Thank you for joining us on our journey through northern Vietnam. We previously explored the lively streets of Hanoi and have now made our way to the stunning sacred mountains of Ninh Binh. After enjoying the charm of Sapa, we took a cruise in the breathtaking Halong Bay. Today, we will discover Ninh Binh, which is known for its impressive religious sites, including the largest temple complex in the region.
Ninh Binh boasts many sacred locations, primarily dedicated to Buddhism. The scenery here feels almost like a film set, with its mystical surroundings. Our main destination is the Ba Dinh temple complex, the largest in Southeast Asia, spanning 539 hectares and nestled in nature. This site features over 500 Buddha statues and numerous temples, making it a beloved pilgrimage spot for many Vietnamese.
Opened in 2003, the Ba Dinh complex not only holds the title of the largest temple site but also has the biggest bronze Buddha statue in Asia, elegantly covered in gold. Due to its vast size, hiring a guide and using a golf cart for easier navigation is highly recommended.
We are now visiting the largest temple within the complex, which houses three Buddha statues representing the past, present, and future. Next, we will ascend the tallest stupa, which stands 100 meters high and has 30 floors. Fortunately, it includes an elevator since its construction was relatively recent.
Although there is some fog, the view from the stupa is still remarkable, allowing us to appreciate the immense scale of the Ba Dinh complex. Our tour concludes at the Bell Tower, home to the largest bell and drum in Vietnam.
In the town of Tam Coc, buffalo wander casually through the streets, and a variety of dining options await, offering more than just Vietnamese cuisine. The nightlife is vibrant, with plenty of rooftop bars where parties frequently take place.
Today is sunny, and we decided to bike to the best viewpoint in the area, known as Jung Cuc. The route through the rice paddies offers a beautiful cycling experience. After a short 20-minute ride, we arrive at the stunning karst mountains. We’ll leave our bikes here and continue on foot, with parking available for a small fee or for free in many areas.
The hike provides breathtaking 360-degree views of mountains, rice fields, and pagodas, showcasing the beauty of Vietnam. It takes us about 15 minutes to reach the summit of Hang Mu, also known as the Lying Dragon, where we are rewarded with an incredible view. After enjoying the sights, we’ll descend the 500 steps back to our bikes and head back to the hotel.
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