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Trang An – The Muse of Ninh Binh

Not only blessed with stunning natural scenery, Trang An, Ninh Binh also holds profound historical and cultural values. Conveniently located near Hanoi and just 12 km from Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone, the Trang An Ecotourism Complex has become one of the most cherished cultural and spiritual destinations for passionate travelers.

Table of contents

1. An Overview of Trang An

Located in what used to be Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province, the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex covers an impressive area of 6,172 hectares, surrounded by a buffer zone of 6,268 hectares, mainly consisting of rice fields and villages.

Recognized as the first and only mixed cultural and natural World Heritage Site in Southeast Asia, Trang An captivates visitors with its extraordinary natural scenery. Upon arrival, you’ll be mesmerized by a vast landscape of towering limestone mountains, mysterious caves, diverse flora and fauna, and a series of renowned historical relics.

The limestone karst system here is estimated to be over 250 million years old, having undergone multiple geological transformations in climate, weather, and oceanic conditions to create the magnificent landscape we see today. Particularly striking are the uniquely shaped limestone mountains, forming a breathtaking natural panorama that leaves travelers in awe.

Before becoming a renowned tourist destination, King Dinh Tien Hoang strategically chose this area as a fortified outpost to protect the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, thanks to its naturally rugged and defensive terrain. This imbues Trang An not only with stunning beauty but also profound historical significance, reminding every visitor of a glorious chapter in Vietnam’s nation-building and defense history.

Tràng An - Ninh Bình

Photo: Internet

he Trang An Ecotourism Zone encompasses Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Tam Coc – Bich Dong, and Hoa Lu Special-Use Forest. This area was officially recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site in 2004.

Tràng An - Ninh Bình

Photo: Internet

2. Transportation to Trang An

There are several ways to reach Trang An Ecotourism Area, located less than 100 km from Hanoi, making it perfect for a same-day trip:

  • Motorbike: If you enjoy adventure travel, riding a motorbike is a great way to explore. The trip takes just over an hour via National Highway 1A towards Ninh Binh Province.

  • Passenger bus or limousine: This is another popular option. You can catch a bus at Giap Bat or My Dinh stations with a travel time of about 60 minutes. From the central area of Ninh Binh Province, you’ll need to take a motorbike taxi or a regular taxi to Trang An. Alternatively, you can book a Khanh An limousine (hotline 1900 8629) with door-to-door service.

  • Train: Take trains SE3, SE5, SE7, SE9, or SE19 from Hanoi Railway Station to Ninh Binh Railway Station, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes. From the station, you can take a taxi or rent a motorbike to Trang An, which takes about 15–20 minutes.

3. Ticket Prices

Ticket prices vary depending on age, height, and services selected:

  • Adults (height above 1.3m): 250,000 VND/person
  • Children (height 1m–1.3m): 120,000 VND/person
  • Children under 1m: Free of charge
  • Private boat rental: 1,250,000 VND/boat
  • Tour guide: 300,000 VND/route

4. Best Time to Visit Trang An

The most ideal time to visit the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is usually between January and March of the lunar calendar. During this period, the weather is pleasantly cool and clear, providing the perfect conditions to fully admire the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Alternatively, if you wish to witness the charming countryside scenery painted in the golden hues of ripe rice fields, plan your trip between July and September.

That said, Trang An welcomes visitors all year round. No matter the season, its natural charm and serene atmosphere offer a distinctive experience that never fails to captivate travelers.

5. Which route is the most beautiful in Trang An?

There are four popular sightseeing routes in Trang An, Ninh Binh that visitors can choose from:

  • Trang An Route 1: Visitors will explore 9 caves and 3 spiritual sites over approximately 3.5 – 4.5 hours. This route starts from the boat pier and passes through Trinh Temple – Dark Cave – Light Cave – Wine-Brewing Cave – Tran Temple – Ba Giot Cave before returning to the pier.
  • Trang An Route 2: The journey takes about 2.5 – 3 hours, featuring 4 caves and 3 spiritual sites. The route passes through Lam Cave – Vang Cave – Thanh Truot Cave – Suoi Tien Temple – Dai Cave – Vu Lam Royal Steps before returning to the pier.
  • Trang An Route 3: This route, introduced in 2017, lasts about 3 – 3.5 hours. Visitors will explore 3 caves, 3 spiritual sites, and a stalactite system stretching over 1,000 meters. It also offers deeper insights into the historical relics in the Suoi Tien area. The itinerary includes the boat pier – Trinh Temple – May Cave – Suoi Tien – Dia Linh Cave – Dai Cave – Vu Lam Royal Steps – Kong film set – and returns to the pier.
  • Trang An Route 4: The newest and shortest route, lasting about 1 hour. Visitors will discover 2 caves and 1 spiritual site.
Tràng An - Ninh Bình

Photo: Internet

So, which route is the most beautiful in Trang An? You can choose the route that best suits your personal preferences and needs. However, if you are particularly interested in historical architecture, Route 2 could be the most suitable choice for you.

