From Hanoi: Ninh Binh Tour Bai Dinh, Trang an and Mua Cave

Ninh Binh is a captivating region just a few hours from Hanoi, boasting a wealth of natural and cultural wonders. This full-day tour whisks you away to explore the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, the serene landscapes of Trang An or Tam Coc, and the breathtaking vistas from Mua Cave. With comfortable transportation, an expert guide, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine, it’s an immersive journey that promises to leave a lasting impression. What treasures await beyond this enticing introduction?

Key Points

• A full-day Ninh Binh tour from Hanoi priced at $50.83 per person, including transportation, guide, and admission to key sites.
• Highlights include visiting the Bai Dinh Pagoda, exploring the UNESCO-listed Trang An or Tam Coc landscapes, and climbing Mua Cave.
• The tour offers an optional countryside bicycle ride and a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
• Visitors can choose between Tam Coc’s boat trip through three caves or the diverse cave systems of Trang An.
• The tour provides a flexible itinerary and a cancellation policy allowing free changes up to 24 hours prior.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Ninh Binh tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the region’s significant Buddhist, natural, and cultural highlights.

Priced from $50.83 per person, this full-day tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission to key sites.

Highlights include the grand Bai Dinh Pagoda, the UNESCO-listed Trang An or Tam Coc landscapes, and the scenic Mua Cave.

The flexible itinerary allows for optional activities like cycling, boat trips, and traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

With a cancellation policy allowing free changes up to 24 hours prior, this tour provides an accessible gateway to Ninh Binh’s natural and spiritual wonders.

Itinerary

After pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter hotels, the tour departs for Ninh Bình.

The first stop is Bai Dinh Pagoda, Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist complex.

In the midday, guests enjoy an authentic Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.

An optional countryside bicycle ride through village paths, rice paddies, and waterways is available.

In the afternoon, the tour visits either Tam Cốc, with a boat trip through three caves, or Tràng An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Finally, visitors climb Mua Cave to admire panoramic views of the scenic landscapes.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda is Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist complex, renowned for its spiritual, architectural, and cultural significance.

The sprawling site features over 500 bronze statues, a massive bell tower, and numerous temples and pagodas. Visitors can explore the intricate architecture, admire the exquisite Buddhist artwork, and soak in the serene atmosphere.

The complex also houses a large reclining Buddha statue and a collection of rare Buddhist artifacts. Trekking through the pagoda’s serene grounds offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s deep-rooted Buddhist heritage and the country’s architectural prowess.

Lunch and Optional Activity

After exploring the spiritual grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, the tour moves on to a midday lunch. Guests enjoy an authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. Following the meal, an optional activity is offered to further immerse in the countryside.

| Activity | Duration | Cost |

| — | — | — |

| Scenic Bicycle Ride | 1-2 hours | Included |

| Village Exploration | 1-2 hours | Included |

| Rice Paddy Visits | 1 hour | Included |

This leisurely bicycle journey through the rural landscapes allows travelers to witness the daily life of the local people and appreciate the serene natural beauty surrounding Ninh Binh.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tam Coc or Trang An

Guests then have the choice between visiting the renowned destinations of Tam Cốc or Tràng An.

Tam Cốc offers a boat trip along the Ngọc Đồng River, passing through three iconic caves.

Alternatively, Tràng An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a network of caves and stunning karst landscapes.

The key differences are:

1. Tam Cốc features a boat trip through three caves.

2. Tràng An is a UNESCO-protected site with diverse cave systems and landscapes.

3. Both provide opportunities to immerse in the natural beauty of Ninh Bình.

4. Guests can select the destination that best aligns with their interests and preferences.

Mua Cave

Following the boat trips at Tam Cốc or Tràng An, visitors then climb up to Mua Cave.

The ascent to the top of Mua Cave’s 500 steps offers panoramic views of the stunning Tam Cốc landscape. Adorned with lotus flowers, the serene surroundings provide a tranquil contrast to the climb.

At the summit, guests are rewarded with a breathtaking vista of the winding rivers, towering limestone cliffs, and verdant rice paddies that characterize the Ninh Bình region.

This viewpoint is the perfect spot to pause, take in the scenery, and capture memorable photographs.

Highlights

The tour highlights an exploration of the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia, known for its spiritual, architectural, and cultural significance.

Visitors can:

1. Immerse themselves in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An, with its network of caves and stunning karst landscapes.

2. Embark on boat trips through the cave systems of both Tam Cốc and Tràng An, marveling at the natural beauty.

3. Climb Mua Cave for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, adorned with serene lotus flowers.

4. Enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant during the midday break.

Inclusions and Booking Information

The tour package includes limousine bus transportation, an English-speaking guide (with surcharges for other languages), a bottle of water per person, and a buffet lunch for group tours or a set menu for private tours.

Also included are the use of conical hats and raincoats (weather-dependent), boat trips to Trang An or Tam Coc, and taxes and electric car visits to Bai Dinh.

Tips for the guide and personal expenses are covered. A 30% surcharge applies for holidays in Vietnam.

Private tours with language guide surcharges are available. Travelers can check availability and reserve their spot with a flexible pay-later option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your interests. The provider offers private tour options where you can personalize the itinerary and have a language guide of your preference.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting Religious Sites?

When visiting religious sites, it’s recommended to dress conservatively. Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering temples. This shows respect for the sacred space and local customs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The tour operator offers discounted group rates, typically starting at 4 or more participants. Larger groups can negotiate even better pricing. Advance booking is recommended to secure the group discount.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal?

Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian or special dietary requests. Travelers should simply let the tour operator know their dietary needs in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements for a suitable meal.

Is There Any Additional Cost for Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price at no additional cost. The tour provider offers complimentary roundtrip transportation from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter area.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Hanoi showcases the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Ninh Binh. Visitors can explore the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda, take a scenic boat ride through the karst landscapes of Tam Coc or Trang An, and climb the steps of Mua Cave for panoramic views. With comfortable transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a delicious lunch, this tour offers a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: