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What to expect on the Trang An Boat Tour in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Last updated on March 15th, 2024

Want to see Ninh Binh’s striking limestone towers from the water? Learn what to expect on the Trang An boat tour, including the costs, route options, and more! One of the best things to do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam is the Trang An boat tour. Ninh Binh is nicknamed “Ha Long Bay on land” and this boat tour makes it very clear why. Over the course of 2.5 to 3 hours, you’ll be paddled among lush limestone towers, through caves, and have the chance to witness and explore multiple temples. It is a magical experience!

Watch our two days in Ninh Binh where we took a Trang An boat tour, visited the Mua Caves, the Bich Dong Pagoda, and more! 

While there are multiple boat tour options in Ninh Binh, including the famous Tam Coc, in our opinion, Trang An is the must-do experience. And in this guide we’re sharing all of our reasons why, plus everything you need to know before you hit the water. Such as the cost, how to get a private boat, the different routes, and what to expect along the journey.

What is the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex?

Trang an boat tour- cost & logistics.

• How to get tickets Trang An boat tour tickets

Trang An boat tour route options

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The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site, just minutes from Ninh Binh, Vietnam. It is a gorgeous landscape of limestone karst peaks, covered in thick rainforest jungle, which reach heights of almost 200 meters (~650 feet). Between these towering rocks you can find flat valleys, winding waterways, temples, and caves. Besides its obvious scenic beauty, this protected area is also recognized because of the archaeological findings in the caves. These findings reveal that there has been continuous human activity in this area for over 30,000 years! Note: During our visit to the area we heard locals pronounce Trang An as “Chahng Ahn.”

Here’s a quick glance at the Trang An boat tour logistics. We’ll cover everything in more depth throughout this guide! Location The Trang An boat wharf is a bit north of the Tam Coc area in Trang An. This is where you’ll park, purchase your tickets, and get on the boat.  Hours The Trang An boat tour is open everyday from 7 AM to 4 PM.  Parking Parking costs 15,000 VND for a motorbike and 10,000 VND for a bicycle. Make sure to have cash!  Cost  The Trang An boat tour costs 250,000 VND (~$10.25 USD) per person, plus a tip, which we will share more about later. 

Are the boats private? The boats are not private. They can carry up to 4 passengers, plus the driver, so you could have strangers in the boat with you. If you’d like it to be private you would need to pay for the other spots, which would cost a total of 1,000,000 VND (~$41 USD) per boat. This is what we did!

How to get Trang An boat tour tickets

After parking your motorbike or bike, you will want to head to the ticket office . There are no reservations or set boat times, so you can arrive whenever you’d like. Once at the counter, you do not need to know which route you want to take. The only information you will need to provide is how many people are in your party.  If you want a private boat, this is where you tell them, because you’ll need to pay for the entire boat. It costs 250,000 VND (~$10.25 USD) per person and the boats carry 4 passengers, so you’ll pay 1,000,000 VND (~$41 USD) at the ticket counter. You can pay in cash or card, which is nice.

After purchasing your ticket, you’ll be given a receipt. From here, you’ll go down some stairs and through a tunnel to get to the other side of the road. When you pop back out, you’ll be right by the water and by where the boats leave.

Now for the tough part…choosing which route to take! There are three route options to choose from for the Trang An boat tour. They all cost the same and last between 2.5-3 hours, but each offer a slightly different experience.  Here’s a quick breakdown of all three route options!

Route 1 (9 caves and 3 temples)

Route 1 takes you through 9 caves and 3 temples. So if you want to go through as many caves as possible, then this is your pick!   Temples on this route: Trinh Temple, Tran Temple, Khong Palace, Bao Hieu Temple Caves on this route: Toi Cave, Sang Cave, Nau Ruou Cave, Ba Giot Cave, Seo Cave, Son Duong Cave, Khong Cave, Tran Cave, Quy Hau Cave This is also the longest of the three routes. If you aren’t comfortable in tight spaces for extended periods of time, you might want to choose 2 or 3.

Route 2 (4 caves and 3 temples)

Route 2 is possibly the most popular route because it is a middle length option in terms of time. It’s a great mix of caves and temples!  Temples on this route: Thanh Cao Son Temple, Suoi Tien Temple, Hanh Cung Vu Lam Temple Caves on this route: Lam Cave, Vang Cave, Thanh Truot Cave, Dai Cave  One interesting thing about the area is that parts of the movie “Kong: Skull Island” were filmed here. For a couple years after the release (2017) there was a movie set you could tour on Routes 2 and 3. They have since torn down the movie set, but your boat driver will surely point it out to you. 

Route 3 (3 caves and 3 temples)

Route 3 is best if you want to see the least amount of caves and spend most of your time outside enjoying the scenery. It is the shortest of the 3 routes, but it does include the Dot Cave which is the longest cave in the area at 1 km long!  Temples on this route: Trinh Temple, Suoi Tien Temple, Hanh Cung Vu Lam Temple Caves on this route: Dot Cave, Van Cave, Dia Linh Mountain, Dai Cave  

What is the best route? 

No matter what route you take you’ll see a great mix of caves, temples, and immaculate scenery. So there really is no “best route.” It all depends on what you are more excited to see! We had a tough time deciding which to go with, but we ultimately decided to go with Route 3 .  What made our decision was we had just got done with a big cave adventure the previous few days, so we wanted to spend more time admiring the outside scenery than seeing more caves. Plus, we thought going into the longest cave sounded pretty cool…and it sure was!

Getting to the boats

After getting your ticket, crossing the street, and figuring out which route you want to take, you’ll want to head to the boats. You will tell them which route you want and they’ll give you a driver. Depending on how busy it is, you may have to wait in line for the next available boat. Or if it isn’t very busy, you may have to wait for your boat to fill with the required four people. Once you are assigned to your boat and driver, you’ll put on your life jackets (mandatory) and off you go!

Experience on the boat

Regardless of the route you choose, the overall boat experience is about the same. Your driver will paddle you through the water (you can help them if you’d like!) and possibly point out major landmarks. Our driver did not speak English, but she knew a few words, like “King Kong” and we also used Google Translate to speak with her. She was very kind and offered to take multiple photos of us. We had a great experience with her! Along the tour, your driver will paddle you through the tight caves (they are pros!) and up to the different temples on your route. Whenever you get to a temple, your driver will stop and let you off the boat to explore. You typically get about 10-15 minutes at each temple, before meeting your boat driver back at the boats.  Since all of the drivers wear the same shirt, you may wonder how you’ll find your driver again. Ours always remembered who we were and each boat is numbered, so we suggest learning your boat number.

Going through the caves

Besides the scenery from the water, the caves were our favorite part of the tour. It’s pretty impressive how well the drivers can maneuver these boats through the tight caves. They know the perfect line to take and how to get through without even bumping a wall! But be warned: some of the ceilings of the caves are very low and you’ll need to duck your head! For Route 3, going through the 1 km long Dot Cave was such a neat experience! It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to get through the cave, which feels extremely long, especially compared to the others on the route. We loved it and are very glad we chose Route 3 so that we could go into this one. 

Visiting Temples

When visiting the temples on the Trang An boat tour, make sure to be respectful and follow all rules. According to the signage at the temples, you are not allowed to take photos inside, smoke, talk loudly or talk on the phone, and eat food. You also need to cover your shoulders and knees. On Route 3, we got to see three temples. And each one was very different! The first (Trinh) was a quick stop, right where the boat dropped us off. Temple number two (Suoi Tien), required us to walk a bit to get to, as it was tucked into the mountains. And the third temple (Hanh Cung Vu Lam) had multiple buildings to check out, plus a pagoda on an island.

Food and toilets

There are a couple restaurants in the main ticket area, along with an ATM and toilets. Along the route, specifically at the temple stops, you will find a snack stand and toilets as well. 

Should you tip your driver?

Tipping isn’t technically required at the Trang An boat tour, but you should tip your driver. They work VERY hard to paddle!  Unlike the Tam Coc boat tour, where drivers can be aggressive about tips, you will not find that here. Our driver did not ask for a tip, but they will expect one.  We read that it’s customary to tip at least 25,000 VND (~$1 USD) per person. However, we would suggest 50,000 VND (~$2 USD) per person at minimum. Personally, we tipped 250,000 VND (~$10 USD) total. And there were a few reasons for this:

• We had the entire boat to ourselves. In theory, this would have meant less of a tip for our driver, since she only had two passengers.
• Our driver was very patient with us filming. We for sure took longer than we were supposed to at many of the stops.
• In Vietnam, we personally preferred to tip extra. What may seem like a small amount to us can mean a lot to them.

We think the Trang An boat tour is 100% worth it! The serene, tranquil beauty, with the towering limestone peaks, temples, and caves, make this a must-do as part of any Ninh Binh itinerary . It was one of the most beautiful activities we did in all of Vietnam.

There is a similar boat tour in Tam Coc, which leaves from the Tam Coc Van Lam Pier . On this tour, you will be paddled through a valley, with fields and limestone peaks surrounding you, as well as go into caves and see temples. And while it is shorter and cheaper than the Trang An boat tour, it comes with some drawbacks.  On this boat tour you’re likely to encounter hassling from vendors, both before the tour and on the boat ride. Sometimes, boats will pull up to your boat and basically corner you until you buy something from them. Your boat driver may even try to guilt you into buying them a snack or drink from the vendors.  We have also read some pretty bad stories about boat drivers stopping the tour half way and demanding a tip or they will refuse to paddle back. They will also demand a tip at the end of the ride.  Of course, not every experience is the same and you may have a positive experience on the Tam Coc boat tour. But from our experience and many others, the Trang An boat tour is hassle free. Since Trang An is inside a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is very well managed. You won’t experience any haggling from vendors, parking scams, or other common tourist scams. So for all of those reasons, we’d highly recommend the Trang An boat tour over the Tam Coc boat tour.

The Trang An boat tour is located in Trang An, a smaller town just north of Tam Coc. 

By bike or motorbike

Getting to the Trang An boat dock is very easy by bike or motorbike from Tam Coc, Ninh Binh, and the surrounding homestays. Many homestays and other accommodations offer to borrow bicycles for free and motorbikes for a small fee. We stayed at Trang An Lamia Bungalow which is a bit north of the boat tour and it was an easy ride on the road. Once you get to the Trang An boat tour, there is lots of parking.

Tour from Hanoi

If you’d prefer to visit the Ninh Binh area through a tour from Hanoi , you have several great options. Deluxe Hoa Lu Trang An Mua Cave Small Group – Cruising, Biking,Hiking, Limousine This action packed small group tour includes the Trang An boat tour, lunch, a bike ride, the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, a guide up the Mua Cave, and more! Entrance fees are included in the price. Private Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Trang An – Bich Dong Full Day Tour This private tour includes travel in a very nice limo (van) to Mua Cave, Trang An boat tour, bike ride, lunch, and more! Deluxe & Small Group- Bai Dinh Trang An Mua Cave Tour with Limousine Transfer Included in this small group tour is Trang An boat tour, a visit to the Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Cave, lunch and more. 

Want to save some money on this tour or experience? Book it on Tripadvisor and use our code APLUSK10 for 10% off!

Like much of Vietnam, Ninh Binh experiences two main seasons, rainy season and dry season. We would recommend visiting in the dry season during the months of November through April ! The rainy season typically begins in May and ends in October. We visited in late March and the weather was just getting to be pretty warm, but not unbearable. Although we did have some cloudy days, we didn’t experience any rain.  You can still have a wonderful time in Ninh Binh during the rainy season. One perk of visiting during the rainy season (June especially) is that the surrounding rice fields will be lush and green! Also, the lotus and water lilies will be in full bloom! However, it will be very hot and humid in the summer. And there is no shade on the boats. If visiting during the rainy season, make sure to pack the right gear, including a rain jacket , for your boat ride. And possibly an umbrella, but only under one condition. And that’s if you paid for a private boat.  The boats aren’t very big, so if you’re sitting at the front of the boat, your umbrella will be in the couple’s faces behind you blocking their view. And if you’re sitting behind them, then your umbrella will be in the boat driver’s face. If you’re the only two on the boat, then we’d say an umbrella is a great idea.

We’d recommend visiting as early as possible for the most peaceful experience. By midday, the tour groups will have arrived and it will be extremely busy! We got here early in the morning (around 8 AM) so we could avoid the crowds as much as possible. There were a handful of people, but it was very calm compared to some pictures we’ve seen.

Sun protection

There is no shade on the boat and very little relief from the sun along the ride, except for temples and caves. Make sure to bring a hat to cover your face from the sun, as well as sunscreen!

Temple Attire

If you plan to go inside the temples, make sure to have something to cover your shoulders and knees! We suggest something lightweight. I wore a cardigan and it was VERY hot.

While you can pay for your ticket with a credit card, you will want cash to tip your driver.

Snack 

While there are some restaurants and snack shops on the complex, you might want something to snack on during the ride. We’d suggest packing a snack just in case you get hungry.

Water 

Even in the cooler months, it is still warm (and humid) in Ninh Binh. Make sure to pack some water to drink along the way!

You’re going to want to take loads of photos, so bring your camera! You can see what camera we use here .

If you have more time in Ninh Binh, check out our guide with 9+ AMAZING things to do in Ninh Binh . In this guide we share a two day itinerary, plus a bunch of suggestions of where to eat and stay, including a beautiful bungalow with a private plunge pool!

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Trang An Complex

VISITING TRANG AN VIETNAM & ADMIRING THE SPECTACULAR SCENERY

Visiting Trang An Vietnam - a Landscape Complex recognized as a World Culture and Natural Heritage by UNESCO in 2014, you have the chance to experience numerous activities as well as admire spectacular scenery. Jumping on a rowing boat, snaking through the incredible emerald submerged water and interconnected waterways, immersing yourself in the stunning evergreen forest and limestone mass are the most amazing things to do here.

I - How to get to Trang An from Hanoi? 

1 - traveling by limousine , 2 - traveling by motorbike , ii - what is expected to see in trang an boat tours , 1 - trang an boat tour route 1, 2 - route 2, 3 - trang an boat tour route 3, 4 - kayak route, iii - tips for traveling in trang an vietnam , 1 - when is the best time to visit trang an ninh binh , 2 - ninh binh trang an accommodation, 3 - top trang an restaurants & food, 4 - where to visit near trang an in ninh binh  , 5 - trang an map.

Trang An Vietnam is part of Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is one of the must-visit destinations in Ninh Binh City, featuring a splendid array of  beautiful places such as Khong Cace, Trinh Pagoda, Vu Lam Palace, Suoi Tien Temple,...

This tourist spot is located in Ninh Binh Province - about 90km from Hanoi and 7km from Ninh Binh City. From Hanoi, you can easily get here by limousine and by motorbike.

Traveling by limousine - Source: Limousinevn

Travel time is about 2 - 2.5 hours. You can refer to the following limousine companies 

Trang An Limousine

- Address: No.131 Pho Vong Street, Dong Tam Ward, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi

- Pick-up point and drop-off point: depend on guest’s requirement

- Price: 150,000 VND/ ticket ($6.6)

- Contact: 1900 0336

- Website: https://xetrangan.vn

Ninh Binh Limousine to Trang An from Hanoi

- Address: No.32 Bat Su Street, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

- Pick-up and drop-off point: depend on guest’s requirement 

- Price: 150,000 VND / ticket ($6.6)

- Contact: 0839 292 688

- Website: https://ninhbinhcar.com

Khanh An Limousine 

- Pick-up point: Central circus - No.67-69 Tran Nhan Tong Street, Le Dai Hanh Ward, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi

- Drop-off point: Trang An boat wharf

- Price: 135,000 VND / ticket ($6)

- Contact: 1900 8629 

- Website: https://booking.khanhanlimousine.com

 Traveling by motorbike is extremely interesting - Source: Tigitmotorbikes

You can follow the route along Highway 1A within the distance of 120km to reach Ninh Binh City . It is quite easy to follow this way to get to Trang An Ninh Binh in about 2 driving hours (The detailed itinerary is available on Google map). You can park the motorbike in a parking lot opposite the boat wharf. After that, you should stroll around the area for 5 to 10 minutes to sightsee the surrounding scenery. 

The beauty of nature - Source: Cozyvietnamtravel

The best way to discover this spot is by boat (follow one out of three fixed routes below) or by kayak (follow one out of two fixed routes).

Good to know: 

- Fee (include entrance fee + boat ticket & exclude kayak boat fee): 250,000 VND / adult ($11) and 120,000 VND / child ($6)

- Private boat ticket: 1,250,000 VND / boat (a boat can carry 4-5 people) 

- Trang An boat tour opening hours: 7am - 5pm

- The cost of three routes is the same, visitors can pick up one in three, then inform the desired route to the boatman/ boatwoman so that he/ she will follow that route.

- The boat starts rowing only when there are enough people in the boat (4-5 people). Otherwise, you can pay extra money for the boatman/ boatwoman to start the journey or find one more group to fit the boat capacity. 

- Each Trang An boat trip features different stopovers, of which there are onshore ones that you can decide to pay a visit to or not. The site where you are dropped off to go onshore may not be the same as the one you are picked up to continue the trip; therefore, remember to ask the boatman/ boatwoman about the place and time you will get into the boat.

Length: 3.5 hours' rowing

Hop-on Hop-off spots: 9 caves (Dark Cave, Bright Cave, Moonshine Cave, Ba Giot Cave, Seo Cave, Son Duong Cave, Khong Cave, Tran Cave, and Quy Hau Cave) and 3 temples (Trinh Temple, Khong Temple, and Bao Hieu Pagoda) 

This Trang An best route is recommended for those who love exploring, discovering Vietnamese Dynasties’ histories and backbone trouble-free. However, be aware, some of the caves may be submerged during rainy days and can not be approached.  

Dark Cave, Light Cave, Seo Cave, and Ba Got Cave

Dark Cave is about 320m long, making it the longest cave in route 1 with winding shape, cool fresh air, and almost no light inside the cave, which creates the mysterious vibe for the cave. Light Cave is a small one in Trang An Vietnam with a length of about 100m with layers of magnificent iridescent stalactites, many of which are up to 12m high, making the cave just like a glowing palace. 

Four caves Seo Cave, Ba Got Cave, Bright Cave, and Dark Cave symbolize four seasons, four directions to the East, West, South, and North, which makes a harmonious combination between nature and the universe.  

About 70m long, Khong Cave in Trang An Ninh Binh used to be the military warehouse and weaponry workshop during the French and American war in Vietnam. In Khong Cave, Khong Palace lies on a narrow land and leaning on the mouth of Khong Cave with the steep rocks on the right-hand side of the palace and opposite the vast water. Khong Palace was built to pay a tribute to the seven loyal mandarins under the reign of Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang. 

Trinh Pagoda

This Trang An pagoda located at the foot of the mountain in the ideal position “lean against the mountain and face the water” is now more than 100 years old. The pagoda was constructed to worship four great generals in the Dinh Dynasty. Here is also a “historic witness” in the conflict between the Dinh dynasty and Le Dynasty.

Length: 2.5 hours' rowing

Hop-on Hop-off spots: 4 caves of Trang An grottoes (Lam Cave, Vang Cave, and Thanh Truot Cave, Dai Cave), 3 temples (Thanh Cao Son Temple, Hanh Cung Vu Lam Temple, and Suoi Tien Temple). This is a popular route chosen for its reasonable timing, recommended for the elderly and the family with kids.   

Suoi Tien Temple

Every year on March 18th, a traditional festival is held in Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex and in Suoi Tien Temple as well with a variety of special activities imbued with cultural and historical features of Vietnam.

Thanh Truot Cave

Thanh Truot Cave is considered as one of the most beautiful caves in this route with a length of about 300m, featuring unique shaped stalactites such as petals, elephant’s leg, etc. which are very eye-catching. 

Hanh Cung Vu Lam Temple

Hanh Cung Vu Lam was a military base under the Tran Dynasty in the war with the Mongol invaders in the 13th century. 

Length: 3 hour’s rowing

Hop-on Hop-off spots: 3 caves (Dot Cave, Dia Linh Cave, and May Cave), and 3 temples (Trinh Temple, Hanh Cung Vu Lam Temple, and Suoi Tien Temple). This is a combination of routes 1 and 2, it is a lovely choice for cave lovers and cultural learning.  

Dot Cave 

With a length of more than 1000 meters, Dot Cave is one of the most stunning and longest caves in Trang An Vietnam, featuring the special characteristics inside the cave with a myriad of extremely mesmerizing stalactites, which are bright and iridescent in the reflection of the flashlight. 

Trinh Temple

Trinh Temple located at the foot of the mountain in the ideal position “lean against the mountain and face the water” is now more than 100 years old and has been restored and repaired numerous times. The temple is quite spacious and gorgeous in a nail shape and its gate is decorated with two kneeling elephant statues on both sides. In front of the temple are two large stone carps representing a happy and tranquil life. 

If you want to explore Trang An Ninh Binh Vietnam by kayak, there are two fixed routes for you to consider: 

Route 1 

Trang An boat wharf - Trinh Temple - Tam Quan Gate - the mouth of Hang Toi (Dark Cave) - the mouth of Quy Hau Cave - Jade Mountain) 

Round trip distance: 8km 

Activities: check-in surrounding scenery when being in the boat and take photos under the Indian Almond tree (Terminalia catappa) near Tam Quan Gate and visit Trinh Temple.

Trang An boat wharf - Kong Island - Thuy Dinh - Vu Lam Palace

Round trip distance: 5km

Activities: check-in surrounding scenery when being in the boat, Thuy Dinh, discover the history of Vu Lam Palace, etc. 

Note: You can buy a ticket for kayaking with the range of price below:

- Option 1: 250,000 VND/ single kayak/ 2 hours ($11)

- Option 2: 300,000 VND/ single kayak/ 3 hours ($13)

- Option 3: 350,000 VND/ double kayak/ 2 hours ($15)

- Option 4: 400,000 VND/ double kayak/ 3 hours ($17)

The greenery of the complex - Source: Rowan Heuvel

The best times to come here are in Spring from lunar January to March when Ninh Binh weather is cool and fresh with light wind and there are numerous festivals welcoming a New Year , and in summer from April to June when lotuses are in full bloom and you have a chance to explore the beautiful golden paddy fields. 

Trang An River View Homestay 

- Address: Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province - 2.8 km from the complex

- Contact: 098 546 96 08

- Price: 180,000 VND/ night/ room ($8)

- Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/thugiang266

Trang An Central Homestay 

- Address: Ninh Hoa Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province - 2.6 km from the complex

- Contact: 096 873 94 42 

- Price: 250,000 VND/ night/ room ($11)

- Website: https://trangancentralhomestay.vn

Trang An Retreat 

- Address: Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province - 1.8 km from the complex 

- Contact: 084 898 743 863

- Price: 798,000 VND/ room/ night ($35)

- Website: https://tranganretreat.com

You may n eed: Top-rated hotels in Ninh Binh  

Besides the fascinating landscape, Ninh Binh is distinguished by its specialties. Mountain Goat Meat and Scorched rice are typical dishes popularly remembered by travelers.  