Vườn chim Thung Nham

6. Suggested Nearby Attractions from Trang An

6.1. Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone (12 km)

After your morning excursion in Trang An, spend your afternoon at Thung Nham, home to the largest natural bird garden in Northern Vietnam, an impressive cave system, and mesmerizing natural scenery, making it one of Ninh Binh’s most captivating destinations.

Majestic caves, lush mangrove forests, and rare bird species create a pristine paradise waiting to be explored. Besides enjoying the tranquil natural surroundings, Thung Nham offers exciting activities such as staying overnight in traditional stilt houses at Thung Nham Resort or indulging in local cuisine by the largest outdoor swimming pool in Ninh Binh.

6.2. Tam Coc – Bich Dong (7 km)

Known as “Nam Thien De Nhi Dong” (the second most beautiful cave under heaven), Tam Coc – Bich Dong features serene rural scenery and an impressive limestone cave system. As part of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, it’s the perfect stop for travelers looking to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Vietnam’s rivers and mountains.

6.3. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital (4 km)

One of the four core areas of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital holds immense cultural and historical value for Vietnam. Despite the passage of time, this former capital stands quietly yet majestically, a golden testament to a glorious and heroic era of the nation’s history.

6.4. Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda in Ninh Binh is one of the oldest and most renowned pagodas in Vietnam, widely known for its numerous records and impressive scale. Visitors are captivated by its distinctive architecture that strongly reflects Buddhist traditions. Beyond its visual grandeur, Bai Dinh is also a sacred spiritual site offering meaningful religious activities for Buddhists and travelers alike.

6.5. Hang Mua (Mua Cave)

Located within the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, Hang Mua is among the most popular attractions in the ancient capital of Ninh Binh. The highlight of the visit is climbing to the mountain’s summit, where you can marvel at panoramic views of the majestic landscape, with endless golden rice fields stretching across Tam Coc below.

Mùa vàng Tam Cốc

Golden Rice Season in Tam Coc – Photo: Internet

Tràng An - Ninh Bình

Bai Dinh Garden Resort & Spa

Photo: Internet

7. Accommodation near Trang An

The Reed Hotel – Dinh Dien Street, Hoa Lu Ward

A 5-star hotel located in the heart of Ninh Binh Province. Featuring 182 elegantly designed rooms equipped with modern amenities, the hotel offers a variety of facilities and services including a spa, outdoor swimming pool, bar, and restaurants serving both local and international cuisine.

An’s Eco Garden Resort – Binh Khe Hamlet, Ninh Nhat Ward

This eco-friendly resort embraces a traditional Vietnamese architectural style, with interiors crafted from familiar materials such as wood, bamboo, and rattan. The serene, rustic ambiance makes it an ideal choice for guests seeking peace, comfort, and relaxation.

Bai Dinh Garden Resort & Spa – Hamlet 5, Bai Dinh Pagoda Area, Tay Hoa Lu Ward

One of the largest resorts in Ninh Binh, Bai Dinh Garden Resort & Spa is surrounded by lush greenery, featuring spacious rooms decorated in soft, harmonious tones to create a comfortable, rejuvenating retreat for travelers wishing to fully unwind during their stay.

8. What to Eat When Visiting Trang An

Your Ninh Binh trip wouldn’t be complete without savoring its local specialties. Here are some well-known restaurants near Trang An where you can indulge in authentic Ninh Binh cuisine:

  • Chinh Thu Goat Restaurant: Khe Thuong, Ninh Nhat Ward
  • Tung Dung Restaurant: Xuan Ang Ngoai, Hoa Lu Ward
  • Thanh Long Restaurant: 04 Ngo Quyen Street, Hoa Lu Ward
  • Luong Thuong Restaurant: At the foot of Non Nuoc Bridge, Hoa Lu Ward
  • Huu Nghi Restaurant: By Ky Lan Lake, next to Hoa Lu Ancient Town, Trang An 2 Street, Hoa Lu Ward
  • Thung Nham Restaurant: Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone, Hai Nham Hamlet, Nam Hoa Lu Ward
Ẩm thực Thung Nham - Chuyên dê
Tràng An - Ninh Bình

Photo: Internet

9. Useful Tips for Visiting Trang An

To make your trip to Trang An, Ninh Binh more complete and enjoyable, consider the following recommendations:

  • If you plan to take photos, you can politely ask the boat rower to pause for a moment so you can capture the perfect shot and memorable moments.
  • Always wear a life jacket while on the boat. You may remove it briefly for photos, but try to limit this for safety reasons.
  • Remember your boat’s number to easily find your way back after getting off at stops.
  • It’s best to visit Trang An in the morning, before the sun becomes too intense, ensuring more comfortable sightseeing and better photography conditions.
  • Bring essential items such as hats, caps, or umbrellas in case of unexpected weather changes.
  • Some stops along the routes are sacred temples or pagodas. Dress modestly and respectfully to honor the sanctity of these religious sites.

Blessed with breathtaking and poetic natural scenery, Trang An promises to be a top travel destination in Ninh Binh, offering visitors unforgettable and truly memorable experiences.

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