For me, rural Vietnam is an atmospheric and otherworldly place. All I was looking forward to visit were the jagged karst rocks enrobed in clouds and dripping caves obscured by creeping vines. There’s an ethereal quality to the light and scenery in Vietnam and what better place to experience it other than Ninh Binh.
We took a day tour to discover this beautiful province which also felt so less.
First views of the Old Capital
Starting with Hoa Lu known as the ancient capital of Vietnam for 41 years – being a natural geographic choice because of the limestone mountains keeping the city well-hidden from potential invaders. We were all set to discover the beautiful history of this place.
These grounds were the seat of Vietnam’s first feudal dynasty having the two most popular sites in the complex – The Dinh Tien Hoang Temple and Le Hoan Temple. As the capital of the country for 41 years, Hoa Lu has many palaces, pagodas, tombs and pavilions that were built by different dynasties. One of the most popular pieces of architecture is the Bao Thien Tue Palace, which was plated with gold and silver. Taking a few minutes to wander around this centuries-old site you can comprehend with its stunning temples, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage, that no wonder Hoa Lu is one of Vietnam’s top tourist destinations and we were immersed in the Historic details of it.
As the Vietnamese quote it, ‘Living in countryside is more quiet and purer’, this trip proves just that, for anyone who wants to get away from the noise of the city.
Moving over to – something Ninh Binh is now well known for, we were jarred excited to discover where the film King Kong: Skull island was filmed-Tràng An scenic landscape complex.
We clambered aboard a rowboat and settled in for a stunning ride. With impressive, jungle-covered karsts towering above, there was so much history about the people that lived in these mountains in prehistoric times, as well as those who still farm the area.
Making through the grottoes
Yes there were times we needed to duck down in certain parts as the boat glides beneath cool, dark grottoes. Passing through them was nothing but just pure bliss.
The scenery floating through Trang An is incredible! The water is so calm and still and it felt very tranquil gliding past the huge limestone and karst mountains which rose up straight from the water.
Trang An’s claim to fame was that parts of the film Kong: Skull Island being shot here and we saw the famous rock where Kong leaves his bloody handprint.
Soaking in the serenity we drove off to our next adventure which was nothing more than an adreline rush. Having known beforehand the main attraction at Hang Múa being the viewpoints, we were all ready to make the climb.
It’s 500 steps up, but the steep hike is worth the effort. There are two small mountains next to one another which you can climb.
There are stone steps all the way up, and it should take no more than 15-20 minutes to reach the top.
The mountain on the left side (as you stand facing up the stairs) has the better views.
From here you can see down to the river and rowing boats of Trang An on one side with views of rice fields and the bamboo bridge in the centre. The walk up to the top of the viewpoint was not too strenuous and didn’t take too long, but the views from here are truly stunning.
Once you’ve made it back down from the viewpoint, some of the best views await you down here too!
Admist beautiful lake and garden you can also walk along the bamboo bridge which stands above a lotus pond, surrounded by the rice fields.
Ninh Binh overall is a truly unique destination that offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for an adventure, this is a must-visit destination. So why not plan your trip today and discover the magic of this stunning natural wonder for yourself?
Cannot Miss:
- Discovering the King Kong Island with scenic boat ride at Trang An
- Chasing sunset from Mua Cave
- Photographing yourself at Lotus Pond Lake
GlobeTrotting365Days: HANOI October 24nd 2024.
