Ninh Binh Excursion: Phat Diem Catholic Capital & Galaxy Cave - 01 Day

8:00 AM: Transfer to Nho Quan, Ninh Binh through the luxuriant vegetation of the Red River Delta. On arrival have a visit Ninh Van village which has been well renowned stone sculpture village. Strolling around, you have a chance to witness the convergence of history, culture, religion and lifestyle in their products. Make a special visit the unique 100 year-old house, almost entirely built of natural blue stone. Meet the owner - Mrs. Dinh Thi Long and have an interesting talk about the history of the village and her husband’s grandfather who was invited to build the famous stone Phat Diem cathedral.

Note: Mrs Long is an old lady and not always live herself in the house. In that case, we just see house from outside

Continue to Thien Ha Pier, embark a small bamboo sampan boat to start a fantastic two hour boat trip with a local rower. Exploring the mystical limestone mountains as the picturesque rural countryside unfolds in front of your eyes: Buffaloes, ducks, and simple houses under the foot of the mountain all make this an idyllic rural picture.

Walk up to the Thien Ha cave (Celestial river Cave) that was only discovered in 2007. It is about 12,000 square meters in total and contains a lot of magnificent stalagmites and stalactites with different mystical shapes. Walk for the first 200m then take another boat trip inside the cave to discover its paradisiacal beauty.

Enjoy lunch at local restaurant before transfer to the Phat Diem cathedral which is well-known as the “Catholic capital” of Vietnam. The construction of the cathedral between 1875-1899 with a unique combination of traditional pagoda architecture and a western church made of stone and wood.

On arrival, take a leisurely walk to visit the Jesus Christ on the middle islet and the impressive house-gate. Then continue to the grand Catholic Church named “Nha Tho Duc Me Man Coi” which was built with 6 rows of monolithic ironwood with 2 layers of tile roof. Located at the end of the courtyard, the completely stone church is the most incredible building in the complex.

Leave the church, enjoy leisurely walk to Chinh Kim village and visit some of the work-shops knitting sedge products or try a cup of well-known rice wine liquor.