If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi, a visit to the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in Ninh Binh Province (just an hour or two away from Hanoi), is comprised of densely forested karst hills and limestone cliffs, as well as nine caves with beautiful interiors. It’s no wonder why it’s been nicknamed the “Halong Bay on Land”.

One great way to experience this stunning area is on a guided day tour from Hanoi. With a knowledgeable local guide, you can explore the complex’s caves and waterways in a sampan boat, take part in activities such as bamboo rafting and cycling, learn about the area’s historical sites, and visit nearby Bai Dinh Pagoda – one of the largest Buddhist temples in Vietnam.

Trang An Day Trip Itinerary

Here’s what you can expect from a typical day trip to Trang An:

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the largest Buddhist complexes in Vietnam. The stunning views and unique architecture make it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore Vietnamese culture and spirituality. Not only does the pagoda provide visitors with a tranquil atmosphere for reflection, but its sheer scale is also noteworthy — it houses the largest bronze Buddha statue in Southeast Asia and is surrounded by hundreds of smaller statues.

Additionally, its 500 Arhats Hall holds unique sculptures that depict the disciples of the historical Buddha — making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts. Plus, Bai Dinh Pagoda also offers plenty of opportunities to learn about Buddhist culture; monks regularly lead tours and classes on meditation, Chinese calligraphy and other spiritual practices.

Trang An sampan boat ride

Explore the scenic waterways of Trang An on a traditional sampan boat, which is rowed by an experienced local sailor. The trip takes you through several caves with stunning interiors and gives you the opportunity to spot wildlife such as monkeys and cormorants. As you travel further, be sure to admire the vast array of limestone karsts dotting the waterways. Be prepared to get up close and personal with nature by passing through narrow canals, exploring mysterious grottoes, and getting a firsthand look at the local way of life. Make sure to bring your camera so you can capture every moment of this memorable boat ride!

Hang Mua Peak

Visiting Hang Mua Peak is the perfect way to take in the natural beauty of Vietnam. At 486 meters above sea level, it offers a panoramic view of Ninh Binh province and the surrounding areas, with spectacular scenery that will take your breath away. The summit also provides a stunning backdrop for photos, making it an ideal destination for travelers and photographers alike.

If you’re looking for some adventure, Hang Mua Peak is the perfect place to get your adrenaline pumping. The mountain features 500 steps that winds up the peak, all the way to its highest point. It’s an exciting challenge and one that will give you memories to last a lifetime!

How much is a day trip to Trang An?

The cost of a day trip to Trang An typically ranges from $30 to $50, depending on the size of your group. The price usually includes transportation from Hanoi, entrance fees, and lunch.

How to book a day trip to Trang An

To book a day trip to Trang An, you can either contact a local tour operator or make your own arrangements. Your hotel should be able to provide you with recommendations or help you book a tour. You can also book online via providers like Klook or visit the local tourist office for information on tours and prices.

If you decide to book with an operator, be sure to ask about the itinerary and cost of the trip before making a booking.

Other activities in Trang An

If you have time to spare, you can stay in Ninh Binh (Trang An’s province) for a day or two (or even longer) to explore other attractions such as Tam Coc Boat Tour, Mua Caves, and the Bich Dong Pagoda. To get a better understanding of the culture and the sights, it’s always a good idea to hire a local guide, whatever your activity.

Bamboo rafting

For a more hands-on experience, try bamboo rafting. You’ll be taken upriver on a bamboo raft and then pushed back to the starting point by the strong current. It’s a great way to get a better view of the karst landscape!

Cycling

If you’d like to explore Trang An at your own pace, cycling is the perfect option. You can rent bicycles from the entrance of the complex and cycle through rice paddies, between limestone hills, and around the caves.

Visit a local village

Take the time to explore a local Vietnamese village and learn more about their culture and traditions. Meet some of the locals and find out what daily life is like in this rural part of Vietnam.

Picnic lunch

After spending the morning exploring, sit down with your guide to enjoy a delicious picnic lunch prepared by local cooks