Welcome to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital with Ninh Binh Tours, where history comes alive in the heart of Vietnam! Join us on a journey to explore the first capital of the country, located in the picturesque Ninh Binh province. This UNESCO-recognized site offers a perfect blend of historical significance and natural beauty. With Ninh Binh Tours, you’ll walk through ancient temples, glide along peaceful rivers, and cycle through lush valleys experiencing Vietnam’s heritage like never before. Let this unforgettable adventure take you back in time while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes!
Let’s take a fascinating step back in time as we uncover the 42-year legacy of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital with Ninh Binh Tours! You’ll be walking through history, reliving the stories of kings, warriors, and an ancient capital that set the foundation for modern Vietnam.
In the year 968 AD, King Dinh Tien Hoang chose Hoa Lu as the first capital of Vietnam, after having united the country by suppressing the chaos of the 12 Warlords. Not just a political one, this was a strategic decision. Located in the limestone mountains of Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital provided a natural fortress against foreign invasion and internal strife for this fledgling nation. Ninh Binh Tours will take you to this historical site today, where every stone tells a story, and the landscape itself tells you about the fairly early days of Vietnam.
It is not just any ordinary capital it is the birthplace of Vietnam’s first centralized feudal government. In this period, King Dinh Tien Hoang led the Dinh dynasty and set up the founding platform for national unity. His regime was marked by stability; his policy was specifically aimed at strengthening the country’s defense, economy, and military. During the reign of King Dinh, the subsequent reign of King Le Dai Hanh developed Hoa Lu as a political and military predicate of the Le Dynasty. The ancient temples will have you feel the presence of mighty leaders who shaped the destiny of this place as you walk down with Ninh Binh Tours.
What was so peculiar with Hoa Lu Ancient Capital? Among all, it was not just because of the on-site royal palaces and ancient temples it had, but it was because of its strategic location in place. With mainly towering limestone mountains surrounding it and being covered naturally by rivers, Hoa Lu was virtually impregnable. This natural defense allowed the capital to withstand invasions and provided a safe base for the country’s leaders. You can still see remnants today of these military strategies, and with Ninh Binh Tours, you will be taken further into how this landscape played a very important role in early defense.
Why are we still charmed with the story of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital? It represents the very root of the centralized government of Vietnam and its journey toward unity. Visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Capital with Ninh Binh Tours means delving into not just a historical site, but connecting to the grounds of the origin of Vietnam’s feudal state the basis for the rich cultural and political identity today.
07:30 – 08:30:Pick-Up and Departure from Hanoi
Our smiling guide and comfortable transport pick you up from either your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or the Opera House. After a brief introduction to your fellow travelers, we begin the scenic drive to the province of Ninh Binh. As we travel through the picturesque countryside for over two hours, you’ll receive more information about this area’s history and culture while seeing the changing landscape. We will make a short stop along the way to stretch our legs and have a cup of coffee to prepare ourselves for the day.
10:30: Arrival at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Our day tour starts at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which was once the capital of Vietnam in the 10th century and the first decade of the 11th century. You will pay a visit to see the temples of King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh so that our guide can narrate fantastic accounts concerning the rise and fall of such powerful dynasties. The smattering of ancient temples among the limestone mountains speaks much about this place being important for defending the kingdom. You will also have enough time to explore and take photos of the beautiful architecture amidst lush scenery.
12:00: Lunch at a Local Restaurant
After visiting Hoa Lu, we will have a delicious lunch at a local restaurant to taste all of Ninh Binh’s specialties: goat meat, rice crust, and other traditional Vietnam dishes. Give yourself some time to relax and enjoy the unique flavor of the region.
13:30: Tam Coc Boat Ride
Your next adventure is going to be at Tam Coc, which is also referred to as “Halong Bay on land" because of a number of its striking limestone karst that rises dramatically from the rice paddies. You would board the usual sampan boat and glide along the peaceful Ngo Dong River. You would ride through three amazing caves – Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Offering breathtaking views of the landscape. The serenity of the river, lofty cliffs, and lush greenery together form a picture-perfect setting.
