Trang An

Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ninh Binh, Vietnam, known for its stunning landscape of limestone karsts, emerald-green rivers, and intricate cave systems. Visitors take a small rowboat (rowed by a local guide) on a 2-3 hour journey through a series of caves and past ancient temples and pagodas. The route passes through multiple caves, some low and dark, others cathedral-like, with stalactites and stalagmites. Along the way, you'll see temples built into the cliffs, such as the Trang An Temple and Suoi Tien Temple. The scenery is often compared to Ha Long Bay but with a more intimate, river-based experience. The area is also home to diverse wildlife, including birds and monkeys. It's a serene and magical experience, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is golden.

Don't miss

• Boat ride through caves like Hang Toi (Dark Cave) and Hang Sang (Light Cave)
• Visit the Trang An Temple nestled in the cliffs
• See the ancient Kong: Skull Island filming location
• Spot wildlife such as langurs and kingfishers
• Enjoy the peaceful scenery of limestone karsts reflected in the water

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Trang An

Cheapest way inHanoi to Ninh Binh 1 day: Trang An - Tam Coc - Mua Cave - Hoa Lu4.6★ · 110 travelers11–12 hoursFree cancellationFrom$23 per personSee dates →Best full dayFull-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi5★ · 8,764 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$79 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleNinh Binh Private Tour to Mua Cave Trang An Grottoes From Hanoi5★ · 150 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$160 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water – it gets hot on the water.
• Keep valuables in a waterproof bag; splashes can happen.
• Charge your camera – you'll want many photos.
• Tip your rower (20,000-50,000 VND) if they provide good service.

A bit of history

The Trang An landscape was formed over millions of years by tectonic activity and erosion. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence of prehistoric humans. Temples date back to the Dinh and Le dynasties (10th-11th centuries).