Thus, Ninh Binh Tours explore Dich Long cave and pagoda will be an unparalleled journey for you to unveil a spiritual and cultural treasure that only belongs to northern Vietnam. A two-hour drive from Hanoi, Dich Long Cave, and Pagoda hailed back in 1832 by Emperor Minh Mang as “Nam Thien De Tam Dong” (Haven of the South) combines sacred tranquility with otherworldly nature in a rare way, if not unique. This site is a must for anyone looking for meaning that runs deeper than surface level, with its weathered stone carvings, echoing stalactites, and serene mountain setting. Based on experience, this article provides a complete itinerary for 1-2 days to help you confidently discover this fascinating place
Lying quietly embedded on the slopes of a mountain in Gia Thanh commune, Gia Vien district, just 16 km from downtown Ninh Binh and only 1 km from National Highway 1A, the holy complex of Dich Long Cave and Pagoda is still a “surprise" for travelers. Just like any itinerary-themed “Ninh Binh Tours explore Dich Long cave and pagoda” this experience must not be missed if you fully want to immerse in this stunning tourism site, where heaven-made artistry meets soul-layered worship.
The story goes that in 1739, a woodcutter stumbled upon the cave while collecting wood on the mountainside. Fascinated by stalactites that resembled Buddha statues, he built a small altar. The first temple structures were erected one year after the proposal in the year 1740, and so began the spiritual sanctuary as it exists today. Through the years, Dich Long Cave and Pagoda became a place of significance that in 1821, during his northern tour, Emperor Minh Mang awarded it the noble title “Nam Thien De Tam Dong” — the Third Greatest Cave Under Heaven.
The first stop is Chua Ha, the elegant lower pagoda, built for elder worshippers too frail to climb the mountain. That’s where visitors start their ascent, climbing up 105 winding steps of stone, each one ascending closer to the heavens, and to the soul of Dich Long. It’s a slow, meditative walk, each foot in front of the other a step away from the mundane and closer to what is truly holy.
The magnificent cave-pagoda itself, set in a rocky arch of about 20 m in height and 40 m in depth, is at the summit. But its magic lies in natural acoustics: The cave consists of three interconnecting chambers, and when wind gusts through, the room hums in flute-like harmonies. This rare phenomenon is what gives the cave its poetic name “Dich Long,” with “Dich” meaning flute and “Long” meaning wind.
Inside, a sacred art symphony plays out. Rows of Buddha statues, from the smallest to the tallest, are cradled in the shimmering stalactite formations, nature’s and humans’ labor woven into one. Soft candlelight and the afterglow of incense enrich the spiritual atmosphere.
Outside, a trove of intriguing things await: the Bell Tower, where tall stone columns soar; the exquisitely carved Stone Pavilion, the eight giant columns embellished with dragons and swimming carp in clouds; and the serene Garden of Stone Buddhas, a new-age homage to an ancient craft.
All of those highlights present Dich Long Cave and Pagoda not only as a worshipping destination but also as a mini-museum of Vietnamese stone architecture and Buddhist aesthetics. This combination of spiritual quiet and sculptural detail makes it a popular space for photographers, artists, and anyone looking for depth beyond the visual.
Dich Long Cave (Sours: gtrip)
07:00 – Departure from Hanoi
It will be the day our vehicle, which is very comfortable and cool, collect you at the Hanoi hotel. As you navigate the picturesque southward driving stretch of National Highway 1A, your guide will give you valuable insight into the region’s spiritual traditions and Ninh Binh’s vibrant cultural fabric. It’s the ideal prelude to a day of discovery.
09:30 – Arrive at Dich Long Pagoda Complex
Gia Thanh commune, Ninh Binh Tours explore Dich Long cave and pagoda, the place of calm and holy but the north. We start at Chua Ha (Lower Pagoda), where old pilgrims regularly pause to pray.
10:00 – Hike Up to the Cave (105 Steps)
Begin the climb, 105 stone steps, gently winding up the mountain. Along the way, your guide will identify local plants and symbols carved into stone. The further up you go, the more quiet it becomes, the perfect transition from the outside world to sacred space.
10:30 – Explore Dich Long Cave and Inner Pagoda
Enter a world of mysticism. There are three chambers in the cave, which have natural stalactites that produce flute-like sounds when the wind touches them. Inside the cave is the inner pagoda, packed with Buddha figures, candlelight flickering, and the sound of prayer;
11:30 – Visit the Stone Pavilion, Bell Tower & Garden of Buddhas
Back outside, we explore:
12:30 – Lunch at Thang Long Restaurant
Have a hearty local lunch with popular dishes of Ninh Binh:
14:00 – Optional Cultural Walk or Leisure Time
Afterward, guests may opt to unwind at a nearby tea house or take a stroll through village paths before departure.
15:00 – Depart for Hanoi
We backtrack, allowing time for you to ponder, snooze, or converse with your guide.
