Just 100 km from Hanoi, Van Long is an area of astounding natural beauty with limestone peaks whose splendor is often said to surpass that of Ha Long Bay. It is true that this area is often referred to as the new Ha Long Bay on land. The tour includes being rowed along the Van Long River, which makes for a truly unforgettable experience, passing between towering limestone peaks.
A 2-hour drive to Ninh Binh province will bring you to Hoa Lu ancient capital, the economic, political and cultural center of the first centralized feudal state in Vietnam from 968 to 1010 C.E. The ravages of time have destroyed the ancient citadel, but some vestiges including King Dinh and King Le worship temples still stand to this day. From there, drive to Van Long eco-tourism area, an astounding place of natural beauty with limestone peaks. A 2-hour boat trip along the river offers stunning scenery composed of fields, limestone mountains and caves. Bring along binoculars – you might encounter some rare langurs or birds. Return to Hanoi after a simple lunch at a rural place.
End of services (hotel accommodation today is not included) |