Goat meat marinated in lemon juice

Serving in different dishes like smoky-grilled, stir-fried, and hotpot, Lemon Juice marinated goat meat is the most popular selection since its tender and juicy flavors.   

Scorched rice

Visiting the Trang An Complex, you should not miss the scorched rice. The crunchy rice is slightly burned rice at the bottom of the cooking pot. Subsequent by several skillful cooking steps with confidential ingredients and recipes, make it a yellow and crispy snack. Topped with pork floss served with a bowl of delicate mushroom soup.

Mountain Goat Meat and Scorched rice are served at any restaurant in the location.

Below are the list of top restaurants near Trang An Vietnam  

Trang An Riverside Garden Restaurant 

- Address: Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu District - 1.6km from the complex 

- Opening hours: 9am - 8pm 

- Price: 100,000 -500,000 VND ($4.4 - 22)

- Contact: 0377 469 882

Goat meat restaurant Chinh Thu

- Address: Khe Thuong Village, Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu District - 1.8km from Trang An Ninh Binh 

- Opening hours: 7:30am - 10pm

- Price: 50,000 - 500,000 VND ($2.2 - 22)

- Contact: 094 842 68 82

Monalisa Bar & Restaurant 

- Address: Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu District - 2.1km from the complex

- Opening hours: 10am - 11pm

- Price: 50,000 - 450,000 VND ($2.2 - 20)

- Contact: 097 663 68 16 

Source: Minh Tran

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Strategically established for the defending purpose, surrounded by hundred steep and vertical massifs of the cliff, Hoa Lu was the capital of two sequential dynasties of Dinh and Le in the 10th and 11th centuries. The two adjacent temples were erected to honor the kings, royal lines, and followers of the two dynasties.

- Address: Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District - 4.5 km away from Trang An boat wharf.

- Entrance fee: 20,000 VND ($1.9) / person

Mua Cave (Dancing Cave)

Challenge yourself with steep 500 steps, reaching to the top of the Mua mountains. The attraction recognized for its peak offers extraordinary panoramic views of the breathtaking Tam Coc valley, permeating by Ngo Dong river through rich limestone karsts and yellow-green paddy fields than the Mua Cave .  

- Address: Khe Dau Ha Village, Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu District, 4.6 km away from Trang An Vietnam boat wharf.

- Entrance fee: 100,000 VND / person ($4.5) 

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh pagoda - Source: Nguyen Dung

Boosting the largest religious complex in Southeast Asia, the Bai Dinh pagoda complex comprised an ancient pagoda and a newly built giant splendid pagoda. Whilst the ancient one is privileged to Buddhist worship, the newly built for tourists.  

- Address: Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh Province

- Entrance fee: free entry, electric cars rental fee 30,000 VND ($1.3)/ person/ way.

Overall, Trang An Vietnam is a worth - visit scenic beauty spot in Vietnam, which attracts any visitor by its spectacular view with towering limestone karsts, tropical plants, emerald fields, and a myriad of glorious and stunning caves accompanied by historical temples.

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Trang An Boat Tour Review: Everything You Need To Know

By: Author Mark and Kristen Morgan

Posted on Published: March 6, 2020  - Last updated: December 18, 2023

Categories Asia Travel Blog

A Trang An boat tour is one of the most popular activities in Ninh Binh , Vietnam. The 2-3 hour boat ride passes through caves, temples and limestone karsts. Tickets cost 250,000 VND per person or you can purchase the entire boat for 1,000,000 VND if you want a private experience.

In this guide, we are going to show you everything you need to know about the Trang An boat tour.

Our Trang An Experience

We spent 27 days traveling through Vietnam in  October 2018  as part of our 18 month trip around the world. During this trip, we stayed for three nights in the Ninh Binh region and took the Trang An Boat ride. It was one of our favorite experiences in central Vietnam. Read more  about us .

To make planning easy for you, we’re going to walk you through how to get to Trang An, how to buy tickets and what you can expect on the boat tour.

About The Region

Dubbed the Halong Bay on Land , this stunning region has been altered very little by human influence so you truly feel as though you’re a centuries old explorer discovering new territory before the world was fully mapped.

Ninh Binh was once the hidden gem of Vietnam, but it can no longer hold that title. The secret is out, and UNESCO declared Trang An a world heritage site in 2014 .

Hollywood then swooped in and built a movie set on the Trang An complex to film Kong: Skull Island in 2017. As you can imagine, this had a huge impact on tourism in the area.

Today, the tour is more popular than ever and you can take a boat tour any day of the week from 7:00am-4:00pm .

Further Reading : The best things to do in Ninh Binh

How To Get To The Trang An Boat Tour

Use the map below to see directions from Tam Coc and Ninh Binh to Trang An.

• Address : 7W39+7G5, Ninh Xuân, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình, Vietnam
• Location : Google Maps

The Trang An boat tour is located within the Ninh Binh Province of Vietnam. It’s only 5 miles away from the popular tourist destination of Tam Coc and 6 miles from Ninh Binh train station. You can reach the boat tour by motorcycle or bicycle from Tam Coc or Ninh Binh. We hired a motorbike for the day from our hotel in Tam Coc and drove it to Trang An.

You can rent a motorbike for  100,000-150,000 VND  ($4-6) per day. Fuel for a full day will set you back no more than $3. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle for  50,000 VND  ($2) per day. Many hotels even offer free use of bicycles in Tam Coc.

It should take about  15 minutes  to ride your scooter from Tam Coc town to the ticket booth for the Trang An boat tour. The roads are in fairly good shape and you’ll often find yourself cutting through gorgeous green fields with limestone towers sprouting up around you.

Travel Tip : If you’re planning to visit Hang Mua and Bich Dong the same day, it would be much quicker and more efficient to go by motorbike.

Getting To Ninh Binh Independently

Are you planning to travel independently to Ninh Binh? Once you arrive at Ninh Binh train station, hire a motorbike right outside for roughly 150,000 VND ($6) and follow our map to the Trang An Boat Tour.

There are no airports close by so travel by plane isn’t an option. But you can take a bus from Hanoi and many other popular spots on the typical Vietnam tourist trail. We took a bus directly from Halong Bay to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh.

Use 12Go Asia to check the best available options for travel. You’ll find the cheapest and quickest options are typically by bus or train .

Further Reading : What to expect on a Vietnam sleeper bus

Best Ninh Binh Tours From Hanoi

Another option would be to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh with Tam Coc and Trang An included as part of a full day organized tour with  transport completely covered .

Most tours include entrances fees for the Trang An Boat tour, Mua Cave Viewpoint, Hoa Lu ancient capital and Bich Dong Pagoda.

Here are top rated tours from Hanoi to Trang An :

• 12 hour day tour – Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, experience the Trang An boat ride, climb up to Mua Cave and enjoy stunning panoramic views as you cycle around the gorgeous countryside of Ninh Binh.
• Popular day trip option – Visit the Trang An cave complex via rowing boat, see the temples of Dinh King and Le King, enjoy a buffet lunch and climb up Mua Cave with an english guide.

Motorcycle And Bicycle Parking

The Trang An complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means there are no scams when it comes to parking for your boat tour . If you’ve already been to Mua Caves or the Bich Dong Pagoda , you’ll know exactly what we are talking about.

You’ll park your bicycle or motorbike in a legit parking lot and pay a set fee that will be the same for everyone. There’s no worrying about bartering or concern about paying the same as everyone else. This structured parking system is one of the best reasons to choose the Trang An boat ride over the Tam Coc option .

The parking fee for motorcycles is 15,000 VND ($0.62) and the parking fee for bicycles is 10,000 VND ($0.41). We also felt very comfortable leaving our motorbike parked which was a relief.

Once you’ve parked up, cross the road to the entrance. You’ll walk over a bridge and see boats to your right as they set off up the river towards.

Trang An Boat Tour Tickets

Carry on walking straight towards the wooden rails and get in line so you can purchase your Trang An boat tour tickets. We arrived at 9:00am and there was no one in line.

By the time we left at 1:30pm, the ticket line was extremely long. If you want to avoid the lines, you should try to visit as early in the day as possible .

Buying tickets for the boat ride at Trang An is easy. We liked that the whole process was hassle free . Prices are clearly stated and there are no vendors trying to sell items to you.

A ticket for the Trang An boat tour costs 250,000 VND (about $11) per person. There is a 3 people minimum per boat so if you are a couple or plan to ride solo, you may be sharing the boat with another group.

If you want to want to have the entire boat to yourself, you can purchase all four tickets for the boat. Therefore, your total cost would be 1,000,000 VND (about $41).

A child ticket costs 120,000 VND (about $5), but if your child’s height is under 1m, they will receive free entry for the Trang An boat tour.

Once you have your tickets in hand, walk over to the dock and you’ll be escorted into the next available boat . You’ll have to wait in a line until the boat can be filled to either 3 or 4 people.

In our case, we shared with just one other solo traveler, a lovely woman from the Netherlands. Because there was no one else in line, they let us disembark with 3 of the 4 seats filled .

Trang An Boat Tour Routes

Before you purchase a ticket and run to the boats, you’ll have to choose one of the three routes for your boat ride . Near the ticket counter you will find a map on a wooden board displaying the details each boat tour route.

The boat ride lasts about 2-3 hours depending on which route you select. Here is a simplified version of the three Trang An boat tour options:

• First route – 9 caves and 3 temples
• Second route – 4 caves and 3 temples
• Third route – 3 caves and 3 temples

Each route is a little bit difference so we will explain each one below in detail. But the price is the same no matter what Trang An route you choose.

Here is what you can expect from the first route:

Trinh Temple – Toi Cave – Sang Cave – Nau Ruou Cave – Tran Temple – Ba Giot Cave – Seo Cave– Son Duong Cave – Khong Palace – Bao Hieu Pagoda – Khong Cave – Tran Cave – Quy Hau Cave

Highlights of Trang An boat tour Route 1 :

• 9 caves and 3 temples
• Longest option with the most grottoes
• Duration about 3 hours

If you want to see many caves and geological features such as stalactites , this is the route for you. We chose this first route and it was incredibly peaceful . However, if you are claustrophobic, you might want to choose route 2 or 3 because you will go through less caves.

Here is what you can expect from the second route:

Lam Cave – Thanh Cao Son Temple – Vang Cave – Thanh Truot Cave – Suoi Tien Temple – Dai Cave – Hanh Cung Vu Lam Temple – Kong Skull Island Film Set

Highlights of Trang An boat tour Route 2 :

• 4 caves and 3 temples
• Medium length route
• Film location of King Kong Skull Island
• Duration about 2.5 hours

We like this route because it’s a good combination of caves and attractions . This route will also make a stop by the filming location of Kong: Skull Island. But this is usually the most crowded route because it’s a medium length route with a film location.

Here is what you can expect from the third route:

Trinh Temple – Dot Cave – Van Cave – Suoi Tien Temple – Dia Linh Mountain – Dai Cave – Hanh Cung Vu Lam Temple – Kong Skull Island Film Set

Highlights of Trang An boat tour Route 3 :

• 3 caves and 3 temples
• Shortest length route
• Dot Cave is 1,000m long
• Duration about 2-3 hours

Take this route if you want to see less caves and experience more of Trang An’s gorgeous scenery . It’s the shortest route, but it features Dot Cave, the longest cave in the Trang An Landscape complex.

This third route is a good option for those who want to go through a very long cave , see the King Kong filming location and visit many spiritual sites.

Travel Tip : If you want to shorten your ride, you can opt to skip any of the attractions during your visit.

Caves On The Tour

The moment your boat driver pushes away from the dock, let yourself relax and be consumed by unrivaled tranquility.

You are in rural Vietnam, venturing into areas only accessible by boat . There are numerous limestone rocks jutting out of the ground surrounded by water. Just imagine King Kong appearing from out behind one of them.

Expert boat drivers will guide your boat towards low hanging entrances to caves as the spectacular limestone karsts meet the water’s surface.

The drivers know exactly which angles and paths to follow through the caves. There are spot lights positioned in the caves to allow some visibility but not too much that it ruins the atmosphere.

There are 30 valleys and 50 caves throughout the entire Trang An complex, although your boat will only pass through 9 caves at the most. You can expect to see various species of birds, flora and fauna along the way. Beautiful lotus flowers are in bloom during the summer months too.

Each time you leave a grotto, you are met with stunning views of open waterways, vegetation and limestone hills sprinkled emerald green by trees.

This is a wonderful serene environment where it’s easy to forget the outside world. You will lose perspective of direction as the river meanders left and right.

Overall, we were impressed by how well our driver navigated the route and showed us points of interest throughout the entire journey.

Travel Tip : Our route 1 tour lasted about 3 hours which was a little too long for us. In hindsight, we would have chosen one of the shorter routes.

Temples On The Tour

Along the way, you will stop at various temples. At these locations, you will be able to leave the boat and explore the surrounding areas.

Every time you leave the boat, be sure to see as much as possible. You’ll find small temples and pagodas. One temple in particular has a fairly difficult peak to summit if you enjoy a challenge.

At this summit stop off, there is a large stone staircase to walk up, which is hard work in the heat and humidity . We haven’t told you the name of the temple in order to keep your ride a bit of a mystery.

Granted, the view from the top is nothing to shout home about. However, once you descend and follow the path all the way around to the end, there is a small shrine where tourists leave food as an offering .

This climb is best done earlier in the morning to avoid the hottest part of the day . Each time you leave your boat, the driver will row on alone and pick you up at another location a short walk away.

One such occasion the boat passes through a man made tunnel that leads under a towering rock. This is one of our favorite photos from the entire day.

Travel Tip : Be sure to wear appropriate clothing or bring a sarong to cover up for the temples at Trang An.

Tam Coc Vs Trang An Boat Tour

There are often comparisons drawn between the Tam Coc and Trang An Boat tour. This is the question everyone always wants to ask when they visit Ninh Binh.

Personally, our research and experience from other visitors told us the Tam Coc boat tour is a prime scamming spot . We read many reviews and heard from fellow travelers about the boat drivers on the Tam Coc tour stopping mid journey and demanding a big tip or refusing to row back.

We liked how the Trang An boat tour was legitimately controlled due to its UNESCO status. So the advantage of the Trang An boat tour is that it’s regulated and hostility is minimized .

Additionally, Trang An is supposed to be a more scenic boat tour. We can’t confirm the claim as we didn’t take the Tam Coc boat tour but we can confirm Trang An is a beautiful complex to glide slowly around.

But the final decision maker for us was that the boat drivers at Trang An are treated fairly .

However, one of the downsides to the Trang An boat tour is that it’s not conveniently located right in town like the Tam Coc boat tour. So if you are short on time, Trang An might be difficult for you.

Further Reading : 30 key things to know about Vietnam

Tips For Your Boat Ride

We’ve covered everything you need to know in this guide, but here are a few tips to keep in mind for your visit to the UNESCO complex:

• Trang An is open everyday from 7:00am-4:00pm . The earlier you arrive, the better chance you have experiencing a lost world feeling with minimal people around.
• Tickets for the boat tour are priced at 250,000 VND . You will be placed in a boat of 3-4 unless you pay for the entire boat.
• Be sure to wear sturdy footwear . You’ll be climbing in and out of the boat all day plus a few of the temples have areas where you can explore with stairs and uneven ground.
• Take as much water as you can fit into your day bag . You will be exposed for about 90% of the boat journey so you may also want to bring a hat.
• You can use an extra set of oars in the boat . We helped row for part of our journey. It gave us such an appreciation for the men and women who do this everyday.
• Tipping is appreciated . The man or woman who guides your boat will pick up another tour once your tours has ended. Although it is not required to tip, it’s a nice gesture and a small amount will go a long way to help the locals.

Looking for a place to stay nearby? We stayed at Tam Coc Dream Homestay and here are a few top rated hotel options for the region:

• Tam Coc Sunrise – Budget
• Tam Coc Wonderland – Mid-range
• Tam Coc Garden – Luxury

Tam Coc is a gorgeous rural town perfectly located among all the best things to do in Ninh Binh.

In Conclusion

So is it worth visiting the Trang An boat tour in Ninh Binh?

Yes! According to  TripAdvisor , the Trang An Grottoes are the best thing to do in Ninh Binh. We agree with this rating because you will get to see one of the most attractive places in Vietnam. You should include this stunning UNESCO site on your Vietnam itinerary.

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Want more Vietnam content?  Head over to our  Vietnam Travel Guides  to see example itineraries, tips about Vietnam and popular city guides.

We hope our detailed guide to the Trang An Boat Tour in Ninh Binh helps you enjoy your time in Vietnam!

Please let us know if you have any questions about the Trang An Boat Tour or Vietnam in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

Share this article!

Friday 6th of March 2020

Love that hotel view! Looked like an incredible day!

Mark & Kristen Morgan

Thanks Braden! The boat tour was really relaxing and later that day we went up to the summit of Mua Cave for that view over the Ngo Dong river ... definitely one of our better days in Vietnam!

Trang An boat tour guide & 4 highlights you should not miss

Trang An is known as Halong Bay on land. The spectacular landscape is dominated by towering limestone mountains covered with tropical plants, rivers and hidden temples and pagodas. Trang An is the only place in Vietnam which is both a natural and cultural UNESCO heritage site. The best way to see it’s full glory it to take a Trang An boat tour. With only 100 km from Hanoi you have the choice to visit this place as a day trip or stay among the beautiful rice fields.

What to see in Trang An

Trang an boat tour, other sights around trang an, how to get there, best travel time, accommodation in trang an, recommended tours to trang an.

Trang An has one of the most beautiful and impressive karst mountains in the world. The entire landscape is composed of pointed limestone mountains covered with flowering jungles and rice fields in the valleys between them. The rivers are all interconnected and some extend over a kilometer, making boat trips the perfect way to explore the landscape. Besides from the amazing scenery, there are countless of beautiful natural caves.

The various historical temples and pagodas in Trang makes it also a religious and spiritual place. You can find these ancient religious buildings hidden in the mountains and jungle, often only reaches by boat or climbing, making this place even more mystical.

“Halong Bay on land”

Trang An is also called the “Halong on land”, but there are major differences. Trang An offers a lot more cultural and historical background. You don’t find any luxury cruise ships sailing through the landscape, but only the small rowing sampan boats fit in the narrow rivers. But taking a rowing boat and going gently over the small rivers between towering karst mountains and jungle fits perfect in the magical scenery.

Kong Skull Island movie location

In 2017, Trang An was one of the most important film locations of the blockbuster “Kong: Skull Island”. A couple of months later after the movie, the local tourist board opened a small part of the movie set of “ Kong: Skull Island ” to visit. In particular, a reconstructed jungle tribe village in the film one, with locals dressing up as the aborigines in the film.

To see the impressive landscape of Trang An you have to take a boat trip. With a rowing boat you go over the river, past the towering limestone mountains, through caves and you can visit a number of temples. There are currently three boat routes in Trang An, one of which you must choose (all the same price). In all three boat routes you will see the beautiful landscape, but there are a few small differences:

Route 1 was the first boat trip and during this tour you visit most caves, 9 in total. You also go to 3 temples and pagodas.

Route 2 is new and now also the most popular, because it has a good mix of caves and other sights. During this Trang An boat trip you will visit three caves, two temples and King Kong village; a part from the Kong Skull Island film set.

In route 3 you also visit 3 caves, 1 of which with 1 km is also the longest in Trang An. You also visit 2 temples and the film set in King Kong Village.

Which should I choose?

In route 2 and 3 you go to King Kong Village from the latest Kong movie. Route 1 is nowadays the most peaceful route, but has many caves. Route 2 is the best mix of sights, but it is also the busiest.

Trang An bout tour prices and opening hours

Location : Ecotourism Trang An Boat Tour ( Google Maps ) Price : Tickets can be purchased at the counter in the Trang An Ecological Park parking lot. As soon as you arrive, you will see the tourist center.

• Adults : 200,000 vnd
• Children under 1 meter : 100,000 vnd

Opening hours : 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Duration : 2.5 – 3 hours

• If you plan to do a Trang An Tour in the middle of the day, don’t forget to bring an umbrella, sunscreen and hat to protect yourself from the sun or rain.
• Bring water and snacks as this boat trip takes approximately 3 hours.
• Every boat has an extra paddle. If you want, you can use them for rowing.

Trang An highlights

1. trang an boat tour.

As mentioned, the Trang An boat tour is the highlight of a trip to this area. Enjoy a traditional rowing boat ride over the stunning stream, between impressive karts mountains.

2. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Just 4 km from where the boats leave for the Trang An boat tour, you find Hoa Lu , the ancient capital of Vietnam. The original citadel may no longer exist, but the remaining tenth-century buildings and the beautiful surroundings of Hoa Lu are well worth a visit.

3. Cycling through Trang An’s countryside

The countryside of Trang An is impressive, with extensive rice fields, where you can see buffalos and their owners at work. Steep mountains covered with jungle and some hidden goats jumping from rock to rock. The roads between these mountains and rice fields are flat with little traffic, which makes it ideal for cycling. Cycling in Ninh Binh is extremely popular and most hotels and homestays offer free bicycles to borrow. You can also choose to rent a scooter.

4. Staying overnight

The countryside of Ninh Binh is one of the main highlights for travelers to visit this area. What better place is there to stay then right in this area. The Trang An area has some stunning accommodation, often hidden behind the cliffs and mountains. Expect scenic views from your stay over the countryside or a wetland area. In addition, staying in this area also means staying close to the main things to do in Ninh Binh , so it is easy to reach the main attractions by bicycle or scooter.

Apart from all the temples and the boat trip, there are no other sights in Trang An itself. About 7 km from Trang An is Tam Coc , here you will find another popular boat trip and Mua Cave , the best viewpoint in Ninh Binh.

Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple complex is 12 km from Trang An and is called Bai Dinh Pagoda . It consists of various temples and more than 500 images of Buddha. The complex is huge but not very old; built in 2003.

There are many tour operators who offer a 1-day or 2-day tour from Ninh Binh or Hanoi. If you choose a day tour to Trang An, transport is included. This usually means that you will be picked up by a tour operator and brought in a shuttle bus or private car.

You can also travel to Ninh Binh from Hanoi, Hue and Phong Nha, among others. Ninh Binh has a train station that connects it to the north and south. Many buses also stop here. Because it is only a 1.5 hour drive from Hanoi you can also hire a minibus or private car at a reasonable price.

From Ninh Binh city or Tam Coc

If you are in Ninh Binh or Tam Coc, Trang An is best reached by bike, motorcycle or taxi. You can rent a motorbike or scooter for 150,000 VND per day. A taxi costs around 15,000 VND / km. The best thing is by bike, because the roads between Tam Coc, Ninh Binh and Trang An are quiet and you can cycle between beautiful rice fields.

You can visit Trang An all year round. In contrast to Tam Coc, you have fewer rice fields in Trang An, which means that it is not much nicer in Trang An during the correct rice season. You do have to deal with the rainy season and the drying season. The best weather is in the months from November to April. It can be cold in December and January in particular.

