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

The "Hidden Trip to Bai Dinh Pagoda" promises an enriching and diverse day for nature enthusiasts seeking culture. From the majestic Bai Dinh Pagoda to the serene boat cruise or adventurous cave exploration, this 9-hour experience from Hanoi’s Old Quarter offers captivating landscapes and a glimpse into Vietnam’s natural wonders. Whether one chooses to marvel at the towering bell tower and grand Buddha statue or explore the wildlife-rich Van Long Natural Reserve and Thien Ha Grotto’s underground caverns, this hidden gem of a tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This 9-hour tour from Hanoi’s Old Quarter highlights the Bai Dinh Pagoda’s unique features, including the tallest bell tower and largest Buddha statue.

• Travelers can choose to explore either the Van Long Nature Reserve, with its serene wetlands and diverse wildlife, or the Thien Ha Grotto, featuring underground caverns and scenic landscapes.

• The tour includes a 40-minute local cuisine lunch in Ninh Binh, providing an opportunity to immerse in the region’s culinary culture.

• The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience, and includes an English-speaking guide and pickup from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

• Important information for the tour includes packing recommendations, payment flexibility, and emergency contact details for the local operator.

Tour Overview

The "Hidden Trip to Bai Dinh Pagoda – Van Long or Thien Ha Grotto" tour offers a comprehensive 9-hour experience, whisking travelers from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to explore the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda and the natural wonders of the Ninh Binh region.

Priced from €81.36 per person, the tour features an English-speaking guide and a small group size limited to 10 participants.

Highlights include the tallest bell tower, longest Arhat Statue Corridor, and largest gold and bronze Buddha statue at Bai Dinh Pagoda.

Travelers can choose between exploring the Van Long Nature Reserve or the Thien Ha Grotto, both offering unique activities and scenic landscapes.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and a local cuisine lunch.

Itinerary Highlights

Kicking off the day, guests are picked up from their hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 8:00 and 8:30 AM.

After a break for coffee, the tour heads to Bai Dinh Pagoda, accessible by electric car.

Highlights include:

• The tallest Bell tower in Vietnam
• The longest Arhat Statue Corridor
• The largest Buddha statue made of gold and bronze
• A local cuisine lunch in Ninh Binh, lasting around 40 minutes.

In the afternoon, guests can choose between exploring the Van Long Natural Reserve or visiting the Thien Ha Grotto, featuring a bamboo boat ride through dry and water caves.

Morning Activities

Guests are picked up from their hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 8:00 and 8:30 AM. They then travel along the National Express Way, with a mid-journey coffee break before arriving at Bai Dinh Pagoda. Once there, guests explore the site via electric car, taking in the towering bell tower, the longest Arhat Statue Corridor, and the largest Buddha statue made of gold and bronze.

Feature	Description
Bell Tower	Tallest in Vietnam
Arhat Statue Corridor	Longest in Vietnam
Buddha Statue	Largest gold and bronze statue in Vietnam

After the Bai Dinh Pagoda visit, the group enjoys a 40-minute lunch featuring local cuisine at a restaurant in Ninh Binh.

Lunch Experience

After exploring the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda, the group indulges in a 40-minute lunch featuring a variety of local cuisine at a restaurant in Ninh Binh.

The buffet-style lunch offers:

• An array of authentic Vietnamese dishes, allowing travelers to sample the regional flavors.
• Vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary needs.
• Refreshing drinks, such as tea or coffee, to complement the meal.
• Ample time to recharge and refuel before the afternoon activities at Van Long Reserve or Thien Ha Grotto.

This lunch break provides a welcome respite and an opportunity to take in the local culinary culture, setting the stage for the rest of the day’s adventure.

Afternoon Activities

Travelers can choose between two enthralling afternoon activities – exploring the serene Van Long Natural Reserve or venturing into the captivating Thien Ha Grotto.

The Van Long tour includes a guided boat cruise through the water caves, offering opportunities to observe the region’s diverse wildlife.

Alternatively, the Thien Ha Grotto experience promises a scenic bamboo boat ride through both a dry grotto and a water cave, immersing visitors in the stunning rice field and Melaleuca forest landscapes.

Whichever option travelers select, they’re sure to be captivated by the natural beauty and serenity of Ninh Binh’s remarkable afternoon highlights.

Option 1: Van Long Natural Reserve

The Van Long Natural Reserve offers a serene and captivating experience for visitors. Guests can embark on a guided tour through the lush wetlands, home to a diverse array of wildlife.

The highlight is the boat cruise through the water caves, allowing an intimate encounter with the reserve’s natural beauty. Visitors may spot rare species, such as the Delacour’s langur, a critically endangered primate.

The tranquil surroundings and picturesque views of rice fields and Melaleuca forests create an immersive and peaceful atmosphere.

The Van Long Natural Reserve is a true gem, offering:

• Guided tours through the wetlands
• Boat cruises through water caves
• Wildlife observation, including rare primates
• Scenic views of rice fields and forests

Option 2: Thien Ha Grotto

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Thien Ha Grotto offers a captivating exploration through its vast underground caverns.

Visitors embark on a bamboo boat ride, meandering through the dry grotto and water cave, which extends for over 500 meters.

Along the way, they’re treated to scenic vistas of the surrounding rice fields and Melaleuca forests.

This option provides a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty and geological wonders of the region.

Whether you’re interested in spelunking, photography, or simply taking in the serene landscape, Thien Ha Grotto promises an unforgettable adventure.

Important Information

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. Guests should bring sunglasses and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

It’s also wise to carry any necessary medication and have a personal phone number ready for the local operator in case of emergencies or changes to the itinerary.

The tour operator offers a flexible "reserve now, pay later" option, allowing travelers to solidify their plans while maintaining flexibility.

To enhance the journey, guests are encouraged to:

• Pack light and wear comfortable clothing
• Familiarize themselves with the itinerary
• Bring local currency for personal expenses
• Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen as needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Visit Both Van Long and Thien Ha Grotto in One Day?

Yes, it’s possible to visit both Van Long Nature Reserve and Thien Ha Grotto in one day, based on the tour itinerary which offers an option to choose between the two locations in the afternoon.

What Is the Difference Between the Electric Car and Regular Transportation?

The electric car at Bai Dinh Pagoda provides a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation, allowing visitors to explore the vast temple complex without having to walk long distances. In contrast, regular transportation would require more physical effort.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour operator doesn’t mention any discounts for children or seniors. However, it’s worth checking if they offer any special rates for these groups when making the booking. The tour price seems to be a fixed rate per person.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Fit Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit guests’ preferences. Travelers can choose between visiting Van Long Nature Reserve or Thien Ha Grotto based on their interests. The operator is flexible in accommodating individual needs.

How Do We Get a Refund if We Need to Cancel the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing a full refund. Customers can easily cancel and receive their money back if they need to adjust their travel plans.

Recap

The "Hidden Trip to Bai Dinh Pagoda" offers a captivating journey through Vietnam’s natural and cultural wonders. Visitors can enjoy the grandeur of the Bai Dinh Pagoda, indulge in local cuisine, and choose between a serene boat cruise or an adventurous cave exploration. This enriching 9-hour experience promises to leave a lasting impression on nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.