Hang Mua Trang An A Journey Through Natural Wonders History
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Ninh Binh, nestled in the heart of Vietnam, is a province that whispers tales of a forgotten kingdom. It's a place where towering limestone cliffs plunge dramatically into emerald rice paddies, where ancient pagodas stand sentinel against the backdrop of misty mountains, and where the languid flow of the Ngo Dong River reflects the serenity of the surrounding landscape. This is where the mythical Hang Mua and the breathtaking Trang An await, offering a unique and captivating escape into a realm where nature and history intertwine in harmonious splendor.
1. A day exploring Hang Mua and Trang An's beautiful scenery and cultural treasures
A day trip to Hang Mua and Trang An promises an unforgettable immersion into the splendors of Ninh Binh. Begin your adventure with a visit to Hang Mua, a hidden gem nestled within the Tam Coc-Bich Dong scenic area. 'Hang Mua' translates to Dancing Cave, a name that aptly captures the spirit of this magical place. A winding path, carved into the rocky slopes, leads you upwards, past cascading rice paddies and emerald green fields. As you ascend, the panorama unfolding before you becomes increasingly breathtaking. The vista from the peak is a tapestry of nature's artistry: a symphony of emerald rice terraces, jagged limestone peaks piercing the sky, and the shimmering Ngo Dong River weaving its way through the undulating landscape.
From here, you can also catch a glimpse of the imposing Lying Dragon Mountain, which resembles a majestic dragon resting on the ground. According to legend, this mountain was formed by a dragon that flew down from heaven to protect the locals from invaders. With such a stunning backdrop, it's no wonder that Hang Mua has become a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
After soaking in the breathtaking views from Hang Mua, it's time to explore the cultural treasures of Trang An. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its karst landscape, dotted with limestone caves and grottoes that were once used as hideouts during the Vietnam War. The best way to experience Trang An is by taking a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, which meanders through the stunning landscape, passing under limestone bridges and through dark caves. As you glide through the calm waters, you'll be amazed by the beauty of the natural surroundings and the rich history that lies within these ancient caves.
There are three main routes that you can choose from for your boat tour, each offering a different perspective on this majestic wonderland. The shortest route takes about 2 hours, while the longest one can take up to 4 hours. Whichever you choose, you'll be treated to stunning views of towering limestone cliffs, lush vegetation, and fascinating flora and fauna. Throughout the journey, your boatwoman will also regale you with stories and legends about the area, adding to the enchantment of the experience.
2. Explore the heart of Ninh Binh at Hang Mua and Trang An
A day trip to Hang Mua & Trang An is not only about witnessing the natural wonders and cultural treasures of Ninh Binh; it's also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local way of life. You'll have the chance to interact with friendly villagers and get a taste of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Along the way, you'll also come across temples, pagodas, and shrines that hold significant cultural and historical value.
One such place is the Bai Dinh Pagoda, located near the foot of Hang Mua Mountain. This is the largest pagoda complex in Vietnam, covering more than 700 hectares. It consists of several temples, pagodas, and statues, including the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam. The complex is also home to the 10,000-armed Bodhisattva Guan Yin, one of the tallest statues in Asia. Bai Dinh Pagoda is not just a religious site; it's also a cultural and historical attraction that offers a glimpse into Vietnamese Buddhism.
Another must-visit spot is the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which was once the political center of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Today, only the foundations of the old palaces remain, but you can still see remnants of the ancient structures and learn about the rich history of this former capital. The nearby temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le kings are also worth a visit for their intricate architecture and unique design.
3. A Day in Ninh Binh Hiking Hang Mua & Cruising Through Trang An
To fully experience the beauty of Hang Mua and Trang An, it's best to plan your day trip carefully. Here is a suggested itinerary for a perfect day in Ninh Binh:
3.1 Morning:
- Start your day early and head straight to Hang Mua to avoid the crowds.
- Take the hike up Hang Mua Mountain and admire the stunning views from the top.
- Spend some time exploring the area and taking photos before heading back down.
3.2 Lunch:
- Grab lunch at one of the local restaurants near Hang Mua or Trang An.
- Try some traditional dishes like pho (noodle soup), banh xeo (pancake), and nem ran (spring rolls).
3.3 Afternoon:
- Make your way to Trang An and choose your preferred route for the boat tour.
- Enjoy the serene and picturesque scenery as you cruise along the river.
- Take some time to explore the caves and grottoes along the way.
- End your boat tour at the Trang An dock and head back to your hotel for some rest.
3.4 Evening:
- If you have time, visit one of the nearby temples or pagodas for a cultural experience.
- Alternatively, you can relax and unwind at your hotel or explore the local markets for souvenirs.
- End your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant before retiring for the night.
4. Itinerary One-Day Hang Mua Trang An Tour
- Duration: 1 Day
- Departure: Hanoi
- Price: 25 USD
08:00 – 8:30: Guests will be greeted at the Meditours Ninh Binh office or a designated meeting point in the Old Quarter near the Hanoi Opera House. We will then depart for Ninh Binh. After approximately 2 hours of travel by bus, the group will arrive at the first stop, Hoa Lu – the first capital of the feudal state of Vietnam. Here, guests will have about 5 minutes to admire the distant scenery of Kings Dinh and Le temples.
11:15: The group embarks on the journey to climb Mount Mua to conquer Dragon Peak—a masterpiece not to be missed when visiting Ninh Binh tours. Along the climb, guests will behold the majestic beauty of the mountains and feel immersed in the pristine nature of this land.
13:30: After lunch, guests will transfer to a boat to continue the journey to Trang An. The car and guide will take guests to the Trang An Wharf to board a boat for a scenic trip along the stream amidst the rice fields to visit the Trang An New Eco-tourism Area. Guests can choose one of the following routes:
- Route 1: Visit 8-9 caves and learn about the cultural history here.
- Route 2: Explore the “King Kong” film set, the eagle-shaped mountain, and 4 natural caves, along with famous spiritual sites.
16:30: Guests will board the bus to return to Hanoi.
19:00: Guests will be dropped off at the designated meeting point, concluding the memorable one-day Hang Mua Trang An tour. We look forward to welcoming you again on other one-day tours of Ninh Binh with Meditours Ninh Binh.
Hang Mua & Trang An may be lesser-known compared to other famous destinations in Vietnam, but it is undoubtedly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. A visit to these natural wonders and historical sites promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe and wonder. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, Ninh Binh is truly a destination that should not be missed.
Detail: https://meditoursninhbinh.com/hang-mua-trang-an-tour-1-day/
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