Trang An offers many accommodation options, with hotels, resorts, homestays, hostels and bungalows. The advantage of staying at Tam Coc or Trang An is that you are right in the vicinity of the popular sights, boat tours and located in a beautiful area. You can visit most sights from here by bike. Some recommended accommodations in Trang An are:

• Lotus Field Homestay
• Trang An Farm Stay
• Hoalu Eco Homestay Ninh Binh
• Trang An Retreat
• Trang An Nature House

Are you excited to do the Trang An boat tour, Hoa Lu or just to visit this stunning region? Check our tours to Ninh Binh and Trang An. You can also combine a visit to Ninh Binh with Pu Luong Nature Reserve and Cuc Phuong National Park .

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Local tip! You might like these experiences

Ninh Binh trip: Bai Dinh pagoda, Trang An boat trip & biking day tour from Hanoi

• Explore the largest pagoda temple complex in Vietnam
• Enjoy a bout trip through the grottoes of Trang An by traditional sampan
• Cycle along the rivers on rural roads

Ninh Binh 2 day discovery: Trang An, Mua Cave, Hoa Lu & pagoda’s

• Enjoy a breathtaking boat trip through Trang An
• Visit the best viewpoint of Ninh Binh: Mua Cave
• Learn more about the history of Vietnam at Hoa Lu
• Explore the biggest Buddhist complex is Southeast Asia

Ninh Binh 2 day exploration: Trang An, Mua Cave, Cuc Phuong national park & pagoda’s

• Make a trekking through in Cuc Phuong National park
• Visit the best viewpoint of Ninh Binh
• Make a boat trip through the impressive mountains of Trang An
• Stay in a nice bungalow with cooking class and dinner
• Destination: Ninh Binh
• By: Marnick Schoonderwoerd
• September 23, 2019
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Trang An Boat Tour: Incredible caves and temples (Ultimate Guide)

• Last updated: February 10, 2024

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About the Trang An boat ride in Ninh Binh

Every traveler we met recommended the Trang An boat tour instead of the most famous Tam Coc one because it’s much more peaceful, with boat operators not harassing you to buy things left and right.

Note: We didn’t do the Tam Coc ride, so we don’t have first-hand experience, but a couple of our friends went and said it is true (it’s a common theme on other blogs as well). So we’d also recommend the Trang An boat ride instead of Tam Coc.

Although our favorite boat ride in Ninh Binh was in Van Long Nature Reserve , we liked our ride in Trang An quite a lot.

Read more about things to do in Ninh Binh in our ultimate guide.

Boat ride experience in Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex

The boat ride in Trang An comprises three different routes you can choose depending on the length and the things you want to see.

We suggest taking route number 3, which includes the 1000 meters long Dot Cave, the longest cave in the complex. Route number 3 is the only route that includes the longest cave, so if you take any other route, you will miss it. 

The Dot Cave was definitely the highlight of our boat trip. It takes quite a bit of time to pass it, so it’s long enough to “feel” the cave. But it’s quite a relaxing ride, so you should be fine, even if you’re a bit claustrophobic. Remember that it’s a well-trodden route, and everyone gets out! 🙂

Note: We checked the timings of the photos and videos we took while entering and exiting the cave, and it seems like it took us about 20 minutes to pass it!

Price and duration of the Trang An boat tour

A ticket for the boat ride in Trang An is around 250.000 VND (approximately $11) per person for adults or double if you want only two people in the boat (usually four people fit inside). Kids under 1 meter have free entrance, and for the ones under 1,3 meters, the ticket is 120.000 VND (approximately $5).

Note: Only bring your younger children on this boat ride if you know they can sit still for an extended period of time.

The boat ride in Trang An lasts between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the route. Our ride took 2 hours as we did minimal stops in the temples, and nobody else was in the complex.

Honestly, the 2 hours boat ride was more than enough for us. We feel that anything more would be a bit too much for us personally. 🙂

Different routes of the Trang An boat tour

Route number 1: trinh temple, tran temple, khong palace.

Route number 1 takes you through 9 caves (Toi Cave, Sang Cave, Nau Ruou Cave, Ba Giot Cave, Seo Cave, Son Duong Cave, Khong Cave, Tran Cave and Quy Hau Cave) and 3 temples of the Dinh Dynasty (Trinh Temple, Tran Temple and Khong Temple – Bao Hieu Pagoda). All these caves are relatively short.

Route number 2: Thanh Cao Son Temple, Dia Linh Mountain, Vu Lam Royal Steps

Route number 2 takes you through 4 limestone caves (Lam Cave, Vang Cave, Thanh Truot Cave, and Dai Cave) and 3 temples (Thanh Cao Son Temple, Suoi Tien Temple and Vu Lam Royal Steps). This route includes Dia Linh Mountain, which is in the shape of a giant pen tower.

Route number 3: Trinh Temple, Dot Cave, Suoi Tien Temple

Route number 3 is the only one that takes you through the 1000-meter-long Dot Cave, the longest cave in the Trang An complex. The stalactite system in this cave is quite impressive. 

On this route, you visit 3 caves (Dot Cave, Van Cave and Dai Cave) and 3 temples (Trinh Temple, Suoi Tien Temple and Vu Lam Royal Steps). This route also takes you through Dia Linh Mountain, the same as the previous one.

What is the difference between the routes?

As you can see from the route descriptions, some spots repeat in every route. The biggest similarities are between route number 2 and route number 3.

Did you know?

We explored Vietnam for more than 1 year and a half and wrote 34 and counting detailed articles.

Did you know? We explored Vietnam for more than 1 year and a half and wrote 34 and counting detailed articles.

Which route to take for the Trang An boat ride?

Considering that everyone usually cares the most about the last temple (the one on the water), many choose route number 3 as it’s the only one that includes the longest cave in the complex. It takes about 20 minutes to go through the cave, and it was definitely the highlight of our experience.

Most of the photos from the temples mostly look incredible from the aerial perspective and a bit less from the ground.

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Best time to do the Trang An boat ride

The best time to do the boat ride in Trang An is early morning or late afternoon because of the extended time in the sun. Take a Non la – Vietnamese conical hat, and sunscreen for the best protection.

Some people like to take umbrellas on the ride, but remember that there are other people in the boat too, and you might be blocking their view if you have an umbrella.

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Do you need to book the Trang An boat ride in advance?

You do not need to book the Trang An Boat ride in advance, as you just show up at the ticket counter, buy a ticket, and wait in line for a boat.

If you’re taking the boat ride as part of a tour, the ticket will be included in the price, and you shouldn’t need to queue up for tickets.

How to get to the Trang An boat ride starting point?

The starting point of the Trang An boat ride is easily reachable from any point in Ninh Binh, as it’s right next to the main road connecting Tam Coc and Hoa Lu/Bai Dinh.

If you’re staying in one of the towns nearby, we suggest going by bicycle, or if you’re in Tam Coc, it’s best to go by motorbike or a taxi.

Click here for the location of the Trang An boat ride .

Where to stay in Trang An, Ninh Binh

There are many options for accommodations, from hotels to homestays in the Trang An area.

We stayed at the Ha Lan Homestay in Ninh Xuan, which is also very close to Hang Mua , and we highly recommend it. And we also stayed at Hang Mua Ecolodge , part of the Hang Mua complex, right at the foot of the hill and next to the lotus lake.

These are also some of the well-reviewed and liked hotels in the area:

• Trang An Retreat
• Trang An Moon Garden Homestay
• Trang An Lotus Lake Homestay
• Ninh Binh Mountain Side Homestay & Cafe

The difference between Trang An, Tam Coc, and Van Long boat rides

The Van Long Nature Reserve boat ride is definitely much more peaceful , as it’s still not in every guidebook and tour itinerary, unlike the Trang An and Tam Coc ones.

The Trang An and Tam Coc boat rides are longer, and there’s more sightseeing included. Therefore, the price is also higher. But, Van Long, on the other hand, is a better choice for seeing some wildlife.

Read more about taking a boat ride in Van Long Nature Reserve.

Because of the significant demand for boat rides in Trang An and Tam Coc, you might need to wait in line and share a boat with other tourists. There are four or five people per boat. And if you want to do a private boat ride, you’ll need to pay the same price as for the entire boat. 

In Van Long, there’s usually no waiting in a line , and there are usually only two people in a boat, so it’s a more private experience. Families of 3 to 4 can also go in one boat in Van Long, but it’s a bit more cramped then.

The scenery and landscape are beautiful in all areas of Ninh Binh, where the boat rides occur, and they are pretty similar. However, we have to admit that the Trang An landscape was a bit more majestic as limestone mountains are much higher there. And you do get the chance to pass through a 1-km long cave.

Note: “Kong: Skull Island” movie was filmed in both Van Long and Trang An areas. There was also a movie set in Trang An until the end of 2020, but it’s since been removed and you can’t see it anymore, unfortunately. 

No hassling

The boat rides at Trang An, and Van Long are both free from hassle and begging for tips and selling all kinds of stuff, unlike the Tam Coc boat ride. We’ve heard from friends that went on a boat ride in Tam Coc that it was pretty overwhelming.

What else to do in Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex?

Since 2020, you can also rent a kayak and go around the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex all by yourself on two different routes (8km or 5km).

The kayak rental cost in Trang An is 250.000 VND ($11) for the single and 400.000 VND ($17) for the double kayak.

There are some rules you have to follow while kayaking in Trang An:

• Wear a life jacket
• Stick to the route
• Do not bathe in the water

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Where to eat in Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex?

There is an on-site restaurant at the Trang An boat wharf, and there are a lot of restaurants on the road leading there, so you can easily find a place to eat if you’re feeling hungry after the ride.

Is the Trang An boat ride in Ninh Binh safe?

Taking a boat ride in Trang An, Ninh Binh, is a very safe activity, as you’re exploring the area on a boat operated by a very-skilled rower. All the caves you pass through are equipped with lights, and you are also provided with a life jacket.

What are the available facilities at the Trang An boat wharf?

The Trang An complex provides an ATM, parking, toilets, and an on-site restaurant.

Is Trang An in Ninh Binh worth visiting?

Ninh Binh’s Trang An boat ride is worth visiting because of the beautiful landscape, fascinating caves you go through and the temples you visit along the way. It’s an equally good option to the more famous Tam Coc boat ride (or even better).

Let us know in the comments if you have done any of the boat rides in Ninh Binh and how it was. We’re eager to know others’ experiences and thoughts.

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2 Responses

Good morning, I came across your website while searching how to do the boat tours in Ninh Binh and Tam Coc. Your website is incredibly detailed and has been so useful for first timers in this part of Viet Nam. Can you let me know what is the the latest time the boat tour runs? We are planning to do a day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and would like to go on this boat tour but we are not sure if they close by 5pm.

The tickets are sold until 5 pm, so it would be best if you could organize your trip to be there at least by 4:30 pm, just in case.

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The inland Ha Long Bay

The Trang An Landscape in Vietnam is often called the ‘Inland Halong Bay’. Here’s what it’s like to take a boat trip amongst the mountains and in the caves.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: June 19, 2023

A boat tour around Trang An at Ninh Binh

It’s known as the Ha Long Bay of the land. About 150 kilometres from the famous Vietnamese bay where hundreds of islands form a natural wonder is another equally as impressive landscape.

This one, known as Trang An, is nowhere near the coast, though. The mountains are connected by rice paddies, not water. You can cycle to them, not sail. And – best of all – they are not full of foreign tourists. Such is the joy of a Trang An boat tour.

Trang An at Ninh Binh is easy to get to from Hanoi. It’s dominated by the large limestone karst peaks which create steep vertical cliffs covered in plants.

Unlike a traditional mountain range where the slopes connect to each other in a long undulating stretch, most of these peaks stand in isolation – making them even more dramatic in appearance.

The stretches of flat land surrounding them look like valleys but, in reality, they are not the space between mountains but what the area would look like without mountains. Fields fill many of them and the fertile grounds are perfect for agriculture and settlements.

There are sections that are submerged under water, though, and this is what has been claimed by the tourism industry as the best way to explore the Trang An area. While it is possible to cycle, drive – or even walk – around the mountains, most people choose a Trang An boat tour to travel through some of the most scenic parts of the region.

I board one of these small boats myself and it waits at the dock until all six seats are taken. It doesn’t take long because there is a steady stream of visitors coming here to take a ride.

Interestingly, most of them seem to be locals on holiday in large groups. For foreigners, Trang An is not nearly as well known as Ha Long Bay and most people who do visit come on day trips from Hanoi that leave early in the morning.

The boat driver sits at the back with two large oars. She paddles down the large river towards some of the impressive limestone karst peaks. I realise that I have no idea how long we are heading out for – it’s probably something I should have asked – but I sit back and enjoy the view.

It turns out the boat trip is much longer than I expected. For almost two hours we explore the area. The large river appears to come to an abrupt end after about thirty minutes but then I notice a small cave. We row into it and it turns out it is a tunnel that we emerge from on the other side of a mountain.

The waterway is much narrower here and the boat comes close to the shore of reeds. Mountains surround us in almost every direction and, if it wasn’t for the tunnel, it would feel like we were in a lake. At the other end there’s another tunnel and we go through it and emerge in another part of the landscape.

There is definitely something quite special about seeing Trang An from this perspective. I think you get a better understanding of how it all fits together by seeing the different vantage points – from the water, from the shore, and even from within the mountains themselves.

I am told there are about 30 valleys and 50 caves in the area and, although we certainly don’t get to them all, I do lose count, perspective and my sense of direction as we glide throughout the various waterscapes.

It’s a long hard trip for the driver, I imagine, and there are a few points where I pick up one of the spare oars and help out. I’m not sure how much of a token effort it is, though. It does make me feel a bit better about being rowed around for hours.

The Trang An boat tour

If you’re interested on going on one of these boat trips at Trang An, there are a few different ways to do it. As I mentioned, quite a few people organise day trips from Hanoi that include this as part of the itinerary. If you choose that route, everything will be looked after for you.

To do it more independently, you first need to get to the city of Ninh Binh. There is a direct train from Hanoi which leaves several times a day. From there, you can get a taxi to Trang An.

Once you’re at the site, the ticket office is clearly marked. You buy a ticket for 200,000 dong (US$8.80) and then the staff will direct you to a boat.

The trip around the waterways will take about two hours. The most important bit of advice I can give here is to take sunscreen and some water. It can get extremely hot and there is no shade, so you’ll need some protection with you.

It’s also worth noting here that there are some great affordable tours to Trang An from Hanoi that take all of the hassle out of organising things for yourself – especially if you’re short of time. Have a look at some of these options:

I stayed in the Ninh Binh area for a few days, which I highly recommend if you have time. There are lots of other things to see and it’s a beautiful area to relax.

I stayed at the Nyugen Shack ( click here for current prices ) which is a wonderful place with basic cabins on a small lake. You can even borrow a bike for free and cycle out to Trang An for the day.

Where is Trang An?

Trang An is very close to the city of Ninh Binh. It is on Trang An Road. You can see it on a map here .

How much does a Trang An tour cost?

A ticket for the boat tour is 200,000 VND (US$8.80) per person. They normally try to fit about four people in a boat, so you may not have it to yourself.

How do you get to Trang An?

If you want to get to Trang An independently, you first need to get to the city of Ninh Binh. The easiest way to get there is by train and you can reserve your seat in advance here . From the train station, I suggest getting a taxi as the best option.

Are there tours to Trang An?

Yes, there are tours, and this may be the best way for you to go if you are short of time. Everything will be organised for you, including transport and meals. I would suggest having a look at this day trip from Hanoi .

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN NINH BINH

There’s not a huge amount of accommodation in Ninh Binh, but you will find something for any style of travel.

My favourite place in Ninh Binh is definitely the relaxed  Nguyen Shack  with its charming bungalows.

For a comfortable budget hotel, you can try  Nam Hoa Hotel right near Tam Coc.

A lovely homestay option with amazing views is the  Limestone View Homestay .

And for a stunning luxury resort, you can’t go past  Emeralda Resort  and its pool!

This site is on the UNESCO World Heritage List ! I'm on a mission to visit as many World Heritage Sites as I can. Only about 800 more to go... eek!

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7 thoughts on “The inland Ha Long Bay”

Great pics, especially the one in the cave! The place looks like a piece of heaven. A little bit frightening on these little boats.

It’s a beautiful place but it’s not really that scary at all. I was worried about hitting my head in a couple of the caves but, other than that, it was very relaxing.

I guess that exploring all this by boat was a fantastic experience. When landscapes are like this, just two hours are too little. Great guide.

You can also spend a bit of time in the area and do some explorations on your own – I would recommend by bike. That way you can see the different views from the water and from the land.

Wow this place looks amazing. Where was this post before my Vietnam trip. Looks like I’ll have to go back.

I don’t think it’s that well known so don’t be too surprised you missed it. But definitely a beautiful place and worth checking out if you’re ever back in Vietnam!

I was surprised to learn its 6 people to a boat. Did you get to visit the temples and things during the trip? I’ve read that you do, and return to your boat in your own time – but how does that work if there are other tourists on a different time schedule?

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Trang An Boat Tour: A Guide to Ninh Binh's Best Attraction

Looking for the best boat route in Trang An? 

Here is an extensive guide that will help you decide which route to take. In this Trang An boat tour guide, we’ve included everything you need to know to make sure you make the most of your trip. From the best time to visit to avoid the crowds to our own boat experience and updated prices so you know what to expect. 

We’ve also included many of our top Trang An tips you don’t want to miss!

Planning a Last Minute Trip to Trang An?

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here are the links to the top rated tour, hotel and other services you can book right away that will let you experience Trang An and more.

Transportation: Van Transfer (Most Comfortable)

Where to Stay: Muong Village Ninh Bình (Highly Rated)

Best Tour from Hanoi: Ninh Binh Full-Day Trip (#1 Best Seller) 

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Overview of Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a breathtaking landscape of karst mountain peaks and submerged caves. 

Because of the natural beauty of the area, Trang An has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ninh Binh, and the best way to explore it is by a boat tour. 

How to Get to Trang An Complex 

Trang An is a scenic area located in Ninh Binh , about 100km away from Hanoi. To get to the boat tours, head to the entrance and pay for your ticket price before you get on the boat.

Read: Plan your Trip to Ninh Binh: 2 Day Itinerary

Here are the two most convenient ways to reach Trang An from Hanoi: 

Van: This is the most comfortable way to get to Trang An from Hanoi. Take the van that leaves daily from the old quarter and they drop you off at the entrance of Trang An complex. The van seats from 9 to 11 people and a ticket starts at 11 USD. Book your van here !

Private Car: A great option for families or a group of friends is to take a private car from Hanoi. It’s convenient and you’ll be able to leave whenever. Booking a private car costs at least 50 USD. Book your car here !

Trang An Boat Tours from Hanoi

For the most convenient way to reach Trang An, you can book day tours that leave from Hanoi that include a boat tour to the complex. We only recommend it if you don’t have much time or if you want everything to be taken care of for you. Otherwise, you can easily do the Trang An boat tour on your own. 

Here are the most highly recommended Trang An Boat Tours from Hanoi:

Trang An Opening Hours

The Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex opens daily from 7am to 6pm .

Because the boat ride takes at least two hours, we recommend starting no later than 4:30pm so that you have enough light for the entire tour. 

Trang An Boat Tour Price

The ticket costs approximately 11 USD per person. 

You don't need to book it in advance. Simply go to the ticket booth near where the parking is. You’ll also find stores where you can buy food and drinks before you board the boat. 

After buying your ticket, you’ll get down a flight of stairs, which will take you on a path to the boat dock, where lots of local boat rowers are waiting. A staff member will ask which route you’ll take as you wait in line, and if you go alone, you'll be paired with other tourists as each boat can carry up to four people.

Best Time to Visit

You can visit the Trang An Complex anytime during the year. However, the best time to visit for the best weather conditions is between February and March . During these months, the weather in Ninh Binh is just right for a boat trip. It's not too hot or too cold.

The best time of day to take the boat tour is early in the morning, before 9am. You can also take the tour later in the afternoon around 4pm. However, it’s not a great time for photography as you won’t have much light towards the end of the tour. 

Trang An is a popular tourist attraction and many people come for day trips from Hanoi. If you want to get the most out of your trip and avoid the crowds, go as early as you can before the tour buses from Hanoi arrive. 

Read: Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Trang An Boat Routes

Trang An Scenic Complex has three boat routes available. While each route provides unique experiences to various caves and temples, all routes provide scenic views of Trang An.

Depending on the route you take, as well as how long you decide to stay at each stop, we recommend setting aside at least 3 hours to see the Trang An complex. 

Route #1: Ultimate Cave and Temple Journey

Includes: 9 Caves and 3 Temples

Duration: 3 Hours

This is the longest route in Trang An and covers the majority of the caves. The caves here do not overlap with the caves visited on routes 2 and 3.

The boat route takes you through 9 caves and 3 temples (Trinh Temple, Tran Temple, and Khong Temple - Bao Hieu Pagoda).

Route #2: Perfect Mix of Caves and Temples

Includes: 4 Caves and 3 Temples

Duration: 2.5 Hours

Route 2 is ideal for those looking for a good mix of caves and religious sites. After Dai Cave, the boats from Route 2 take the same route as Route 3 to Vu Lam Royal Steps.

This route takes you through 4 caves and 3 temples (Thanh Cao Son Temple, Suoi Tien Temple, and Vu Lam Royal Steps). 

Route #3: Underground Cave Adventure

Includes: 3 Caves and 3 Temples

Duration: 2 hours

This route features Dot Cave, the longest underground cave expanding 1km in Trang An. If you are claustrophobic, you might want to skip this one. 

This route takes you through 3 caves and 3 temples (Trinh Temple, Suoi Tien Temple, and Vu Lam Royal Steps). This route used to stop at King Kong Island, where they used to film the movie, but as of 2020, you can no longer visit the movie set.

What is the Best Trang An Boat Route?

The best Trang An boat route ultimately depends on your personal preferences, as each route has its own unique charm and scenic views that can only be accessed by boat. Whatever route you choose, you're guaranteed to have a one-of-a-kind experience. 

To help you decide, here is a quick summary of the routes in Trang An complex. 

Route 1: You have enough time and are interested in visiting caves. 

Route 2: You want to visit a mixture of caves and religious sites and don’t have a lot of time. 

Route 3: You are interested in visiting the longest underground cave in Trang An. 

What to Expect on Route #3 | Our Boat Experience 

We visited Trang An near the end of May during our trip to Ninh Binh. We started the boat tour at 4:30pm and took route #3. In total, the tour took us 2 hours . Your time will vary depending on your route and how long your group spends at each stop. 

Here's what to expect on boat route #3 in Trang An. 

Weather in May

We visited Ninh Binh in May and there was a heat wave during the week we were there. The weather was very hot and humid, and there were days where temperatures were as high as 41℃. The midday heat was very uncomfortable and even early mornings and late afternoons were hot and humid. 

Since we started later in the afternoon, there were not many people and we had to wait for about 10 minutes before we got on the boat. If you’re alone, you might have to wait a bit more before you get paired with the other group.

Trinh Temple

From the boat wharf, you will be rowing for a while until you reach the Trinh Temple, which is located at the foot of a mountain. The temple is small with three areas to visit. The main one is in the middle with a huge incense burning pot at the front. 

