Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is a city in Vietnam by the red river delta about 98 km from Ha Noi. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You get full day tours from Hanoi for about ₹2500-3000 per person. It takes one and a half hours in a comfortable AC bus to reach there. The trip includes 3 stunning places- the Hoa Lu temple, Trang An and Mua Caves. The trip cost includes pick up and drop from/to your hotel -if it is in the Old Quarter- the bus fare, entry tickets, boat ride and a sumptuous local cuisine lunch buffet. To explore more of what to expect in Ninh Binh, check out our post here.
Hoa Lu
The Hoa Lu temples are two temples dedicated to 10th and 11th century Dinh and Le dynasties with rules Vietnam during that period. The construction of the temple consists of three main structures- the main temple, temple of the Dinh dynasty and temple of the Le dynasty. The entrance of the temple is a beautiful gateway with intricate carvings. A bridge built over the red river leads up to this gateway with forms the entrance to the temples. It a peaceful place.
Hang Mua
It is a 500 stairs climb only. The view from the top is worth every stair that you repented while climbing. Try to complete the climb else you would miss something awesome from the top. The view includes the limestone cliffs of Trang An through which the Tam Coc river cuts its way creating beautiful limestone caves. You would feel like spending your entire day there. The stairs divide into two different directions a point, one lower viewpoint while the other is a little climb further. On top of the higher peak there is a dragon structure and Lady Buddha statue. There is not enough space for anyone to stand properly around it. It is a hike if you want to click pictures with the dragon. You will be exhausted and find the lunch served a welcome part of the tour. The food is one added attraction of these tours.
Trang An
Your next stop will be Trang An. You get two options while in Trang An to explore- by a boat ride or a bicycle trip. We suggest to go for the boat ride on the Tam Coc river. A slow laid back ride through one of nature’s best creations will spell bind you. The river runs through the area with fields on one side and limestone cliffs on the other. You will be taken through from under few amazing limestone caves where it all gets dark for several minutes while you navigate your way through it. It was one thrilling experience. It will take about 40 minutes for the ride. Do not forget to tip the boat person.
