{"id":255578,"date":"2025-05-19T12:40:26","date_gmt":"2025-05-19T12:40:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/?p=255578"},"modified":"2025-05-19T12:40:26","modified_gmt":"2025-05-19T12:40:26","slug":"hoa-lu-vietnam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/hoa-lu-vietnam\/","title":{"rendered":"A Trip To Hoa Lu Vietnam: Uncovering The Royal Past Of The Ancient Capital"},"content":{"rendered":"

Hoa Lu Vietnam welcomes visitors with a touch of nature, history, and culture. Nestled in the north, Hao Lu was once the capital of the country that witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties. Though it no longer holds the title, it still is a popular tourist site. Surrounded by limestone mountains, ancient temples, and green rice fields, Hao Lu is truly a beautiful place to be. From the moment you set foot in the former province, you have no time to pass. With a plethora of attractions waiting to be explored, you need to get on with your plans immediately.<\/em><\/p>\n

History<\/h2>\n
\"Beautiful<\/div>\n

Photo: Kien1980v \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

As the first capital of Vietnam, Hao Lu was built around 968 during the rule of King Dinh Bo Linh. Back then, it served as the political centre of the country and remained so till 1010, the year King Ly Thai To moved the capital to Thang Long (Hanoi). Today, Hoa Lu stands as a historical site that is a home to several ancient temples and pagodas.<\/p>\n

Location<\/h2>\n
\"Scenic<\/div>\n

Photo: Sergey Guk \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation<\/a><\/p>\n

Located in Ninh Binh Province, Hoa Lu is about 90 km south of Hanoi, Vietnam\u2019s current capital. Taking a bus or taxi helps you to cover the distance from Hanoi to Hoa Lu in 2 to 2.5 hours.<\/p>\n

How To Reach Hoa Lu Vietnam<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Federico Pollazzon \/ Pexels<\/a><\/p>\n

Reaching Hoa Lu is quite simple and offers a few travel options that you can choose depending on your preference.<\/p>\n

By Air:<\/strong> The nearest airport is Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi that is approx. 100 km from Hoa Lu. From the airport, you can either take a taxi or shuttle to get to Ninh Binh City.<\/p>\n

By Road:<\/strong> Many people choose to travel by car, bus, or motorbike, especially if they are coming from nearby cities like Hanoi. It takes around 2 hours to reach your destination, depending on road conditions and traffic.<\/p>\n

By Rail:<\/strong> The nearest railway station to Hoa Lu in Vietnam is Ninh Binh Railway Station. After reaching the station, you can simply rent a motorbike or hire a taxi to Hoa Lu.<\/p>\n

Best Places To Visit Around Hoa Lu<\/h2>\n

When it comes to Hoa Lu Vietnam places to visit, the list is long. While it is not possible to cover all of them, you should at least see the most popular ones.<\/p>\n

1. Am Tien Cave<\/h3>\n
\"Image<\/div>\n

Photo: B\u00f9i Th\u1ee5y \u0110\u00e0o Nguy\u00ean \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Am Tien Cave, also known as Tuyet Tinh Coc is known for its natural landscape and beauty. Surrounded by high limestone mountains and clear blue water, this hidden spot feels like a secret place from a fairy tale. The cave is located inside a quiet valley and was once used as a place of punishment in the Dinh Dynasty. However, the highlight of the whole site is Ao Giai Lake, where you can enjoy a serene boat ride and enjoy the lovely views around you.<\/p>\n

Location:<\/strong> Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
\nTimings:<\/strong> 5 AM – 7 PM
\nEntry Fee:<\/strong> 20,000 VND per person<\/p>\n

2. Temple Of King Le Dai Hanh<\/h3>\n
\"Road<\/div>\n

Photo: Nguy\u1ec5n Thanh Quang \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

When looking for Hoa Lu Vietnam tourist attractions, it is hard to miss the Temple of King Le Dai Hanh that was constructed in the 17th century in honour of the king. Surrounded by beautiful green mountains, the temple includes three parts, including the sanctum, Thien Huong House, and the front shrine. While exploring the temple, you will see wooden carvings and statues that showcase a glimpse of the king\u2019s life. The temple is often frequented by locals, who come here to offer incense and pray.<\/p>\n

Location:<\/strong> Truong Yen, Hoa Lu, Ninh B\u00ecnh, Vietnam
\nTimings:<\/strong> 7 AM – 5 PM
\nEntry Fee:<\/strong> 20,000 VND per person<\/p>\n