Remember: Dress modestly if you want to enter the temples in Trang An. Shorts and sleeveless tops are not permitted inside temples and pagodas. 

A short distance from the Trinh Temples is the Dot Cave also known as the Dark Cave. It is one of the features of route #3 as it’s the longest underground cave in the Trang An Complex, expanding 1000m long. It took us about 15 minutes to pass through. You might want to skip this route if you’re claustrophobic. 

The cave has light bulbs scattered around, so you can see the stalactite formations. You will have to duck your head as your rower professionally manoeuvres the boat to some of the bigger gaps in the cave.  

Tip: If you're tall, sit in the front row so you can get on the floor and stretch your legs over the front of the boat. This way, you won't have to keep ducking while you're in the underground cave. 

After the Doi Cave, you will row for a bit to enjoy the towering karst mountains until you reach Van Cave. It is about 400 meters long and took us 4 minutes to pass. It is also much wider than Doi Cave with less stalactites to see so you don’t have to duck that much. 

Wanting to experience one of the biggest cave systems in Vietnam? Read our guide to the Tu Lan Cave System in Phong Nha to discover why it's one of the most adventurous things to do in Vietnam. 

Suoi Tien Temple

As you approach Suoi Tien Temple from the Van Cave, you will notice other boats from Route #2. This is a lovely temple set among limestone cliffs. You will walk past a large area with a hut at the beginning and well-kept gardens, after that you will cross a bridge to a large temple with intricately designed gates. 

After the Suoi Tien Temple, you will pass through some of the best karst formations in Trang An. Although our rower did not speak English, he tried his best to point out some notable places in the complex, such as the King Kong Mountain or birds around the area. 

Dai Cave is the shortest cave you will pass in route #3. It’s only about 300 meters long and takes at least 3 minutes to pass. 

Vu Lam Royal Steps

It will become busier as you approach the Vu Lam Royal Steps. It's because right in front of the Royal Steps is one of Trang An's most iconic temples: the temple in the middle of the lake. 

Tip: Ask your rower to take you close to the temple so you can get a better look.  

The Vu Lam Royal Steps are made up of four large temples, with the main one in the center and in the back. Roofs and step railings are beautifully designed. You’ll find few people going around the temple because most are drawn to the temple in the middle of the lake.

You will head back to the wharf after visiting the Royal Steps. It’s a bit of a long paddle back, so you might want to help your rower back to the wharf. 

Tam Coc or Trang An Boat Tour?

Both Tam Coc and Trang An boat tours offer unique and beautiful views of Ninh Binh. Choosing between the two depends on what you want to experience and your personal preference. 

We recommend taking the Trang An boat tour if you want to explore more caves and temples, and the Tam Coc boat tour if you want to see beautiful limestone cliffs and rice fields.  

Read more about our Ultimate Guide to Tam Coc in 2023 so you can decide which boat tour is right for you!

Where to Stay Near Trang An

There are plenty of great options available in the area close to Trang An Complex. From budget-friendly guesthouses to comfortable bungalows, you can find a wide range of accommodation options to choose from. Here are the most highly rated accommodations close to Trang An Complex. 

Where to Eat Near Trang An

There are many food options you can choose from if you’re looking for places to eat near Trang An Complex. There are many shops by the ticket booth where you can buy food and drinks. There are also shops by the boat wharf and at the temples that sell cold drinks and small snacks. 

Another popular option is the Trang An Riverside Garden Restaurant , which offers local food at reasonable prices. We recommend trying out their braised pork and also their selection of fresh juices. Apart from the food, the restaurant overlooks the peaceful lake and karst mountains. 

If you’re looking for Korean food, there is a popular Korean Restaurant located in Ninh Binh City. It’s about a 10 minutes drive from the Trang An Complex but worth the drive if you’re craving for authentic Korean dishes. 

Other highly rated restaurants in the area include the Nhà Hàng Xuân Thắng and Moon Garden Restaurant. 

Top Trang An Travel Tips

Here are our top travel tips for visiting the Trang An Scenic complex in Ninh Binh Province to make the most out of your boat tour. 

1. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes: You'll be climbing in and out of the sampan boat. Also, if you want to enter the temples, don't wear shorts or a sleeveless shirt.

2. Bring sun protection : Trang An can get quite hot, especially during the summer months. Don’t forget to bring sun protection such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to avoid getting sunburnt.

3. Start early: Trang An can get quite busy, so we recommended starting your tour before 9am to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. 

4. Stay hydrated: Bring water. You can buy bottled water at the temples, and there are also restroom facilities available.

5. Bring small cash: So you can buy some snacks while on tour and also to tip your rower at the end. You can find an atm machine by the ticket station. 

6. Use the paddles: Each boat has four extra paddles that you can use. This will not only help your rower, but you’ll also get to experience paddling in calm waters.  

7. No reception: You won't have any reception while you're on a tour. So make sure you're not expecting anything important during that time and plan accordingly.

8. Taxi Fares: There are many taxi drivers waiting at the front. Expect to pay around 4USD one way and 8USD for a round trip. To avoid the hassle, organize a driver with your accommodation. 

Looking for more Vietnam travel tips? Read our 17 things to know before you travel to Vietnam to fully prepare for your next trip!

And that’s the comprehensive guide to visiting Trang An in Ninh Binh!

Let us know if you have any questions in the comments below. In the meantime, check out our ultimate Vietnam itineraries to help you plan your Vietnam trip. It’s designed for first time travelers and we’ve included the must-visit places in Vietnam! 

If you've already been to Vietnam, we have a number of off-the-beaten-path destinations for you to visit, including the northwest , Cao Bang region , and the Mekong Delta .

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NINH BINH TOURS & SIGHTS

Why Ninh Binh is a MUST in your travel list to Vietnam?

Ninh Binh is a province located in the southernmost region of the Red River Delta, situated about 100 kilometers south of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. This province boasts a unique landscape, stretching from the Northwest mountainous area to the delta, earning it the nickname "half mountain half plain." The region has three main types of topography, including breathtaking limestone mountains with stunning caves and grottoes, a delta formed by Red River Silt, and an 18-kilometer coastline. Aside from its limestone topography and serene green countryside, Ninh Binh is famous for being the first imperial capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010 under feudal dynasties. This has resulted in a rich cultural and religious tourism potential, with sights such as Bai Dinh Pagoda, Hoa Lu temples, Thai Vi temple, and Bich Dong Pagoda. The province is also home to Cuc Phuong National Park, the oldest national park in Vietnam and the largest nature reserve, featuring an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, and great trekking options in Northern Vietnam. Ninh Binh is easily accessible from Hanoi, just a two-and-a-half-hour drive away. This easy access offers travelers a wide range of tour options to Ninh Binh, including day tours, overnight tours, trekking tours, and cycling tours. Visit our website for more information on Ninh Binh tours and start planning your trip to this stunning province.

HELP ME PLAN MY TRIP

Contact us today to start planning your tailor-made tour to Ninh Binh and other destinations in northern Vietnam. Experience the natural beauty and rich culture of this enchanting region, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

POPULAR TOURS

TRANG AN & HOA LU

Duration: 1 Day / Code: NB01

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex was recognized by UNESCO as a mixed natural and cultural property. This day tour to Ninh Binh, visiting Trang An and Hoa Lu ancient capital, will give you a chance to get both of the values above. Three-hour boat row in between the towering karst formations and visit Vietnamese typical temples which worship the country's first emperors.

NINH BINH & HALONG BAY

Duration: 3 Days / Code: NB04

Route:  Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay - Hanoi

Trip Highlights:  Sampan boat ride and bicyclinh in Ninh Binh - Cruise in Halong bay on a deluxe boat with kayaking and stay overnight on the boat.

Category: Ninh Binh Tours

NINH BINH, CAT BA, LAN HA BAY

Duration: 4 Days / Code: NB07

This is one of our best seller! The destinations are both recognized as Unesco's world heritages, featured with towering limestone cliffs. Ninh Binh is stunning with Trang An Complex - A natural & cultural heritage, it will amaze you with a sampan boat ride along a little river & a gentle bicycle ride on back roads of rice fields and sheer mountains. Lan Ha Bay is amazing with its bay of limestone islands...

TAM COC & HANG MUA TREK

Duration: 1 Day / Code: NB02

The sheer limestone mountains feature the area and this amazing nature has become the UNESCO's natural heritage of the complex. This day tour offers you a close-up to enjoy the beautiful landscape by riding a sampan boat along a small river in Tam Coc & embarking on a scenic trek at Hang Mua area. It is one of the most typical Ninh Binh Tours.

NINH BINH & SAPA TOUR

Duration: 4 Days / Code: NB05

Route:  Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hanoi - Sapa - Hanoi

Trip Highlights:  Sampan boat ride and Trek the scenic limestone landscape of Ninh Binh - Trek the stunning rice terraced fields of Sapa Valley

MAI CHAU - NINH BINH - HALONG

Duration: 4 Days / Code: NB08

For those who would like to get away from the bustle and hustle of the big cities like Hanoi and interested in outdoor activities such as trekking to visit tribal villages, sampan boat-riding on a small river, edged by sheer mountain sides; cruising in the beautiful bay of the world's heritage. This is the one! With 4 days, start with a scenic drive to the mountainous province of Hoa Binh...

TAM COC & BICH DONG

Duration: 1 Day / Code: NB03 ​

The mystical, watery beauty of the Tam Coc “three caves” has been become one of the most favorite spots in Ninh Binh. The 2-hour sampan-ride is a definite highlight, meandering thru' dumpling-shaped karst hills in a flooded landscape. Besides, you also have chance to embark a cycling tour and visit Bich Dong Pagoda which was discoverred hundred years ago.

NINH BINH & MAI CHAU

Duration: 3 Days / Code: NB06

Route:  Hanoi - Mai Chau Valley - Ninh Binh - Hanoi

Trip Highlights:  Moderate trek to visit Mai Chau hilly Valley of tribal villages - Sampan boat ride on little river & scenic bicycle ride on back roads of Ninh Binh

TAM COC & CUC PHUONG FOREST

Duration: 2 Days / Code: NB09

​Amongst the scenic attractions in Ninh Binh, Tam Coc stands out as the most charming boat-ride place with limestone outcrops & stunning rice paddy fields. It is combined with Cuc Phuong National Park, an ideal place to get the touch of nature. Specially, you are able to watch the langur monkeys at the park's primate rescue center, trek inside the rain-forest and enjoy the diversity of tropical flora system...

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VIETNAM DISCOVERY

Duration: 18 Days

Destinations:  Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels - Mekong Delta - Hoi An - Hue - DMZ Zone - Vinh Moc Tunnels - Phong Nha - Hang En - Hanoi - Ha Giang - Ba Be National Park - Lan Ha Bay

VIETNAM HIGHLIGHTS

Duration: 14 Days

Destination: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Cu Chi Tunnels - Mekong Delta - Hue - Hoi An - Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Bac Ninh - Halong Bay - Hanoi

PICTURESQUE VIETNAM

Duration: 16 Days

Destinations: Arrival in Hanoi - Bac Ha - Sapa - Ninh Binh - Bac Ninh - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Tay Ninh - Mekong Delta - Departure from Saigon

GLIMPSE OF VIETNAM

Duration: 10 Days

Destinations: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) - Cu Chi Tunnels - Ben Tre (In Mekong Delta) - Hoi An - Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hanoi - Departure from Hanoi

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Welcome to our Ninh Binh Tours FAQ section, where we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about our tours and the Ninh Binh region. We want to make sure you have all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to this beautiful part of Vietnam. If you don't see the answer to your question here, please don't hesitate to contact us directly, and we'll be happy to help!

WHAT ARE THE MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS IN NINH BINH? Ninh Binh is home to some of Vietnam's most stunning natural and cultural attractions, so there are many must-see attractions to explore during your visit. Here are a few top attractions to consider when planning your Ninh Binh tour: Tam Coc - Known as the "Halong Bay on Land," Tam Coc is a series of caves and limestone formations that can be explored by boat. The scenic route takes you through rice fields, karst mountains, and local villages. Trang An - Another popular boat tour destination, Trang An features a network of caves, rivers, and limestone cliffs. The tour takes you through a peaceful natural setting, passing by temples and pagodas. Bai Dinh Pagoda - This complex of temples and shrines is the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, featuring multiple pagodas, a bell tower, and a giant Buddha statue. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital - The ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties, Hoa Lu features historic temples and ruins set amidst scenic natural surroundings. Cuc Phuong National Park - A great destination for nature lovers, Cuc Phuong is the oldest national park in Vietnam and is home to diverse wildlife, including primates, reptiles, and birds. These are just a few of the many must-see attractions in Ninh Binh. Depending on your interests, there are many other sites and activities to explore, such as Mua Cave, Van Long Nature Reserve, and local markets and villages.

WHAT ACTIVITIES ARE AVAILABLE ON NINH BINH TOURS? There are a wide variety of activities available on Ninh Binh tours, suitable for different interests and travel styles. Here are a few popular activities to consider: Boat tours - One of the best ways to experience Ninh Binh's stunning landscapes is by boat. Visitors can take a boat tour through Trang An, Tam Coc, or Van Long Nature Reserve, passing by towering limestone cliffs, lush rice paddies, and ancient temples. Cycling tours - For those who enjoy cycling, Ninh Binh is a great destination to explore on two wheels. Visitors can rent bikes or join a guided cycling tour to visit local villages, temples, and scenic spots. Hiking and trekking - Ninh Binh's rugged terrain and lush forests provide excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking. Visitors can trek through Cuc Phuong National Park, climb up to the top of Mua Cave for panoramic views, or explore the trails around Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. Cultural experiences - Ninh Binh is home to many cultural attractions and experiences, such as visiting traditional craft villages, learning about local cuisine, and watching traditional performances. Eco-tourism activities - For those interested in eco-tourism, Ninh Binh offers opportunities for bird watching, nature walks, and exploring sustainable farming practices in local communities. These are just a few examples of the many activities available on Ninh Binh tours. Depending on your interests and travel style, there are many other activities and experiences to explore in this beautiful region of Vietnam.

ARE NINH BINH TOURS SUITABLE FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN? Yes, Ninh Binh tours can be suitable for families with young children, depending on the specific activities and destinations included in the tour. Many of the popular boat tours, such as those in Tam Coc and Trang An, are suitable for families with young children, as the boat rides are gentle and provide stunning views of the scenery. Children may also enjoy visiting the Bai Dinh Pagoda, where they can see the giant Buddha statue and explore the various temples and shrines. There are also many family-friendly activities to do in Ninh Binh, such as visiting the local markets, cycling through the countryside, and trying traditional Vietnamese dishes. Families can also explore the nature reserves and parks in the area, where they can hike, bike, or take part in eco-tourism activities. When booking a Ninh Binh tour for a family with young children, it's important to consider the ages and interests of the children, as well as the level of activity and accessibility of the destinations included in the tour. Some tours may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, so it's important to communicate with our travel specialist to ensure that the itinerary is appropriate for your family.

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT NINH BINH? The best time of year to visit Ninh Binh is from November to April, during the dry season. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant, with cool temperatures and low humidity. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities, such as boat tours, hiking, and cycling. The peak tourist season in Ninh Binh is from December to February, when many visitors come to see the stunning scenery and experience the local culture. If you plan to visit during this time, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you may want to consider visiting Ninh Binh during the shoulder seasons of October and May. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer tourists, making it easier to explore the attractions and enjoy the local culture. The rainy season in Ninh Binh lasts from May to October, and while it can still be a beautiful time to visit, the weather can be unpredictable, with heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. If you do decide to visit during this time, be sure to pack appropriate rain gear and be prepared for itinerary changes due to weather conditions.

DO I NEED A GUIDE TO EXPLORE NINH BINH? While it is possible to explore Ninh Binh on your own, having a guide can greatly enhance your experience and help you get the most out of your visit. A knowledgeable guide can provide valuable insight into the history, culture, and natural beauty of the area, as well as help you navigate the attractions and avoid crowds. They can also provide recommendations for restaurants, accommodations, and off-the-beaten-path destinations that you might not find on your own. Additionally, some of the attractions in Ninh Binh, such as the Trang An complex, require a guide to enter. Having a guide can also ensure that you are respectful of local customs and traditions and that you are able to communicate effectively with locals who may not speak English. Overall, while it is possible to explore Ninh Binh on your own, having a guide can provide valuable insight and enhance your overall experience in the region.

SHOULD I BOOK A PACKAGED TOUR TO NINH BINH? Whether or not you should book a packaged tour to Ninh Binh depends on your personal preferences and travel style. Booking a packaged tour can be a convenient option, as it takes care of all the details, such as transportation, accommodations, and activities. It can also provide access to destinations and experiences that may be difficult to arrange on your own, such as a private boat tour or a visit to a local village. Packaged tours can also be a good option for those who are short on time, as they typically offer efficient itineraries that cover the most popular attractions in the region. Additionally, many packaged tours provide the services of a knowledgeable guide, who can offer valuable insights and help you get the most out of your visit. However, packaged tours can also be more expensive than traveling independently, and they may not offer the flexibility to customize your itinerary to your specific interests and preferences. Additionally, some tours may include destinations or activities that you are not interested in, or may not provide enough time to fully explore the attractions that interest you most. Ultimately, whether or not you should book a packaged tour to Ninh Binh depends on your individual travel style, preferences, and budget. If you prefer the convenience and structure of a packaged tour, and are willing to pay the extra cost, then it may be a good option for you. If you prefer to travel independently and have more control over your itinerary and budget, then exploring Ninh Binh on your own may be a better option.

HOW GOOD IS A TAILOR-MADE TOUR TO NINH BINH? A tailor-made tour to Ninh Binh can be an excellent option for those who want a more personalized and customized travel experience. With a tailor-made tour, you have the opportunity to work with a travel agent or tour operator to design an itinerary that is tailored specifically to your interests, preferences, and budget. This means that you can choose the destinations, activities, and accommodations that appeal to you most, and can create a travel schedule that fits your timeline and travel style. Additionally, a tailor-made tour can provide greater flexibility than a packaged tour, as you can make changes to your itinerary as needed, and can take more time to explore the destinations that interest you most. Working with a reputable tour operator can also ensure that you have access to expert guides, reliable transportation, and high-quality accommodations, making for a more enjoyable and stress-free travel experience. Overall, a tailor-made tour to Ninh Binh can be an excellent option for those who want a personalized and customized travel experience that fits their individual preferences and interests. However, it is important to do your research and work with a reputable tour operator to ensure that you are getting the best possible experience for your money.

Trang An Boat Tour: Beautiful Scenery in Ninh Binh

Last Updated on February 15, 2024 by Natalia

The Trang An boat tour leads you through some of Vietnam’s most stunning scenery, including towering limestone karst peaks, impressive caves, and magnificent temples. Located in Ninh Binh province, the Trang An Landscape Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its spectacular landscape. The scenery is so amazing that we’ve listed it as a must do in our Ninh Binh itinerary , as well as our 2 week Vietnam itinerary! There are three routes to choose from on the Trang An boat tour, with some offering the chance to visit the King Kong film site, as well as a variety of different caves and temples. Kayak tours are now also available at the Trang An Ecotourism Site, offering a different way to see the area’s natural beauty. Find out all you need to know with this guide to the Trang An boat tour in Ninh Binh!

Table of Contents

How to get to the Trang An Landscape Complex

One of the easiest and cheapest ways to get from Tam Coc or Ninh Binh to the Trang An Landscape Complex is to rent a scooter/motorbike.

It should cost around 100,000-150,000 VND per day to rent a scooter or motorbike, and the drive from Tam Coc should take around 20 minutes.

The other cheap option for getting from Tam Coc or Ninh Binh to the Trang An Boat Tour is to rent a bicycle. Some hotels and guesthouses offer them for free if you’re staying there, but it’s also possible to rent a bike easily in Tam Coc.

It’s possible to cycle from Tam Coc to Trang An in around 45 minutes if you go at a reasonable pace.

Alternatively you can take a taxi to the Trang An Landscape Complex. There are a few different taxi operators in Ninh Binh town as well as Tam Coc, so ask around to get the best price for a taxi to Trang An.

If you do opt to take a taxi then we also recommend visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda as part of a day trip from Tam Coc or Ninh Binh.

Best time to do the Trang An Boat Tour

The best time of day to take a boat trip tour in Trang An is either early morning or mid-to-late afternoon, as that way you can avoid the intense midday heat. By taking a tour at one of these times you will also avoid the crowds of day trippers from Hanoi that usually arrive around midday or early afternoon.

If possible you will want to take the Trang An boat tour on a relatively clear day for the best views of the amazing scenery.

When we visited it was quite misty at first so we went elsewhere and came back an hour later by which time it had cleared up, so we suggest doing the same if it’s misty when you arrive.

There is no definitive best time to visit the Trang An Landscape Complex, but you may want to take into account the area’s rainy and dry season. Rainy season in Ninh Binh runs from May to October, with dry season running from November through to April.

Although we would definitely recommend avoiding doing the Trang An boat tour during public holidays such as TET where people have reported to queuing for 3 hours.

If you don’t mind the rain then May, June, September and October can be good months for the Trang An boat tour as you should get a combination of lush green scenery and yellow rice fields.

Entrance fee for Trang An Boat tour

As of 2024 the ticket price for the Trang An boat tour is 250,000 VND per person, as long as there are 4 people in the boat. Once you have purchased your tickets from the counter you will need to queue before taking your boat trip.

You will need to wait until you have a group of 4 people wanting to take the same route before your boat will depart, but thankfully this shouldn’t take long as it’s normally fairly busy.

If you don’t want to wait then it’s possible to take a private boat trip in Trang An but you will have to pay an extra 250,000 VND for each empty seat.

Tickets for the Trang An boat tour cost 250,000 VND per person regardless of whether you take route 1, route 2 or route 3. Find out all you need to know about the different routes below!

Trang An Boat Trip Routes

There are 3 routes for the Trang An boat tour, each of which visit different spots within this UNESCO World Heritage Site. All of the routes provide amazing views of the landscape and scenery, with the main difference being the number of caves and temples you visit.

The Trang An boat trip routes also vary in duration, with route 1 lasting around 3 hours, route 2 taking around 2½ hours, and route 3 being around 2 hours.

One of the most famous locations on the Trang An boat tour is the King Kong film site. Routes 2 and 3 include a stop at the film site, so make sure to pick one of those routes if you’d like to visit there.

You will also have chance to get off the boat to explore the temples at various stops throughout your visit. Your boat will wait for you to have a look round before continuing on to the next stop.

Whichever route you choose it is mandatory to wear a life jacket on the boat trip through Trang An. It’s also worth noting that the routes may vary depending on the water levels in the caves, particularly during rainy season.

Find out more about the different Trang An boat tour routes and what they have to offer below.

Trang An Boat Tour Route 1

If you want to see as much of the Trang An Landscape Complex as you possibly can then route 1 is a good option. It’s the longest route and visits 9 different caves and 3 temples over the course of around 3 hours.

