Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour in Hanoi – The Ultimate Guide

Hanoi, the lively capital of Vietnam, is one of the most visited cities in Asia and has something to offer for every kind of traveler. One of the top attractions within short distance from the city is Ninh Binh, an unmissable region with stunning natural beauty. Just a two-hour drive south of Hanoi lies the province of Ninh Binh. It is known for its tranquil countryside with limestone karsts jutting out of the bright green paddies and ravines, rivers that twist through the landscape, and a charming old quarter. Although its numerous attractions can be visited as a day trip from Hanoi – including Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour – it is worth spending a few days exploring all that Ninh Binh has to offer.This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to exploring the renowned islets of Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour – as well as some notable highlights beyond the must-see sights.

History and Geography of Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh province is located in northern Vietnam on the Red River delta. It covers more than 3,100 square kilometers and consists of several limestone mountain ranges and flat plains. Historically, it served as the ancient capital during the Dinh and Le Dynasties in the 10th century. Nowadays, it still retains some relics from this era, along with fascinating rural culture and stunning geography.

Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda

Hoa Lu is one of Ninh Binh’s most important historical attractions and can be conveniently explored in a single day. This ancient capital city is located just 30 minutes away from the modern city centre. It was originally established during the Dinh Dynasty (968-980). Its most striking features are two temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang (which translates to “the first king”) and King Le Dai Hanh (which translates to “the second king”). Mua Cave is a relatively recent addition to Ninh Binh’s list of attractions; it opened to visitors in July 2014. Mua Cave is situated on the side of Mountain Mua, about 5 kilometers from Hoa Lu. To get there you’ll need to take a short half-hour climb that ends at an impressive 400-step staircase. The cave is 350 meters deep and overlooks Ninh Binh Valley from a height of 486 meters. Tam Coc translates to “three caves” in Vietnamese, and that is exactly what you get here: three caves with spectacular river scenery. There are also several pagodas to enjoy here, including Bich Dong Pagoda which was built during the 14th century. It consists of two caves connected by a staircase.

How to Get to Ninh Binh

The best way to get to Ninh Binh is by car. While it’s possible to get there using public transport, such as buses or trains, hiring your own vehicle makes it much easier and more convenient to explore all the attractions without having to deal with the hassle of public transport timetables and stops. The drive from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes around two hours. To make your journey smoother and more pleasant there are several stops along the way such as the Trang An Ecological Area (see below), which is just after the Cuc Phuong National Park, or Thung Nang as you approach Tam Coc.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Ninh Binh is during autumn (September to October), when there is less rainfall and moderate temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius during the day. Winters here are comparatively cool, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10 degrees Celsius. December and January offer more favorable weather than February and March, when rain begins to fall again and temperatures start to rise. Summers (May to August) are hot and humid, and very little rainfall occurs during this time.

Where to Stay

Ninh Binh offers plenty of accommodation options including budget hotels and luxury resorts, but for those looking for something special there are also plenty of homestays available around Tam Coc. Homestays in Ninh Binh usually offer special cultural experiences through home cooked meals and traditional activities such as fishing or farming in local villages.

Places to See in Ninh Binh

Among all the interesting places to explore in Ninh Binh, these few must-visits stand out:

• Thung Nang Valley: This beautiful valley with rice paddy terraces offers spectacular views of surrounding villages and translates as “coconut water valley”.
• Trang An Ecological Area: This mesmerising UNESCO World Heritage Site lives up to its claim as being “Ha Long Bay inland” – it contains more than 50 valleys, caves and limestone karst peaks.
• Van Long Nature Reserve: Well known for its serene atmosphere, Van Long Nature Reserve is home to many wildlife species such as monkeys, deer and civets, among others.
• Phat Diem Cathedral: This stunning cathedral complex was built in the 1800s by Fransiscan priests from France and includes seven picturesque pagodas.

Day Trips from Ninh Binh

A great way to explore Ninh Binh province further is by going on day trips in the area. Here are two areas worth visiting:

• Van long Nature Reserve: Located 60 kilometers southwest of Ninh Binh city centre, Van long Nature Reserve is great for a day trip – you can enjoy cruising on a traditional bamboo boat around the dazzling limestone islands or hop on a kayak and explore the hidden caves.
• Cuc Phuong National Park: Cuc Phuong National Park is just 45 kilometers from Ninh Binh city center and boasts some of the most diverse wildlife in Vietnam – from langurs and pheasants to turtles and more! Home to 3000 medicinal plants, this unique attraction makes for an interesting day out.

Conclusion

Regardless of whichever combination of these attractions you choose for your trip – Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour – or even just a day trip outside Hanoi – you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience discovering some of Vietnam’s most awe-inspiring treasures! What’s more, thanks to GetYourGuide’s Ninh Binh Tour, it’s never been easier or more convenient to visit this breathtaking area of Vietnam!