1. Trang An Ninh Binh: Vietnam's UNESCO-recognized tourism icon
The Trang An Ninh Binh scenic complex is located in the heart of the ancient capital Hoa Lu, where outstanding cultural and natural values of the nation converge. This is the only destination in Southeast Asia awarded the title of World Cultural and Natural Heritage by UNESCO, leaving a deep impression on the global tourism map.
1.1. Overview of the geographical location and scale of the Trang An Ninh Binh scenic area
The Trang An scenic complex in Ninh Binh covers an area of over 12,252 hectares, including a system of limestone mountains, caves, rivers, and pristine forests preserved almost intact. Among them, the core conservation area is over 6,172 hectares, divided into several zones with distinct functions. The Trang An ecological area of 2,133 hectares is where popular boat tour routes are concentrated. Hoa Lu Special-use Forest covers 3,775 hectares with a diverse tropical forest ecosystem. The Tam Coc – Bich Dong area of 350 hectares is notable for its charming river and water scenery. And the Hoa Lu ancient capital center of 314 hectares is where many historical relics are preserved. The entire complex creates a harmonious picture of nature, culture, and history, clearly demonstrating the rare heritage value of the Ninh Binh region.
Nature has generously endowed Trang An Ninh Binh with a majestic limestone mountain ecosystem, creating a harmonious landscape of mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, wetlands, and lush green rice fields. This scenery, both lyrical and majestic, has become a distinctive symbol of the Northern Vietnamese landscape.
1.2. Exploring the cultural and historical depth at Trang An Ninh Binh
The land of Trang An Ninh Binh is closely associated with the four dynasties Dinh, Tien Le, Ly, and Tran, which chose Hoa Lu as their capital. Hundreds of valuable historical relics remain here, such as Hoa Lu palace, King Dinh's temple, King Le's temple, Vu Lam royal court, Thai Vi temple, and the famous Bai Dinh pagoda.
Archaeological sites such as Moi cave, Boi cave, and Trong cave contain traces of ancient Vietnamese habitation dating back over 30,000 years. The system of religious relics here clearly reflects the traditional culture and spiritual life of the residents of the Northern Delta region. The annual Trang An festival is an occasion to honor the precious heritage values and long-standing traditions of this land.
1.3. Why has Trang An Ninh Binh become a prominent destination in Vietnam?
Trang An Ninh Binh is Vietnam's only dual World Heritage site and the only one in Southeast Asia, recognized by UNESCO for meeting both criteria: cultural and natural values. This title is both a source of pride and a confirmation of Vietnam's position in international tourism.
Trang An was awarded the title of World Cultural and Natural Heritage by UNESCO. (Source: Collected)
The blend of magnificent natural scenery, unique submerged cave systems, characteristic forests and mountains, along with a long history and prominent religious traditions, has created a special attraction for this place. Trang An is considered the center of tourism development for Ninh Binh province, contributing to affirming Vietnam's tourism brand on the world map.
2. Guide to the most convenient way to travel to Trang An Ninh Binh
The journey to Trang An Ninh Binh is now very convenient with many diverse means of transport. Depending on the starting point, tourists can easily choose a mode of transport that suits their needs and budget.
From Hanoi to Trang An Ninh Binh:
Buses are the means of transport chosen by many, with departures from My Dinh, Giap Bat, and Nuoc Ngam. Bus ticket prices range from 70,000 to 250,000 VND per trip, with travel time from 2 to 2.5 hours. If traveling by train on the Hanoi - Ninh Binh route, tickets cost around 60,000 to 443,000 VND per trip, taking 2 to 2.5 hours, after which you can take a taxi or bus for an additional 7 to 10 km to Trang An.
With a private car, you can take National Highway 1A or the Phap Van - Cau Gie - Ninh Binh expressway, a distance of about 90 km, taking 1.5 hours. Spacious parking lots right at the entrance of the Trang An ecological area make parking easy and convenient.
From other major provinces/cities to Trang An Ninh Binh:
Tourists departing from Ho Chi Minh City or the Mekong Delta region can choose to fly to Hanoi, then continue by bus or rent a car to Ninh Binh. Another option is to fly to Tho Xuan Airport in Thanh Hoa and then travel by car to Ninh Binh, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. If traveling from the Central region, tourists can take the Thong Nhat train or sleeper buses, and it is recommended to book tickets through online channels or reputable agents to ensure seats.
Moving within Ninh Binh province to Trang An:
Electric cars are a convenient and safe means of transport, especially suitable for large groups when visiting Trang An Ninh Binh. Additionally, tourists can easily call a taxi in Ninh Binh city center or nearby tourist areas. If you want to be proactive and save costs, you can rent a motorbike in Ninh Binh city or Tam Coc area. The road to Trang An is paved, flat, and wide, with clear signs, making travel convenient and safe for all tourists.
Moving by electric car is both convenient and safe. (Source: Collected)
3. Enjoy outstanding experiences at Trang An Ninh Binh
Trang An Ninh Binh offers many unique experiences, from scenic boat trips on the cool green river to journeys exploring mysterious caves. Every moment at Trang An is a blend of magnificent nature and rare poetic beauty, leaving visitors with a deep impression of a vibrant heritage of Ninh Binh's land and sky.
3.1. Take a boat trip to admire the scenery on the Sao Khe river
Boating on the Sao Khe river is an unmissable experience when visiting Trang An Ninh Binh . Sitting on a bamboo boat steered by locals, you will travel through a system of caves and rivers such as Ngo Dong, Sao Khe, Den Voi, Ben Dang. The rhythmic sound of oars blends with the chirping of forest birds, creating a lively natural melody.
Tour route number 1 is the most chosen, lasting about 3 hours, taking visitors through 9 caves and 4 temples. Ticket prices range from 200,000 to 300,000 VND for adults, and 100,000 VND for children under 1 meter, including entrance fees and bamboo boat costs. The best times for sightseeing are early morning from 6 AM to 9 AM or afternoon from 3 PM to 5 PM, when the water is calm and the light is soft, making it convenient to capture beautiful photos.
Scenic boat trip on the Sao Khe river. (Source: Collected)
3.2. Explore the majestic caves of Trang An
Trang An has 48 large and small caves, many of which are water caves hundreds of meters long. Some notable caves include Sang cave, Toi cave, Sinh cave, Si cave, Ba Giot cave, Dia Linh cave, and Dai cave. As the boat gently winds its way into the dark caves, visitors will clearly feel the excitement mixed with delight as the light constantly changes, sometimes dim, sometimes brilliant, reflecting on the water surface. It feels like stepping into a mystical world, where nature skillfully creates a magical scene, making it unforgettable for anyone who has experienced it once.
Inside the caves, stalactites sparkling under the flashlight create a shimmering beauty, hard to describe in words. The temperature inside the caves is always cool throughout the four seasons, helping visitors feel comfortable even on hot sunny days. The sound of flowing water and the echo of oars in the cave add to the quiet, mystical atmosphere of the space.
3.3. Climb Ngoa Long Mountain to capture the panoramic view of Trang An
Ngoa Long, also known as Hang Mua, is located near the Trang An area and is one of the ideal climbing spots to admire the panoramic view of the Hoa Lu region. The path up the mountain consists of about 500 stone steps and takes 20 to 30 minutes to climb, suitable for those with moderate fitness.
From the summit of Ngoa Long, you will admire a beautiful panorama with green rice fields, the gently winding Trang An river, and the scenery of Tam Coc - Bich Dong clearly appearing at the foot of the mountain. Sunrise or sunset is the most ideal time for photography, when the brilliant golden sunlight shines, creating a vibrant natural picture. Many tourists express unforgettable feelings when standing on the mountain peak, looking at the panoramic view of Trang An from above.
Climb Ngoa Long mountain and admire the beautiful scenery. (Source: Collected)
3.4. Visit temples and pagodas in the Trang An Ninh Binh complex
Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest pagoda complex in Vietnam, standing out with its giant bronze Buddha statue and the longest Arhat corridor in Asia. It is an important spiritual destination, attracting tens of thousands of Buddhists and visitors from all directions at the beginning of each spring. The pagoda's space is vast and solemn, with traditional Buddhist architecture combined with modern elements, creating a harmonious whole between mountains, trees, and monumental spiritual structures.
Besides, King Dinh Temple and King Le Temple are two typical historical relics dedicated to kings who made great contributions to building and defending the country. The temple architecture bears a strong ancient Vietnamese style, with interiors made from precious ironwood, gently curved tiled roofs, and exquisite carved details. Not only a sacred place of worship, the two temples are also vivid testaments to the rich history and culture of the ancient capital Hoa Lu, contributing to the special value of the Trang An Ninh Binh scenic complex.
3.5. Discover the unique ecosystem
Trang An Ninh Binh stands out with its rich flora and fauna such as langurs, many species of forest birds, aquatic life, and rare primary forests. This area focuses on ecological conservation and sustainable tourism development through reducing plastic waste and controlling tourist numbers seasonally.