Unfortunately this route doesn’t visit the famous King Kong film site, but the beautiful nature more than makes up for that!

Stops on Trang An Route 1 : Trinh Temple – Toi Cave– Sang Cave – Nau Ruou Cave – Tran Temple – Ba Giot Cave – Seo Cave – Son Duong Cave – Khong Palace – Bao Hieu Temple– Khong Cave – Tran Cave – Quy Hau Cave

Temples : 3

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

Trang An Boat Tour Route 2

Route 2 of the Trang An boat tour takes you through 4 caves and visits 2 temples, whilst leading you through some spectacular scenery.

It’s probably the best option for anyone with claustrophobia as there are fewer caves than route 1, and route 3 visits the longest cave in Trang An.

This route is one of the two routes that offers the chance to visit the famous King Kong film site. On top of that, you will also get a view of the wonderful Vu Lam Royal Step, which is an extremely picturesque spot.

Stops on Trang An Route 2 : Lam Cave – Tranh Cao Son Temple – Vang Cave – Thanh Truot Cave – Suoi Tien Temple – Dai Cave – Vu Lam Palace – King Kong film site

Temples : 2

Duration : Approximately 2 ½ hours.

Trang An Boat Tour Route 3

Although route 3 is the shortest option, it still has plenty to offer in terms of caves, temples and the famous King Kong film site. It takes you through the impressive Dot Cave, which stretches for 1,000 metres and is the longest cave in the Trang An Landscape Complex.

Another highlight of route 3 is the chance to see the impressive Vu Lam Royal Step – one of the most beautiful spots in the complex. The scenery throughout the route is stunning as you’re treated to brilliant views of limestone karst mountains throughout the trip.

Having opted for this route ourselves we can safely say it does not disappoint. If you’re claustrophobic though you may prefer route 2 to avoid visiting the longest cave in the complex.

Stops on Trang An Route 3 : Trinh Temple – Dot Cave – May Cave – Suoi Tien Temple – Dia Linh Mountain – Dai Cave –  Vu Lam Palace – King Kong film site

Duration : Approximately 2 hours.

Click here to look at tours from Hanoi that include a visit to Trang An!

Trang-An Boat Tours

If you are interested in doing an organised tour of Trang An and other places in Ninh Binh. Then check out this group tour by GetYourGuide.

From 1,300,000 VND you can do a tour that includes a trip to Trang An by boat, Hoa Lou and Mua Caves some of the most beautiful places to visit in Ninh Binh! Click here to book your tour with Get Your Guide!

Please note that some links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This money is used to support this website and cover the costs of keeping it online and free to access!

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Trang An or Tam Coc: Which Boat Tour in Ninh Binh Vietnam is Best

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: October 4, 2023

Categories Vietnam

Ninh Binh, Vietnam is known for its stunning river boat tours and often referred to as the Ha Long Bay on Land . The waterways in the area take you along limestone cliffs, colorful rice paddies, and through narrow caves. There are two different boat tours, Trang An and Tam Coc , each offering a similar yet unique passage through the river. 

In this guide, we will dive into the similarities and differences between the Trang An and Tam Coc Boat Tours.

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure policy .

Difference Between The Trang An & Tom Coc River Boat Tours

Trang An Boat Tour

• Boats must have 3-4 passengers
• Guide rows with his/her hands
• Travel under up to 9 caves & 3 ancient temples
• Paddle past the famous scene from Kong Skull Island
• 3 different routes to choose from
• Tours are a loop rather than out & back (always new scenery)
• Can get off and walk in/around ancient pagodas
• Smaller & longer caves
• Cleaner water
• Snacks for purchase at some of the temples
• No “professional” photographer
• UNESCO World Heritage Site

Tam Coc Boat Tour

• Boat can go with just a group of 2 (but can also hold 4 passengers)
• Guide rows with his/her feet
• Travel under 3 caves
• Paddle below the famous Mua Cave Viewpoint
• Tour goes through beautiful rice fields
• The boat tours offer only 1 route (out & back)
• Larger but shorter caves
• Dirtier water
• Snacks are sold after the last cave via local people on boats
• “Professional” photographers on the water (can purchase your photo at the end of the tour)

Overall, we liked the Trang An boat tour best. But it was our first boat tour, so this might have a little something to do with why we enjoyed it better. 

How To Get To The Trang An Boat Tour

There are a few different options for getting to the Trang An Boat Tour, such as car, taxi, pedal bike, or motorbike. 

There is a parking lot across the street from the Trang An Boat Tours. Cost for parking is 15k ($0.63 USD) for a scooter (motorbike) and 10k ($0.42 USD) per bicycle. Make sure you take your ticket and keep it with you, because you will need to show it again when you leave the parking area with your scooter or bike. 

If you are traveling from Hanoi or nearby city, use the website 12goasia to find a bus, train, or taxi ride into Ninh Binh.

Different Routes For The Trang An Boat Tour

There are three different routes to choose from when taking the Trang An Boat Tour. Each offers a loop route so you are always experiencing new scenery and only going through each cave once.

Here are the details for the 3 different Trang An Boat Tour routes:

• Trinh Temple
• Nau Ruou Cave
• Tran Temple
• Ba Giot Cave
• Son Duong Cave
• Khong Palace (aka: Bao Hieu Temple)
• Quy Hau Cave
• Summary: Tour with the most caves, not for claustrophobic tourists
• Thanh Cao Son Temple
• Thanh Truot Cave
• Suoi Tien Temple
• Dia Linh Mountain
• Kim Quy Mountain
• Vu Lam Royal Steps Temple
• Kong Skull Island Movie Set
• Summary: Good happy medium of everything: scenic, caves, temples. Most popular route.
• Summary: Goes through the longest cave (Dot Cave) with an amazing stalactite system, technically the shortest but most scenic route.

Route 1 is technically the longest route and will take the longest amount of time. Route 2 is slightly shorter, and Route 3 is technically the shortest route. All claim to be 3 hrs long, but it all depends on how much time you spend off the boat at each pagoda. 

Jake and I typically just got off to check out each spiritual place, took some photos, walked around, then got back on the boat. Ultimately making the tour shorter and only taking about 2 hours rather than the suggested 3 hours.

Price For The Trang An Boat Tour:

The ticket price is the same no matter which Trang An route you choose. The cost is 250k VND ($10.50 USD) for adults, and 120k VND ($5 USD) for children. But any children under 1 m (3’ 3”) ride free.

Before heading to the boat launching area, you must first purchase your ticket from the ticket booth across the street first. Once you purchase your ticket, you can head to the underground tunnel toward the boat wharf. Here there will be a ticket checkpoint. 

Once your ticket is scanned, head toward the river to find a tour guide (aka boat rower).  There will be someone directing you to the right boat depending on the route you choose. You might have to wait for other passengers if you are traveling in a group of fewer than 4.

What To Expect On The Trang An Boat Tour

The boat fits up to 4 passengers, therefore, you are likely to be sharing the boat with strangers. Each boat won’t leave with just one or two passengers, so you might have to wait for another traveler or two before the boat takes off. Or you can purchase four tickets (1m VND ($42 USD)) to have a private boat tour.

We found the tour guides to not speak much English, so we didn’t really learn much along our tour.

At each temple you will be dropped off to explore the area. It is important to remember your boat number, because you won’t be getting back on the boat in the same place. Once you are finished exploring the temple, you will walk to the pick up location and find your boat # with the same boat rower. 

When going through the caves, there are lights in place so it won’t be completely dark. You will likely need to duck in certain areas so you won’t hit your head. So people with mobility issues may have trouble.

There are additional paddles in the small boats. You don’t need to row, but it can be helpful and take some of the workload off the boat rower. 

At the end of the tour, you can choose to tip your boat rower or not. It is not customary in Vietnam, but it can be a nice gesture. 

How To Get To The Tam Coc Boat Tour

The Tam Coc boat tour is situated right in the city center. Therefore, if you are staying in Tam Coc, you can likely walk to the boat tour. But if you are staying in Trang An or a nearby city, you can get here via car, taxi, or motorbike. 

There are a handful of places you can park your bike or scooter in the city. We parked our scooter here , right next to this public restroom and near the Tam Coc Boat Tours. We paid 10k VND ($.42 USD). 

It was covered parking and there was an attendant standing right outside the area. It didn’t seem super official, but it was cheap and we just took the gamble. Everything ended up being fine and our bike was there when we got back! (Refer to the map above for direct links to parking, ticket booth, and boat launch point).

If you are traveling from Hanoi or other nearby city, use the site 12goasia to find direct routes via bus, taxi, or train.

Route For The Tam Coc Boat Tour

There is only one route for the Tam Coc Boat Tours, which is out and back. The tour starts from the city, down the Ngo Dong River. It passes through 3 caves, which you will pass through again on your way back.

Price For The Tam Coc Boat Tour

There is an extra cost of 120k VND ($5 USD) per person for sightseeing tickets in the Tam Coc area. Children under 1.4m (4’6″) are 60k VND ($2.5 USD), children under 3 are free.

There is an additional cost if you want to go on the Tam Coc boat trip. It’s an additional 150k VND ($6.30 USD) per boat. So for a couple, the total cost would be 120k VND x 2 (sightseeing entrance fee) + 150k VND (for the boat) = 390k VND ($16.50 USD). 

We are not really clear on why there is a separate sightseeing fee, but you need to pay both to go on the boat tour.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket booth right in front of the Ngo Dong River (you will see TONS of boats lined up ready to take tourists). Do note, they only take cash, but there are many ATMs within walking distance from the ticket booth.

What To Expect On The Tam Coc Boat Tour

Foreign tourists can have their own private tour with just 2 passengers. Vietnamese People will need 3-4 passengers for each boat.

The Tam Coc boat ride is out and back and travels through 3 caves. There is only one route to choose.

There are lights in the cave, but you might need to duck in certain areas so you won’t hit your head. 

At the last cave, there will likely be local people offering snacks for purchase. After passing under the last cave, you will turn around and head back. 

Again, our tour guide did not speak fluent English, so it was hard to communicate, and we didn’t learn much along the tour.

The Tam Coc Boat Tour is more about the scenery and rowing through the stunning rice fields. So you won’t experience the same spiritual places like you do on the Trang An Boat Tour. 

When Is The Best Season For Ninh Binh Boat Tours: Trang An or Tam Coc

The best time to visit Ninh Binh for the Trang An or Tam Coc boat tour is from late May to early July to experience the colorful rice paddies. This is considered harvest season, so you can witness the yellow fields. You can also witness the colorful rice fields in October as well (but will likely be a beautiful green). 

Winter (November-May) is Ninh Binh’s dry season. So this can also be a good time to visit Ninh Binh. But the rice fields won’t be in full swing, and you will often see the farmers out there replanting in the paddy fields.

We visited mid-January and the temperatures were in the 40’s-50’s which we found pretty chilly out on the water. The rice fields were also pretty brown and not vibrant yellow or green.

The months of August and September should be avoided because of heavy rainfall and storm season. 

Best Time Of Day To Do Ninh Binh Boat Tours

Also, if you want to avoid the crowds, you should do the boat tour in the early morning . This avoids many of the large tours leaving from Hanoi and you will likely have more of the river/temples to yourself. 

We did our Trang An boat tour in the afternoon and poorly timed our tour with a large group who were very loud and took away from the serene nature you are surrounded by. So ideally, we would have done the tour in the morning if we were to do it again.

What To Bring On The Trang An or Tam Coc Boat Tours:

• Snacks (boat tours are 2-3 hrs/ snacks are available for purchase near the last cave on the Tam Coc tour or at the temples for the Trang An Tours)
• Layers (we visited in January and it was cold!)
• Good Shoes (you climb in and out of the boat, so I’d suggest tennis shoes/no flip flops)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Umbrella (can be both good for rain or shade from the sun)

Ninh Binh Boat Tours From Hanoi (Epic Day Trips & Multi-Day Tours)

If you want to take the hard part out of coordinating your own trip to Ninh Binh, then consider going with a tour operator instead.

Day Trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi: (Best Value)

This tour leaves from Hanoi and provides a full day of adventures in Ninh Binh. There are 6 different attractions you can choose from: Hoa Lu ancient capital, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and Trang An. There are different itineraries to choose from, so prices may fluctuate. The tour returns back to Hanoi at the end of the day. (Transportation, lunch, & entrance fees included) .

Luxury Ninh Binh Day Trip from Hanoi : (Best Day Trip Option)

This tour starts from Hanoi, and brings you to Ninh Binh. Groups are no larger than 9 people maximum. First, you meet with a local family to explore Vietnamese culture. Then, head to the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda where you will learn about the history of Buddhism. Then you head out on the Tam Coc River Tour, followed by a bike ride through the rice paddies and villages. Followed by a hike up to Mua Cave. The trip returns back to Hanoi at the end of the day. (Transportation, entrance fees & lunch included)

Unique Multi-Day Trip Including Hanoi, Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay:

If you are short on time and want to see the best sights in Northern Vietnam, these multi-day tours could be a great option.

Hanoi: 3-Day Luxury Ninh Binh & HaLong Bay 5-Star Cruise :

This cruise picks guests up in Hanoi and heads to Ninh Binh to visit the ancient city of Hoa Lu (aka Ninh Binh), climb to the Hang Mua viewpoint, and take the scenic Trang An Boat Tour. Then the next day you head to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise. Finally, head back to Hanoi. (Transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, & all meals (except dinner in Ninh Binh) included)

5-Day Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise – Ninh Binh Tour :

This unique 5-day tour starts off with a pick-up from the Hanoi airport and provides transportation to the city center. Day 2 is a Hanoi City Tour exploring the unique attractions in the city. Day 3 you head to Ninh Binh where you explore Bai Dinh Temple Complex, a ride on the Trang An boat tour, followed by a hike up the Mua Caves Lookout. On Day 4, you head to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise. Then, the following day, head back to Hanoi. (Transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, & all meals included)

Check Out Our Video on Both Trang An & Tam Coc Boat Tours

Related Posts To Trang An or Tam Coc You Might Find Helpful

• 33 Things To Know Before Traveling To Vietnam
• Consider checking out the amazing mountain town of Sapa, Vietnam for more stunning scenery

Is Trang An or Tam Coc Boat Tour Better?

We were lucky enough to go on both the Trang An and Tam Coc boat tours to compare the two. Personally, we really enjoyed both tours with the stunning scenery, so you really can’t go wrong with either. But there are a few differences that make each tour stand out in different ways. 

Both tours took around 2 hours, but they can be extended depending on the temples you explore. Or anywhere you stop to walk around. So some tourists can expect their tours to be anywhere from 2-3 hrs long.

Pros & Cons of the Trang An Boat Tour

The Trang An Boat Tour is technically more expensive by 110k VND ($5 USD). Which in USD is really not much of a game changer in price. But it can be a little harder to get to since there are no hotels or hostels located near the boat wharf. And you will likely be paying for a taxi or for bike/scooter parking, which can add to the overall price. 

The Trang An Boat Tour is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Which means it is in a protected area and you are less exposed to scammers.

A bonus to the Trang An Boat Tour is the 3 different routes to choose from. If you love caves, then route 1 is best for you. If you want a happy medium between scenery, temples, and caves, then route 2 is perfect for you. And lastly, if you want to experience the longest cave in Trang An, then route 3 is a unique experience for you. 

Don’t think too harshly about the route decision, as they are all a loop and meander along beautiful landscapes of limestone mountains, unique caves, and visit spiritual places. 

One drawback is the boat having to be full with 3-4 passengers. While pairing with another couple wasn’t a huge deal, we always had to switch between front and middle seats. So if you are big into photography, having people sit in front of you could be annoying. And when you get off at the temples, you might be waiting for the other pair to get back to the boat or vice versa (which can be added stress).

Pros & Cons of the Tam Coc Boat Tour

The Tam Coc tour, like mentioned above, is cheaper by 110k VND ($5 USD). Another bonus is the location in the city. If you ride a train or bus into Ninh Binh, you are likely to be dropped off in the city here and won’t need to pay for parking. 

The Tam Coc boat trip meanders through the rice paddies and offers beautiful natural landscapes. You can also see the Mua Caves Viewpoint along the ride, which is just a cool sight to see. 

Another bonus for the Tam Coc boat ride is that foreign travelers can have their own private boat. So we were able to have the boat driver stop wherever we wanted for photos or for literally anything.

But the Tam Coc Boat Tours is not located in a World Heritage Site, so it does have more exposure to pushy vendors and scammers. There was an instance when the local people had us stop for snacks before the last cave.

We politely declined, but once we made it back through, we decided to just support the locals by getting a little snack of fresh pineapple. The ladies tried to get us to buy our boat rower a soda and chips, but we just asked if he would rather that or tip him cash at the end (he wanted the cash). 

Coming from the United States, tipping doesn’t really make us feel uncomfortable. But if you are from a country that doesn’t tip, the Tam Coc tour definitely made us feel a little more pressured to tip our tour guide. (Some Google Reviews have stated some people felt very uncomfortable, and at times they were asked for more money halfway along the trip).

Overall, if I had to choose just one, I would choose the Trang An Boat Tour. I personally like loop adventures and enjoyed the scenery on this tour more. But if you are only in Ninh Binh for a short time and staying in the Tam Coc area, I’d probably just do the Tam Coc for convenience.

Save This ‘Trang An vs Tam Coc Boat Tour Comparison’ For Your Planning

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• Place to go

6 Best Things to Do in Trang An - Ninh Binh Complete Travel Guide

• Trang An Ninh Binh - The Heritage of Ha Long Bay on land

1. Sailing in the sea of rice

• 2. Exploring the caves of Trang An

3. Trekking to the top of Ngoa Long Mountain

4. visiting historical temples.

• 5. Enjoying Ninh Binh cuisine

6. Visiting other attractions near Trang An

The best time to visit trang an.

Trang An - the famous historical symbol of Ninh Binh - is a scenic landscape complex of limestone mountains, caves, and lagoons located 100km from Hanoi, and 8km from Ninh Binh City center.

Trang An Ninh Binh -  The Heritage of Ha Long Bay on land

Trang An eco-tourism area is an area located in the Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh province and has been ranked by the Vietnamese Government as a national heritage of particular importance and recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site since 2014. 

The heritage site includes the scenic area of Trang An, Tam Coc-Bich Dong, Hoa Lu ancient capital, and Hoa Lu special-use forest. The ancient capital of Hoa Lu is located in the North; Tam Coc-Bich Dong is located in the south and Trang An is located in the center.

Best Things to Do in Trang An

Taking a boat trip on the Sao Khe River is a must-do in Ninh Binh because it is probably the only way to explore your Trang An tour to the fullest. 

You will sit, which is recommended, on a boat gently moving across the endless fields of green (or yellow if you arrive at the ripe season) rice on both sides. And if you pay attention a little bit, you might also smell a mild fragrance in the air and that sound of peace blowing through the ear.

For a second, you might not want that scene to end but don’t worry, the boat trip lasts for around 3-4 hours so right after feasting your eyes on the beauty of the rice fields, you will have to go through a never-ending cave system.

2. Exploring the caves of Trang An 

Trang An has up to 31 lakes and lagoons connected by 48 caves that have been discovered, including 2 km long cross-water caves. Each cave has a unique name originating from different legends of the past. 

The most famous of them are the Dark and Light Caves, the Wine-Making Cave, Rice Cave, Sinh Cave, Si Cave, Ba Giot Cave, and the Boi Cave - where people found the vestiges of prehistoric people about ten thousand years ago.

Ngoa Long Mountain is about 500m above sea level and is the most popular trekking site in the Trang An, Ninh Binh. 

From the top of the mountain, visitors can enjoy fully the panoramic view of Trang An and Ninh Binh.

As the place that witnessed the beginning and the end of two Vietnamese feudal dynasties, Trang An area still retains many historical temples and unique constructions of the past such as Dinh Tien Hoang Pagoda, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Bich Dong Pagoda, Trinh Temple, etc. 

Here, visitors can learn about the history and culture of the region of Trang An and Ninh Binh altogether.

5. Enjoying Ninh Binh cuisine

As one of the famous tourist attractions in Ninh Binh , Trang An is also a gathering place for the most delicious dishes of Ninh Binh .

Specialties such as scorched rice, grilled chopped fish, grilled spring rolls, goat meat, etc. can all be found here in restaurants around the Trang An Landscape Complex.

Another plus point for Trang An is that it is located near all of Ninh Binh’s must-visits. Hence, you can drop by places such as Tam Coc-Bich Dong , Mua Cave , Hoa Lu ancient capital, Bai Dinh Pagoda , Kong Island, etc., in no time.

Fortunately, visitors can come to Trang An Ninh Binh anytime they want:

>> Read more: Best time to visit Ninh Binh

In spring: visitors can participate in special festivals such as the Trang An Festival (early May); and the Co Lau Festival (April-May).

In the summer: this place is enchanting with golden rice fields or fragrant lotus ponds.

In autumn: the weather is cool and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities.

In winter: you will see Trang An covered in the mist like a fairyland

>> Book Full Day Enchanting Bai Dinh Pagoda & Trang An Boat Tour

You may also like to read:

>>  Ninh Binh Complete Travel Guide 

>> Where to stay in Ninh Binh

>> Thung Nham - Marvelous Bird Park of Ninh Binh

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Trang An boat tour, Suggested itinerary, Price & Travel Experience

Are you ready for an adventure that will transport you to an enchanting “Inland Ha Long Bay”? Look no further than Trang An in Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam. This stunning UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its closely clustered limestone mountain ranges and diverse ecosystems.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the travel experiences in Trang An – Ninh Binh, sharing valuable information about ticket prices, featured attractions, and insider tips to make your visit unforgettable.

Explore the beauty of Nature & Cultural Relics in Trang An

Trang An, an eco-tourism area and scenic landscape complex, is located in Ninh Binh Province. It holds the distinction of being Vietnam’s first mixed heritage site recognized by UNESCO for its cultural and natural significance. This breathtaking destination has captivated audiences worldwide through its appearances in films like “Tam Cam – The Untold Story” and the blockbuster hit “Kong: Skull Island.” Beyond its cinematic fame, Trang An boasts a rich history, geological formations, and a multitude of attractions waiting to be explored.

Trang An Sightseeing Ticket Prices

To experience the wonders of Trang An, you’ll need to purchase a sightseeing boat tour ticket. Here are the current prices:

• Adult Ticket (over 1.3m tall): 250,000 vnđ/person
• Child Ticket (1m – 1.3m tall): 120,000 vnđ/person
• Children under 1m tall: Free
• Private Boat: 1,250,000 vnđ/boat
• Tour Guide: 300,000 vnđ/tour

Please note that these prices are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the latest information before your visit.

Full-Day Package Tours from Hanoi to Trang An

For those seeking a hassle-free and inclusive package tour from Hanoi to Trang An in one day, Vivu Halong offers all-inclusive one-day tours from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Designed for small groups of less than 20 guests, these packages include a limousine bus from Hanoi, a buffet lunch, entrance tickets to various attractions, and a knowledgeable tour guide to accompany you throughout the journey.

