Ninh Binh Tours unfolds the magical charm of Vietnam, where every moment would be an adventure with culture and breathtaking scenery. Our unbeatable Unmissable Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An invites you to discover “Ha Long Bay on the land," paddling on serene rivers bracketed by majestic cliffs of limestone to hidden caves, rich in history Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, and Bai Dinh Pagoda. Whether you’re an adventurer, a culture lover, a keen photographer, or simply a nature enthusiast, this tour offers an unforgettable journey through the wonders of Ninh Binh. Come and feel the magic for yourself!
Highlights of the Tour: What Makes It Special
Let’s go into the details that make the Unmissable Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An truly unforgettable. It is anything but an ordinary tour as this brings one right into the heart of some of the most spectacular natural wonders, cultural gems, and historical treasures of Vietnam. Allow me to take you through what has made it so special!
Tam Coc: The “Halong Bay on Land" Experience
Tam Coc
Talking of Tam Coc, famously called the “Halong Bay on Land," imagine going gently along the River Ngo Dong while grand towering limestone karsts majestically shoot out of rice paddies. Lush greens line both riverbanks, making this one of the most peaceful rides you will ever take in your life.
But that is not all: once you enter three magical caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. Nature has created these three caves in thousands of years, each differently. The first and biggest one, Hang Ca opens with its wide entrance; impressive stalactites and stalagmites there give the impression of a work of art in the gallery that was cut by nature itself. Passing through Hang Hai, the second cave, the temperature cools, and the atmosphere becomes quieter, except for the soft sounds of nature echoing off the walls. Lastly, there is Hang Ba, the smallest of the three but perhaps the most mysterious, where light dances across the water and rocks, creating a mystical ambiance. The entire boat journey at Tam Coc is like a dream where every turn brings a new wonder!
Trang An: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Trang An
Then, there is Trang An, a place that displays unmatched beauty and is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tran An Landscape Complex is a kind of awe-inspiring network of rivers, caves, and limestone mountains surrounded by verdant forests. It’s true heaven for people who adore nature and are looking for peace.
You have two exciting Route 1 tours at Trang An: one is the cave journey, where you can go through the caves, like the Dark Cave, Light Cave, and Wine-Brewing Cave. Marvel at incredible rock formations and stalactites hanging from the ceilings like chandeliers. Discover a hidden world in acts that you may hear so much about!
If you are into movies or if you like a really good story, then Route 2 is something for you. It will take you to the filming area of “Kong: Skull Island" and will show you a reconstructed tribal village where you could shoot photos right in places where movie magic happened. Therefore, this route makes Trang An very special because of its natural beauty combined with cinematic history, an exciting peak of the Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An!
Cultural and Historical Insights
But that is not all; this tour is going to be packed with cultural and historic experiences. Your day will start with a visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. You will visit the temples of Dinh and Le Kings, which are located among amazing landscapes of mountains. Passing through these ancient places, you will feel the burden of history and the power of early dynasties of Vietnam.
There is also the grandeur of the Bai Dinh Pagoda, which is the biggest Buddhist complex in Vietnam. This is no ordinary pagoda but a record holder, housing the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam, towering an amazing 10 meters high and weighing 100 tons! From the huge courtyards through thousands of statues to halls combined with golden Buddhas, you will be astonished by the original architecture coming from a mixture of traditional Vietnamese with elements of modern construction.
Detailed Itinerary of the Travel Ninh Binh: Unmissable Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An
Day 1: Hanoi – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc in Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An
07:30 – 08:30:
Our adventure begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or in front of the Hanoi Opera House. Settle in and enjoy the scenic 2-hour drive to Ninh Binh, passing by lush rice paddies, quaint villages, and striking karst landscapes. We’ll take a quick 20-minute break along the way to stretch and refresh.
10:30:
Arrive in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the first trip back in time. This site was an important political and cultural center of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Today, vestiges of the past remain here with two temples remarkably well preserved-one dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and the other to Emperor Le Dai Hanh. Stroll through this ancient gateway, see the intricate stone carvings, and in the words of our guide, hear the stories of intrigue among royalty and power struggles that eventually gave birth to early Vietnam.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
12:00 – 13:00:
Time to give back some energy to your body with a delicious buffet lunch at a local restaurant. You will have a great opportunity to taste the following Ninh Binh specialties: com chay-crispy rice, de nui-mountain goat, and all kinds of other local delicacies in a cozy, warm atmosphere, just ideal to take a rest before continuing our adventure.
