Discovering the Ancient Capital: Hoa Lu

Nestled in the heart of Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu is a treasure trove of history and culture waiting to be explored. As the first capital of Vietnam, this ancient city offers a glimpse into the country’s rich past. On the morning of January 11th, when the skies begin to clear, it’s the perfect time to embark on a journey through time. Start your day with a visit to the Hoa Lu Temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties. These temples, built on the site of the former royal palace, honor King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh. The architecture is a testament to the grandeur of Vietnam’s feudal dynasties, and the serene atmosphere provides a peaceful start to your adventure.

After soaking in the history, take a leisurely bike ride around the village of Ninh Hai. This 45-minute ride offers a chance to experience local life and the stunning landscapes that surround Hoa Lu. The gentle morning breeze and mild temperatures make it an ideal time for this activity. As you pedal through the village, you’ll be greeted by friendly locals and picturesque views of rice paddies and limestone mountains.

“A perfect day of nature and culture - Our group had a memorable day on the Hoa Lu - Tam Coc tour! We started with a peaceful boat ride through the beautiful landscapes, followed by a scenic bike ride around the area. The highlight was a delicious buffet lunch, offering a variety of fresh local dishes. The scenery was beautiful and peaceful, really worth a visit.” - Reviewed on 2024-11-24

Embracing Nature: Tam Coc and Trang An

As the afternoon sun bathes the landscape in golden light, it’s time to explore the natural wonders of Tam Coc and Trang An. Known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” these areas are famous for their stunning karsts and caves. Join the Ninh Binh Tour for an unforgettable experience. The tour includes a sampan boat trip through Tam Coc, where you’ll glide along the serene river, passing through three magnificent caves. The clear skies and excellent visibility make this the perfect time to capture breathtaking photos of the limestone cliffs and lush greenery.

After the boat ride, indulge in a buffet lunch at a local restaurant in the Trang An area. The meal features Asian-style cuisine, local dishes, and organic vegetables, providing a delightful taste of Vietnam’s culinary heritage. With your appetite satisfied, continue your journey with a rowing boat trip at the Trang An Landscape Complex. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a breathtaking natural wonder, with majestic limestone massifs rising from rice paddies. As you explore the caves, each passage reveals new surprises and hidden mysteries within tranquil, isolated valleys.

“Recommended trip - My trip to Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Mua Cave was truly memorable. We started in Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, admiring its historic temples. Next, we explored Tam Coc on a peaceful boat ride, passing through stunning limestone mountains and lush rice fields. Mua Cave offered breathtaking panoramic views after a short hike. Lunch was a delicious buffet of local food. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and enriched the experience with his enthusiastic and engaging introductions.” - Reviewed on 2024-11-22

Climbing to New Heights: Mua Cave

As the day draws to a close, there’s no better way to end your adventure than with a visit to Mua Cave. This optional activity is available in the late afternoon, and it’s well worth the effort. The climb to the top of Ngoa Long Mountain involves nearly 500 stone steps, but the panoramic views from the summit are simply breathtaking. From this vantage point, you can see the Ngo Dong River winding through Tam Coc, with the sun setting in the distance.

The climb is paved but steep, so be sure to bring water and allow an hour for the round trip. As you ascend, you’ll pass a simple altar to Quan Am, the Goddess of Mercy, adding a spiritual element to your journey. Once at the top, take a moment to soak in the beauty of the rice valley and the natural landscape that surrounds you. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

“The trip was so wonderful - Hoa Lu - Tam Coc Full Day Tour offers a perfect combination of history, nature, and culture. Visiting the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, we explore the historical temples of King Dinh and King Le, appreciating the rich heritage and architecture. Take a sampan boat through Tam Coc to explore the stunning limestone mountains and serene caves, creating unforgettable moments. Lunch at a local restaurant is a delightful feast of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The journey ends with a peaceful bicycle ride through lush rice fields and quiet countryside, leaving us refreshed and intoxicated. Really thanks By Paradise Indochina Travel. The trip was very good.” - Reviewed on 2024-11-19

With the sun setting at 5:34 PM on January 11th and 5:35 PM on January 12th, you’ll have ample time to enjoy the views before heading back to Hanoi. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Hoa Lu and its surroundings offer a perfect winter weekend getaway. Embrace the outdoors and let the beauty of Ninh Binh captivate your senses.