Hanoi: Ninh Binh / Bai Dinh Pagoda - Trang An / Buffet Lunch

Explore the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of Ninh Binh, a captivating destination just a day trip away from Hanoi. Enjoy the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, Southeast Asia’s largest, and marvel at its impressive statues and serene meditation halls. Then, embark on a tranquil boat cruise through the UNESCO-listed Trang An landscape, where towering limestone cliffs and hidden caves beckon. Indulge in a delicious buffet lunch showcasing local specialties, including the renowned Ninh Binh burnt rice. This comprehensive tour promises to leave you with indelible memories of Northern Vietnam’s natural beauty and unique culinary delights.

Key Points

A 1-day tour package from Hanoi that includes visits to Bai Dinh Pagoda, a boat trip through Trang An, and a local buffet lunch for $43.31 per person.
The tour features a live English and Vietnamese-speaking guide, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and comfortable round-trip transportation.
Highlights include exploring the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia, admiring the 36-ton bronze bell and 100-ton Buddha statue, and experiencing the UNESCO-listed Trang An landscape.
The included lunch features regional specialties like goat meat and Ninh Binh burnt rice, providing an immersive culinary experience.
The tour’s itinerary covers key attractions in Ninh Binh, with pickup in Hanoi, arrival at Bai Dinh Pagoda, a boat trip, and return to Hanoi by 7:00 PM.

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Tour Overview and Pricing

This 1-day Bai Dinh Pagoda – Trang An tour package offers a comprehensive experience for visitors to explore the highlights of Ninh Binh province.

Priced from $43.31 per person, the tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a live English and Vietnamese-speaking guide.

With a duration of 1 day, the tour covers the massive Bai Dinh Pagoda and a 2-hour boat trip through the UNESCO-listed Trang An landscape.

Lunch featuring local specialties like goat meat and Ninh Binh burnt rice is also included.

Transportation with basic amenities like air conditioning and water is provided, making this an accessible and convenient way to explore the region.

Highlights and Experiences

Visitors to this 1-day tour can look forward to an immersive exploration of Ninh Binh’s cultural and natural wonders.

They’ll marvel at the grandeur of Southeast Asia’s largest Bai Dinh Pagoda, admiring its 500 stone-arhat statues, 36-ton bronze bell, and 100-ton Buddha statue.

The highlight of the tour is a 2-hour boat trip through the UNESCO-listed Trang An, known for its tunnel cave system and as the filming location for "Kong: Skull Island."

Tourists will also indulge in local specialities for lunch, such as succulent goat meat and the unique Ninh Binh burnt rice.

Itinerary Schedule

The tour typically begins at 7:30 AM with pickup from the designated meeting point.

Travelers will then head to the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda, arriving around 10:30 AM to explore this Buddhist site.

After the pagoda visit, the group will enjoy a local lunch at 1:00 PM.

The highlight of the day is a 2-hour boat trip through the stunning Trang An landscape, starting at 2:00 PM.

The tour wraps up with the return journey to Hanoi, arriving back around 7:00 PM.

The itinerary schedule includes:

7:30 AM – Pickup at meeting point
10:30 AM – Arrival at Bai Dinh Pagoda
1:00 PM – Lunch at a local restaurant
2:00 PM – Boat trip through Trang An

Transportation and Amenities

For the tour, comfortable round-trip transport from Hanoi is provided.

Guests will travel in a spacious bus that can accommodate larger groups. The bus features basic amenities like air conditioning and reclining seats to ensure a comfortable journey.

Water is also provided on the bus for refreshment during the trip. The experienced driver ensures a safe and smooth ride to and from the destinations.

Included and Excluded

This tour includes a variety of amenities and services to enhance the overall experience.

The package includes:

Round-trip transportation from Hanoi in a comfortable bus with an experienced driver.
An English-speaking tour guide to provide insights and information throughout the day.
Entrance fees to the Bai Dinh Pagoda and boat tickets for the Trang An tour.
A delicious lunch featuring local specialties like goat meat and Ninh Binh burnt rice.

The tour excludes personal expenses and the use of electric cars.

This straightforward and inclusive package ensures a hassle-free and immersive exploration of the Ninh Binh region.

Bai Dinh Pagoda Exploration

Towering majestically over the lush landscapes of Ninh Binh, the Bai Dinh Pagoda impresses visitors with its colossal scale and ornate architecture.

Home to over 500 stone arhat statues, a massive 36-ton bronze bell, and a 100-ton Buddha statue, this Southeast Asia’s largest pagoda complex exudes a sense of grandeur.

Visitors can explore the intricate details of the temple’s design, from the ornate dragons adorning the roofs to the serene meditation halls.

The sheer size and scope of the Bai Dinh Pagoda make it a must-see destination for those seeking a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Trang An Boat Cruise

After exploring the grandeur of the Bai Dinh Pagoda, visitors embark on a serene boat cruise through the UNESCO-listed Trang An landscape.

This 2-hour journey offers a unique opportunity to witness the region’s stunning natural beauty, including its famous tunnel cave system.

The boat cruise allows visitors to:

Admire the dramatic limestone cliffs and lush greenery surrounding the waterways.
Discover hidden caves and grottoes, some of which served as filming locations for the blockbuster movie "Kong: Skull Island."
Gain insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage and the local way of life.
Enjoy a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Lunch at Local Restaurant

After the serene boat cruise through the stunning Trang An landscape, visitors are treated to a delectable lunch at a local restaurant.

The menu features an array of regional specialties, including the renowned goat meat and Ninh Binh burnt rice. Guests can savor the rich flavors and cultural authenticity of the local cuisine.

The restaurant setting provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the culinary traditions of the region.

This hearty meal serves as the perfect complement to the breathtaking natural scenery explored earlier in the day, leaving travelers satisfied and energized for the journey back to Hanoi.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to modify the schedule and activities based on your interests and requirements.

How Well-Maintained Are the Boats Used for the Trang an Cruise?

The boats used for the Trang An cruise are well-maintained and in good condition. They’re regularly inspected and serviced to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration for More Exploration?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but travelers can explore the area further on their own after the scheduled activities. The itinerary is focused on the key highlights within the set timeframe.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Gear or Equipment for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t require any special gear or equipment. Comfortable walking shoes and loose, breathable clothing are recommended to explore the pagoda and boat ride comfortably. The tour provides all necessary equipment and amenities for the activities.

Is It Possible to Have Dietary Restrictions Accommodated During the Lunch?

Yes, dietary restrictions can typically be accommodated during the lunch. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking, and the tour guide will work to ensure those requirements are met.

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Recap

This day trip to Ninh Binh offers a captivating blend of cultural and natural wonders. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, cruise through the stunning Trang An landscape, and savor a delectable buffet lunch showcasing local specialties. It’s an enriching journey that immerses travelers in the beauty and heritage of Northern Vietnam.