Ninh Binh Caves in 2025 provide an unforgettable journey into Vietnam’s most beautiful karst landscape and sacred grottoes. Easily reached from Hanoi, these limestone caverns offer adventures like boat cave tours, 500-step walks to panoramic views, and the discovery of ancient spiritual places. At Mua Cave, Tam Coc, or Trang An, each site reveals its magical blend of nature and legend. With increasing eco-tourism, Impress Travel crafts personal tours that help you uncover the secrets of every Ninh Binh cave.
Accessing the heart of the Ninh Binh caves experience has never been more accessible. From Hanoi, you can take three exciting routes to begin your journey south:
Bus from Hanoi (Source: daiichitravel)
Timing is everything if you want to get Ninh Binh Caves in all their glory.
Lotus Pond in Hang Mua (Source: ivivu)
Before heading out to conquer the Ninh Binh Caves, you’ll want to be well-prepared. Here’s your quick checklist:
To make the most of your Ninh Binh caves adventure, here are a few insights from years of guiding travelers across these wonders:
Among the many wonders of the Ninh Binh Caves, the most symbolic trekking adventure in the region is Mua Cave (Hang Mua). Located at the base of Ngoa Long Mountain, this site is famous for 500 stone steps that lead to one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking panoramic views.
From above, visitors can enjoy a full panorama of the golden rice fields of Tam Coc, the winding Ngo Dong River, and sharp karst mountains way out into the distance. It is no wonder that this locale has been dubbed “The Great Wall of Vietnam", not for size, but for showing unforgettable views.
The Vietnamese term for Mua, “dance," captures the sweeping motion of the winds. Legend has it that King Tran Thai Tong himself ascended to this site to witness the court dancers. Today, visitors can still feel that same ambiance, with nature and history meshing with every step of the climb.
There are two principal viewpoints atop Mua Cave:
Mua Cave (Source: VinWonders)
Your next destination on your Ninh Binh Caves tour is the breathtaking Trang An Landscape Complex, a celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site and where Vietnam’s natural world meets sacred history.
Here, you’ll go on a serene boat trip amidst a huge network of limestone caves, cliffs, and rivers in perpetual motion. The experience is serene, immersive, and deeply evocative, perfect for those who’d like to behold the very best of Vietnam’s subterranean rivers and temple legacy.
Your boat guide will guide you through some show-stopping caves:
As part of this spiritual cave tour, you’ll also visit historical temples:
Trang An features three routes (all in rowboats):
Hang Ba Giot in Trang An Grottoes (Source: crystalbay)
Concealed among the remote limestone outcrops of northwest Ninh Binh, Thien Ha Cave, or Galaxy Cave, is a hidden treasure for those who have an adventurer’s heart. Among all the Ninh Binh Caves, this one is an explorer’s and spelunker’s dream for something not on the beaten path.
To reach the Thien Ha Cave, you drive a mosaic of rural roads, hike a short trail, and then ride in a small wooden boat that carries you into the cave’s hidden entrance. The trip is exciting, combining hiking, river travel, and exploring ancient grottoes in one adventure.
The cave extends over 700 meters, divided into two broad sections: a dry section full of radiant stalactite light and odd rock statues, and a water cave where small boats drift along hidden rooms with silent echoes. The atmosphere is always refreshingly cool, regardless of the time of year, so it’s a wonderful summer retreat from the heat of the day.
What makes this cave in Ninh Binh unique? It’s an archaeological site. Scientists have found traces of ancient human settlements, tools, pottery shards, and even colonies of bats living deep inside. The union of science, nature, and pure discovery makes this a gem in Vietnam’s spelunking history.
Thien Ha Cave (Source: vietnamtourism)
Nicknamed the “Tuyet Tinh Coc" of Vietnam, Am Tien Cave is the most peaceful and romantic alcove of the Ninh Binh Caves landscape. Once a royal sanctuary and Buddhist meditation site, now this remote valley is one of North Vietnam’s most scenic locations.
What does one discover here? A tastefully motionless jade-green lake, limestone cliffs draped in lush greenery, and a serene cave temple hid within the rock. The atmosphere is serene, reflective, and exquisitely apart from the ferment of modern tourism.
To enter the cave, tourists stroll along a short stone path or wooden bridge, often bordered by swaying lotus flowers during summer. Inside, the Am Tien Pagoda is nestled in the cave itself, giving the location an ethereal, sacred ambiance. Sunlight penetrates cracks on the cliffs, creating nature’s spotlights on the water, perfect for a romantic stroll or tranquil moments.
