Experiences

Once a formidable fortress and home to several ancient temples, Hoa Lu Cave is the birthplace and initial base of our young, ambitious warrior, Dinh Bo Linh, who would later become Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang. The ‘cave’ and its captivating karst landscape transports you to a different era, offering a serene escape into the heart of Vietnamese history and culture, where legends and landscapes intertwine.

Contrary to its name, Hoa Lu Cave is a valley nestled amidst bamboo thickets and white reeds. Each October, the reeds bloom, evoking ancient memories of the bamboo stick exercises practised by Dinh Bo Linh on these mountainsides. In the heart of the cave lies a temple devoted to Dinh Tien Hoang, which stands on the grounds of his ancient citadel.

A place of spiritual and historical significance and a tranquil sanctuary amidst the serene landscapes of Ninh Binh, Dich Long Cave is a captivating underground world divided into three distinct sections: the cave for Buddha worship, the dark cave, and the light cave. Entering the cave and within Dich Long pagoda, you will find an otherworldly atmosphere of peace and serenity.

Explore the bell tower’s rocky columns and intricately engraved stone—a hallmark of Ninh Binh’s architectural style, or the stone temple dedicated to Saint Nguyen Minh Khong with its eight exquisitely carved, monumental stone columns. Adjacent to the stone temple, the Buddha garden’s sculpted statues add to the spirituality. Further beyond the stone temple, the three-compartment lower pagoda sits halfway up the mountainside, still bearing the scars of past conflicts.

Just 6km northwest of the ancient capital, Bai Dinh Pagoda boasts an incredible cluster of Buddhist architectural structures, blending the newly-built Bai Dinh Pagoda area with shrines from the old pagoda. As one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, its grandeur and sprawling complex reflect the deep reverence the Vietnamese hold for their spiritual traditions.

Located on the slopes of Dinh Mountain, the pagoda’s sprawling grounds house a remarkable collection of art, from intricate sculptures, including hundreds of Buddha statues, to beautifully adorned prayer halls. The striking beauty of the Temple, with its ornate detailing and stunning panoramic views, offers a sense of wonder and reverence to all who visit. Reaching an impressive height of 200 metres and spanning 700 hectares, the complex is arranged in five ascending layers, featuring the Temple’s inner Three Entrance Gate, a striking bell tower, a temple dedicated to Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, the Phap Chu Temple devoted to Shakyamuni Buddha, and Tam The Temple honouring Buddha.

Transport yourself back to the 10th Century, a pivotal period in Vietnamese history, when Hoa Lu was the capital of the Dinh and Early Ly dynasties. Trek or cycle through the remnants of a bygone era with picturesque landscapes serving as the backdrop to your exploration of ancient Vietnam’s architectural and cultural achievements.

Hoa Lu is steeped in history and cultural significance. In 968 CE, Dinh Tien Hoang, also known as Dinh Bo Linh, chose it as the capital after defeating Chinese occupiers. Hoa Lu remained the capital until 1010 CE when the Ly dynasty relocated to Thang Long, present-day Hanoi. Cycle through peaceful villages, scenic rice paddies, and quaint temples for a beautiful insight into local life and a taste of traditional cuisine in Hoa Lu.

Ky Lan Mountain, one of Ninh Binh City’s ‘Four Great Mountains’, takes its name from its resemblance to a unicorn’s head. Often depicted as a unicorn, ‘Ky Lan’ is a mystical creature that holds a special place in Vietnamese culture as a symbol of luck and protection. Throughout the country, statues and representations can be found.

Only 50m tall, Ky Lan Mountain is an easily accessed meditative area close to several of the region’s major attractions. It is home to five distinctive caves and connects across the Trang An River via two stone bridges that welcome visitors from either side. The mountain is home to diverse trees, bonsai plants, and rare birds and animals, making it an idyllic place to explore and convene with nature.