17:00 – Arrive Back in Hanoi
You’re deposited at your hotel feeling enriched by the journey. That is how Ninh Binh Tours explore Dich Long cave and pagoda, thoroughly, intimately, even in a day.
Included:
Not Included:
Dich Long Pagoda (Sours: gtrip)
07:00 – Departure from Hanoi
Your adventure starts with a picturesque drive from Hanoi in the direction of Ninh Binh, where leafy rice fields, limestone karsts, and traditional villages welcome you every step of the way. Your Impress Travel guide will recount local legends and insights with context for what you’re about to see.
09:30 – Arrival at Dich Long Pagoda Complex
One of the first destinations that also attract many visitors, during Ninh Binh Tours explore Dich Long cave and pagoda and pagoda with a gentle climb of 105 stone steps, along the way is surrounded by mountains and streams.
10:00 – Entering the Sacred Cave
Within the natural stone cathedral you’ll see centuries-old Buddha statues, admire the cave’s three linked chambers, and experience the famed “flute wind”, a natural tune made by air blowing through stalactites. It is a site of quiet, enigma, and ageless elegance.
11:30 – Cultural Landmarks: Bell Tower & Stone Pavilion
Then continue to the Dinh Da; its eight beautiful stone pillars each carved with dragons, the Bell Tower, and the tranquil Garden of Buddhas, a place for profound creativity and contemplation.
12:30 – Lunch at Thang Long Restaurant
Replenish with a local feast of Ninh Binh specialties: crispy rice crust, mountain goat, and Nem Yen Mac, a fermented delicacy available nowhere else.
14:00 – Check-in at Hidden Charm Hotel
Overnight at this attractive 4-star property Set amid the limestone peaks, it combines modern comfort with a natural setting.
16:00 – Optional Activities
18:30 – Dinner at Trang An Riverside Restaurant
Enjoy dinner on the banks of the river as the sky glows golden. The unforgettable evening consists of fresh, local ingredients paired with a traditional technique.
20:00 – Evening at Leisure
Let go with a calm walk, drink herbal tea beneath the stars, or by a gentle guided meditation to smoothly end the evening.
Garden of Buddhas (Sours: discoverninhbinh)
06:30 – Breakfast at the Hotel
Start the day with the sounds of nature and a hearty Vietnamese breakfast.
08:00 – Select One of Two Signature Experiences
Option 1: Trang An Scenic Boat Tour
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Trang An is a maze of limestone caves and clear waterways. Glide in silence through its grottoes and sacred temples as your boatman pulls gently into the heart of this natural wonder.
Trang An Scenic Boat Tour (Sours: bucketlistbri)
Option 2: Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex
One of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist complexes, Bai Dinh astounds visitors with its splendor: 500 Arhat statues, a bronze Buddha who perches high above the local landscape, and an energy that shines spiritually long after you depart.
11:30 – Return to Hotel (for freshen-up)
Brief rest and check-out before the return to Hanoi.
12:30 – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Your last meal in Ninh Binh is a tribute to the local flavors and hospitality that can only be found in this unique corner of the Delta.
14:00 – Depart for Hanoi
As the landscape whirls by you on the way home, pause to think about the journey, not only the sights you’ve taken in but the serenity you’ve experienced.
17:00 – End of Tour in Hanoi
Come back with unforgettable memories. Ninh Binh Tours explore Dich Long cave and pagoda with discovery and peace, tradition, and comfort in every detail is perfectly arranged.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Included:
Not Included:
Bai Dinh Pagoda (Sours: trangandanhthang)
Now before you embark on your journey, below are a few handy tips for a smooth, enriching, and enjoyable journey when you travel with Ninh Binh Tours explore Dich Long cave and pagoda. These insider tips come from years of experience showing travelers the spiritual core of northern Vietnam.
At only 90km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is one of Vietnam’s most drive-friendly cultural getaways. You can choose from:
Whichever path you take, your care is ensured by Ninh Binh Tours from the initiation of your journey.
While Ninh Binh Tours explore Dich Long cave and pagoda, you will be walking in caves, climbing stairs, and visiting hallowed pagodas — so dress appropriately:
Keep in mind some tourist areas only accept VND (Vietnamese Dong). Bring cash for entry fees, snacks, and souvenirs, particularly in rural areas. Visa/MasterCard is accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but not everyone.
In Ninh Binh city, there are many ATMs available, but in the vicinity of Dich Long, it may be hard to come by.
Local SIM cards (Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone) are cheap and provide good coverage for 4G in most regions.
The locals are friendly and the community is close-knit in Ninh Binh Tours, so one of the safest places to go for the most part. That said, don’t have large amounts of cash or valuables on you, and always respect local customs at spiritual sites.
You can enjoy the Ninh Binh Tours explore Dich Long cave and pagoda, a remarkable combination of faith, nature, and cultural richness within a short distance from Hanoi. This experience is sure to have a lasting impression whether you choose a 1-day escape or a 2 day full of memories and peaceful retreats.
Ready to plan your trip?
Get in touch with Impress Travel to book or customize your tour:
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.
