Thung Nang Boat tour - Bich Dong Pagoda -
Phat Diem Church
A Journey of Nature & Faith: Thung Nắng Boat Tour – Bích Động Pagoda – Phát Diệm Cathedral
Dear Amazing Traveler,
Welcome to Ninh Binh, a land where faith, nature, and tradition live in harmony. Glide through the serene waterways of Thung Nắng, find quiet reflection among the ancient prayers of Bích Động Pagoda, and feel the timeless devotion within the stone walls of Phát Diệm Cathedral.
This is not just a day of travel — it’s a journey into the heart of authentic Vietnam.
1. Thung Nắng Boat Tour – The Valley of the Sun
Begin your day with the Thung Nắng Boat Tour, a peaceful gem nestled near Tam Cốc. Thung Nắng means “Sun Valley,” and as its name suggests, it glows with warm light reflected off tranquil waters and towering limestone peaks.
Glide gently on a 1.5-hour boat ride through calm emerald waters, passing through two natural caves and along riverbanks lined with water lilies and local homes.
Early in the morning, you might see pink and white lilies blooming gracefully across the surface — a gentle reminder of nature’s pure beauty.
Quieter than Tam Cốc but equally stunning, Thung Nắng offers a truly serene and authentic glimpse of Ninh Binh’s natural charm.
2. Bích Động Pagoda – The Ancient Cave Temple
Next, visit Bích Động Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Ninh Binh, built in 1428. This ancient Buddhist temple is gracefully nestled into the limestone mountain, surrounded by tranquil scenery.
The pagoda consists of three levels — Lower, Middle, and Upper — connected by stone steps that wind through cool natural caves. Climb to the top to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of rice fields and karst peaks.
The sound of temple bells echoing through the caves and the scent of incense in the mountain breeze create a peaceful atmosphere — a perfect harmony of nature and spirituality.
Bích Động Pagoda – The Ancient Cave Temple
3. Phát Diệm Stone Cathedral – The Symbol of Harmony
Phát Diệm Stone Cathedral – The Symbol of Harmony
Next, we visit Phát Diệm Stone Cathedral, one of Vietnam’s most remarkable architectural treasures.
Located about 30 km from Ninh Binh City, this masterpiece was built between 1875 and 1899 and beautifully blends Vietnamese pagoda-style roofs with European Gothic architecture — a breathtaking symbol of cultural and spiritual unity.
As you wander through its courtyards and intricately carved stone walls, you’ll feel a deep sense of peace and reverence.
Phát Diệm is more than a church — it’s a living story of faith and harmony that has stood strong for over a century.
Note: Donations from the heart are always appreciated to help preserve this sacred site.
Trip Schedule
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8:30 AM – Enjoy a 1.5-hour boat trip through the tranquil waterways of Thung Nắng
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10:30 AM – Visit Bích Động Pagoda and enjoy the scenic viewpoint
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12:30 PM – Lunch at a local restaurant
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2:00 PM – Explore Phát Diệm Stone Cathedral
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4:30 PM – Drive back to Ninh Binh City
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5:30 PM – Tour ends at your hotel, filled with the calm and beauty of Ninh Binh
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Camera • Hat • Umbrella • Sunblock • Comfortable walking shoes
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Note: As we’ll be visiting both a pagoda and a cathedral, please dress respectfully — wear shirts with sleeves and pants or skirts that cover the knees.
INCLUSIONS:
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Private A/C car transfer
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English-speaking tour guide
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Entrance fees & boat tickets
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Vietnamese lunch (vegetarian or dietary options available)
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01 bottle of 500ml mineral water per person
EXCLUSIONS:
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Personal drinks & expenses
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Travel insurance
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Tips and gratuities for tour guide/driver (recommended from 10 USD/person)
POLICIES & OTHER INFORMARION
Group size | Fully inclusive tour (USD/PAX) | Car only (USD/CAR) |
|---|---|---|
01 person | 105 | 4–7-seat car |
02 people | 68 | 7-seat car |
03 people | 55 | 7-seat car |
04 people | 50 | 7-seat car |
04 people | 55 | 16-seat car |
From 05 and up | Max 50 | 16-seat car |
Children Price
Free of charge for babies (0 – 3 years old) Children from 4 to under 8 years old: 75% of adult rate Child from 9 years must pay the full adult rate
Cancellation by Customer
More than 7 days before arrival: 10% of total tour price. Within 1 day to 7 days before arrival: 30% of total tour price. Within 12 hours to 24 hours before starting time: 50% of total tour price. Within 12 hours before starting time: 75% of total tour price. Pick-up service
For group tour: the pick-up time will be flexible within 15 minutes (For example: For dinner time, the pick- up time will be between 17.45 and 18.15). Since we have to do several pick-up places, so your patience is always appreciated. For private tour: the pick-up time is up to the guest, it is customization The hotel pick-up must be at in city central area, in case your hotel accommodation is outside of this area, please kindly inform us about that.
Customer support
Calling staff free consultation after registration. Get the latest deals