The tour departs at 7:00 AM, picking up guests from hotels in the Hanoi Old Quarter area, and concludes at 7:30 PM. With multiple tour options to choose from, you can choose your favourite packages:

Here are some of the available tour options:

Booking contact

• Phone/WhatsApp/Zalo :  +84.789.455.888
• Phone/ WhatsApp :  +84 961 250 100
• Email: [email protected]

How you will experience in Trang An

When you arrive in Trang An, you’ll find a plethora of attractions and activities to indulge in. Here are some highlights:

Cultural Relics

Trang An is home to a wealth of cultural relics that offer insights into the region’s history. Explore the Tu Tru Pagoda, Trinh Temple, Tran Ninh Binh Temple, Vu Lam Palace, Phu Khong Palace, Cao Son Temple, and Suoi Tien Temple. These ancient sites showcase the rich cultural heritage of the area and provide a serene environment for contemplation and reflection.

Beautiful Caves & limestone karsts in Trang An

Trang An boasts a diverse range of caves, each with its own unique characteristics. Admire the beauty of Dia Linh Cave, Ba Giot Cave, Nau Ruou Cave, and Cave Boi Cave as you sail through the waterways on a traditional boat. Marvel at the intricate formations and immerse yourself in the natural wonders that lie within these ancient caverns.

Kong: Skull Island Film Set

For movie enthusiasts, a visit to the Kong: Skull Island film set is a must. Step into the world of the blockbuster hit and capture unique photos with the iconic characters and landscapes that brought Trang An into the international spotlight. This cinematic experience adds an exciting element to your Trang An adventure.

Trang An Boat Tour Routes

Trang An offers three boat tour routes, each showcasing different aspects of its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Choose the route that appeals to you the most:

Route 1: The Classic Journey

This route takes you on a 3.5 to 4.5-hour adventure through Trang An’s stunning landscapes. Explore Trinh Temple, Dark Cave, Light Cave, Wine Making Cave, Tran Temple, Ba Giot Cave, Seo Cave, Son Duong Cave, Phu Khong Cave, Bao Hieu Pagoda, Khong Cave, Tran Cave, Quy Hau Cave, and return to the boat dock.

Route 2: The Scenic Delight

Embark on a 2.5 to the 3-hour journey that showcases the scenic beauty of Trang An. Discover Lam Cave, Vang Cave, Thanh Truot Cave, Suoi Tien Temple, Dai Cave, and Vu Lam Palace before returning to the boat dock.

Route 3: The Enchanting Escape

Explore the enchanting side of Trang An on this 3 to 3.5-hour boat tour. Visit Trinh Temple, Cloud Cave, Suoi Tien (Fairy Stream), Dia Linh Cave, Dai Cave, Vu Lam Palace, and Kong Film Set (indigenous village), and return to the boat dock.

Trang An Kayak Tours

For a more adventurous experience, consider joining one of Trang An’s kayak tours. These tours allow you to paddle through the waterways and explore hidden corners of Trang An. Here are two kayak routes to choose from:

Embark on an 8km kayak adventure that takes you through Tam Quan Gate, Dark Cave Entrance, Quy Hau Cave Entrance, and Ngoc Mountain. Marvel at the banyan tree under Tam Quan Gate, pay respects at Trinh Temple and enjoy the tranquility of the water as you paddle along.

Embark on a 5km kayak journey that includes a visit to Kong Island Dock, Thuy Dinh Temple, and Vu Lam Palace. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Trang An as you explore these fascinating destinations.

Get ting to Trang An

To reach Trang An, you have several transportation options. Here are some suggestions on how to get to this captivating destination:

If you prefer limousine transfer service from Hanoi Old Quarter to your places in Trang An, with door-to-door pick up at the hotel, check the Vivu Halong’s limousine service

Traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh

If you’re starting your journey from Hanoi, you can choose from various modes of transportation.

• Local Buses from My Dinh or Giap Bat bus stations offer frequent services to Ninh Binh.
• Limousine buses , such as Trang An Limousine, Ninh Binh Excursion Transport, Huu Binh Limousine, and X.E Vietnam, provide a more comfortable option.
• Alternatively, you can take a train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, with options like SE1, SE3, SE5, and SE7 available.
• If you prefer to drive, you can take the Phap Van – Cau Gie – Ninh Binh expressway, which takes approximately one hour. Motorbike enthusiasts can enjoy a scenic ride from Hanoi, taking the Van Dien – Thuong Tin direction and then National Highway 1A to reach Ninh Binh.

Getting from Ninh Binh to Trang An

From Ninh Binh, it’s a short distance of approximately 7km to Trang An. You can rent a motorbike, take a motorbike taxi (xe ôm), or a taxi to reach your destination. If you’re using a limousine service, you can request to be dropped off at Trang An. Simply follow Trang An Road from the center of Ninh Binh City, and you’ll soon arrive at your desired destination.

Must-Visit Places in Trang An – Ninh Binh

When you embark on your journey to Trang An, make sure to include these recommended places in your itinerary:

• Trang An Eco-tourism Area: Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and natural wonders of Trang An. Explore the limestone mountains, caves, and serene waterways that make this area truly unique.
• Tam Coc – Bich Dong : Discover the charm of Tam Coc and the enchanting Bich Dong Pagoda. Take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River and marvel at the karst formations that dot the landscape.
• Ancient Capital Hoa Lu , Dinh Temple, Le Temple: Step back in time and explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Visit the Dinh Temple and Le Temple, which pay homage to the Dinh and Le dynasties, respectively.
• Mua Cave – Ninh Binh Panoramic Viewpoint: Climb the 500 steps to the peak of Mua Cave and be rewarded with a panoramic view of Ninh Binh. This vantage point offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside and the winding river below.

Hotel and Restaurant Recommendations in Trang An

To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Trang An, consider staying at one of the many accommodations nestled amidst nature.

• Trang An Farm Stay
• Trang An Retreat
• Lotus Field Homestayand
• Trang An Nature House

They are just a few options that offer stunning views and a peaceful ambiance.

For restaurants: Trang An Restaurant, Trang An Boat Restaurant, Binh An Restaurant, and De Chinh Thu Restaurant are some excellent choices to indulge in the flavors of Ninh Binh.

Experience the Unforgettable Beauty of Trang An

Trang An is a destination unlike any other, where nature and culture intertwine to create a truly mesmerizing experience. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the wonders of Trang An – Ninh Binh. Pack your bags, set out on your adventure, and create memories that will last a lifetime in this enchanting “Inland Ha Long Bay.”

Remember to check the latest information and plan your journey accordingly to make the most of your visit. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, delve into the rich cultural heritage, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Trang An.

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Discover Ninh Binh

Tràng An is simultaneously a World Heritage site, a major tourism attraction, an extremely important archaeological and historical site and a massive nature reserve. As the Trang An Landscape Complex, it encompasses over 6000 hectares including the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the Trang An-Tam Coc-Bich Dong Scenic Landscape, and the Hoa Lu Special-Use Forest, joined together by “special use” land corridors.

Outside of these protected areas, it can be a maze of both paved and unpaved roads, winding streams and walking tracks that link together the hundreds of small villages and farming communities gathered in the surrounding rich alluvial plains. But as a town, it barely exists at all.

Global Significance

In many ways, Trang An is Ninh Binh. Or rather, Ninh Binh provides the support system for Trang An. Designated as “of global significance” by UNESCO in 2014, due to its stunning karst landscape and a long history of some 30,000 years of human habitation, the Complex itself covers a massive area. However a further 6000 hectares have also been set aside as a “buffer zone” surrounding the area, protecting the natural beauty and keeping the biological diversity intact.

With the addition of the Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, the Cuc Phuong National Park and the recent plans for expansion of the Day River Estuary Biosphere Reserve in Kim Son, Ninh Binh Province is curating a massive chunk of Vietnamese cultural and geological history. Rebuilding many architectural and historical sites includes promoting eco-tourism as a viable industry, both as a means to fund the program but also a way to retain this unique environment for future generations.

The ravages of covid forced the closure of many local businesses and many locals suddenly made redundant. We live in hope that International and domestic tourists will return again in such numbers to continue the viability of this natural and ancint dream world as one of the crown jewels of Vietnamese tourism.

Trang An Boat Rides

Perhaps the most well-known and loved part of the Trang An eco-tourism area is the famed boat rides along a tributary of the Hong River (itself a tributary of the Red River). The journey through rice fields, over sparkling water gardens and through half submerged underground caves has thrilled thousands. The 2016 Hollywood block buster King Kong featured many scenes filmed in Tam Coc and Trang An, further enhancing its image and until Covid, helped create a booming influx of visitors.

Similar to its older cousin at Văn Lâm in Tam Coc, the Trang An Boat Wharf offers three separate routes, all showcasing the stunning natural panorama that is Ninh Binh’s signature claim to fame. While many pundits will compare Trang An to an inland Halong Bay, here at Discover Ninh Binh we believe that it is much more than that. While the romance and adventure of an overnight cruise on Halong Bay is undeniably attractive, Trang An offers a way to get up close an intimate with the heartland of North Vietnam’s unique and diverse natural beauty plus the opportunity to interact with the temples, pagodas and shrines that witnessed the very foundation of the Vietnam nation.

Water Everywhere

Geographically speaking, Trang An has been submerged by sea, not once but several times in its 250 million year history. Even now it is subject to intermittent flooding and an intricate series of dykes and sluice gates have been developed over the years to counter the numerous fresh water river systems that provide Ninh Binh with the foundations of its rich fauna, flora and aquatic diversity. A pleasant result has been the return of huge numbers of birds, plants and animals as well as providing a rich breeding ground for all things aquatic.

A simple boat ride from Trang An will introduce even the most jaded traveler to an most enjoyable, unique and exciting journey through one of the most interesting and beautiful environments in Vietnam, if not the world. More tightly controlled than its counter-part in Tam Coc, Trang An also shows that sustainable, non-intrusive and entertaining tourism is possible and indeed, profitable.

Trang An Wharf is around 7 km from Ninh Binh city and is reached easily along good all weather roads. Priced at around 250k VND for adults and 120k for children between 1 and 1.3 meters in height (below this travel free), you have a choice of three different routes.

Tour 1 is the longest of the three, taking 3 to 5 hours to thoroughly explore all of the attractions, including spiritual and exhilarating caverns. A mix of scenic travel, caves and temples, the itinerary here is as follows:

The second route winds through Lam, Vang, Thanh Truot and Dai caves, Suoi Tien tempe. Route 2 will transport visitors “back in time” to the 13th century, taking in sites and temples from the Tran Dynasty (1226-1400). Known as a strong, progressive and artistic dynasty that fought off the Yuan (Mongol) Dynasty attacks and consolidated the Dai Viet nation, with the Hành Cung Vũ Lâm (Vu Lam palace) as an iconic example of their architectural brilliance.

This tour focuses on the historical and religious relics from that period as well as several caves and, of course, the fantastic scenery. The trip’s final destination will be to pass by the well-known Hollywood filming site of Kong: Skull Island and overall the tour takes around 2-3.5 hours, dependent on how long you and your fellow passengers stay at each site. Tour 2’s itinerary is as follows:

Route 3 focuses on the geological and aquatic wonders of the Trang An experience. Guests will visit many caves with the highlight being Hang Mây , a natural cave with a length of more than 1000m with crystals and stalactites extending like jewels. Route 3 typically takes from 2 to 3.5 hours, again dependent on how long you and your fellow passengers stay at each site. Route 3 itinerary is as follows:

As all tours take several hours to complete, guests are reminded to wear loose clothing, bring a hat or umbrella, a waterproof bag for any electronics, and some liquid refreshments. There are some wonderful spots for an impromptu picnic and times where you will exit the boat and explore the temples and gardens.

The sun reflecting off the clear stream can heat things up considerable so staying cool and hydrated is important. While you are surrounded by cool, fresh water, Trang An is a nature reserve and no swimming or bathing is allowed.

In an attempt to improve the experience, your guide will often present guests with a survey of their experience.  Alternatively, if you have anything that makes you unhappy or dissatisfied during your trip, please contact the management via social network or the hotline number mounted on the boat.

Tickets Please

Ticket price (for any of the routes):

A new attraction is the availability of individual kayak hire.  You cannot enter any caves and must keep clear of the official tour boats, otherwise you are free to explore the river and the magnificent Karst scenery at your own pace. Kayak Rental cost are as follows:

If you drive to Trang An wharf, there is a large parking area at around 25k VND per motorcycle. To one side of the parking area is a “market” place selling souvenirs and refreshments, so if it is a hot day and you have forgotten your hat or water bottle, you have the opportunity to make any last minute purchases.

Stated opening hours are 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Generally the attraction is most busy between the hours of 10am and 3pm when the tour buses from Hanoi will arrive and depart.

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Trang An Tours

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The Best Private Trang An Tours & Travel Packages

It's simple awesome. When we say it, we truly mean it!

Trang An tours Ninh Binh Vietnam: A picturesque country filled with history and distinct sights. Endangered species, islands, jungles, caves, and much more is hidden inside this country, just waiting to be explored. Even though Vietnam has so many exciting and tranquil activities, it is not a strong force in the tourist industry. Many people decide against touring the country because of the overwhelming amount of things to do and it is too much trouble to plan. This saddened us, since so many people have the desire to visit yet are unable to. This is why we have created some amazing packages, so you can receive the help you need to plan your vacation to a country known for its abundance of sights and activities.

Trang An Landscape Complex as it is called was designated a UNESCO heritage site and is one of the most scenic environments in the world. It is a magnificent terrain of limestone karst mountains filled with valleys, a lot of them partially submerged and encircled by steep, almost perpendicular cliffs.

Trang An is also referred to an ‘outdoor geological museum’ with its abundant caves, hills and plains, lakes, trees, woods and historical remains. Trang An caves have seen decades of years of architectural explorations which confirm years of human activities, stretching back almost thirty thousand years ago. Trang An caves are thousands of hectares in size, and they belong to tribal people such as Truong Yen, Ninh Xuan and Gia Sinh The Gia Hai are connected to each other via more than 100 caves, and tourists can move from cave to other cave via tunnels running between them. Right next to these caves, there are about 20 kilometres of valleys.

Origin Vietnam has packages dedicated to helping our clients take advantage of and enjoy these amazing wonders of nature. If you are a lover of the natural environment and history, then a visit to Trang An should rank very high on your list of absolutely important places to visit, and there is no tourism company better than Origin Vietnam at giving clients the best experience!

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Start your amazing Ninh Binh Trang An trip together with your family members make all of them the more exciting. On a private tour you'll be able to travel with whoever you need, be it a major different, your loved ones or a group of friends.

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Trang An Plus Hoa Lu

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Trang An or Tam Coc? Which one should we choose to visit?

Should we travel to Tam Coc or Trang An? “What distinguishes the beauty of two locations?” “Which one is the most attractive and worthwhile to visit?”

These are common questions that many visitors bear in mind before visiting Ninh Binh Vietnam. Trang An and Tam Coc are both well-known locations with their own beauty that everyone should visit at least once.

Then you should definitely check this article since it will give you the answer of choosing Tam Coc boat tour or Trang An boat tour

Table of Contents

Travelling by boat in Ninh Binh: Should we go for Tam Coc or Trang An?

Ninh Binh is a wondeful spot for admiring natural views of mountains , rivers and caves. It is regretful that you will not participate in Ninh Binh boat tours.

Going on a boat trip, there are some certain places you should not miss like: Tam Coc, Trang An, Nang valley (Thung Nang), But Cave, Van Long and Ga canal, which are considered as the most attractive spots with stunning views.

In this article, we are very pleased to share you our experiences about boat tour in Ninh Binh including both Tam Coc and Trang An boat tour.

Have a look at: 

• Best Time to visit Ninh Binh for Your Amazing Trip
• How to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?
• Ninh Binh Cycling Tour

>>> If you’d like a FREE itinerary tailored to your needs by a knowledgeable travel advisor, don’t hesitate to contact us for help.

Highlight of Ninh Binh Boat Tour in Tam Coc and Trang An

Tam Coc and Trang An are the most beautiful spots in Ninh Binh because two places are famous for its wilderness of imposing limestone mountains along rivers and impressing caves that you can admire during the tour.

Quiet, relaxed, pleasant & beautiful are the words that we normally hear from our customers about both of these sites. It has the same view as Halong bay – that is why we call it “ Halong bay on land”.

To avoid crowded situation, you should visit two places in the morning (around 8:00 -10:30 am ) when most of tourists are on the way to come here or in the afternoon (3:30 – 5:00 pm), when tourists often finish their tour

You also should not visit these places on festivals ( like: Tet holiday or other holidays of Vietnamese) because there will be a very large amount of domestic tourists coming to Ninh Binh.

Hence, these two places become very crowded, busy and bustling

If you are planning to take a tour to Ninh Binh for the next 2 days, our suggestion is that you should visit both of them because of own beauty of each place

However, if your time for the tour is limited, you should choose a tour for one day to Ninh Binh .

Your itinerary for the trip will be visiting other places in Ninh Binh like Mua Cave , Bai Dinh pagoda, Phat Diem church , Hoa Lu ancient capital and combining this with a boat tour to Tam Coc or Trang An, which option depends on you

The following is our experiences about Trang An and Tam Coc with its own outstandstanding features so that you can reach the rightest decision

Going on a boat tour to Tam Coc and the reason?

Tam Coc Cave means three caves consiting of Ca, Hai, and Ba cave. That is an outstanding and well-known feature of Ninh Binh for a long time and has attracted many domestic and foreign tourists.

• What to Do in Tam Coc?
• Tam Coc Boat Tour – Let’s Ride Your Trip to Ninh Binh Now

Rowing boat trip  for 1,5 hour is a good option for you to admire and do sightseeing of natural caves and imposing limestone mountains as well as cultivation actitivies along your trip.

That is the key characteristics of Tam Coc we love and would like to introduce to you for your trip to Ninh Binh

Different from Trang An, the boat tour to Tam Coc gives you the gold opportunity to go sightseeing of golden rice fields and agricultural activities along the river like: catching fish, planting rice, buffalo ploughing and harvesting

In fact, many picturesque photos of rippen rice fields surrounded bylimetone mountains on the Internet have been taken from Tam Coc area.

To be able to admire this great view, we recommend that you should visit Tam Coc in the summer (from the end of April to June when rice is turned from green to yellow)

To have a panoramic view of the river and ripe rice fields, you can try climbing up to the top of Mua Cave nearby in the late afternoon or early morning. From the top, you can admire the whole natural and tranquil beauty of Tam Coc.

• The entrance fees & boat fees in Tam Coc are more reasonable for private rowing boat tour. Many tourists travel in pair or alone, they would like to have their sampan privately rowed in Tam Coc with less payment than in Trang An. You only have to pay 400.000 vnd for a private boat with rower in Tam Coc, but 800.000 vnd/ private boat in Trang An
• In term of the price & comfort, which destination would you like to select Trang An or Tam Coc ? Surely, it is Tam Coc….

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However, you should also read bad comments on tripadvior website about Tam Coc about some forms of cheating to avoid during your tour

Boatmen in Tam Coc are mainly local residents living nearby. In off-peak season, theyonly have the chance to queue once or twice a month.

Some boatmen don’t know English  but they are friendly and hard-working, especially their ability to row is very skillful. During the boat tour, the often offer you to buy costly woven local clothes, fruits and drinks.

You should say “No” to them friendly and politely to avoid unexpected things

After the cruise to Tam Coc, we strongly advise you to give some tips to the boatman from 1 -2 USD as your gratitude to them because anyway, they work hard and partially help you have a safe and wonderful trip and more importantly, they would feel happy and pleasant about that

One more thing is about taking phtographs. During your cruise, there will be some local people who offer you to take photographs.

If you are intersted in this, you can ask them to choose a great view for excellent photos, but please remember to negotiate the price and photographs.

Otherwise if you are not interested, you just need to skip it or refuse them politely

>>> Check out more detailed for a memorable Deluxe & Small Group Hoa Lu Tam Coc Mua Cave Tour Including Tam Coc Boat Trip!

Trang An and why is it worth being visited?

Trang An Grottoes was recognized as natural and cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2014 and due to this, it has attracted more and more visitors.

In Trang An, there are no rice fields and cultivation activities; however, we love Trang An because of the following reasons:

Trang An Boat tour takes you more time than Tam Coc one, which is around 2 – 2,5 hours in particular. This cruise takes you along limestone mountains without repetition of visiting same places during the tour like Tam Coc boat trip (on the way in an out of).

In fact, for Trang An boat tour, the boatmen take you to explore 9 – 10 caves like a circle, then take you back to the main port.

>>> Read more: Trang An Boat Tour – A Spectacular Boat Ride in Ninh Binh

Boat tour offers you the chance to do sightseeing of many mysterious caves with different sizes. You will see the mixture of many kinds of caves like: long and short caves, dark and light caves with a lot of impressing and suprising things

Besides, different from Tam Coc, rowing a boat in Trang An also gives you the opportunity to visit some pagodas like Trinh and Duc Ong pagoda, etc or to walk and admire the views nearby, which surely makes your trip more interesting.

The river of Trang An is always very clean and so clear that you can see acquatic animals living at the river bed

The service here is very particularly professional because Trang An is run by a private company in which all boatmen work for that company and are annually paid. They have to comply to rules and regulations of the company to serve customers well and work hard to meet customers’satisfaction; therefore, most tourists are very pleased and  give them some tips.

Visiting Trang An, you will always feel very happy because of the service and until now they have not received any complaints from travellers.

>>> Do you like to get A Deluxe & Small Group Hoa Lu Trang An Mua Cave Tour – Explore Highlights of Trang An Boat Ride

Trang An or Tam Coc: Which is suitable for you?

As each place in Ninh Binh has its own charm and unique features, Tam Coc or Trang An are also beautiful in their own ways. Visitors can select a suitable and fulfilling tour for themselves based on their personal conditions and requirements.

Places to visit

• In Trang An, there appears to be quite a distance among attractions since Trang An is well-known as the combination of spiritual sites with stunning natural scenery and natural caverns that entice visitors to stay and learn more. The restored Vietnamese Ancient Village and other check-in locations that appeal to young people might be noted among many attractive attractions here. Additionally, you might choose Trang An as your travel destination if you want to go kayaking.
• In Tam Coc, visitors mainly take a boat tour to explore the caves. (3 Caves)

Length of visit

• Tam Coc is a good option if you don’t have much time because the boat tour in Tam Coc is shorter (only 1.5 to 2 hours) than in Trang An (from 2 to 3 hours). Then you can take advantage of the remaining time to visit some other locations nearby, including Bich Dong Pagoda – a well-known ancient temple dating back thousands of years or Thung Nham Bird Park – home to more than 500 species of birds, storks, cauldrons that are listed in the Red Book of Vietnam.

Time to visit

• Early summer is the best time for tourists to go sightseeing. For those who love the green hue, want to take in the scenery and snap many beautiful pictures, let’s choose Trang An. Or if you love the yellow color of ripe rice fields, you can choose Tam Coc as a stopover.

Ticket price

• Ticket price in Tam Coc is much cheaper than in Trang An.

