Trang An in Ninh Binh, a land recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage site, is not only famous for its majestic beauty of mountains and rivers but also an ideal destination for those who love ecotourism. This summer, leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and come to Trang An, where you can immerse yourself in unspoiled nature, explore mysterious caves, and experience unique ecotourism activities, contributing to the preservation of its inherent natural beauty.
Discovering the Beauty of Trang An Ecotourism
Trang An is not just an ordinary tourist area, but also a diverse ecological complex, where unique natural and cultural values converge. With a core zone area of up to 6,172 hectares, Trang An is a harmonious combination of majestic limestone mountains, a system of rivers and canals, and lush green primeval forests. It is also home to many rare species of flora and fauna, creating a rich and diverse ecosystem.
Coming to Trang An ecotourism, visitors not only admire the magnificent natural beauty but also have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Trang An was once Nam Thanh, an important part in protecting the ancient Hoa Lu capital under King Dinh Tien Hoang. Therefore, this place also preserves historical marks and ancient architectural works, blending into the natural space, creating a unique and attractive ecotourism picture.
Trang An Ninh Binh landscape with tourists boating on a river surrounded by limestone karsts.
Ideal Time for Trang An Ecotourism
To have a complete Trang An ecotourism trip, choosing the right time is very important. Each season, Trang An has its own beauty, but the best time to explore the ecological beauty here is:
- Spring (January – March Lunar Calendar): The weather is cool and pleasant, the air is fresh, very suitable for sightseeing, and spring travel. This is also the festival season, visitors can combine ecotourism with participating in traditional festivals in Ninh Binh. However, this is also the peak tourist season, with a large number of visitors, so you should book services in advance to ensure a smooth trip.
- Summer (May – June): The season of golden ripe rice, Trang An puts on a golden coat, creating a peaceful and charming rural scene. Sitting on a boat on the Ngo Dong River in this season, you will see golden rice fields stretching along both banks, a unique and memorable ecotourism experience.
- Autumn (July – September Lunar Calendar): The weather is cool and pleasant, no longer the harsh sun of summer. This is an ideal time to enjoy the peaceful and quiet space of Trang An, participate in outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling to explore nature.
Boats navigating through caves in Trang An, Ninh Binh during the peak tourist season.
Directions to Trang An Ecotourism Area
Trang An is about 7km from Ninh Binh city and about 100km from Hanoi, with quite convenient交通. Visitors can choose many different means of transportation:
- Bus: From Hanoi, you can easily catch a bus to Ninh Binh at bus stations such as My Dinh and Giap Bat. Travel time is about 2 – 2.5 hours. Arriving in Ninh Binh city, you can take a taxi or motorbike taxi to Trang An tourist area.
- Motorbike, self-driving car: If you want to be proactive about time and schedule, motorbike or self-driving car is a suitable choice. You can follow National Highway 1A or Phap Van – Cau Gie expressway to get to Ninh Binh. The road is quite easy and there are many signposts.
Scenic boat tour in Trang An, Ninh Binh, accessible by various transportation options from Hanoi.
Unique Ecotourism Experiences in Trang An
Trang An ecotourism offers visitors many unique and interesting experiences, helping you immerse yourself in nature and discover the unspoiled beauty of this land.
Boat Trip to Explore Caves
An activity not to be missed when coming to Trang An is taking a boat trip to explore the magnificent cave system. Visitors will sit on small bamboo boats, weaving through winding rivers, through natural caves with shimmering stalactites and stalagmites.
Popular boat routes in Trang An often take visitors to explore famous caves such as:
- Dia Linh Cave: A cave about 300m long, famous for the sparkling beauty of stalactites and stalagmites. Inside the cave, there is also an underground stream flowing through, creating a cool and mysterious space.
- Nau Ruou Cave (Wine Brewing Cave): The name of the cave originates from the fact that the ancients discovered a special underground water source in the cave, which could be used to brew wine for the king. Coming here, visitors can feel the faint aroma of wine and learn about the unique history of the cave.
- Ba Giot Cave (Three Drops Cave): A cave famous for its wet, colorful stalactites. According to legend, catching 3 drops of water from the stalactites in the cave will bring good luck in love and life.
- Sang Cave – Toi Cave (Light Cave – Dark Cave): Two caves that contrast in light, Sang Cave is filled with natural light, while Toi Cave is completely immersed in darkness, bringing different exploration experiences.
Close-up of a traditional boat gliding through a cave in Trang An, Ninh Binh, highlighting the cave exploration experience.
Visiting Other Ecotourism Spots
In addition to the cave system, Trang An also has many other attractive ecotourism spots:
- Thung Nham Bird Garden: A natural bird garden with thousands of birds living, an ideal destination for those who love nature and want to learn about the animal world.
