Ninh Binh is famous not only for the majestic Trang An and the sacred Bai Dinh Pagoda, but also as a land that preserves the golden historical imprints of the nation at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. This place was once the first capital of the centralized feudal state of Vietnam, witnessing the ups and downs of the Dinh, Le, and Ly dynasties. This article will be a detailed travel guide to help you explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital in the most complete way.
Discover Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: History, Culture, and Unique Experiences
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, located in Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province, about 120km from Hanoi, is a destination imbued with historical and cultural values. It was once the capital of Dai Co Viet under the Dinh, Tien Le, and Ly dynasties. Although its existence was short (42 years), Hoa Lu witnessed many significant events that shaped the nation’s destiny.
The ancient Hoa Lu Citadel was built with three concentric walls: the East, West, and South citadels, forming the number 80 facing East. After King Ly Thai To moved the capital to Thang Long (Hanoi), Hoa Lu became the Ancient Capital, maintaining an important military role under later dynasties.
Today, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is a unique architectural complex, recognized by UNESCO as one of the four core zones of the Trang An World Heritage complex, and is also classified by the state as a particularly important National Monument.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is a unique architectural complex recognized by UNESCO as one of the four core zones of the Trang An World Heritage Site
Best Time to Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
You can visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital at any time of the year, but spring (especially from January to March of the lunar calendar) is the most ideal. At this time, the weather is cool and pleasant, and you can participate in many unique traditional festivals such as the La Temple Festival, Thai Vi Temple Festival, and Saint Nguyen Temple Festival, commemorating the merits of kings and national heroes.
In addition, May is also a great option to admire the golden rice fields stretching out, creating a beautiful scene. You can combine your visit with other famous tourist attractions of Ninh Binh such as Tam Coc – Bich Dong or Bai Dinh Pagoda to enrich your trip.
You can visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital in any season of the year, but spring is probably the best time
Directions to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
To get to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, you can choose one of the following means of transport:
- From Hanoi to Ninh Binh:
- Motorbike: Suitable for those who like backpacking and exploring. Following National Highway 1A takes about 3 hours.
- Train: There are many trains from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Ticket prices vary depending on the type of seat.
- Bus: Buy tickets at Giap Bat or My Dinh bus stations. Ticket price is about 80,000 – 150,000 VND.
- Long-distance taxi or limousine: Convenient for families or small groups of friends. Ticket price is about 150,000 – 350,000 VND depending on the company.
- From Ninh Binh to Hoa Lu:
- From Ninh Binh city, go in the direction of Trang An, then follow the signs to Trang An tourist area. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is located about 200m away.
If you have reached Ninh Binh city, to get to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, you need to move in the direction of the city, turn left and follow Trang An road
Must-See Attractions in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Although not completely intact as before, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital still carries its ancient beauty and historical traces that attract tourists. Here are some famous attractions:
- Dinh Tien Hoang King Temple:
- Dedicated to Dinh Bo Linh, who suppressed the 12 warlords and ascended the throne, establishing the Dinh Dynasty.
- Ancient architecture with exquisite stone statues.
- Located in a feng shui position, with majestic Ma Yen Mountain in front.
Dinh Tien Hoang King Temple
- Le Dai Hanh King Temple:
- Dedicated to Le Hoan, who contributed to defeating the invading Song army, establishing the Tien Le Dynasty.
- About 300m from Dinh King Temple, opposite Hoa Lu central square.
Le Dai Hanh King Temple
- Hoa Lu Tu Tran (Four Sacred Temples of Hoa Lu):
- Places to worship the gods guarding the four directions of the Ancient Capital.
- Tran Dong (East Guard): Worships Than Thien Ton, the god worshiped by King Dinh before suppressing the rebellion.
- Tran Tay (West Guard): Worships Than Cao Son, who contributed to helping people settle down and establish their careers.
- Tran Nam (South Guard): Worships Than Quy Minh, the water god guarding the low-lying area of Ai Son Nam.
- Tran Bac (North Guard): Worships Than Khong Lo, Zen master Nguyen Minh Khong, who made great contributions to bronze casting.
- Ancient Pagodas:
- Nhat Tru Pagoda (One Pillar Pagoda): The pagoda is known as the oldest stone scripture in Vietnam.
- Bai Dinh Pagoda: A pagoda over 1000 years old with many Vietnamese records.
Bai Dinh Pagoda – the pagoda holding the most records in Vietnam
Immerse Yourself in Traditional Festivals at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
If you have the opportunity to visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital in the spring, don’t miss the chance to participate in unique traditional festivals, taking place from March 8th to March 10th of the lunar calendar. These festivals are an opportunity to honor and commemorate the merits of kings and national heroes. Some typical festivals include:
- Thai Vi Temple Festival
- Đức Thánh Quý Minh Đại Vương Festival
- Truong Yen Festival
- Hoa Lu Festival
- Trang An Festival
Hoa Lu Festival is one of the many traditional festivals held in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Suggested Itinerary for Visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Capital in 1 Day
If you only have one day to explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, refer to the following suggested itinerary:
- 7am – 9am: Depart from Hanoi to Ninh Binh (about 1.5 hours).
- 9am – 11:30am: Visit Trang An eco-tourism area by boat (2-3 hours).
- 11:30am – 2pm: Have lunch and rest at a local restaurant.
- 2pm – 5pm: Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda or explore Tuyet Tinh Coc (Am Tien Cave).
After arriving in Trang An, you can spend about 2 – 3 hours visiting your favorite tourist spots by boat
Important Notes When Traveling to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
To have a complete and meaningful trip, please note the following:
- Dress code: Polite, discreet, suitable for cultural and spiritual spaces.
- Behavior: Maintain order, do not litter indiscriminately.
- Preparation: Map, umbrella, hat, sunscreen, drinking water, snacks.
- Compliance: Comply with the regulations of the relic site management board.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is not only a tourist destination, but also an important part of Vietnamese history and culture. Coming to Hoa Lu, you will immerse yourself in the ancient space, learn about heroic historical events and feel the patriotism of the nation. Wishing you a truly meaningful and memorable trip!