Ninh Bihn: Top Day Trip from Hanoi

It was a Saturday to remember. We started early from Hanoi to go to Ninh Bihn. It turned out to be an auspicious decision. The peaceful boat trip which is the highlight of the visit was a very enjoyable experience without the burning sun. 

Boat Trip in Ninh Bihn. Copyright: aesta1.

The moment we got down of our car in Ninh Binh, we were immediately guided to one of the boats. The centre in Tam Coc, where we took the boat, seemed to be very well organized. No time was wasted. 

We got in the boat and were surprised how relaxed the rowers were. They had padded seats with back support and because they used their feet to row, these men and women were prettier relaxed as they ferry tourists through the river navigating the low entrances in the caves and earning a good sum especially because a few of them have a small stock of goodies to sell to tourists as well.

Cave in Ninh Binh. Copyright: aesta1.

You can see wild goats on the hillsides and restaurants in Ninh Binh offer wild goat dishes as their specialities. We tasted these and they were good, not smelly at all and barbecued well, they were tasty.

A Boat Paddler in Ninh Binh. Copyright: aesta1

The temples were worth visiting because of its history and breathtaking view. In one of these temples, the monk gave a musical rendition from a local musical instrument that sounded hauntingly beautiful.

Lotus grow on the water and its pink blossoms are Buddhist symbols of enlightenment. Along the river banks, other tropical plants grow and you can enjoy their flowers as you cruise along.

Ninh Binh is only a little over an hour from Hanoi so it is an easy day trip. Leave Hanoi early and get into the boat the moment you arrive. This way, you avoid the scorching noonday sun during your boat trip.

Go around the city after you're back from the boat trip and look for a local restaurant that serves mountain goat dishes. Enjoy the taste of this local specialty.