Ninh Binh is an awesome site with giant limestone karst formations jutting out of the rice paddies. This ancient land is enriched with historical, cultural and geographical wonders. Visiting Trang An Nature Reserve and Bai Dinh pagoda is a fantastic experience for a day tour from Hanoi.
8:00 AM: Start from your hotel for 2 hour drive to Bai Dinh pagoda which is one of the most impressive of Buddhism centers in Vietnam. On arrival at pagoda, walk along a path with 500 stone arhats alongside it, lining the route to the main pagodas. Each of the large pagodas and huge statues is an example of artistic architecture.
Take a lift to the viewpoint, a 13-storey tower that is believed to keep a part of Buddha’s ashes. Experience a panoramic view of the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia, surrounded by an exquisite river valley that is dotted with limestone karsts which will take your breath away.
Have a break for lunch then visit Trang An, recognized by UNESCO in 2014 as the world’s first mixed heritage site, is a true marvel of nature and culture. Upon arrival at the pier, you’ll board a private traditional sampan, gently rowed by a local. Glide along a poetic river and pass through a series of caves, some stretching 300–400 meters in length. Each bend reveals a hidden world nestled in peaceful, isolated valleys.
Step off the boat to wander through serene pagodas and temples dedicated to revered mandarins of the Tran Dynasty. Then, return to your sampan and soak in the breathtaking natural beauty as you head back to the pier.
Finally transfer back to Hanoi in the late afternoon.