It’s a favorite among couples, individual travelers, and photographers seeking Vietnam’s secret garden spots. The entire valley appears to have been plucked from a fairy tale.
Am Tien Cave (Source: vietnamdiscovery)
Among the many captivating Ninh Binh Caves, Nau Ruou Cave (which means “Wine Brewing Cave") offers a fantastic blend of legend, scenery, and history. Concealed within the winding waterways of Trang An, the cave has an unshakeable association with royal legend.
It is claimed that in dynasties of old, underground spring water coursing through Nau Ruou Cave was used for brewing wine for the kings. The waters were claimed to enhance fermentation as well as impart a divine quality that could only be suitable for the royal court, thanks to their purity and mineral content.
Tourists can go and see old wine jars still on exhibit inside the cavern, alongside a small, pristine stream flowing beneath the cave floor. The form and ventilation of the cave make it cool and scented naturally, ideal for aging wines traditionally.
Nau Ruou Cave (Source: crystalbay)
Explore one of the most visually stunning and magical alcoves in the Ninh Binh Cave system, the Mermaid Cave. As the name suggests, the destination shines with enchantment and myth, offering a soft, dreamlike experience where nature becomes fantasy.
Inside the cave, crystal water reflects light in green and blue hues, bouncing off smooth cave walls to create breathtaking effects. Vessels move silently on top, predominantly bamboo in build, allowing the visitors to feel the peaceful, glinting environment in silence.
Locals tell tales of a mermaid river who protects the cave, preventing the area from storms and guiding lost fishermen home. The myth provides a touch of wonder to your tour, especially while flowing through the cave’s chambers under low lighting.
Mermaid Cave (Source: mia)
For all those who love scenic challenges and off-grid exposure, Ma Tien Cave is a gem of the Ninh Binh Caves. Located inside a dense forest-covered hill, the cave’s entrance lies 100 stone steps above ground level and requires a gentle climb along mossy rock trails and bamboo woods.
What lies ahead at the summit is all worth the walk. The moss-covered boulders under leafy canopies and the whispers in the cavern make it a peaceful yet adventurous sanctuary. This atmosphere is a popular spot for nature photographers, trekking groups, and those looking for something more secluded and less commercial.
Ma Tien Cave (Source: dongthai)
For travelers seeking tranquility, heritage, and spiritualism, Thien Ton Cave must be on your itinerary along the Ninh Binh Caves. This is not merely a geological marvel; it’s an active site of worship, nestled in a gentle slope of limestone, and houses a sacred pagoda.
The cave-pagoda complex is a fusion of both Buddhist and Taoist traditions as seen in the statues, the incense vapor, and ancient carvings that dominate throughout the cave walls. It is a serene and dark environment within, which facilitates contemplation and meditation for all who visit.
Guests are greeted by an entrance gate and a short stone walkway to a cave hall center where statues of deities lie in contemplation. The cool air, scent of incense, and soft chanting from on-site observers complete the immersion. Thien Ton is typically experienced as a site of spiritual sanctuary, well suited to a morning half-day cultural outing supplemented by nearby relics of the Hoa Lu ancient capital.
Thien Ton Pagoda and Cave (Source: anbinhtravel)
Few of the Ninh Binh Caves carry a poetic heritage as great as Dich Long Cave, renowned for its fame when Emperor Minh Mang himself extolled its beauty as one of Vietnam’s “Three Most Beautiful Caves" (De Tam Dong). It’s generally bypassed by busy tourists, but this cave provides an otherworldly auditory and spiritual experience.
Why is it special? As you enter through its arched, narrow entrance, the whistling of the wind through the rock resounds like a soft hum of a flute, and so the cave is given the name “Dich Long", meaning melodious wind.
Within lies a combination of organic artwork and pious respect. Rock columns stand as organic altars, and in their corners rest centuries-old statues and relics. The Dich Long Pagoda, built at the mouth of the cave, adds a profound level of tradition.
Dich Long Pagoda and Cave (Source: vietnamtourism)
Ninh Binh Caves are not merely scenic locations; they’re a sojourn through nature, heritage, and profound quietude. From lotus ponds to dragon peak, from whispers of legends to sacred halls of stone, each cave invites you to slow down and sense. Don’t drive by, take them in as a whole. Let Impress Travel take you to the unwritten beauty that most travelers miss. Start your adventure today with Ninh Binh tourist attractions and find the caves that will make a mark.
In fact! Ninh Binh is world-famous for its beautiful cave systems, sculpted out of the limestone karst landscape. Not-to-be-missed Ninh Binh Caves include Mua Cave, Tam Coc, Trang An Grottoes, Am Tien, and Thien Ha (Galaxy Cave), each boasting a unique blend of river cruises, hikes, and spiritual ambiance.