>>> Let’s visit our website for different types of cruises available for every budget, from Backpackers to Deluxe – SMALL GROUP TOUR . Check out for the best deals on Ninh Binh’s Full-Day Tour.

Suggestions for a combining tour of Trang An and Tam Coc

The Hanoi Explore Travel Team recommends a 2-Day Trip that combines the visit to Tam Coc and Trang An. If you don’t have enough time to complete this 2-Day Itinerary Ninh Binh , pick one of the two locations and a suitable itinerary to explore Ninh Binh in one day.

>>> Contact us to get the Best Deal for Ninh Binh 2 Days 1 Night Tour  

Day 1: Hanoi – Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – Mua Cave – Tam Coc

• 8:00: Car pick-up at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter or the meeting point. Then depart for Ninh Binh.
• 10:30: Arrive in Ninh Binh. You can visit Hoa Lu ancient capital – the first capital of Vietnam, the temple of King Dinh and King Le.
• 11:30: Go to Mua Cave, climb more than 500 stone steps to reach the summit of Mua Cave and have a great chance to get a beautiful view of a part of Tam Coc and a surrounding countryside landscape
• 12:30: Have lunch and take a rest at a local restaurant.
• 14h00: Take on a boat tour in Tam Coc to visit 3 caves and Thai Vi temple. After a 2-hour boat ride, you return to Tam Coc wharf.
• 17h00: Car drives you to the hotel for check-in and rest.
• 18:30: Have dinner. Take your evening time freely. Stay overnight in Ninh Binh.

Day 2: Bai Dinh Pagoda – Trang An – Hanoi

• In the morning: Have breakfast and rest.
• 09.20: Check out the hotel. Then get in the car to visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, the pagoda with the most records in Vietnam.
• 12:30: Return to the restaurant for lunch and a short break.
• 13h30: Car takes you to Trang An wharf to take a boat tour to Trang An eco-tourism area.
• 17h30: Get on the car back to Hanoi.
• 19h30: Drop at your hotel around Hanoi Old Quarter area. Finish the trip.

>> Book Now Bai Dinh Trang An Full Day – Limousine Bus All Included with most Famous Historic & Sightseeing Places

All in all, we hope our guidelines will help you pick the right boat that suits your needs!

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Kinh nghiệm du lịch Tràng An Ninh Bình: Đi tuyến 1, 2 hay 3?

Tràng an ninh bình.

Tràng An là một Khu du lịch sinh thái nằm trong Quần thể di sản thế giới Tràng An thuộc tỉnh Ninh Bình. Nơi đây đã được Chính phủ Việt Nam xếp hạng di tích quốc gia đặc biệt quan trọng và UNESCO công nhận là di sản thế giới kép từ năm 2014 (Di sản Văn hóa và Thiên nhiên). Bài viết này sẽ tổng hợp những thông tin hữu ích nhất cho du khách trong chuyến hành trình du lịch khám phá Tràng An Ninh Bình .

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Tràng An Ninh Bình giới thiệu chung

Quần thể danh thắng Tràng An với hệ thống dãy núi đá vôi có tuổi địa chất khoảng 250 triệu năm, qua thời gian dài phong hóa bởi sự biến đổi của trái đất, khí hậu, biển tiến, biển thoái đã mang trong mình hàng trăm thung lũng, hang động, hồ đầm.

Danh thắng này là nơi bảo tồn và chứa đựng nhiều hệ sinh thái rừng ngập nước, rừng trên núi đá vôi, các di chỉ khảo cổ học và di tích lịch sử văn hóa. Hệ thống núi đá, sông suối, rừng và hang động ở đây rất hiểm trở nên được Vua Đinh Tiên Hoàng chọn làm thành Nam bảo vệ kinh đô Hoa Lư ở thế kỷ X và sau đó Nhà Trần sử dụng làm Hành Cung Vũ Lâm trong kháng chiến Nguyên Mông. Hiện nay nơi đây còn nhiều di tích lịch sử thời Đinh và thời Trần.

Trung tâm bến thuyền nằm cách cố đô Hoa Lư 3 km về hướng Nam, cách thành phố Ninh Bình 7 km theo hướng tây dọc đại lộ Tràng An, cách thành phố Tam Điệp 16 km theo hướng bắc qua Tam Cốc, cách Hà Nội 96 km theo hướng nam. Vùng lõi di sản Tràng An – Tam Cốc có diện tích hơn 6.172 ha, là vùng bảo vệ đặc biệt của danh thắng.

Vùng bảo vệ đặc biệt này nằm trọn trong khu rừng đặc dụng Hoa Lư, thuộc quy hoạch bảo tồn cố đô Hoa Lư và cũng thuộc quy hoạch quần thể di sản thế giới Tràng An với diện tích 12.252 ha. Trong quần thể danh thắng Tràng An, trung tâm cố đô Hoa Lư ở vị trí phía bắc, khu du lịch Tam Cốc – Bích Động ở vị trí phía nam còn Khu du lịch sinh thái Tràng An thì ở vị trí trung tâm.

3 khu vực này được liên kết với nhau bằng khu rừng đặc dụng Hoa Lư trên núi đá vôi và hệ thống sông, hồ, đầm. Ngoài ra, khu du lịch này còn rất gần các địa điểm hút khách du lịch khác như Hang Múa, đầm Vân Long … Hiện nay Khu Du lịch Sinh thái Tràng An đã đưa vào khai thác phục vụ khách đến thăm quan với ba tuyến du lịch đường thuỷ xuất phát từ bền thuyền.

• Xem thêm: Hang Múa – “Vạn lý trường thành Ninh Bình” say đắm khách du lịch vì cảnh đẹp ra sao?
• Xem thêm: Khu bảo tồn thiên nhiên đầm Vân Long – chốn yên ả đất Ninh Bình
• Xem thêm: Chốn bồng lai tiên cảnh như trong phim cổ trang Tuyệt Tình Cốc Ninh Bình ở đâu

Tràng An Ninh Bình ở đâu?

Khu du lịch sinh thái Tràng An Ninh Bình nằm trong Quần thể danh thắng Tràng An, có diện tích 2168 ha, cách thủ đô Hà Nội hơn 90 km về phía nam, cách trung tâm thành phố Ninh Bình khoảng 8km. Đây là khu vực quan trọng nhất trong di sản hỗn hợp duy nhất của Việt Nam được UNESCO công nhận năm 2014.

Nếu lấy khu du lịch sinh thái Tràng An làm trung tâm du lịch của tỉnh Ninh Bình thì nơi đây cách:

• Hang Múa khoảng 8km
• Tam Cốc Bích động khoảng 14km
• Chùa Bái Đính khoảng 12km
• Cố đô Hoa Lư khoảng 4km
• Đầm Vân Long khoảng 20km
• Vườn quốc gia Cúc Phương khoảng 50km
• Tuyệt Tình Cốc (Tuyệt Tịnh Cốc – động Am Tiên): 5km
• Vườn chim Thung Nham khoảng 15km
• Động Thiên Hà khoảng 23km
• Kênh Gà Vân Trình khoảng 18km
• Chùa Tam Chúc khoảng 55km

Giá vé Tràng An Ninh Bình năm 2021

Trong năm 2021, khu du lịch có thêm 1 dịch vụ mới là chèo thuyền Kayak Tràng An . Như vậy bên cạnh loai hình du lịch truyền thống có các nhân viên lái đò chở du khách đến các địa điểm tham quan, thì giờ đây khách du lịch có thể chủ động hơn trong việc khám phá cảnh đẹp tại Di sản với loại hình tham quan kiêm thể thao.

Giá vé thuyền truyền thống

Giá vé thuyền kayak.

Tràng An Kayak hiện đã di chuyển đến khu cắm trại Chill Cùng Nắng , nằm cạnh Khu du lịch Sinh thái Tràng An

Thời gian bán vé sau Tết Nguyên đán Quý Mão 2023

Thời gian bán vé mới:  

Du lịch Tràng An Ninh Bình mùa nào đẹp nhất?

Tại Tràng An, mỗi mùa mang lại những cảm xúc và hình ảnh đặc trưng riêng.

Tháng 1-3 (âm lịch): Du khách có thể hòa mình vào những lễ hội đầu Xuân năm mới. Lúc này, ở đây mang một nhịp sống hối hả, năng động.

Tháng 4-6 (âm lịch): Nắng và gió của mùa Hè khiến nơi đây đổi mình như một viên ngọc bừng sáng giữa đất trời tự nhiên. Nước trong soi đáy, hòa quyện với tia nắng xuyên qua thung lũng, tán rừng.

Tháng 7-9 (âm lịch): Vào mùa Thu, Tràng An tĩnh mịch hơn, một màu xanh dần ngả vàng khiến nơi đây như lạc vào những bài thơ về mùa Thu rất đặc trưng của các thi sĩ.

Tháng 10-12 (âm lịch): Những tháng cuối năm trong làn sương mờ ảo, kết hợp với những kiến trúc cổ kính, du khách có thể mường tượng Tràng An hiện ra như chốn bồng lai tiên cảnh.

Trước hành trình khám phá Tràng An Ninh Bình, quý khách nên theo dõi dự báo thời tiết Ninh Bình 7 ngày tới, tự động cập nhật dành cho du lịch để có những chuẩn bị phù hợp về trang phục, lẫn lịch trình di chuyển.

• Xem thêm: Dự báo thời tiết Ninh Bình

Tràng An Ninh Bình cách di chuyển

Tìm Tràng An Ninh Bình trên Google Maps

Với những tỉnh lân cận hoặc cách Ninh Bình không quá 100km, du khách có thể bắt xe khách về bến xe Ninh Binh hoặc sử dụng dịch vụ xe Limousine với giá vé giao động từ 80.000 vnđ – 140.000 vnđ. Sau đó bắt taxi hoặc thuê xe máy di chuyển vào theo Google Maps hoặc Bản đồ Ninh Bình .

Với những tỉnh miền Tây và miền Nam, du khách di chuyển bằng máy bay đến sân bay Nội Bài. Nếu công ty lữ hành đã đặt sẵn xe, du khách có thể di chuyển thẳng đến Ninh Bình hoặc tự bắt xe khách, limousine đến Ninh Bình. Du khách cũng có thể di chuyển từ các tỉnh đến Ninh Bình bằng tàu hỏa.

Theo kinh nghiệm du lịch Tràng An Ninh Bình thì 2 lựa chọn xe limousine, sau đó thuê xe máy khám phá Tràng An và các địa điểm khách tại Ninh Bình là thuận tiện hơn cả. Để thuê xe máy tại Ninh Bình cũng vô cùng đơn giản, bất kỳ dịch vụ lưu trú nào tại đây đều có dịch cho thuê xe máy. Nếu bạn chỉ đi du lịch trong ngày có thể tạt vào bất kỳ khách sạn, homestay nào cũng có thể thuê xe máy mà không cần thuê phòng.

• Xem thêm: Dự báo thời tiết Ninh Binh hôm nay, ngày mai, 3 ngày tới, 10 ngày tới

Thuê xe máy ở Ninh Bình

Loại phương tiện phù hợp với các bạn trẻ bởi tính chủ động và sự thoải mái. Hiện ở Ninh Bình có một số địa điểm cho thuê xe máy Ninh Bình mà các bạn có thể lựa chọn, ngoài ra các homestay, khách sạn cũng đều có dịch vụ này hoặc khi cần thuê xe máy Đà Nẵng hay Hà Nội phía dịch vụ hỗ trợ rất nhiệt tình.

Với xe máy, các bạn sẽ dễ dàng hơn trong việc lập lịch trình và di chuyển tới các địa điểm du lịch trong tỉnh. Đây cũng là kinh nghiệm du lịch Ninh Bình mà nhiều người lựa chọn.

Bản đồ du lịch Ninh Bình

Với tấm bản đồ du lịch Tràng An Ninh Bình, du khách có thể dễ dàng lên lịch trình khám phá Tràng An nói riêng và Ninh Bình nói chung, bởi các địa điểm du lịch của Ninh Bình tương đối gần nhau.

Lưu trú khi du lịch Tràng An Ninh Bình

Cách trung tâm thành phố chỉ khoảng 7km, các bạn nên lựa chọn nghỉ tại thành phố Ninh Bình để có nhiều sự lựa chọn hơn trong việc tìm khách sạn, nhà nghỉ phù hợp. Từ đây, chỉ mất khoảng 15-20 phút di chuyển là tới bến thuyền Tràng An nên không quá bất tiện.

Homestay ở Tràng An Ninh Bình

Nếu không thích di chuyển xa và muốn tận hưởng cuộc sống giữa bốn bề là thiên nhiên tươi đẹp, các bạn có thể cân nhắc việc lựa chọn ở trong một số homestay ngay gần Tràng An, tuy nhiên lại không có quá nhiều lựa chọn để các bạn có thể quyết định.

Cách nhanh nhất là đặt phòng trên Agoda, có rất nhiều phương án để các bạn lựa chọn như: khách sạn, homestay, resort. Mã giảm giá khi đặt phòng cũng có sẵn để các bạn lựa chọn đặt phòng trên: Agoda

Địa điểm du lịch Tràng An Ninh Bình

Tuyến số một quý khách đi tham quan 3 điểm tâm linh và 9 hang động theo một vòng tròn khép kín. Để khám phá hang kỳ, đá lạ và tìm hiểu về lịch sử của triều đại nhà Đinh qua các di tích và truyền thuyết về Hang nấu Rượu, đền Trình, Phủ Khống… đặc biệt là Đền Trần trái tim của Di sản Văn hóa và Thiên nhiên thế giới.

Tóm tắt hành trình Tuyến 1 : Bến thuyền – Đền Trình – Hang Tối – Hang Sáng – Hang Nấu Rượu – Đền Trần – Hang Ba Giọt – Hang Seo – Hang Sơn Dương – Phủ Khống – Chùa Báo Hiếu – Hang Khống – Hang Trần – Hang Quy Hậu – quay về bến thuyền (thời gian khoảng 3,5 tiếng – 4,5 tiếng tùy thuộc vào thời gian du khách ở lại trên các điểm dừng chân)

• Xem thêm bài viết: Tuyến số 1 Tràng An

Tuyến du lịch số 2 với 4 hang động (hang Lấm, hang Vạng, hang Thánh Trượt, hang Đại), và 3 điểm tâm linh (đền Trình, đền Suối Tiên và cụm tâm linh đặc biệt Hành cung Vũ Lâm). Từ đó ngược dòng lịch sử tìm hiểu về lịch sử của triều đại nhà Trần tại Hành cung Vũ Lâm. Cuối cùng sẽ đi qua nơi được làm bối cảnh trong bộ phim nổi tiếng thế giới Kong: Skull Island. (Từ tháng 7/2019, quý khách sẽ không dừng chân trên đảo này mà chỉ đi qua)

Tóm tắt hành trình Tuyến 2 : Bến thuyền – Hang Lấm – Hang Vạng – Hang Thánh Trượt – Đền Suối Tiên – Hang Đại – Hành Cung Vũ Lâm – quay về bến thuyền (thời gian khoảng 2,5 tiếng – 3 tiếng)

• Xem thêm bài viết: Tuyến số 2 Tràng An

Tuyến du lịch số 3 là tuyến mới nhất được đưa vào hoạt động vào cuối năm 2017, sở hữu hang động dài nhất và tất cả những khu sinh thái cùng loại khác trong Ninh Bình. Du khách sẽ ngỡ ngàng trước hệ thống nhũ đá của hang Mây kéo dài hơn 1000m mà người mẹ thiên nhiên đã gọt dũa qua hàng ngàn năm. Sau đó du khách tìm về với di tích lịch sử Đền Suối Tiên để khám phá về cội nguồn với vị Thánh Quý Minh Đại Vương.

Tóm tắt hành trình Tuyến 3 : Bến thuyền – Đền Trình – Hang Mây – Suối Tiên – Hang Địa Linh – Hang Đại – Hành Cung Vũ Lâm – phim trường Kong (làng thổ dân) – quay về bến thuyền (thời gian 3 tiếng – 3,5 tiếng)

• Xem thêm bài viết: Tuyến số 3 Tràng An
• Xem thêm: Lễ hội Tràng An – Nét tín ngưỡng độc đáo

Chèo thuyền Kayak tại Tràng An Ninh Bình

Là tuyến mới nhất được khai trương vào tháng 8/2020. Khi chèo Kayak ngắm cảnh Tràng An, du khách sẽ lựa chọn 1 trong 2 hành trình:

Tuyến Kayak số 1 xuất phát từ Bến thuyền, đi qua Đền Trình, tới Cổng Tam Quan, Cửa hang Tối, Cửa hang Quy Hậu, Núi Ngọc.

Ở tuyến này, du khách có check-in trên thuyền, gốc cây bàng dưới cổng Tam Quan.

Vào thắp hương trong đền Trình. Chiều dài của tuyến này cả đi và về vào khoảng 8km.

Tuyến Kayak số 2  xuất phát từ Bến thuyền đi đến Bến Đảo Kong tới Thủy Đỉnh, Hành Cung Vũ Lâm.

Ở tuyến này, du khách có check-in trên thuyền, Thủy đình và tìm hiểu lịch sử Hành Cung Vũ Lâm…

Chiều dài của tuyến này cả đi và về vào khoảng 5km.

• Xem thêm bài viết: Khám phá Tràng An Kayak

Mặc gì khi du lịch Tràng An Ninh Bình?

Với tuyến thuyền truyền thống:

• Nếu tham quan tuyến 1: Bạn nên ăn mặc kín đáo vì hành trình này sẽ dẫn bạn đến những nơi linh thiêng nhất của Tràng An như đền Trình, đền Trần… hoặc nếu muốn mặc váy sặc sỡ để chụp hình, hãy cân nhắc mang theo vải cuốn che để bảo đảm sự trang nghiêm đến những đình, đền, chùa
• Nếu tham quan tuyến số 2 và 3: Lời khuyên cho bạn là những bộ vãy sặc sỡ, cổ trang, cổ phục, áo Nhật Bình để nổi bật trước khung cảnh thiên nhiên hùng vĩ

Với tuyền thuyền Kayak:

• Trang phục thể thao, gọn gàng, thoáng, thấm mồ hôi là lựa chọn hàng đầu. Ngoài ra là các phụ kiện bảo vệ các thiết bị điện tử, đồ trang sức…

Nên lựa chọn đi tuyến nào Tràng An Ninh Bình?

Theo kinh nghiệm du lịch Tràng An Ninh Bình , tuyến 3 là hành trình được nhiều du khách lựa chọn nhất. Ngoài ra, khi đi tuyến 3 Tràng An, chiều về quý khách cũng đi qua một số điểm của tuyến 2.

Nếu có xu hướng lựa chọn 1 chuyến du lịch tâm linh thì tuyến số 1 Tràng An là phù hợp hơn cả.

Nếu sử dụng dịch vụ chèo Kayak, thì lựa chọn tuyến số 2 sẽ phù hợp với đại đa số sức khỏe của du khách và có nhiều điểm check in hơn.

Đây chỉ là gợi ý, còn nếu bạn đủ sức khỏe có thể khám phá cả 2 tuyến chèo Kayak của Tràng An.

Đặc sản Tràng An Ninh Bình

Thịt dê núi ninh bình.

Thịt dê núi Ninh Bình có đặc trưng săn chắc, ít mỡ và có vị thơm. Người ta cho rằng sở dĩ như vậy vì ở Ninh Bình có nhiều núi đá, dê chạy nhảy nhiều nên cơ thịt săn chắc, ít mỡ hơn hẳn dê chăn thả trên đồi.

Mặt khác, với địa hình đặc trưng của núi đá vôi ngập nước có rất nhiều các loại rau, cỏ, thảo dược thích hợp là thức ăn cho dê như giò gai, giò vàng, bách bộ, ô zô, lim xẹt, móng bò, dướng, bầu trích, mộc sông, mõm chuột, xoan dù, cà gai leo, tạo nên chất lượng và vị ngon của thịt dê. 

• Xem thêm: 8 đặc sản Ninh Bình nức tiếng cả nước

Món cơm cháy không phải là món ăn cổ truyền của người Tràng An Ninh Bình, nhưng do một người con cố đô sáng tạo ra và được lưu giữ, phát triển cho tới nay. Một món ăn mộc mạc, thể hiện sự khéo léo của bàn tay con người, đã được lưu truyền cả trăm năm nay, trở thành đặc sản của vùng đất cố đô,một trong những món ngon nổi tiếng của Ninh Bình.

Ốc núi Ninh Bình

Loài ốc núi Tràng An Ninh Bình này cực hiếm vì chúng chỉ sống trong các hang đá, phải đến mùa mưa từ tháng 4 đến tháng 8 ốc núi mới bò ra tìm kiếm thức ăn và sinh sản. Ốc núi có ở hầu hết các nơi tỉnh Ninh Bình nhưng tập trung nhiều là ở các dãy núi đá vôi Tam Điệp, Yên Mô và Nho Quan, Hoa Lư.

Ốc núi rất khó phát hiện, người ta thường phải dậy từ sáng sớm khi ốc bò ra khỏi hang kiếm ăn mới tìm mà bắt được. Thịt ốc núi dai, giòn, ngọt, thơm mùi thuốc bắc. Ốc núi có thể chế biến thành nhiều món như nướng, xào me, hấp gừng, luộc xả hết, trộn gỏi hành tây…đều rất hấp dẫn.

Cá rô Tổng Trường là loại cá rô sống ở môi trường hang động ngập nước vùng đất Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình. Gọi là cá rô Tổng Trường vì loài cá này được phát hiện thấy ở vùng hang động ngập nước thuộc Tổng Trường Yên, nay là quần thể di sản thể giới Tràng An ở huyện Hoa Lư.

Cá rô Tổng Trường có thịt rắn, vàng, thơm và có thể chế biến thành nhiều món ăn như: rang, rán, nấu canh chua cá rô hoặc kho khô.

Một số tour gợi ý khi du lịch Tràng An Ninh Bình

Trên hành trình du lịch Tràng An Ninh Bình trong 1 ngày, bạn cũng có thể lựa chọn thêm 1 đến 2 địa điểm:

Một số gợi ý có thể đi trong ngày:

Tràng An Ninh Bình – Hoa Lư – Tuyệt Tình Cốc (Hoa Lư và Tuyệt Tình Cốc rất gần nhau)

Tràng An Ninh Bình – hang Múa

Tràng An Ninh Bình – chùa Bái Đính

Các địa điểm như Tam Cốc – Bích Động , đầm Vân Long , Thung Nham có các hoạt động đi thuyền ngắm cảnh như Tràng An nên sẽ phù hợp hơn với các hành trình du lịch 2 ngày ở Ninh Bình. Riêng rừng Cúc Phương cách Tràng An tới 50km cũng chỉ phù hợp với chuyến du lịch 2 ngày.