- Hoa Lu Special-use Forest: A primeval forest with a diverse ecosystem, of high conservation value. Visitors can participate in ecotourism tours to explore the forest and learn about rare plant species.
- Tam Coc – Bich Dong: Although not located in the Trang An complex, Tam Coc – Bich Dong is also a famous ecotourism destination nearby. Visitors can combine visiting Trang An and Tam Coc – Bich Dong to have a complete Ninh Binh exploration journey.
Combining Cultural and Historical Tourism
Trang An ecotourism is not only about exploring nature but also an opportunity to learn about the culture and history of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Visitors can combine visiting historical and cultural relics in the area such as:
- Ancient Capital of Hoa Lu: A special national historical relic of great importance, once the capital of Dai Co Viet under the Dinh and Tien Le dynasties. Coming here, visitors will admire ancient architectural works and learn about the heroic history of the nation.
- Vu Lam Palace: A historical relic located in the middle of a picturesque lake, once a place of practice for King Tran Thai Tong. Vu Lam Palace has unique architectural beauty, harmonizing with the surrounding nature.
- Den Trinh Temple: A sacred temple worshiping 4 generals of the Dinh Dynasty, a famous spiritual destination in Ninh Binh.
Eco-friendly accommodation nestled in the natural landscape of Trang An, Ninh Binh, promoting sustainable tourism.
Environmentally Friendly Accommodation in Trang An
To experience Trang An ecotourism in a complete and sustainable way, choosing environmentally friendly accommodation is very important. Ninh Binh has many homestays and ecolodges close to nature, offering visitors a peaceful and relaxing space to rest.
Some suggestions for ecological accommodation in Trang An:
- Hang Mua Ecolodge: An ecological resort located amidst majestic mountains and green rice fields, offering a relaxing space to immerse yourself in nature.
- Trang An Retreat: A resort with traditional architecture, using natural, environmentally friendly materials, creating a peaceful and relaxing space.
When choosing ecological accommodation, visitors should prioritize establishments that focus on environmental protection, use renewable energy, minimize waste, and support the local community.
Local Ninh Binh cuisine served in a restaurant, part of a sustainable ecotourism experience in Trang An.
Local Cuisine and Sustainable Ecotourism
Ninh Binh cuisine is also an indispensable part of the Trang An ecotourism journey. Visitors can enjoy local specialties made from natural, fresh ingredients, imbued with rural flavors.
Some Ninh Binh specialties to try:
- Fried field crab with wild betel leaves: A rustic, delicious dish, made from fresh field crab and distinctive wild betel leaves.
- Bun cha quat (Vermicelli with grilled pork): Ninh Binh’s unique bun cha with hand-fanned grilled pork, grilled over charcoal, with a special flavor.
- Banh da ca ro (Crispy rice paper with perch soup): A light, nutritious dish, made from soft, chewy banh da and delicious field perch.
When enjoying local cuisine, visitors should prioritize choosing restaurants and eateries that use local ingredients, support sustainable agricultural products, and minimize food waste.
Tourists enjoying a boat ride in Trang An, Ninh Binh, illustrating a typical activity in a 2-day itinerary.
Cost and Itinerary for Trang An Ecotourism
The cost of Trang An ecotourism can vary depending on the itinerary, means of transport, and choice of accommodation and dining for each person. However, visitors can refer to some basic costs below:
- Trang An entrance ticket: About 250,000 VND/person/route.
- Food costs: About 300,000 – 500,000 VND/person/day.
- Accommodation costs: Depends on the type of accommodation, from budget homestays to luxury hotels and resorts.
Suggested 2-day 1-night Trang An ecotourism itinerary:
- Day 1:
- Morning: Travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, check in to hotel or homestay.
- Afternoon: Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, learn about the history and culture of the ancient capital.
- Evening: Enjoy local cuisine at a Ninh Binh restaurant.
- Day 2:
- Morning: Explore Trang An ecotourism area by boat, visit caves and temples.
- Afternoon: Visit Hang Mua Cave, admire the panoramic view of Trang An from the mountain top.
- Evening: Travel back to Hanoi or continue exploring Ninh Binh.
Panoramic view of Trang An, Ninh Binh, showcasing the natural beauty and ecotourism appeal of the region.
Conclusion
Trang An ecotourism is a journey to discover magnificent natural beauty, immerse yourself in a unique historical cultural space, and experience sustainable tourism activities. Coming to Trang An, you will not only enjoy relaxing and peaceful moments but also contribute to preserving and promoting the natural and cultural values of Ninh Binh. Plan your Trang An ecotourism trip today to discover the hidden beauty and experience the interesting things that this place has to offer. Are you ready for an exciting Trang An ecotourism journey?