The ticket price for Mua Cave is approximately 100,000 VND per person. Parking costs 5,000 VND for bicycles and 10,000 VND for motorbikes. It is better to park at the official gate and not along overpriced roads on the way.
The most convenient way to visit Ninh Binh Caves and the surrounding landscape is by bicycle or motorbike, available for rent in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh City. Taxi rides from locals or impression-guided tours at Impress Travel are secondary options that lead to a more informative tour. Boat cruises are required to travel to caves like Tam Coc and Trang An.
The climb to the top of Mua Cave is about 500 stone stairs and typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your own pace. Allow extra time for photo opportunities; views over Tam Coc and Ngo Dong River are stunning, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour will deepen your interesting history, starting with a visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which was the 10th-century capital and once the heart of Vietnam’s first centralized feudal state. You will be walking through the ancient temples dedicated to King Đinh Tiên Hoàng and King Lê Đại Hành, marveling at the intricate architecture and listening to stories that have shaped the nation’s legacy.
Next, step into the grandeur of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple complex: Bai Dinh Pagoda, from the colossal bronze Buddha statues to its serene courtyards. In its way, Bai Dinh offers spiritual solace and a lifetime feeling of awe. These heritage landmarks make the Ninh Binh Tours very important to any history enthusiast.
Tam Coc (Sours: vietnamtravel)
Get ready to be charmed by the outstanding landscapes that define the Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour. Reputed as “Halong Bay on Land," Tam Coc fascinates its travelers with its dramatic limestone karsts majestically rising from emerald rice fields. Travel along in a boat on the quiet waters of the Ngo Dong River and explore the mystical “Three Caves" (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba) while taking in the unspoiled beauty of the area.
Another highlight of Ninh Binh Tours is Trang An. This place is honored by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, featuring labirynth rivers, and caves paired with rich greenery. These few wonders together show the unmatched panorama that makes Ninh Binh one of the best options to visit in Vietnam.
That includes stories and connections, not purely a sightseeing Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour because interacting with the friendly locals from other parts of the world comes along in the sharing of their customs, daily life, or even culinary secrets. You will surely know that once these ancient or ancient sites, which have played a very predominant role in Vietnam’s bygone era, take off for a visit from Hoa Lu to a spiritual depth at the Bai Dinh Pagoda.
Enjoy the local food to your heart’s content with traditional Vietnamese dishes, including goat meat and crispy rice, both regional specialties and a way of life. This layer of culture will make this journey far more than just a tour-it will be an experience.
Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour offers endless opportunities to the camera of photography enthusiasts: from golden rice fields in Tam Coc to peaceful waters in Trang An, from majestic architecture in Bai Dinh Pagoda, each corner of Ninh Binh is perfect for a picture.
From iconic places like the Ngo Dong River to ancient temples in Hoa Lư, you’ll have breathtaking backdrops for lifelong memories. We don’t just let you go away with great memories but also some spectacular snapshots to share and keep as mementos.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital (Sours: https://www.agoda)
07:30 – 08:00: Pick you up at your hotel in Old Quarter and depart for a full-day Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour on the southeast of Hanoi to the province of Ninh Binh. It’s around 90 kilometers taking one and a half hours to get there then see Vietnam’s peaceful countryside-golden rice fields and limestone rock formation rising majestically from the ground.
10:00 – 11:30: Arrive in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which is the cradle of the very first centralized feudal state of Vietnam. You will visit the temples dedicated to Emperor Đinh and Emperor Lê and listen as your guide relates the stories of these Emperors and the dynasties that once ruled here. If you’re into history, then this is a must.
12:00 – 13:00: Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a nearby restaurant. Regional dishes will be served, including goat meat with crispy rice and fresh seasonal vegetables. The quiet atmosphere allows for an even better taste of this meal.
13:30 – 15:30: The highlight of the day is to take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River. Travel through lush rice fields and dramatic limestone formations as you explore the “Three Caves" (Hang Cả, Hang Hai, Hang Ba). The serene atmosphere and natural beauty of Tam Coc are unforgettable, offering countless opportunities for photography.
16:00 – 16:30: Arrive in Ninh Binh at a cozy hotel. This is a perfect opportunity for you to retreat and refresh after such a long day with full exploration.
Evening Activity (Optional): Stroll through the quiet evening streets of Ninh Binh, or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties. Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Bai Dinh Pagoda (Sours: https://www.tripadvisor)
07:30 – 08:00: Have a healthy and delicious breakfast at the hotel.
