Private Tour: Thung Nham Bird Garden, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital & Bich Dong Pagoda 1 Day Trip from Hanoi

Morning – Hanoi to Ninh Binh

08:00 – Hotel Pickup in Hanoi

Our driver and tour guide will meet you at your hotel or private address in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. From there, enjoy a comfortable 2-hour drive to Ninh Binh through the picturesque countryside of the Red River Delta.

10:30 – Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Arrive at Vietnam’s first royal capital, Hoa Lu, dating back to the 10th century. Visit the ancient temples of King Dinh and King Le, located at the foot of majestic limestone cliffs. Learn about the Đinh and Early Lê dynasties, and see traditional Vietnamese architecture preserved in time.

11:30 – Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Continue to Bich Dong Pagoda, a three-tiered pagoda complex built into a mountainside. Climb through peaceful forest paths and ancient stone steps to explore the Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagodas. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the lush rice fields and dramatic karst peaks that surround the temple.

12:30 – Traditional Vietnamese Lunch

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant with traditional dishes from the Ninh Binh region. Highlights may include goat meat with lemongrass, crispy rice (cơm cháy), spring rolls, and local vegetables. Vegetarian and special dietary options are available upon request.

14:00 – Thung Nham Bird Garden Boat Trip

Arrive at Thung Nham Bird Garden, a tranquil wetland area and bird sanctuary nestled in the limestone valley. Board a sampan boat rowed by a local and glide through calm flooded forests. Spot thousands of birds – such as storks, herons, and kingfishers – as they fly overhead or nest in the treetops. This experience offers serenity and excellent photo opportunities in a rare natural habitat.

15:30 – Explore Hang But (Buddhist Cave)

After your boat ride, walk to Hang But, a 500-meter-long natural cave located within Thung Nham. Marvel at impressive stalactites and stalagmites, including a naturally formed Buddha-shaped stone. Experience the quiet spiritual atmosphere inside this unique limestone cave.

16:30 – Return to Hanoi

Begin your drive back to Hanoi, relaxing as you pass through rice fields and local life along the way.

19:00 – Hotel Drop-off in Hanoi

Arrive at your hotel or private accommodation in the Old Quarter. Tour ends with warm thanks from our guide – we hope you had a meaningful journey to the heart of Ninh Binh.

Children Price

• Free of charge for babies (0 – 4 years old)
• Children from 4 to 8 years old: 75% of adult rate
• Child from 9 years must pay the full adult rate

Cancellation by Customer

• More than 15 days before arrival: Free of charge.
• Within 7 days to 15 days before arrival: 30% of total tour price.
• Within 3 days to 7 days before starting time: 50% of total tour price.
• Within 72 hours before starting time: 100% of total tour price.