Nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s Northern region, Ninh Binh beckons travelers with its captivating blend of natural splendor and cultural riches. From the grandeur of Bai Dinh Temple to the serene boat excursions through Trang An’s scenic landscapes, this destination offers an immersive journey that delights the senses. Yet, the true gem lies in the challenge of conquering Hang Mua’s steep stairs, where the reward is a breathtaking panorama that leaves visitors both exhilarated and awestruck. Discover why Ninh Binh is a must-visit for those seeking to uncover Vietnam’s hidden wonders.
Key Points
- Explore the sprawling Bai Dinh Temple, known for its 500 stone La Han statues and Asia’s largest gold-plated bronze Buddha statue.
- Set out on a serene 2-hour boat trip through the UNESCO World Heritage Trang An Scenic Landscape, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush greenery.
- Challenge yourself with a 500-step climb up Hang Mua for panoramic views of the stunning karst peaks and rivers of Ninh Binh.
- Immerse in Vietnamese culinary traditions with a diverse buffet lunch featuring local specialties like fragrant rice, pho, and fresh spring rolls.
- Enjoy a comprehensive tour package with round-trip transportation, English-speaking guide, and all admission fees, providing a hassle-free exploration of Ninh Binh’s cultural and natural wonders.
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Tour Overview
This 1-day tour of Ninh Binh’s top attractions covers the Bai Dinh Temple, Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, and Hang Mua.
Priced at £41.22 per person, it lasts 12 hours with round-trip transportation from Hanoi hotels. The tour includes an air-conditioned bus, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch.
Highlights include a guided tour of Bai Dinh Temple, a 2-hour boat trip through Trang An’s UNESCO-listed landscapes, and a climb up 500 steps to the Hang Mua viewpoint.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this comprehensive tour offers an efficient way to discover Ninh Binh’s natural and cultural wonders.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with pickup from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 7:30 and 8:00 AM.
After a 1.5-hour limousine ride, there’s a 20-minute rest stop before arriving at Bai Dinh Temple.
Guests will enjoy a guided tour and sightseeing for 1.5 hours, exploring features like the 500 stone La Han statues, 27-ton bell tower, and Asia’s largest gold-plated bronze Buddha statue.
Lunch follows, a 1-hour buffet with local specialties.
Next, the group travels to the UNESCO-listed Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex for a 2-hour guided boat trip through its caves and tunnels.
The final stop is Hang Mua, where visitors climb 500 steps for panoramic views, before the 5 PM departure back to Hanoi.
Bai Dinh Temple
Bai Dinh Temple is a sprawling religious complex located in Ninh Binh Province, renowned for its impressive collection of 500 stone La Han statues.
Visitors can admire the 27-ton bell tower and the 36-ton bronze bell, the largest in Vietnam. The highlight is the 10-meter-tall gold-plated bronze Buddha statue, the largest of its kind in Asia.
Exploring the temple’s intricate architecture and learning about its rich history provide a fascinating cultural experience.
The guided tour and sightseeing at Bai Dinh Temple are included in the 1-day tour, offering visitors a chance to enjoy Vietnam’s spiritual heritage.
Lunch Experience
After the captivating visit to Bai Dinh Temple, the tour continues with a 1-hour lunch break featuring a buffet of local Vietnamese specialties.
Diners can savor a variety of authentic dishes, including fragrant rice, flavorful pho noodle soup, and fresh spring rolls.
The diverse menu caters to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone finds something they’ll enjoy.
The relaxed atmosphere provides the perfect opportunity to recharge and refuel before the next leg of the adventure.
With a selection of regional favorites and a chance to immerse in Vietnamese culinary traditions, the lunch experience is a highlight of the day’s itinerary.
Trang An Scenic Landscape
Following the tour of Bai Dinh Temple, the group boards their transportation and heads to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An Scenic Landscape.
Known for its caves and tunnels featured in the movie "Skull Island", the two-hour boat trip offers a unique opportunity to experience Vietnam’s natural beauty.
Gliding through the serene waterways, visitors are surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery.
The guide provides insights into the area’s rich history and cultural significance.
This immersive experience allows travelers to fully appreciate the majesty of Trang An’s landscapes and gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s natural wonders.
Hang Mua Climb
Climbing the 500 steps of Hang Mua takes visitors on a rewarding journey to panoramic vistas overlooking the Trang An landscape.
The ascent, though challenging, offers stunning views of the karst peaks, winding rivers, and lush vegetation that characterize this UNESCO World Heritage site.
At the summit, travelers can bask in the breathtaking 360-degree panorama, capturing the essence of Ninh Binh’s natural beauty.
The Hang Mua climb is a must-do activity that allows visitors to fully enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes and appreciate the grandeur of Vietnam’s natural wonders.
Return to Hanoi
The journey now turns towards the return to Hanoi.
Departing Hang Mua at 5:00 PM, the bus makes the 1.5-hour trip back to Vietnam’s bustling capital. Travelers can sit back and reflect on the day’s adventures, admiring the picturesque landscapes along the way.
Upon arrival in Hanoi, expected between 7:00-7:30 PM, guests will be dropped off at their original pickup locations. This convenient round-trip transportation ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience.
With incredible sights, delicious local cuisine, and expert guidance, the Bai Dinh-Trang An-Mua Cave tour provides an immersive glimpse into the natural and cultural wonders of Ninh Binh.
Inclusions and Importance
Inclusiveness and importance define the core of this comprehensive tour package.
Travelers can enjoy round-trip transportation, a delectable local buffet, and the expertise of an English-speaking guide. Admission fees to all the key attractions are covered, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.
Beyond mere sightseeing, this tour offers a holistic immersion in Vietnam’s cultural and natural wonders. From the grandeur of Bai Dinh Temple to the breathtaking vistas of Hang Mua, each element is carefully curated to create an unforgettable journey.
With a duration of 12 hours and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour strikes the perfect balance between convenience and exploration, making it an essential experience for visitors to Ninh Binh.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour does not specify a maximum group size, indicating it is open to individuals or small groups. The inclusive transportation and guided experiences suggest an intimate group setting for this day-long excursion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Recommended Minimum Ages?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. However, it’s recommended that children be at least 8 years old to fully enjoy the activities and handle the physical demands of the day.
Can the Tour Accommodate Vegetarian or Special Dietary Requests?
The tour can accommodate vegetarian and other special dietary requests with advance notice. Guests should inform the tour provider of any dietary needs when booking to ensure their needs are met during the included lunch.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
The tour offers discounts for children aged 5-12 (50% off) and seniors over 60 (10% off). However, there are no special dietary options available, so vegetarian or other requests would need to be arranged separately.
Can the Pickup Location Be Changed From the Hanoi Old Quarter or Opera House?
Yes, the pickup location can be changed, but there may be an additional fee. Customers should contact the tour provider directly to discuss alternative pickup options and any associated charges.
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Recap
Ninh Binh offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of Bai Dinh Temple, drift through the serene Trang An landscape, and challenge themselves with the Hang Mua climb. This comprehensive tour provides an unforgettable experience, allowing travelers to enjoy Vietnam’s breathtaking scenery and rich history.