Ngoài ra bạn cũng có thể tham khảo 6 địa điểm du lịch khác của Ninh Bình tại đây: https://disantrangan.vn/nha-tho-da-phat-diem-ninh-binh

Du khách có thể tham khảo thêm các thông tin tại:

Website chính thức của Di sản Tràng An:  https://disantrangan.vn/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/disantrangan.vn

Chia sẻ những bức hình đã chụp tại:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/checkintrangan

Thông tin thuê tàu thăm vịnh Hạ Long trong ngày giá rẻ nhất

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Best Halong Bay Cruise Recommendations for 2023

Trang An: A Breathtaking Landscape Complex (Everything You Need To Know When You Visit)

Categories Destinations , Asia , Ninh Binh , Vietnam

People call Ninh Binh the Halong bay on land. I think this is largely due to the krast landscape that is visible almost everywhere in Ninh Binh. One of the main attractions in Ninh Binh is the boat rides. These boat rides take you through the submerged valleys.

The top three places where you experience these boat rides are Trang An, Tam Coc and Van Long Nature reserve . Of these three, we have visited Trang An and Van Long Nature reserve.

We skipped out on Tam Coc because of the large number of tourists that flock there. It is more expensive and it has relatively fewer caves to explore.

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⏰ Looking for the best way to explore Trang An? I would recommend taking a tour of the Trang An Grottos and Bai Dinh temple . ⏰

Table of Contents

The trang an grottoes.

Did you know that the Trang An Grottoes actually cover 31 valleys and 50 cross water caves? That’s huge! This doesn’t account for the caves, the karst structures and the grottos.

In fact, the Trang An landscape complex covers 2,168 hectares! The Trang An tours take a while to do but they barely cover the whole area and yup since it is so large it is difficult to visit everything at once.

Vietnam has a Red Data Book that is a list of rare (and endangered species) of flora and fauna. These are obviously native to Vietnam.

Trang An houses 600 different flora and 200 different fauna which makes it one of the most biodiverse locations in the country.

Out of these species, you will find a large number of them are in the Red Book. This is one of the reasons why preserving this location is essential.

Be mindful that when you visit Trang An as a tourist, you don’t litter.

Where Is Trang An Located And How Do You Get There?

Okay so if you haven’t realized it yet, Trang An is located in Ninh Binh.

It is kind off on the outskirts of the city so getting there can be a challenge but despite everything I would highly recommend putting in the effort to get there because it is gorgeous!

There is no other way to put it. Trang An is probably most beautiful spot you are going to visit in the Ninh Binh area.

The next question is how do you get to Trang An?

We rented a motorbike and rode it all over. That according to me was the simplest way to do it. Be wary though. Make sure you know how to ride the motorbike because the traffic in Vietnam is crazy and this is not a place where you want to practice or try to learn!

The best ways to get to Trang An are:

• Take a taxi – This is an expensive option but it gives you a great deal of comfort especially if you are battling the heat.
• Rent and ride a motorbike – The most flexible solution but you need to have a license and have a reasonable amount of confidence to ride one in Vietnam.
• Join a tour – Everything is taken care of for you. Again, an expensive option.
• Rent cycles – Definitely something to look into if you don’t mind the exercise and you live close by. If you want to cover other sights in the area then this may not be the best option.

The Best Time To Visit Trang An

The best time to visit Trang An is either early in the morning or late afternoon. These are the least crowded times because most of the tour groups have left to other tourist attractions or have left back to Hanoi.

We reached Trang An around 3 o’clock in the evening but in hindsight I wish we could have reached a little earlier because our boat ride was rushed in the end.

I particularly liked that part of the day because we got to see Trang An both in bright day light as well as at dusk and in the dark.

The Ticket To Ride The Boats In Trang An

The Trang An ticket is relatively cheaper than the one in Tam Coc and the ride is longer with more caves. That said the cost of the ticket is 150,000 VND per person which isn’t by any definition cheap.

Cheaper maybe but not cheap! Bear in mind that once you exit the boat you will also be expected to tip. Toilets in the campus are charged too. Let’s leave the economics behind and just concentrate on the experience from now on.

Catching A Boat

A glimpse of the boats that are getting ready to ply.

Unlike in Tam Coc and Van Long nature reserve, the boats in Trang An take four people at a time. Five if you count the person who rows the boat.

So in order to get one you need to wait till the boat fills up. Normally that may not be an issue but when you go early morning or late evening there are fewer tourists. This may make the wait time a little longer than expected.

My advice would be to ask around and form a group of four. It is quite easy when you stay in a hostel or even in a hotel. The plus side is that you will make friends!

We met a lady and her son at the dock and we had a jolly good time through the entire ride. Taking turns while we shifted through our seats helped everyone get the best seats at the best time.

Entering and exiting the caves.

When we set out it was bright. The waters were clean and clear. All too often you could see the plants growing up from the base.

I felt as if I was moving atop of a submerged valley. It looked like a whole different world underneath. Fascinating though it was I was glad to keep safe, warm and dry atop the boat.

One of the main attractions of visiting Trang An in the wee hours of the morning or the late hours of the evening is the number of birds that you get to see. So keep your eyes peeled and don’t let the scenery lull you to sleep.

Temples by the water way

The first stop that you will arrive at is a temple. What struck me was that this particular temple is accessible only via boat.

While most people talk about the caves and the waterways, I found it odd that most people neglect to tell you about these temples and buildings that you find through your entire three hour ride. The first temple that we visited was small and situated just next to the water.

The intricate details of the temple alter.

The temple had its own set of beautiful architecture. Intricate wood designs which were accentuated by the gold paint. While the gold does give the inner sanctum a royal feeling.

Yet despite the gold, the temple is a humble abode where people worship. Incense burns and its fragrance greets you as soon as you walk in through the door.

Since it is isolated the number of tourist you see are few and far apart. Just remember to carry a sarong so that you are respectful when and if you want to enter.

Trang An’s strange earthen pots.

Once we were done looking at the temple our ride continued. We headed through a cave which connected one side of the waterway to the next.

While the cave in itself was extremely fascinating, we saw a strange sight just before we exited. A series of earthen pots stood at one end of the cave. The area was raised above the water.

An orange cloth seemed to cover the mouth of the pot along with a mud lid.

Our ability to understand Vietnamese was not even rudimentary and hence I have no idea what was stored in the pots. Needless to say, I am still curious!

Another temple which I loved.

The other spot that we exited the boat at was a little different. We stopped off at the dock and wandered through a series of pavements. It was quiet and it was deserted.

We weren’t even sure if we were headed the right way. A number of steps took us upwards and then we suddenly had a downward descent.

A run in with an angry dog, an inquisitive squirrel and another peaceful waterway is what we found. Needless to say it was fun exploring the terrain.

The temple in Trang An which we missed.

The tunnels and caves in Trang An appear to continue forever. Day was slowly fading away and night was beginning to set in.

We passed another temple on our way but our guide told us that it was too dark to continue meandering around in temples.

How did she know that? An announcement was continuously made on the speakers that are strategically placed across the waterways. I was a little disappointed but the next part of the adventure occupied my thoughts quickly.

Can you tell the difference between air and water?

As the light faded there were some interesting things that began to happen. I’m not sure whether it was because of the diminishing light, whether it was that particular tunnel or whether I overlooked it earlier.

The water began to reflect everything in such a way that we began to feel as if we were actual floating through the tunnel like a spaceship from Star Wars!

No kidding I managed to snap two decent photographs to show you exactly what I mean. Try and find the line where the water and air meet.

Another Trang An illusion

At one point we found ourselves meandering through the tunnels in pitch darkness. I think the lights were also switched off. This turned out to be pretty unnerving because there are places where the rock hangs so low that you have to literally fold your body in half.

Our guide knew her way around. I think she had night vision or something. Being the last boat moving along there weren’t any people around. It was tranquil at best and unnerving at worst. Luckily we all had our life jackets on! (I can’t swim!)

The moon poked its head out of the sky as we finally docked back at the start. It was time to leave Trang An behind. Trang An was a memorable journey through the Halong Bay on land. It would soon be time to leave Ninh Binh behind but the memories we created were sure to linger.

Trang An Tours To Consider

From hanoi: bai dinh, trang an, and mua cave full-day tour.

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 (124 Reviews) Price: $59 per person Duration: 1 day 📍 Meeting Point: Your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem District Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Run by Asian Discovery Travel, this is one of the most popular tours that leaves from Hanoi. I think it is very popular because it gives you a very authentic experience.

Not only do you get a boat ride through Trang An caves, you also get a chance to cycle through the countryside.

The tour also includes Bai Dinh Temple and the Mua Caves.

The most important thing about this tour is to keep your plans flexible because the excursion takes the whole day.

Trang An grottoes – Bai Dinh Pagoda Day Tours

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 (55 Reviews) Price: $58 per person Duration: 8 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Hotel pickup offered Details: Read more on Viator!

This is another great tour that leaves from Hanoi. This primarily focuses on the Trang An grottoes and the Bai Dinh Pagoda that is near by.

The tour pick you up from your hotel in the Old quarter and it transfers you to Ninh Binh. It covers the entrance fees to both sights and lunch at one of the local restaurants. It isn’t as extensive as the previous tour but it could work if you are short on time.

Other Posts That You Should Consider

• Bai Dinh Temple: An amazing Buddhist temple
• Van Long Nature Reserve
• Where to go in Vietnam
• The best food in Vietnam
• The best luxury Halong Bay cruises

Sunday 21st of January 2018

Hi i was wondering where the boats are? Are they just down by the water and you basically just hop on one? No tour or anything?

The boats are just by the water but you have to pay a fee to ride and take the tour. :)

Renee Hahnel

Wednesday 14th of June 2017

What a great post! I would love to travel back to Vietnam one day. The cave looked like a really cool & unique experience. Pinned :)

Saturday 17th of June 2017

Vietnam is definitely worth a second visit. The food, the culture and the people make you want to return. Every part of Vietnam is different and unique.

Sunday 11th of June 2017

Wow that looks magical - so good to be there without the crowds of people. I love that you got to see the temples and witness the stillness and darkness in the caves.

The temples and the stillness was the ultimate experience. Trang An was so much more than I expected.

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Đến với  Tour Bái Đính – Tràng An 1 ngày của The Sinh  Tourist , du khách sẽ được đến thăm quan những danh thắng đẹp nổi tiếng ở Ninh Bình như Khu núi chùa Bái Đính nổi tiếng bởi 5 cái nhất: chuông to nhất, nhiều tượng La Hán nhất, chùa lớn nhất, tượng Phật to nhất, khuôn viên rộng nhất. Tràng An  là một khu du lịch sinh thái nằm trong Quần thể di sản thế giới Tràng An thuộc tỉnh Ninh Bình. Nơi đây đã được Chính phủ Việt Nam xếp hạng di tích quốc gia đặc biệt quan trọng và UNESCO công nhận là di sản thế giới kép từ năm 2014. Tràng An vốn được gọi là thành Nam của kinh đô Hoa Lư xưa, nay là cố đô Hoa Lư.

  Chương trình chi tiết:

07h00-07h30 : Xe và Hướng dẫn viên của The Sinh Tourist sẽ đón quý khách tại điểm hẹn khởi hành đi   Tour Bái Đính – Tràng An  1 ngày cách Hà Nội khoảng 100km. Xe sẽ dừng nghỉ ngơi 15 phút tại Phủ Lý để khách hàng tự túc ăn sáng.

10h30:  Đến chùa Bái Đính, từ bãi đỗ xe quý khách lên xe điện di chuyển đến cổng chùa Bái Đính ( khoảng 3km ). Quý khách thăm  chùa Bái Đính  nổi tiếng với nhiều kỷ lục: Khuôn viên cả khu chùa Bái Đính có diện tích 107ha, trong đó, Điện thờ Tam Thế và Pháp Chủ rộng hàng ngàn mét vuông; tại ngôi chùa này có tượng   Phật Tổ Như Lai bằng đồng lớn nhất Đông Nam Á nặng 100 tấn và ba pho tượng Tam Thế, mỗi pho nặng 50 tấn. các hang động ở đây cũng có nhiều nhũ đá đẹp không kém những hang động ở vịnh Hạ Long. Chùa Bái Đính đã trở thành điểm hành hương và  du lịch Miền Bắc  thu hút đông đảo du khách trong và ngoài nước.

12h00 : Quý khách về nhà hàng nghỉ ngơi ăn trưa, cùng thưởng thức các đặc sản nơi đây (Cơm cháy, dê núi…)

13h30:  Sau bữa trưa, xe và hướng dẫn đưa du khách ra bến đò Tràng An lên thuyền đi dọc theo suối giữa cánh đồng lúa thăm  khu du lịch Tràng An  Mới  với những dải đá vôi, thung lũng và những sông ngòi đan xen tạo nên một không gian huyền ảo, kỳ bí.

Với tuyến này quý khách có cơ hội tham quan 4 hang động  tự nhiên trong số những hang động đẹp nhất trong khu du lịch Tràng An là Hang Lấm, Hang Vạng, Hang Thánh Trượt và hang cuối cùng là Hang Đại, quý khách còn dừng chân ghé thăm  3 điểm tâm linh  là đền Cao Sơn, đền Suối Tiên và Hành Cung Vũ Lâm. Tuyến này sẽ rất phù hợp với những bạn trẻ, những người thích chụp ảnh Check in, quý khách có thể có những trải nghiệm đầy đủ về hành trình ngồi đò thăm hang cũng như có thể lưu lại những cảm xúc, những bức hình đẹp trong hành trình về thăm  Tràng An – Di sản văn hòa và thiên nhiên thế giới!

17h00 : Quý khách lên xe trở về Hà Nội.

19h30: Quý khách về đến Hà Nội. Kết thúc chương trình Tour Tràng An – Bái Đính 1 ngày . Hẹn gặp lại quý khách!

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If independently is it a good idea to hire a bike from somewhere near NB station and cycle to all the places?( Tam coc , mue caves viewpoint etc). Would have to leave my main luggage somewhere or take a bit more time and stay overnight? Do they give you a map at the bike place to help you navigate?

I am travelling on my own and like the idea of all the cycling but am I making this too stressful for myself?

Any thoughts /ideas would be appreciated

3 replies to this topic

Train to NB

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g293924-d8564194-r889202775-Vietnam_Railways-Hanoi.html

Many accommodations in Tam Coc provide FREE bicycles. 🚲

https://localvietnam.com/blog/cycling-in-ninh-binh/

I did a tour on the back of a motorcycle 🏍️

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g303945-d12131462-r889424916-Ninh_Binh_Pu_Luong_Tours-Ninh_Binh_Ninh_Binh_Province.html

This is where I stayed

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g12866457-d16470895-r888506580-Tam_Coc_Wonderland_Bungalow-Ninh_Hai_Hoa_Lu_District_Ninh_Binh_Province.html

How many days are you staying in Hanoi?

Just figure out your priorities and decide from there.

Either 3 or 4nights in Hanoi with a day trip to ha long bay(I'm just on the planning stage at the moment). I suppose I could go from halong to NB as have read there is some kind of shuttle service?

Assume it's a lot nicer to stay in tam coc rather that the city area near NB station

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Ninh Binh Hotels and Places to Stay

• +84.934.282.001
• [email protected]
• Ninh Binh, Vietnam
• 7:30 - 16:40

Bird Watching day tour from Ninh Binh city

66  $ – 145  $

This day trip to enjoy Cuc Phuong bird watching full day tour , departure early morning from Ninh Binh, pick up & drop off at your hotel in Ninh Binh , the tour included as package and wide range of price for group from 1 PAX to 18 PAX.

Special offer

Description, additional information.

Cuc Phuong National Park is preserve wildlife as Monkeys, Langurs and natural heritage of birds. This trip is  organize for hunting bird pictures who want to discover Cuc Phuong National bird habitations with is more than 308 species of rare birds. ( see bird listing )

Cuc Phuong National Park birds watch in a day tour can bring you  Silver Pheasant ,  Red-collared Woodpecker ,  Brown Horn bill ,  Bar-bellied Pitta ..

1. Itinerary

Morning:  6:00am (may be little early or later base seasons) Pick up at your hotel in Ninh Binh. Then transfer to  Cuc Phuong National Park  for 50 km with 1hours car ride, to visit  Cuc Phuong National Park  which was Vietnam's first national park and is the country's largest nature reserve. Upon arrival at Cuc Phuong National Park visit the  Endangered Primate Rescue Center  and  Turtle center  -short walk around to see free morning birds, enjoy 1 hour.

After that drive to the central of park, en-route stop at bird station 1 for looking. And then keep drive to  Cave of Prehistoric man  - the site of one of the earliest discoveries of human habitation in Vietnam for looking some  Stone babbler ,  Limestone Wren Babbler . After that going to another station to see some crowded common family of  Kestrels ,  Kingfishers ,  Blue-rumped ,  Magpie robin ,  Nightingale ,  Racket-tailed treepie ,  Red-collared Woodpecker ,  White eye ,  Eared Pittas ,  White-winged Magpie ,  Starling ... ( read more at Cuc Phuong bird watching ) After cached bird stations on the way. Keep drive to the central for another bird view point and bird route for looking  other species as Pied Falconet ,  Eared Blue-rumped ,  Bar-bellied Pittas ... After that have lunch at local restaurant to enjoy Vietnamese jungle foods.

Afternoon:  Check available bird routes or enjoy good good bird route.

Late afternoon:  17:30 transfer back Ninh Binh city for drop you off your hotel. Finish private full day trip to Cuc Phuong National Park  for watching birds.

2. PRICE PER GROUP SIZE

 3. t our includes:.

• Private AC transport round trip
• Escorted tour guide & birding expert tour guide
• Entrance fee
• Meals as mentioned(L= Lunch)

4. Tour does not include:

• Travel insurance
• Tips, Personal expenses

Related Tour

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Ninh Bình thuộc top 10 kỳ quan thế giới không đông đúc

Tờ Daily Mail gọi Ninh Bình là bí mật của Việt Nam, đứng thứ 4 trong 10 kỳ quan thế giới ít người ghé thăm dựa trên vẻ đẹp và ấn tượng với du khách.

"Với những đỉnh núi đá vôi cao chót vót, Ninh Bình có khung cảnh ấn tượng không kém vịnh Hạ Long, nhưng nhưng không bị đông đúc bởi khách du lịch. Cách Hà Nội hai giờ di chuyển về phía nam, tỉnh này có nhiều sông, núi và đền chùa", báo cáo của Daily Mail ngày 8/4 nêu rõ.

Tờ báo của Anh tư vấn du khách nên đến thăm Ninh Bình vào khoảng tháng 10, 11 hàng năm - khi nước sông dâng cao và những cánh đồng chín đang vào mùa thu hoạch. Khách du lịch có thể đặt tour Landscapes Of Vietnam 12 đêm, trong đó có hai đêm ở Ninh Bình.

Ninh Bình có diện tích 1.400 km2, gồm các địa danh nổi tiếng như khu văn hóa - lịch sử Cố đô Hoa Lư, thắng cảnh Tràng An - Tam Cốc - Bích Động và rừng đặc dụng Hoa Lư... Trong đó, Tràng An được công nhận là Di sản Văn hóa và Thiên nhiên thế giới. Đây là di sản thế giới kép đầu tiên và duy nhất ở Đông Nam Á.

Với phong cảnh được nhận xét "đẹp như tranh vẽ", cùng nhiều địa điểm du lịch tâm linh nổi tiếng, lễ hội độc đáo, đặc sản hấp dẫn, Tràng An đang trở thành một trong những địa điểm du lịch đáng tham quan nhất của Việt Nam.

Đây không phải là lần đầu tiên Ninh Bình nhận được lời khen từ truyền thông quốc tế. Tỉnh đạt luôn thứ hạng cao trong bảng xếp hạng của nhiều trang du lịch quốc tế uy tín. Trước đó, trang Trips to Discover (Mỹ) liệt Ninh Bình vào danh sách 14 điểm đến hấp dẫn nhất châu Á năm 2020, tạp chí du lịch Travel + Leisure (Mỹ) xếp Ninh Bình là một trong 12 địa điểm quay phim thú vị nhất châu Á năm 2022. Ninh Bình cũng là đại diện duy nhất của Việt Nam lọt vào danh sách 10 địa điểm thân thiện nhất thế giới do Traveler Review Awards 2023 bình chọn. Tạp chí Forbes đánh giá Ninh Bình là một trong 23 điểm du lịch tốt nhất năm 2023.

Ngoài Ninh Bình, top 10 điểm du lịch ít người ghé thăm còn có những điểm đến nổi tiếng khác như Tam giác san hô; tàn tích của người Maya ở Caracol; vùng đất ngập nước nhiệt đới Pantanal, Brazil; công viên Thung lũng Lửa ở Las Vegas, Nevada, Mỹ; sa mạc Namib, Namibia; thành phố cảng Napier, New Zealand; Tây Tạng cổ đại, Trung Quốc; hồ nước sôi ở Công viên Quốc gia Morne Trois Pitons, hòn đảo miền núi Caribbean của Dominica và bờ biển Kimberley, Australia.

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Ninh Bình góp mặt trong danh sách 'kỳ quan tráng lệ mà không đông đúc'

Mới đây, trang tin tức daily mail của anh đã xếp ninh bình vào danh sách những 'kỳ quan mới' tráng lệ mà không xô bồ, đông đúc..

Theo đó, với những đỉnh núi đá vôi cao chót vót, Ninh Bình được Daily Mail nhận định là một thắng cảnh ấn tượng không kém gì Vịnh Hạ Long đã quá nổi tiếng nhưng lại không hề xô bồ, đông đúc.

Nằm cách Hà Nội chỉ hai giờ về phía Nam và giáp với các con sông, trang trại và đền thờ, cách tốt nhất để khám phá một trong những cố đô của Việt Nam là bằng xe đạp hoặc đi thuyền xuôi dòng tản mạn.

Daily Mail cũng gợi ý du khách nên ghé thăm nơi đây vào tháng 10 và tháng 11 khi mực nước dâng cao và những cánh đồng lúa chín vàng sẵn sàng cho việc thu hoạch. 

Hiện có nhiều đơn vị cung cấp sẵn các tour du lịch tham quan xuyên Việt kéo dài 12 đêm, trong đó dành hai đêm ở Ninh Bình, bao gồm các chuyến bay đến Hà Nội và trở về từ Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, đưa đón, phục vụ gần như toàn bộ các bữa ăn và một số chuyến du ngoạn.

Những điểm đến nổi tiếng khác lọt vào danh sách của Daily Mail còn có 'kho báu san hô' của Indonesia Raja Ampat, Tàn tích Maya - Caracol, Vùng đất ngập nước nhiệt đới lớn nhất hành tinh - Pantanal, Công viên Mỹ Hot Rocks, Tây Tạng cổ đại, Sa mạc Namib lâu đời nhất thế giới, quần thể Napier của New Zealand, hồ nước nóng của Dominica, thủ phủ tỉnh Northern Cape của Nam Phi - Kimberley.

Theo Daily Mail

• Tạp chí danh tiếng chọn Ninh Bình là nơi đáng đến nhất thế giới
• Kỹ thuật chèo thuyền bằng chân của dân Ninh Bình khiến khách Tây 'phục lăn'
• Ninh Bình đại diện châu Á vào danh sách điểm đến thân thiện nhất thế giới

du lịch Ninh Bình

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