A perfect day in Ninh Binh
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1. An Unforgettable Journey Through Vietnam's Rice Fields
Ninh Binh is located approximately 90 kilometers south of Hanoi, making it a perfect day trip destination from the bustling city. The journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes around two hours, passing through picturesque countryside views.
Arrive at Ninh Binh in the morning and start your day with a visit to Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This complex is known for its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. Here's what you can expect during your visit:
1.1 Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
Trang An is a must-visit attraction in Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Ha Long Bay on Land" due to its similar limestone karst landscape. The complex covers an area of 6,000 hectares and encompasses three areas: Trang An Ecological Area, Tam Coc - Bich Dong, and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
The best way to explore Trang An is by taking a traditional sampan boat ride. These small flat-bottomed boats are rowed by local women, known as "Trang An queens," who use their feet to maneuver the oars. The serene ride through the waterways, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and peaceful rice fields, will leave you in awe.
1.2 Exploring the Caves and Temples
As you glide through the waterways, your boat will take you through several caves, each offering a unique glimpse into the region's history and natural beauty. These ancient caves were once used as shelters during wars, and some still have remnants of altars and shrines inside.
One of the highlights of the Trang An Complex is the Hang Toi (Dark Cave), where visitors can only enter by rafting under a low-hanging cliff. As the name suggests, this cave is pitch black inside, but the experience is truly unforgettable. Make sure to also visit the Thien Ha (Galaxy) Cave, which features a beautiful grotto with stalactites resembling stars.
Along the way, your boat will also stop at several temples and pagodas scattered along the riverbanks. The most famous one is Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia. This magnificent temple boasts impressive architecture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rice paddies. Take your time to stroll around and soak in the peaceful atmosphere, or join the locals in prayer and offerings at the various shrines.
2. A Perfect Day in Ninh Binh
After exploring Trang An, it's time to refuel with a delightful Vietnamese lunch. Ninh Binh is known for its delicious cuisine, heavily influenced by the nearby city of Hanoi. Here are some must-try dishes during your visit:
2.1 Ninh Binh's Famous Goat Meat
One of the most iconic dishes in Ninh Binh is goat meat, known locally as "de nui." This tender and flavorful meat is often served grilled or in a hotpot, accompanied by various herbs and vegetables. You can try this specialty at many restaurants around Ninh Binh.
2.2 Com Chay (Burned Rice)
Com Chay is a unique dish that originated from Ninh Binh. It is made by burning the rice at the bottom of a clay pot, giving it a smoky flavor. The burned rice is then mixed with various ingredients like shredded pork, shrimp, and dried onions, creating a delicious and crunchy texture.
2.3 Pho Bo Ninh Binh (Ninh Binh Beef Noodle Soup)
No visit to Vietnam is complete without trying pho, and Ninh Binh has its own version of this famous noodle soup. Pho Bo Ninh Binh features a rich and flavorful beef broth, topped with tender slices of beef, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. It's the perfect comfort food after a day of exploring.
After a delicious lunch, head to the next stop on your itinerary: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
2.3 Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties in the 10th and 11th centuries. Today, only the foundations and some temples remain from this ancient city, but they offer a glimpse into Vietnam's past.
The main attraction in Hoa Lu is the Dinh and Le Temples, dedicated to the two founding emperors of Vietnam. These temples are built in a traditional Vietnamese architectural style, with intricate details and beautiful carvings. Take a walk around the grounds and learn about the history and significance of these temples.
3. Ninh Binh One-Day Tour
As the day comes to an end, make your way back to Hanoi with fond memories of your one-day tour in Ninh Binh. This region has so much to offer, and this itinerary is just a glimpse of what you can experience here. Other attractions that you can include in your tour are:
3.1 Tam Coc - Bich Dong
Tam Coc, also known as "Three Caves," is another must-visit attraction in Ninh Binh. Similar to Trang An, visitors can take a boat ride through the waterways surrounded by magnificent limestone cliffs. The highlight of this journey is passing through three caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. Each cave offers a unique experience, and the views from inside are truly spectacular.
After visiting the caves, stop at Bich Dong Pagoda, also known as "Blue Pagoda." This ancient pagoda is built on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Take a leisurely stroll around the complex and admire the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
3.2 Van Long Nature Reserve
For nature lovers, a visit to Van Long Nature Reserve is a must. This reserve is located in Gia Vien district, approximately 20 kilometers northwest of Ninh Binh. It is home to diverse flora and fauna, including many endangered species like langurs, herons, and white-bellied sea eagles.
The best way to explore Van Long is by taking a boat ride through the wetlands and limestone mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this untouched natural gem.
Ninh Binh is a hidden gem in Vietnam, often overlooked by tourists in favor of bigger cities. However, this one-day itinerary proves that Ninh Binh has so much to offer, from stunning landscapes to rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine. So why not add Ninh Binh to your travel bucket list and experience its charms for yourself? You won't be disappointed.
4. Suggested 1 day Ninh Binh travel itinerary
07:30: Meditours Ninh Bình tour guide and vehicle will pick you up from the Old Quarter and the Opera House area for departure to Ninh Binh.
09:30: Arrive at Bai Dinh Pagoda, where the tour guide will assist you in purchasing tickets for the electric car ride to Bai Dinh Pagoda – a renowned temple boasting numerous records. The temple complex spans over 107 hectares, featuring the Tam The and Phap Chu shrines covering thousands of square meters. Within this temple complex lies the largest bronze statue of Buddha in Southeast Asia (weighing 100 tons) and three statues of Tam The, each weighing 50 tons.
To delve deeper into this marvel, join Meditours Ninh Binh for the Bai Dinh – Trang An 1-day tour!
11:30: Return to the restaurant for lunch and relaxation.
13:00: Board the bus to Trang An Wharf, where you’ll embark on a boat journey through the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex – a mystical and enchanting space with limestone cliffs, valleys, and intertwining rivers. On this route, you’ll have the opportunity to explore four natural caves, including Hang Lam, Hang Vang, Hang Thanh Truot, and the final cave, Hang Dai.
Take a moment to visit spiritual sites like the Suoi Tien Temple and the Vu Lam Palace. This itinerary is perfect for young adventurers and photography enthusiasts, allowing you to fully experience the boat journey through the caves and capture beautiful moments in Trang An.
15:30: Arrive at Mua Cave, where you’ll trek through winding pathways adorned with lush greenery and stunning rock formations. Then, embark on the journey to conquer the Mua Cave summit with its 500 stone steps. From the top, you’ll behold the vast expanse of Hoa Lu, tranquil yet majestic like a watercolor painting.
On the way back, pass by the Lotus Pond nestled amidst limestone mountains, creating an incredibly romantic and picturesque scene. You can even rent traditional costumes for a photoshoot here.
17:30: Board the bus for the return journey to Hanoi.
19:30: Arrival back in Hanoi. On behalf of the company, the tour guide extends greetings and wishes everyone in the group good health.
A one-day tour of Ninh Binh is an insightful journey to discover the cultural and natural wonders of Vietnam. From exploring ancient capitals to traveling through serene landscapes, this tour captures the essence of Ninh Binh in one day. So, pack your bags and come experience the wonders that make Ninh Binh a destination not to be missed.
Detail: https://meditoursninhbinh.com/ninh-binh-tour-1-day/
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