15:30: Cycling in Truong Yen Valley
Afterward, a bike is provided for the leisurely cycling tour through the serene Truong Yen Valley. You will be able to pedal past small villages and rice fields, with paths cut off by limestone mountains that frame the route. It surely counts as one of the truly great ways to see rural Vietnamese life, and you will have ample photo opportunities.
16:30: Check in at Your Hotel in Ninh Binh
In the afternoon, after a long day of adventure, drive back to your hotel in Ninh Binh to check in and rest. The evening is free to explore the town, have a quiet dinner, or engage in some local activities such as karaoke or visiting a café. Rest for another interesting day!
07:00 – 08:00: Breakfast at the Hotel
Start your day with a hearty breakfast of local and international specialties at the hotel. Then, get ready for a day full of sightseeing and amazing landscapes.
08:30: Visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda
First, in today’s schedule, we have Bai Dinh Pagoda, the biggest Buddhist complex in Vietnam. You will take an electric car to the entrance and explore this mega temple complex, including huge Buddha statues, the tallest pagoda in Southeast Asia, and hundreds of smaller temples and statues. Each area will be explained by our guide as we explore in awe at this spiritual site. You can light some incense and pray for good luck.
12:00: Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Lunch will be taken after the visit to the pagoda at a local restaurant where you can try even more of Ninh Binh’s traditional dishes. This is a great time to share stories and photos of your adventure with fellow travelers.
14:00: Trang An Boat Tour
Afternoon: You will be taken to the Trang An Ecotourism Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its natural scenic river and cave cruises surrounded by mountains and valleys. Embark on a small boat and explore the picturesque landscape, travel into this tranquil world passing through several caves including Hang Toi – the Dark Caves, Hang Sang – the Bright Cave, and the popular Nau Ruou Cave. This part of the trip is laid back and accounts for some of the most stunning views in Vietnam.
16:00: Return to Hanoi
The unforgettable day will head back to Hanoi. You are free to relax on the bus, recollecting all the meaningful moments of these two days. On the way, we have a quick stoppage before arriving at Hanoi.
19:00 – 19:30: Arrival in Hanoi
We take you to your hotel or the meeting point in Hanoi where you will say goodbye to new friends and your guide. Your Hoa Lu Ancient Capital tour with Ninh Binh Tours may end but these memories are lifetime!
Planning your trip with Hoa Lu Ancient Capital with Ninh Binh Tours? Fantastic! Here are some important tips to ensure you have the best experience possible during your adventure. With just a little preparation, you’ll be all set to fully enjoy the history, culture, and natural beauty that Ninh Binh Tours has to offer.
Comfort is key when embarking on this exciting journey! Since you’ll be exploring historic temples, cycling through valleys, and cruising along rivers, it’s important to dress appropriately for both comfort and respect.
The best time to enjoy Hoa Lu Ancient Capital with Ninh Binh Tours is during spring and autumn. These seasons offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
To make the most of your experience with Ninh Binh Tours, packing the right essentials will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
When visiting historical and religious sites on the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital with Ninh Binh Tours, it’s essential to respect local traditions and customs.
To make sure your trip goes off without a hitch, here are some key booking tips for your Hoa Lu Ancient Capital with Ninh Binh Tours experience.
In short, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital with Ninh Binh Tours is the ideal trip for all travelers who have a great interest in the rich history, culture, and timelessly beautiful landscapes of Vietnam. From visiting ancient temples to enjoying a cruise along the stunning rivers, this tour will offer an unforgettable experience. Ready to explore the heart of heritage in Vietnam? Book your tour now with Impress Travel! For further information, please contact us at (+84) 912 379 189 or by email at info@impresstravel.com. Let’s create unforgettable memories together! 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.
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
Ninh Binh Tours – Impress Travel offers travelers the daily excursions – Small group deluxe tours, private Ninh Binh Vietnam package tours for the real experience of Ninh Binh’s discovery about the culture, history, tradition, local lifestyle, religion, and admiring of the breathtaking scenery of limestone island, rivers, water rice fields in Tam Coc and national park of Cuc Phuong with trekking and homestay at Muong Family. Ninh Binh Tours and private package tour’s highlights: