A Journey to Tranquility

Leaving the bustling streets of Hanoi behind, I embarked on a journey to the serene countryside of Ninh Binh. The promise of a peaceful escape from the city’s chaos was too tempting to resist. As a digital nomad, I often find myself craving these moments of tranquility, where I can disconnect from the digital world and immerse myself in nature. The Bai Dinh Pagoda and Trang An Cave tour seemed like the perfect opportunity to do just that.

The day began with a pick-up from my hotel in the Old Quarter, a familiar starting point for many of my adventures in Vietnam. The drive to Ninh Binh took about two and a half hours, with a short break along the way. As we left the city behind, the landscape transformed into lush green fields and towering limestone karsts, a sight that never fails to take my breath away.

Exploring Bai Dinh Pagoda

Our first stop was the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest pagoda in Vietnam. As we arrived, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the place. The pagoda is home to 500 La Han statues and the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam, standing at an impressive 10 meters tall and weighing 100 tons. The sheer scale of the site was awe-inspiring.

We took an electric car from the parking area to the main gate, where our guide led us through the complex. Walking among the statues and learning about the Buddhist religion was a humbling experience. The peaceful atmosphere of the pagoda, combined with the stunning architecture, made it a highlight of the trip.

Discovering Trang An Grottoes

After a delicious Vietnamese lunch, we headed to the Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This part of the tour was what I had been most looking forward to. The boat trip through the cave system was nothing short of magical. As we glided through the water, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, I felt a sense of peace wash over me.

The caves themselves were a wonder to behold, with their intricate formations and hidden chambers. Our guide shared stories and legends associated with each cave, adding an element of mystery to the experience. It was easy to see why Trang An is considered a highlight of any trip to Vietnam.

As the day came to an end, we cycled around the village, getting a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people. It was a perfect way to wrap up the tour, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and culture of Vietnam. The journey back to Hanoi was filled with reflections on the day’s adventures and a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore such a stunning part of the world.