Introduction to Trang An

Trang An, located in the Ninh Binh province of Vietnam, is a spectacular landscape complex renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Trang An offers visitors a unique blend of scenic waterways, limestone karsts, and historical landmarks.

Highlights of Trang An

• Scenic Waterways: Trang An is often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land" due to its intricate network of rivers and caves, surrounded by towering limestone mountains. Visitors can take boat tours to explore these waterways, which offer breathtaking views and serene experiences.
• Limestone Karsts: The area is characterized by its impressive limestone karsts, which rise dramatically from the water and create a picturesque landscape. These formations have been shaped over millions of years and are home to diverse ecosystems.
• Cultural and Historical Sites: Trang An is not just about natural beauty; it is also a place of historical significance. The area contains numerous temples, pagodas, and ancient ruins that reflect Vietnam's rich cultural heritage. Notable sites include the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam, and the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which was the political and cultural center of the country in the 10th and 11th centuries.

Popular Routes in Trang An

There are several boat routes that visitors can take to explore the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. Each route offers a unique perspective of the area's natural and cultural attractions.

• Route 1: Known for its vast natural scenery, this route takes visitors through a series of caves and grottoes, showcasing the raw beauty of Trang An.
• Route 2: This route is suitable for all tourists and offers a balanced mix of natural landscapes and cultural sites. It is ideal for first-time visitors.
• Route 3: The longest and most adventurous route, it takes about 3 to 3.5 hours to complete. Highlights include the longest cave in Trang An, Dot Cave, as well as other notable attractions such as Dia Linh Cave, Dai Cave, and Hanh Cung Vu Lam.

We start to explore Trang An route 3 now:

Trang An Route 3: An Overview

Trang An Route 3 has been welcoming tourists since 2017, offering a 3 to 3.5-hour journey through some of the most breathtaking ecological areas and natural sceneries. The highlight of this route is the longest cave in the Trang An area, along with other remarkable attractions.

Key Attractions on Route 3

• Dia Linh Cave: Known for its unique and stunning formations.
• Dai Cave: Another captivating cave with its own distinct beauty.
• Hanh Cung Vu Lam: A site rich in history and cultural significance.
• Kong: Skull Island Set: A must-visit for movie enthusiasts.
• Dot Cave: The longest cave in Trang An, spanning over 1000 meters, featuring a mesmerizing system of stalactites.

Who Should Visit Trang An Route 3?

Trang An Route 3 is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking to explore the scenic beauty of Trang An. It's perfect for:

• Photography enthusiasts looking to capture stunning landscapes.
• Tourists interested in historical and cultural sites.
• Adventure seekers eager to explore the longest cave and hear fascinating stories about Trang An Ninh Binh.

Must-Visit Check-in Points on Route 3

1. Thuy Dinh

A charming pavilion located in front of Vu Lam Palace, Thuy Dinh is surrounded by majestic limestone mountains. The prominent "Phoenix" mountain, which resembles a phoenix in flight, is a highlight. Thuy Dinh is also a cultural hotspot where visitors can enjoy traditional folk performances by talented artists.

2. Dot Cave

The longest cave in Trang An and Ninh Binh, Dot Cave stretches up to 1000 meters. It boasts a diverse system of stalactites that create a shimmering, magical atmosphere. The boat ride through the cave takes about 30 minutes, providing ample time for visitors to soak in the beauty and tranquility.

3. Vu Lam Palace

Once a crucial military base during the Tran Dynasty's resistance against the Yuan - Mongol army, Vu Lam Palace is steeped in history. It's also linked to the Tran Dynasty kings who turned monks to practice and promote Buddhism. The palace area includes:

• Tuan Cao Village: Where officials reported to the king.
• Truong Thi Field: A site for military exercises and training.
• Ben Thanh: A gathering spot for the navy and ships.

4. Ancient Vietnamese Village - Kong: Skull Island Film Set

Known from the movie "Kong: Skull Island," this village attracts numerous visitors each year. Located in the midst of mountains and forests, it spans about 10 hectares and features artifacts and items that depict the lives of ancient aboriginal people, such as earthen stoves and models of boats and airplanes.

Trang An Route 3 offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Trang An area.