By 2025, Trang An will continue to preserve its pristine character, ensuring tourism development is in harmony with nature for future generations. Ecological activities such as kayaking, bird watching boat tours, and organizing picnics by the mountainside are increasingly chosen by tourists. These experiences not only bring joy but also help to understand more about the ecological value of this world heritage site.
4. Top specialty dishes of Trang An Ninh Binh you must try when visiting
The cuisine of Trang An Ninh Binh carries the strong rustic flavors of the North, simple yet sophisticated, clearly reflecting the unique culinary culture of the ancient capital region. The most famous is Ninh Binh mountain goat, a renowned specialty dish elaborately prepared in various ways such as lime-blossom goat, grilled goat, goat steamed with perilla leaves, goat hot pot... The goat meat is firm, naturally fragrant, and sweet thanks to being raised in limestone mountain areas, creating a unique flavor that is hard to find elsewhere.
Another must-try delicacy is Ninh Binh burnt rice, golden, crispy, fragrant, and savory, often enjoyed with a rich, creamy goat sauce. The combination of the crispiness of the burnt rice and the harmonious sweet and savory flavor of the sauce creates a feeling that is both rustic and refined. Additionally, visitors can also enjoy eel vermicelli, Kim Son fish salad, or mountain snails boiled with ginger. These are all characteristic dishes contributing to a complete and unforgettable culinary experience at Trang An Ninh Binh .
Ninh Binh crispy rice is crispy and delicious. (Source: Collected)
5. Trang An Ninh Binh Travel Experience 2025 and Useful Tips for Tourists
Thorough preparation before traveling to Trang An Ninh Binh will make your trip more complete and memorable. From choosing suitable clothing, preparing necessary items, to small photography tips. All contribute to bringing a comfortable exploration journey and many interesting experiences.
Tourists should choose comfortable, sweat-absorbent clothing for convenient movement, especially when climbing mountains or going on boat trips. Long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats will help protect against the sun, while a light jacket is very useful if the weather gets cold or there is light rain in the afternoon.
When entering temple and pagoda areas, it is necessary to dress modestly and politely to show reverence. Also, don't forget to prepare non-slip sports shoes, drinking water, sunscreen, a camera, a power bank, and a waterproof bag to protect personal belongings when traveling by boat through caves.
The ideal time to take photos at Trang An Ninh Binh is early morning or from 4 PM to 5 PM in the afternoon, when the light is soft and not too harsh. Notable check-in spots include Ngoa Long peak with a panoramic view of Trang An, the romantic Sao Khe boat station with a backdrop of rocky mountains, and the entrances to caves where natural light creates magical effects. The ancient temple and pagoda areas with their majestic, ancient architecture are also ideal backdrops for emotional photos. When taking photos on the boat, hold the camera steady and utilize the calm water surface to create reflection effects. If shooting inside a cave, use a flash or flashlight to highlight stalactites and enhance the light depth.
Important notes on culture and environmental protection: Throughout the tour, tourists need to maintain general hygiene, do not litter, limit the use of single-use plastics, and comply with regulations at the heritage site. When visiting spiritual areas, dress modestly, maintain a serious attitude, avoid noise, and do not touch sacred objects without permission. At the same time, respect the landscape, do not climb or carve on the relics. Purchasing specialties from reputable stores not only reassures tourists about quality but also contributes to supporting the local economy and preserving the image of Trang An Ninh Binh as green, clean, and beautiful in the eyes of international friends.
After finishing the exploration journey of Trang An Ninh Binh, tourists can extend their trip by visiting Sun World Ha Nam – a modern entertainment complex. This place offers a vibrant space with a water park, thrilling game areas, a water music performance area, and a brilliant light festival in the evening. The combination of Trang An's majestic natural beauty and the vibrant, modern atmosphere of Sun World Ha Nam will bring you a complete vacation.
%20(1).2692ec12.jpg "Kết hợp vui chơi, giải trí tại Sun World Ha Nam.")
Combine fun and entertainment at Sun World Ha Nam.
Trang An Ninh Binh is not only a dual world heritage site for nature and culture but also a typical symbol of Northern Vietnam's tourism. The development model here focuses on sustainability, combining the preservation of traditional values with natural scenery, attracting international tourists, and contributing to establishing Vietnam's position on the global tourism map. Prepare for your plan to explore Trang An in 2025 with many attractive festivals and ecological activities, share experiences with friends and family to fully appreciate this unique dual heritage region.