13:30 – 15:30:
The highlight of the day is yet to come: the Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc. Take a ride in a traditional sampan boat that will take you down meandering through the serenity of the Ngo Dong River, skillfully rowed by native villagers. You will remind yourself of a picture postcard while gliding through soaring limestone karsts, vibrant green rice paddies, and silent fishing villages. Watch out for the local wildlife and enjoy the solitude of nature.
Through the three mystic caves, namely Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. Hang Ca is the most dramatic and largest of them all, with stalactites hanging in towering fashion and echoing chambers. Hang Hai provides a cool, quiet respite from the sun; contrarily, Hang Ba gives an experience of slithering through narrow passages and rocks. Each has to say a word and is shaped by those natural forces that have played on its walls for thousands of years.
15:30 – 16:30:
You can opt for the easy-going cycling tour in the Truong Yen Valley following the boat tour. Quietly wind along the secluded, curving roads past lush, green, rice fields and pretty villages. Enjoy the fresh air, pull over for photos, or just absorb the serenity of rural Vietnam. This is the way to see the countryside up close and personal.
16:30 – 18:00:
You have time to check into your hotel in Ninh Binh and fresco yourself up, relaxing after a day full of exploration.
18:00 – Evening:
Free evening on your own: dinner at a local restaurant, some fun karaoke singing, or just a walk around town to soak up the local atmosphere. A good night’s rest for another fun-filled day.
Day 2: Bai Dinh – Trang An – Hanoi in Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An
07:00 – 08:00:
Have a well-cooked breakfast in the hotel. Mingle with the morning quiet and get yourself ready for yet another day full of discovery. Take some time to look at the view walk around the hotel grounds, or find your favorite local coffee.
08:30 – 09:30:
Board the vehicle for a short transfer to the biggest Buddhist complex in Vietnam: Bai Dinh Pagoda. Arriving, we will take an electric car ride up to the main entrance. By doing this, we will save energy and time and also get more opportunities to glimpse the gigantic and beautiful scene here.
09:30 – 11:00:
Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, a place of both spiritual and architectural grandeur. In gothic landscapes of ghostly beauty, look upwards with surprise at the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam, reaching 10 meters tall and weighing 100 tons. Wander through the peaceful courtyards lined by thousands of Arhat statues to uncover the largest bell in Southeast Asia. Our guide will speak of wonderful stories behind the history and the significance of these remarkable structures that you would have never known about, further advancing your knowledge of the many Buddhist traditions in Vietnam.
Bai Dinh Pagoda
12:00 – 13:00:
Time for another delicious buffet lunch at one of the local restaurants. Enjoy more of Ninh Binh’s gastronomic delights like nem Yên Mạc or fermented pork roll and bánh cuốn, steamed rice rolls. This is the perfect opportunity to taste the varied and sumptuous flavors that identify it.
13:30 – 15:30:
In the afternoon, another adventure awaits: the Rowing Boat Tour at Trang An the UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are two scenic routes for the tour:
- Route 1: Cave Exploration Adventure — Go through an exciting tour of a marvelous series of caves within the Dark Cave, Light Cave, and the very specially flavored Wine-Brewing Cave. On a gliding tour through these nature wonders, you will be just lured by the beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites and the serenity in the atmosphere of the caves.
- Route 2: Visit the “Kong: Skull Island" Film Set — For some Hollywood magic, take a detour through this route to see the reproduced tribal village from the movie “Kong: Skull Island." Take a walk through a set, of incomparable photos, and just be you out there in that amazing natural setting.
Whichever route you take, the Rowing Boat Tour at Trang An will promise you a sweet mix of nature and adventure: enjoy the very serene beauty of the waterway, surrounded by limestone cliffs, lush vegetation, and historical relics.
15:30 – 16:00:
Return to the pier for our drive back to Hanoi. Bid farewell to the beautiful landscapes of Ninh Binh, but make sure you will not forget your memories on board forever.
