incense Stick Village, situated just outside of Hanoi, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the time-honored craft of incense production that has thrived in this region for generations.

As part of the small group tour, guests will explore the village’s narrow alleyways, lined with the vibrant hues of drying incense sticks. They’ll witness the intricate process of hand-rolling and shaping the fragrant ingredients, gaining an appreciation for the skilled artisanry required to craft these aromatic wares.

The visit provides a wonderful opportunity to photograph the picturesque scenes and interact with the local craftspeople, immersing oneself in the traditional culture and heritage of this unique Vietnamese community.

Journey to Tam Coc

After exploring the captivating Quang Phu Cau Incense Stick Village, the small group embarked on the 1.5-hour van transfer to the stunning natural landscape of Tam Coc. As they approached this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the group was awestruck by the towering limestone cliffs, winding rivers, and lush, emerald-green rice paddies. During the 2.75-hour boat cruise, they glided peacefully along the Ngo Dong River, taking in the breathtaking scenery and gaining insight into the local way of life. The tranquil journey evoked a sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty of northern Vietnam’s untouched natural wonder.

Destination	Duration	Highlights
Tam Coc	2.75 hours	Towering limestone cliffs, winding rivers, lush rice paddies
Boat Cruise	2.75 hours	Peaceful glide along Ngo Dong River, insight into local life
UNESCO Site	–	Stunning natural landscape, part of World Heritage Site

Tam Coc Boat Cruise

Upon reaching Tam Coc, the group eagerly boarded traditional wooden boats to embark on a serene 2.75-hour cruise along the Ngo Dong River.

Expertly navigated by local rowers, the boats glided silently past the towering limestone cliffs that rose majestically on either side, creating a breathtaking natural landscape.

As they drifted by, the travelers marveled at the lush, verdant rice paddies that blanketed the valley floor, a testament to the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

The cruise provided a peaceful respite, allowing the group to enjoy the tranquil beauty of Tam Coc, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred to as ‘Halong Bay on land’ for its remarkable natural splendor.

Lunch and Cuisine

Following the boat cruise, the group typically enjoyed a delectable Vietnamese lunch, savoring an array of authentic local dishes that showcased the region’s culinary traditions. The meal often included a selection of rice, noodles, vegetables, and protein-rich items, all expertly prepared with the freshest ingredients. To give you a better idea, here’s a sample menu:

Dish	Description
Pho	Traditional Vietnamese noodle soup
Banh Mi	Vietnamese-style baguette sandwich
Nem Chua	Fermented pork sausage
Goi Cuon	Fresh spring rolls
Cha Ca	Turmeric-infused grilled fish

This authentic Vietnamese lunch provided a delightful and immersive culinary experience, allowing the group to fully appreciate the flavors and traditions of the Ninh Binh region.

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Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

The Hoa Lu ancient capital, once the seat of power for the Dinh and Early Le dynasties in the 10th century, offered the group a captivating glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Exploring the ruins and relics of this former imperial city, the visitors marveled at the impressive architectural remnants that still stood as a testament to the region’s storied past. They wandered through the ancient temples and palaces, imagining the grandeur and significance of Hoa Lu during its heyday.

The guide provided insightful commentary, shedding light on the strategic importance of this location and the influential figures who’d once walked these grounds. The group left with a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s enduring legacy and the pivotal role Hoa Lu had played in shaping the nation’s history.

Van Transfer Durations

The tour included several van transfers, with the longest being the 2-hour journey back to Hoan Kiem in Hanoi from Hoa Lu.

The group first traveled for 1 hour from Hoan Kiem to the Quang Phu Cau Incense Stick Village, followed by a 1.5-hour transfer to Tam Coc.

After the boat cruise, they spent 30 minutes in the van to reach Hoa Lu ancient capital before embarking on the final 2-hour drive back to their starting point.

These van transfers allowed the group to efficiently move between the various sites and experiences, ensuring they made the most of their limited time in the Ninh Binh region.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

Along With the efficient transportation between sites, the tour also includes several other key inclusions to enhance the overall experience for participants. Visitors will receive 3 complimentary bottles of water per person, allowing them to stay hydrated throughout the day. The tour also covers the cost of entrance fees to the various attractions, ensuring seamless access.

Importantly, a Vietnamese lunch is provided, giving travelers a chance to savor the local cuisine. However, the tour doesn’t include any additional drinks outside of the water, nor does it cover tips or gratuities for the guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary for This Small Group Tour?

Yes, travelers can often customize small group tours to fit their interests and needs. Tour providers are typically open to modifying itineraries, activities, and durations within reasonable limits to ensure an enjoyable and personalized experience.

Is Photography Allowed During the Boat Cruise on Tam Coc?

Photography is allowed during the boat cruise on Tam Coc. Visitors can freely take photos of the stunning limestone karst formations, rice paddies, and the river throughout the 2.75-hour cruise experience in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What Type of Transportation Is Used for the Van Transfers?

For the van transfers, the tour uses air-conditioned vans. The vans provide comfortable transportation between the different sights and locations on the Ninh Binh tour, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for the group.

Are Any Dietary Restrictions Catered for During the Lunch?

The tour provider caters for dietary restrictions during the Vietnamese lunch. Vegetarian, halal, and other dietary needs can be accommodated if requested in advance when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Explore More Sites?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include more sites. Travelers can inquire about customizing the itinerary to explore additional attractions in the Ninh Binh region, such as Bich Dong Pagoda or Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, for an extended duration.

Recap

The Ninh Binh small group tour from Hanoi offers a captivating glimpse into Vietnam’s rich heritage.

Visitors can witness the artistry of incense-making, embark on a serene boat cruise through the UNESCO-listed Tam Coc landscape, savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.

This comprehensive experience immerses travelers in the country’s captivating cultural and natural wonders, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s enduring legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: