Curated Experiences in Ninh Binh | Jiva Hoa Lu Retreat

Adult Activities

At Jiva Hoa Lư Retreat, each experience is thoughtfully crafted to reconnect you with nature, culture, and yourself. Begin with a serene tea ceremony or meditation, embracing moments of stillness and presence. Create a personal keepsake in our dó paper workshop, or cycle through the limestone valley on complimentary bicycles. Discover local flavors through a hands-on cooking class, wander through our garden tour, or allow us to arrange a private Hát Xẩm performance, where the ballads of the ancient capital come to life.

Kids' Activities

Children are invited to explore, learn, and create in a safe, natural setting. From our Heritage Hunt and hands-on gardening to stone painting and leaf art using recycled materials, each activity encourages curiosity and imagination. Complimentary bicycles allow young explorers to cycle through nature, while simple moments like feeding the fish create meaningful family connection - turning every stay into a playful and enriching experience.

Nature

Whether you desire cultural enrichment or a connection with nature, there are abundant activities in and around Jiva Hoa Lu Retreat.

Tam Coc - Bich Dong forms part of the spectacular limestone karst landscape of Ninh Binh, where towering cliffs rise dramatically above fertile valleys and winding waterways. The Ngo Dong River flows gently through expansive rice fields before entering three natural caves - Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba - creating a unique journey through stone arches sculpted by nature over thousands of years.

The area is also home to Bich Dong Pagoda, a historic temple complex built into the mountainside in the 15th century. Blending architecture with natural caves and cliffs, the pagoda offers visitors a peaceful retreat and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Exploring Tam Coc - Bich Dong by boat reveals a timeless landscape where rivers, mountains, and rural life come together to form one of Vietnam’s most iconic and serene destinations.

Tam Coc - Bich Dong

A scenic highlight of Ninh Binh, Tam Coc - Bich Dong features dramatic limestone mountains, peaceful rivers, and vibrant rice fields. Visitors can explore the landscape by boat through three natural caves or discover the nearby Bich Dong Pagoda nestled against the mountainside.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Trang An offers a mesmerising landscape of over 30,000 years of human history. The area's archaeology tells an ancient story of changing landscapes and climatic shifts, surrounded by towering limestone peaks, deep valleys, and an intricate cave system. You'll be treated to a breathtaking combination of rainforests, caves, and a complex network of rivers, lakes, and wetlands.

This land has a deep-rooted history, serving as a protective barrier for Hoa Lu, the imperial capital of Emperor Đinh Tiên Hoàng during the 10th Century, and as Vu Lam Palace during the Tran Dynasty's resistance. Discover its history and natural beauty on foot or via a relaxing boat or kayak trip down its winding rivers. The site is easy to reach by bus or private car, and several tours are available year-round.

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

A UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a mesmerising landscape that holds over 30,000 years of human history. Surrounded by towering limestone peaks, deep valleys, and an intricate...

A paradise for nature enthusiasts and conservationists, the national park boasts lush forest trails, caves, and valleys holding immense wildlife and plant species. Trek, kayak, or cycle through a remarkable botanical garden home to nearly 2,000 plant species, including 37 listed in Vietnam's Red Book of Threatened Species. While the park is open all year round, the ideal time to visit is in dry season between December and May.

Explore the mythology, biodiversity, and natural structures of Vui Xuan, Trang Khuyet, and Dong Nguoi Xua caves, where archaeologists uncovered evidence of ancient human habitation over 10,000 years ago. The forest is home to an array of ancient, peculiar, and exotic trees, some dating back tens of millions of years. Whether you seek exploration or the serenity of the rainforest, Cuc Phuong National Park promises something remarkable.

Cuc Phuong National Park

A paradise for nature enthusiasts and conservationists, the national park boasts lush forest trails, caves, and valleys holding immense wildlife and plant species...

Spanning some 670 hectares, Hoang Gia Golf Course boasts 54 holes across three 18-hole courses. The course, designed by Jack Nichlaus Jr, is located in the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, a land steeped in more than 1,000 years of history - a reminder of the days when Vietnamese kings held court in Ninh Binh.

Set amidst famed attractions like Bai Dinh Pagoda, Tam Coc Bich Dong, Cuc Phuong National Park, and Phat Diem Stone Cathedral, the course integrates with the breathtaking natural surroundings. Exposed rock formations line the fairways, and a picturesque 185-hectare Yen Thang Lake runs alongside the course, with vast, deep bunkers and fine white sand presenting a formidable challenge along the fairways. A royal golfing experience awaits you, with various premium amenities, including international dining options and an entertainment area at the clubhouse.

Hoang Gia Golf Court

Spanning some 670 hectares, Hoang Gia Golf Course boasts 54 holes across three 18-hole courses...

Found on Mount Mo in Thuong Hoa commune, Nho Quan district, Van Trinh Cave is one of Ninh Binh's most mystical. Also known as 'Giang Tien', it draws its name from ancient mythology about a fairy, the youngest daughter of God, who found respite in the cave's natural beauty and crafted serene basins and baths with ever-flowing, crystal-clear waters. In her honour, a temple was erected in front of the cave and came to bear her name.

Visiting Van Trinh Cave is an adventure that starts with a boat ride along the picturesque Hoang Long River to the foot of Mo Mountain. From there, a well-constructed road leads you to the cave's entrance. After that, you must ascend the 77 steps and journey deep into the cave, whose cathedral-like ceiling, reaching heights exceeding 100 metres, looms overhead as babbling water and stone percussion fill the air around you.

Van Trinh Cave

Found on Mount Mo in Thuong Hoa commune, Nho Quan district, Van Trinh Cave is one of Ninh Binh's most mystical caves. Also known as "Giang Tien" Cave, it draws its name from ancient mythology....

Approximately 25 kilometres from Ninh Binh City, Dong Thai Lake eco-tourism area is a place of untamed beauty. With over 350 hectares to explore, you can wind through mist-covered valleys on a soul-soothing boat ride or hike and camp through a perfect destination for a weekend retreat.

Dong Thai Lake eco-tourism area sits in the majestic Tam Diep mountain range, an ancient landscape and a diverse terrain of rolling hills, meandering valleys, and hidden caves. As dawn breaks, you will find a delicate mist kissing the lake while the sun's gentle rays cast a golden glow upon the tranquil, dreamlike waters. Climbing, camping, sailing, and golfing are available year-round amidst nature's raw, serene beauty.

Dong Thai Lake

Approximately 25 kilometres from Ninh Binh City, Dong Thai Lake eco-tourism area is a place of untamed beauty. With over 350 hectares to explore, you can wind through...

Culture & History

Ninh Binh is steeped in history and culture, evidenced today by the tapestry of experiences that pay homage to ancient traditions in the region. Dive into these natural landscapes, valleys, and caves and listen to the stories held within. Our concierge team will assist, plan and arrange transfer to your selected destination(s) in style and comfort.

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.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

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.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Just 6km northwest of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, Bai Dinh Pagoda boasts an incredible cluster of Buddhist architectural structures, blending the newly-built Bai Dinh Pagoda area with...

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.

Ky Lan Mountain

Ky Lan Mountain, one of Ninh Binh City's 'Four Great Mountains', takes its name from its resemblance to a unicorn's head...

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.

Dich Long Cave & Pagoda

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.

Hoa Lu Cave

Once a formidable fortress and home to several ancient temples, Hoa Lu Cave is the birthplace and initial base of a young and ambitious warlord named Dinh Bo Linh, who would later become....