16:00 – 19:00:
We take the return drive to Hanoi at leisure to reflect on the past two days. En-route stop for a brief rest, stretching your legs, and refreshments.
19:00 – 19:30:
Arrive back in Hanoi, our guide said goodbye to the Thilegendarynd Ninh Binh Tour. Hope that you enjoyed the fantastic journeys with us and are looking forward to our welcome again for more exciting experiences anytime soon!
Essential Tips for Participating in the Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An
Thinking of making the most of our brilliant Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An? Well, that’s a brilliant decision! Here are some key tips, from what to carry down to expectations in etiquette, that will help you make full use of this brilliant opportunity.
What to Bring for Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An
Dress comfortably for your Ninh Binh Tours! Light, breathable fabrics during the warmer months are recommended. You would want to bring a light jacket for the period from November to March. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals, especially for temple visits, will be needed. And don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle to keep you hydrated. Of course, you would not want to forget your camera-you’ll want to capture every amazing moment.
Health and Safety Tips of Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An
Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An safety is our highest priority. A medium level of physical fitness would be ideal, as you will walk and sometimes bike during the whole tour. At all times, don’t forget to drink plenty of water, especially on very hot days. During the boat tour, keep your hands inside at all times, sit down, and follow the instructions of our highly experienced boat operators.
Cultural Etiquette
With an amazing Ninh Binh Tour, respect towards the locals will make the journey pleasant; dress modestly, with your shoulders and knees covered, especially if you plan on going to religious places. Remove your shoes before entering the temples or pagodas, including not touching statues or things considered to be sacred. A friendly smile and a slight bow go a long way in Vietnam; also, remember that you should use the whole hand to indicate something rather than your pointed finger.
Booking Information
The best time to join our Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An is from October to April of the year, during the dry season when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities. Our tours operate all year round, but we highly recommend early bookings during peak season, starting from November to March of the following year. You can easily book either through our website, by telephone, or via email. Impress Travel operates a flexible cancellation policy so that in case of any reason, you can always get a refund anytime when booking your travel.
Impress Travel: A Trustworthy Provider for the Ninh Binh Tour
When planning your Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An, let Impress Travel be the company to show you this kind of service coming along with much experience and always focusing on offering an unforgettable journey. Our team is made up of senior, travel experts who have spent years perfecting and refining the art of crafting immersive experiences across Vietnam. With deep local knowledge and a commitment to quality, we make sure every detail in your Ninh Binh Tour is thoughtfully planned so that you can just relax and enjoy the adventure.
Impress Travel is very serious about customer attention: serving and taking care of customers right from their very first inquiry until the end of their tour. Our commitment to safety is second to none, and lots of attention has been paid to maintaining very high standards in all aspects of the tour to make the tour safe and enjoyable for all our guests. Besides, we can satisfy every special interest, presenting regular and peaceful tours or even more adventurous ones, according to your needs. Your satisfaction with the tour is our priority, and therefore we are flexible to make sure things will be exactly as you wanted them to be.
But don’t just take our word for it! The fantastic reviews about TripAdvisor and other sites say it all: knowledge of guides, seamless organization, and friendly service. Join us to find out why Impress Travel is trusted by international travelers from around the world for your Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An. Ready to book? Please do not hesitate to contact us at info@impresstravel.com or call us at (+84) 912 379 189. Let’s create lifelong memories together!
Conclusion: Summarizing the Experience
Join for Travel Ninh Binh: Unmissable Rowing Boat Tour at Tam Coc and Trang An, a journey packed full of natural wonders and cohesion in cultural discovery and unforgettable moments. From the serenity evoked by taking in Tam Coc by boat through to the breathtaking complex of Trang An, this journey will further develop into a perfect blend of adventure, history, and beauty. Don’t miss out on your chance to see the best of Ninh Binh with Impress Travel. Are you ready for this great tour? Contact us at info@impresstravel.com or call (+84) 912 379 189 to book your tour today! Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ninh Binh and to book Ninh Binh Tour at the best prices.
Hanoi Head Office
- 125 Hoang Ngan, Hanoi
- Tel: (+84) 912 379 189
- Email: hanoi@impresstravel.com
Saigon Office
- 155 Ben Van Don, Rivergate, 4 District, HCM
- Tel: (+84)961675566
- Email: saigon@impresstravel.com