Trang An, Vietnam: 8 Tips to Avoid Crowds and Confusion
Trang An is an important site for cultural and natural heritage in Ninh Binh, recognized by UNESCO in 2014. Here, the wonderful combination of man and nature features cultural and historical sites like temples and pagodas, while nature provides limestone mountains, caves, beautiful streams, and lagoons.
If you find yourself asking, "Is it worth visiting Trang An?" or "What is the boat ride like here?" everything in this article will provide you with all the necessary knowledge, so you don't need to check anything else. Let us discover why Trang An is always on the list for anyone visiting Ninh Binh!
Written by Oliver PHUNG (Tour guide)
Updated on May 16, 2025
2 comments
Oliver Phung is a specialist in cultural tourism and trekking in the mountains of Northern Vietnam, with over 7 years of hands-on experience. Born and raised amidst the sounds of the kèn (a traditional instrument) and the songs of the Mông, Thái, Tay, and Dao ethnic communities, Oliver does not just have a passion for their history and culture, he lives it. For him, sharing the beauty of these traditions is not just a job, it's a way of life.
Drawing from his experience on hundreds of trekking trips and guided tours across routes from Ha Giang, Lao Cai to Cao Bang, Oliver offers an authentic and in-depth perspective.
Officially named Trang An Ecological Tourism Zone, it is about 7 kilometers from the heart of Ninh Binh and 90 kilometers (a 2-hour drive) from Hanoi, the capital.
In this area are fascinating environments forming a chain of karst mountains that have been shaped and transformed over 259 million years under the impact of climatic and meteorological conditions. Remarkable among them, along the Trang An comlex, are dazzling caves set among mysterious winding rivers, all of which create a grand and enchanting natural wonder.
🏆 Good to know:
The Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site, includes:
Trang An Ecological Tourism Area
Tam Coc - Bich Dong
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu Primeval Forest
2. Entrance fees and schedules in Trang An
Ticket prices:
Adults: 250,000 VND per person ≈ $10 USD
Children (1m to 1.3m tall): 120,000 VND per person ≈ $5 USD
Children under 1m: Free
Private boat rental: 1,250,000 VND per boat ≈ $50 USD
📌 Remark: You can buy tickets directly at the entrance of the site. Each boat can accommodate 4 to 5 people, depending on the total weight. Tickets are non-refundable once you board or enter the boarding area.
The entrance to the boat pier of Trang An Tourist Area
Opening hours:
From 7:00 am to 4:30 pm daily.
⚠️ Please note: Schedules may vary depending on weather conditions and holidays. In the event of adverse weather conditions, the administration may temporarily suspend ticket sales.
3. Trang An or Tam Coc? We Did Both So You Don’t Have To
To better choose between Trang An and Tam Coc, here is a comparison of the two sites:
Criteria
Trang An
Tam Coc
Landscape
Limestone mountains, numerous caves, intertwined rivers, temples and historical remains.
Three large caves (Hang Ca, Hang Hai, Hang Ba), green rice fields surrounded by limestone mountains.
Cultural and historical experience
Richer in heritage with sacred temples and archaeological sites.
Fewer cultural and historical elements along the route.
Activities
Boat ride + possibility to go kayaking.
Boat trip only.
Duration of the boat tour
2.5 to 3 hours.
1.5 to 2 hours.
Popularity
Less touristy, more peaceful atmosphere.
More crowded, especially in high season.
In short:
For a longer, more varied, and history-rich experience, Trang An would be ideal.
If ticking off a shorter trip through rice fields and mountains is on your wish list, then Tam Coc is recommended.
If you want to avoid crowds, then Trang An is generally quieter than Tam Coc.
4. What to See and Do in Trang An
There are many beautiful caves in Trang An, each offering its own legend of charm.
The Dark Cave is approximately 320 meters long and is shaped in a winding configuration that prohibits light entry, creating a mystical atmosphere. Just after it, the Cave of Light stretches 100 meters long. Although the name means "shining cave," it remains in darkness without artificial lighting dazzling its dramatic rock formations.
The Alcohol Distilling Cave is a source of pure underground water, which once served in the production of alcohol so pure that it was meant for the Vietnamese monarchs.
Cave of the Distillation of Alcohol
The Cave of the Three Drops, as its name suggests, is famous for its stalactites, which are said to always drip water. According to local belief, those who can catch three drops of water from this stalactite will be rewarded with good luck and happiness in their lives.
The almost 300-meter-long Jewel Cave is characterized by glistening stalactites that reflect a natural treasure hidden within.
Lastly, Hang Đột is the longest cave in Trang An, with a total length of more than 1,000 meters. Its ceiling is lofty and well-ventilated, giving visitors a fresh sensation while crossing the cave by boat for around 30 minutes.
The stalactites in the Trang An Caves are completely natural and date back to the 7th century.
Discover Sacred Temples
Most of the temples located in the lower regions of a mountain pay tribute to the loyal ministers who served the Đinh dynasty in the 10th century, managing royal finances and playing an important role in the defense of the kingdom.
Trần Temple, founded by King Đinh and renovated during the Trần Dynasty, is dedicated to the guardian god of the ancient capital. Every year, on March 18 of the lunar calendar, a festival is celebrated there, attracting many visitors.
Khống Shrine (Phủ Khống) is a place steeped in history, very close to Khống Cave. It commemorates the loyal ministers of the Đinh Dynasty, who are said to have sacrificed their lives to preserve the secret of the royal tomb. This cave was also a strategic refuge during the wars of resistance.
Hanh Cung Vu Lam Temple is accessible solely by water and is found amidst thick mountains and forests. It was a critical military center during the Mongolian invasions while also functioning as a monastic retreat for several kings of the Trần Dynasty, thereby marking a significant milestone in the history of Buddhism in Vietnam.
Tran Temple, the sacred stone temple
Experience Kayaking Adventure
At Trang An, you can replace the traditional rowboat with a kayak tour. That way, you'll be able to enjoy the site's beauty at your own pace. Paddling the São Khê River brings total immersion in nature: The routes range from 5 to 8 km. It is also the route where you can admire several temples and historical sites like Trình Temple and Hanh Cung Vu Lam. Adventure lovers and the physically ambitious will find the experience a novel feature of visiting Trang An.
The kayak rental costs between 250,000 and 400,000 VND, depending on the type of boat (solo or duo) and the duration of the tour (2 or 3 hours).
Kayaking in Trang An
5. Four Rowboat Tours
Tour 1: Den Trinh - Den Tran - Phu Khong
⏳ Duration: Approximately 3 hours
This tour features the largest number of caves in Trang An. You can go through nine caves, one of which is a remarkable walk-through cave. There are three spiritual places that will be visited. It is worth exploring the history of the Đinh Dynasty through temples and legends, such as Đền Trình, Phủ Khống, and so on. Additionally, this tour offers you the chance to discover Đền Trần, the heart of the world heritage site.
Don't forget to respect the safety rules when you are on board the small boats
Circuit 2: Den Thanh Cao Son – Den Suoi Tien – Hanh Cung Vu Lam
⏳ Duration: Around 3 hours
In this tour, not only will you visit four caves, but you will also explore three sacred sites. Come learn about the cult of Cao Sơn, who is regarded as a guardian of ancient Hoa Lư, and Suối Tiên Temple, dedicated to Quý Minh Đại Vương, an ancient general under the Hùng kings. The site celebrates an annual festival on the 17th and 18th of the lunar month of March to honor this legendary hero.
Circuit 3: Den Trinh - Hang Dot - Hanh Cung Vu Lam
⏳ Duration: About 3 hours
This tour will take you through three caves and engage you in the spirit at three spiritual sites. Hang Đột Cave shines as the grandest of them all, with the distinction of being the longest cave in Trang An (more than 1,000 meters). Đền Trình and Hành Cung Vũ Lâm, formerly a royal pavilion and now a temple, will be visited. Viewing Thủy Đình and Phượng Hoàng Mountain is obligatory, offering great photographic opportunities.