08:30 – 11:00: Start visiting Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple complex Bai Dinh Pagoda. Marvel at its magnificent bronze Buddha statues, peaceful courtyards, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. An optional electric car service around the area is recommended to save time in exploring this big area.
11:30 – 12:30: Have lunch at a local restaurant serving stewed goats, freshwater fish, and other dishes that will reflect the culinary achievement of Ninh Binh.
13:00 – 15:30: Take another different Trang An boat ride for fantastic trips to the world nature reserve. The small booths up and downstream rows wind through caves: Hang Sáng, Hang Tối; and Hang Nấu Rượu. There you gain deep insight into the beauty and marvel of nature in light reflected together with green forest’ plants and towering cliffs; during the journey, some telling by your guide can intrigue your interest in rich stories both in history and tradition associated with Trang An so that you could treasure Trang Anmore valuably.
16:00: Depart for the back to Hanoi. Feeling relaxed onboard while comfort stimulates you to ponder over beautiful memories and experiences during a day spent at Ninh Binh Tours.
18:30: Arrive in Hanoi to end a wonderful tour of history, culture, and nature in 2 days.
Trang An (Sours: https://www.agoda)
Moreover, the Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour is offered to customers for $178 per person for a premium experience without breaking your wallet. Is this a family getaway, or are you traveling with children? Well, we have special discounts for children and families so nobody misses this unforgettable adventure.
Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour will cover everything you need to make your journey smooth and memorable:
With this full package, you can enjoy the entire magic of Ninh Binh hassle-free.
The following are not included in the tour to maintain flexibility:
Why choose the Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour? This is a package that holds the perfect balance of luxury and affordability necessary for every traveler to offer value to their investment-from the time you step into our comfortable transport to the last scenic boat ride in Trang An, every little detail contributes to a rich, truly immersive experience. From history enthusiasts to nature lovers and from cultural immersion, seekers-the lot-this is a travel package that will deliver it in one incredible journey.
Ninh Binh (Sours: bucketlistly)
If there’s anything to be said about the time of the Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour, let it be to enhance this experience even more. This is during the rice harvest season from May to June, when the magic comes out of these surrounding fields in every direction, truly breathtakingly so. At the same time, Ninh Binh Tours makes for year-round beauty. From the appeal of the lush green landscape in spring to the quiet, misty mornings of winter, there is never a wrong time to visit this wonderland.
Pack these essentials to make the most of your adventure:
These items will keep you prepared at every step of the tour, from hiking up temple steps to gazing out over the serenity of the waterways.
Our Ninh Binh Tours are suitable for all ages. For families with children, the program is easy and enjoyable; for elderly participants, it is also comfortable because of the air-conditioned transportation and electric car services available at Bai Dinh Pagoda. The boat cruises in Tam Coc and Trang An are serene and require minimum effort; thus, they are suitable for all participants.
Here’s how to make your Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour even more memorable:
Tam Coc Ninh Binh Tour is the ultimate getaway from Hanoi, comprising historical, cultural, and, of course, natural wonders. Take serene river rides, explore ancient temples, and enjoy real Vietnamese food on this 2-day journey. Experience the magic of Ninh Binh Tours and create memories to last a lifetime. Book now for an unforgettable journey!
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is one of the most amazing & authentic package tour in the North Vietnam. Our tours lead the paths you to explore cultural and historic relics of Vietnam such as ancient citadel named Hoa Lu and pagoda, temples. Furthermore, to be immersive by natural landscape such as Tam Coc, Bich Dong, Trang An, Van Long natural Reserve. We will take part in the experienced activities well as cycling visa the rural countryside of particular Red River Delta to be impressed by local life along the paths. The a bamboo boats sail crossing along the emerald green rice field among limestone cliffs, stopping at spectacular caves through which visitors can be appealed, viewing impressive, centuries-old formations.
You will take an experience of stunning scenery, to obtain the active venture for cycling via the rural countryside and sailing bamboo boat on the green rice paddy among the limestone mountain.
You will not merely see many fantastically scenery and animals of wild life in the national park, and rescue center. Additionally learn more about its history and locals and join to homestay activities.
Authentic paths to explore the northern part of Vietnam. The imposing scenery of mountain, hill, green valley, and rice terraces. The idyllic hill-tribe villages from Mai Chau - Pu Luong and Ninh Binh rural countryside.
Luxurious services for Hanoi, Halong tour destinations until to the authentic Ninh Binh rural countryside journey of active venture to explore the imposing scenery of limestone mountain, and tour to explore culture and history from national relics.