3. Temple Of King Dinh Tien Hoang<\/h3>\n
\"Traditional<\/div>\n

Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh \/ Pexels<\/a><\/p>\n

Another ancient temple that is not to be missed is the Temple of King Dinh Tien Hoang. Nestled at the base of Ma Yen Mountain, it holds centuries of history and features traditional Vietnamese architecture that is nothing short of impressive. Taking a closer look at the design, you will see dragon carvings on the wooden pillars. Surrounded by lotus ponds and green hills, the temple offers stunning views and a peaceful environment that is nothing like anywhere else in the city.<\/p>\n

Location:<\/strong> Truong Yen, Hoa Lu, Ninh B\u00ecnh, Vietnam
\nTimings:<\/strong> 7 AM – 5 PM
\nEntry Fee:<\/strong> 20,000 VND per person<\/p>\n

4. Tam Coc<\/h3>\n
\"Panoramic<\/div>\n

Photo: Yan Ho \/ Pexels<\/a><\/p>\n

In your list of Hoa Lu Vietnam’s top tourist places, Tam Coc needs to be on the top mainly because of its mesmerising beauty. As one of the most popular places in Hoa Lu, Tam Coc takes you closer to nature, where you get to enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Ngo Dong River and lose your senses to the stunning views. While gliding through the water, you will pass through rice fields and natural caves that are perfect for nature lovers and photographers.<\/p>\n

Location:<\/strong> Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu District, Ninh B\u00ecnh, Vietnam
\nTimings:<\/strong> 7:30 AM – 5 PM
\nEntry Fee:<\/strong> 250,000 for adults, 120,000 for children<\/p>\n

5. Trang An Landscape Complex<\/h3>\n
\"Scenic<\/div>\n

Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh \/ Pexels<\/a><\/p>\n

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An Landscape Complex is famous for its network of caves, rivers, and limestone mountains. When visiting this place, you can take a scenic boat trip through the caves and witness the ancient temples hidden in the valleys up close. This place is not just beautiful, but also holds a deep cultural value. Whether you are here for nature or history, Trang An is an unforgettable place to explore.<\/p>\n

Location:<\/strong> Ninh Xuyen district, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam
\nTimings:<\/strong> 7 AM – 4:30 PM
\nEntry Fee:<\/strong> 250,000 VND per person<\/p>\n

Where To Stay<\/h2>\n
\"Image<\/div>\n

Photo: visualsofdana \/ Unsplash \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

Finding a place to stay in Hoa Lu is not difficult because of the range of accommodations available here. But to pick a room of your choice, booking it in advance is a must, or else you may have to compromise with your comfort. Some of the best places to stay include Nam Hoa Hotel, Hoalu Eco Homestay Ninh Binh, and Quac Khanh Bamboo Homestay. These places are known for their top-notch service and a pool of amenities.<\/p>\n

Where To Eat<\/h2>\n
\"Image<\/div>\n

Photo: Pew Nguyen \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

Your trip to Hoa Lu is incomplete without tasting the local dishes. Fortunately, there are many eateries and street food areas in the ancient capital. All you have to do is look for the best options that serve hygienic and delicious food. In this case, you can rely on Hoang Giang Restaurant, Ninh Binh Street Seafood Restaurant, and Thang Long Restaurant.<\/p>\n

Best Time To Visit<\/h2>\n
\"Scenic<\/div>\n

Photo: Karolina \/ Pexels<\/a><\/p>\n

The best time to visit Hoa Lu is between November and April when the weather is dry and cool. Visiting during these months gives you a pleasant experience and allows you to go out for sightseeing without worrying about sudden rains. However, if you wish to get a taste of the festive season, visiting from January to March is the best.<\/p>\n

Other Factors To Consider<\/h2>\n
\"Snapshot<\/div>\n

Photo: Karolina \/ Pexels<\/a><\/p>\n

Average Cost Of Trip<\/strong><\/p>\n

Travelling to Hoa Lu is not very expensive if you do your budgeting right. For a single person, it is likely to cost around \u20b921,000 to \u20b950,000 for a week-long trip, including flights, accommodation, and tours. Even food is cheap in Hoa Lu, so you can expect to spend between \u20b9200 and \u20b9400 per day on food and drinks. <\/p>\n

Tips For Travellers<\/strong><\/p>\n