Bai Dinh, Mua Cave & Trang An Boat Tour from Hanoi

Summary

Day Trip: Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Cave Hike & Trang An Boat Ride

You’ll explore Vietnam’s largest pagoda, climb up Lying Dragon Mountain for sweeping views, and glide through Trang An’s emerald waterways by sampan boat. It’s a day packed with culture, scenery, and real local flavor—perfect if you want to see more than just Hanoi’s busy streets.

What’s the experience like?

Right after leaving Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the air felt different—cleaner, with a hint of rice fields. Our guide, Minh, kept us awake with stories about Ninh Binh’s old dynasties as the bus rolled past tiny roadside stalls. First stop: Bai Dinh Pagoda. I’d seen photos, but nothing prepares you for the sheer size of those bronze Buddha statues. The smell of incense hung in the air, and I caught a group of monks chanting softly near the main hall. Minh pointed out the giant bell—locals say you can hear it echo across the valley on quiet mornings.

Lunch was a buffet, and honestly, I lost count of how many times I went back for more crispy spring rolls. They had a vegetarian section too, which my friend appreciated. After lunch, we headed to Mua Cave. The climb’s no joke—500 steps up, and some are uneven. But at the top, you get this wild view: limestone peaks, patchwork rice paddies, and little boats drifting below. There’s a dragon statue up there that everyone takes photos with, but I just sat for a minute to catch my breath and watch the clouds move.

Later, we made our way to Trang An. The boat ride was almost three hours, but it didn’t feel long. Our rower barely spoke English but grinned every time we ducked into a cave. The water’s so clear you can see fish darting under the boat. At one point, we floated past a lotus farm—a faint sweet smell drifted over. The caves themselves are cool and dark; you’ll want a light jacket if you get cold easily. By the end, I felt like I’d seen a different side of Vietnam—quiet, green, and full of hidden corners.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bai Dinh, Mua Cave & Trang An

• Climb mountain and visit lotus farm
• Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Sampan boat trip at Trang An

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes, it’s family-friendly. There are infant seats and pram options. Just note the Mua Cave climb is steep but optional.

Are vegetarian or special meals available?

Absolutely. Just let us know your dietary needs when booking and we’ll arrange it for you.

How long is the Trang An boat trip?

The sampan ride lasts about three hours. It’s calm and scenic—most people find it relaxing.

What should I wear?

Dress modestly for the pagoda (shoulders/knees covered). Comfy shoes are best for climbing and walking.

What’s included

The tour covers round-trip transport from Hanoi Old Quarter in an air-conditioned bus, buffet lunch (with vegetarian options), English-speaking guide, electric car rides at Bai Dinh Pagoda, water bottles, wet towels, and even a cookie on the bus. All entry fees are included too—you just need to bring your sense of adventure.