Trang An, a perfect place for meditation and self-reflection, away from the hustle and bustle of the city
Phuong Hoang Tour: Thanh Cao Son Temple – Phuong Hoang Mountain – Thanh Truot Cave
⏳ Duration: Approximately 1h30 to 2 hours
Since December 2023, this has been the best tour for those on a limited timeframe yet still wanting to see the top attractions of Trang An. Visit two temples and four caves, including the beautiful Hang Thanh Trượt, featuring smooth and shiny walls. This tour also includes a visit to Thủy Đình and the breathtaking summit view at Phuong Hoang mountain.
An iconic image every time Trang An, Ninh Binh is mentioned
You can reach Trang An by taking a train from Hanoi Railway Station to Ninh Binh Railway Station, and then continue by taxi or motorbike. The journey takes just over 2 hours. For more information, check out our guide to train travel in Vietnam.
By private car
Traveling in a private car with a local driver, albeit comfortable, is a small inconvenience. Getting from central Hanoi to Trang An will take less than two hours, depending on traffic.
Ninh Binh Railway Station
7. When Is the Best Time to Visit Trang An?
Located in northern Vietnam, the weather at Trang An is typical of the region, featuring four distinct seasons. It can be visited throughout the year, but the following are considered the best times:
From March to June: The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 27°C and soft sunshine, which perfect for outdoor activities amid the beautiful scenery.
In March and April: The annual Trang An Flowers Festival, held in honor of two local deities, takes place. The atmosphere is lively during the festival, with boat parades, dragon processions, and traditional games set along the river.
From September to November: Autumn brings a cool climate and gentle weather, presenting romantic landscapes ideal for sightseeing and discovering nature's beauty.
Whether in the rain or the sun, Trang An always exudes an astonishing sacred aura
It is not essential to buy the tickets online, but if you wish, you can get them on this website: https://muave.disantrangan.vn/ (language: Vietnamese).
After your boat trip to Trang An, there are a few other must-see sites in Ninh Binh that are worth visiting within half a day:
Bai Dinh Pagoda: One of the largest Buddhist complexes in Vietnam, famous for impressive records such as the largest statue of Buddha Di Lạc in the country (2012), the longest corridor of Arhat statues in Asia, and the largest well in Vietnam (2007).
Mua Cave: A stunning panoramic view of Tam Coc - Bich Dong. After climbing almost 500 stone steps, you'll be greeted with breathtaking views of the limestone mountains and rice fields.
Hoa Lu: The ancient capital of Vietnam, a vast historical complex spanning more than 300 hectares, featuring ancient ramparts, royal tombs, temples, and iconic monuments.
📌 Our advice: Most travelers combine Trang An with Bai Dinh Pagoda and Tam Coc with Bich Dong Temple and Mua Cave.
Well, tipping is voluntary but is usually highly appreciated if you're satisfied with the service. An amount between VND 20,000 and VND 50,000 is generally appropriate.
Yes, washrooms can be found at the entrance of the site and at several stops along the route. Usually, these are free, but it is common practice to leave a small tip of 3,000 to 5,000 VND after using them.
Although Tam Coc has its uniqueness, Trang An claims significance regarding a rowboat ride in Ninh Binh. It has truly attractive mountain scenery, together with curvy rivers and culturally innovative historical sites, and it is worth exploring. A visit to this site will be a memorable experience.
Good evening, I'm a bit chlostrophobic and I'm a little scared, what course could you recommend for Tran an? Thank you
0Reply
Oliver Phung08 Oct 2025
Hello, you can totally enjoy the scenery without entering the caves. In Tràng An, it is enough to ask the boatman not to make the boat pass through passages that are too narrow or dark.
Alternatively, a good alternative is Tam Coc, also located in Ninh Binh Land Bay. The experience takes place mostly outdoors, with far fewer passages under the caves. Again, you can tell the rower to keep the boat only outside. Good trip.
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Other
Hello, you can totally enjoy the scenery without entering the caves. In Tràng An, it is enough to ask the boatman not to make the boat pass through passages that are too narrow or dark.
Alternatively, a good alternative is Tam Coc, also located in Ninh Binh Land Bay. The experience takes place mostly outdoors, with far fewer passages under the caves. Again, you can tell the rower to keep the boat only outside. Good trip.