Trang An is characterized by its karst topography, featuring limestone mountains, caves, and rivers. The area is dotted with numerous limestone karsts rising dramatically from the ground, creating a picturesque and otherworldly landscape. The Trang An Landscape Complex is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding natural beauty and geological significance.

Where is Trang An?

Trang An is located in the Ninh Binh Province of northern Vietnam, approximately 7 kilometers west of Ninh Binh City. Ninh Binh Province is situated in the Red River Delta region, about 95 kilometers south of Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. Trang An is easily accessible from Ninh Binh City by various modes of transportation such as car, motorbike, or organized tours.

To get to Trang An from Hanoi you can:

1. Take a train or bus to Ninh Binh City. It is the best way to save money to travel to Trang An. You can take 2-3 hours to get to Ninh Binh city.
2. From Ninh Binh City, you can hire Grab or motorbike to Trang An (about 7 km).
3. Alternatively, consider a private car or taxi or limousine directly from Hanoi. It is more convenient to hire a private car to Trang An with your groups or family.
4. Organized tours from Hanoi to Trang An are also available. We have some tours from Hanoi to visit Trang An. You can see some details in here.

Tickets and Opening Hours in Trang An

Opening Hours:

• Summer:6:00 AM – 4:45 PM (subject to weather conditions)
• Winter:7:00 AM – 4:30 PM (subject to weather conditions)
• Holidays and Tet (Vietnamese New Year):6:00 AM – 4:45 PM (subject to weather conditions)
• Note:Opening hours may be subject to change, so it’s best to check the official website or with your tour operator before your visit.

Ticket Prices:

• Entrance Fee:250,000 VND per person (adult), 120,000 VND per person (child 0.8m-1.3m), free for children under 0.8m

Kayak Rental:

• Single Kayak (2 hours): 250,000 VND per boat
• Single Kayak (3 hours): 300,000 VND per boat
• Double Kayak (2 hours): 350,000 VND per boat (2 people/1 boat)
• Double Kayak (3 hours): 400,000 VND per boat (2 people/1 boat

3 boat routes in Trang An

Route 1:  Cave exploration (9 caves, 3 temples)

For enthusiasts of geology and cave exploration, Route 1 presents an ideal adventure. This specialized tour is crafted to guide you through the majority of caves within the vicinity, providing exclusive access to all 9 caves and 3 spiritual sites along the Sao Khue River. These revered temples include Tran Temple, Khong Temple, and Trinh Temple. Covering a circular path spanning 15 kilometers, this excursion typically takes around 3 hours to complete.

Route 2: The shortest boat tour in Trang An (4 caves, 3 temples)

Route 2 offers an ideal option for those with limited time. Lasting just over 2 hours, this tour allows you to experience the natural wonders of caves and temples within a condensed timeframe. Particularly suitable for those who may find extended boat rides monotonous, this route ensures a fulfilling excursion. Along the journey, you’ll have the opportunity to visit three distinct sites, namely Trinh Temple, Dot Cave, May Cave, Suoi Tien Temple (Fairy Stream Temple), Dia Linh Mountain, Dai Cave, Vu Lam imperial palace, and Kong film studio: Skull Island.

Route 3: Explore the longest cave (3 caves, 3 temples)

The third tour route is the newest addition to the Trang An boat tour selection, commencing operations in late 2017. Distinguished by its unique features, this route offers visitors the opportunity to explore the longest cave within the Trang An complex, Dot Cave, spanning a length of 1000 meters. Visitors will marvel at the intricate stalactite formations sculpted over millennia by nature’s hand.

In addition to Dot Cave, the tour includes exploration of two other caves, Van Cave and Dai Cave, as well as visits to three temples – Trinh Temple, Suoi Tien Temple, and Vu Lam Royal Steps. Similar to the preceding route, this journey also traverses Dia Linh Mountain. The duration of Route 3 is approximately 3 hours, and it remains a favorite among tourists, promising a fully immersive experience.

Given the distinctive features of each route, it’s challenging to determine the superior choice, as each offers its own specialty, catering to varied preferences and interests.

Things to do in Trang An

1. Take a boat tour: This is the most popular activity in Trang An, and for good reason. The boat tours wind through a stunning landscape of limestone karsts, rice paddies, and caves. You’ll pass by ancient temples, hidden grottoes, and floating villages. There are different routes available, each with its own unique highlight.
2. Visit the temples: Trang An is home to several beautiful temples, including the Trinh Temple, the Tran Temple, and the Suoi Tien Temple. These temples offer a glimpse into the region’s history and culture.
3. Go hiking: There are several hiking trails in Trang An, ranging from easy to challenging. These trails offer stunning views of the landscape and a chance to see some of the local wildlife.
4. Explore the caves: Trang An is home to many caves, including the Dark Cave, the Light Cave, and the Wine-Making Cave. These caves offer a unique perspective on the landscape and are home to interesting rock formations.
5. Take a bike ride: Biking is a great way to see the countryside around Trang An. There are several bike paths in the area, and you can rent bikes from most hotels and guesthouses.
6. Visit the nearby attractions: There are several other attractions near Trang An, including the ancient city of Hoa Lu, the Tam Coc caves, and the Cuc Phuong National Park.
7. Relax and enjoy the scenery: Trang An is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the scenery. There are several cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating where you can sit and take in the views.
8. Try the local food: Ninh Binh province is known for its delicious food. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as goat meat, mountain snails, and rice paper spring rolls.
9. Go shopping: There are several markets in Trang An where you can buy souvenirs and local handicrafts.

The best time to visit Trang An

The best time to visit Trang An is during the dry season, which typically falls between November and April. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as boat tours and hiking. Additionally, the limestone karst landscape and lush greenery are at their most vibrant during the dry season, enhancing the scenic beauty of Trang An.

It’s worth noting that the peak tourist season in Trang An coincides with the dry season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and tours during this time. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder months of November, December, or April, when the weather is still favorable but tourist numbers are lower.

Avoid visiting Trang An during the rainy season, which typically occurs from May to October. Heavy rainfall during this time can lead to flooding, muddy trails, and disruptions to boat tours, limiting the overall experience.

Some famous places near Trang An

Tràng An Ancient Temple is a beautiful temple with a long history. It is located just a few minutes from Trang An and is definitely worth a visit.

Temple Quy Minh Vuong is another interesting temple located near Trang An. It is smaller than Tràng An Ancient Temple, but it is still worth checking out.

Hoa Lư Ancient Capital was the capital of Vietnam from the 10th to the 13th centuries. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many impressive ruins.

Mua Cave is a challenging hike, but the views from the top are amazing. It is best to be in good physical condition before attempting this hike.

Tam Cốc-Bích Động is a scenic boat ride through limestone caves and rice paddies. It is a great way to see the natural beauty of the area.