New Changes in Trang An Ninh Binh in 2025 You Need to Know

Why Visit Trang An in 2025?

If you're planning a trip to Vietnam this year, Trang An in Ninh Binh is a destination you shouldn’t miss. Famous for its dramatic limestone mountains, winding rivers, and spiritual temples, Trang An is not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s also a place that keeps getting better. In 2025, several exciting changes have been introduced to improve the visitor experience and offer even more to explore.

Art Tunnel: A New Creative Space Under the Mountain

One of the most impressive updates is the newly designed pedestrian tunnel. What used to be a simple passageway has now been transformed into a modern art space. Walking through the tunnel, visitors are greeted with creative lighting, colorful displays, and artwork inspired by Vietnamese culture and nature. 

It’s more than just a shortcut – it’s a photo-worthy part of the journey, offering a peaceful and visually rich transition between different areas of Trang An.

Save Time with Online Tickets for Trang An

Another change that travelers will appreciate is the introduction of online ticket booking. 

In the past, long lines at the entrance were a common frustration, especially during weekends or holiday seasons. Now, with the option to book tickets online, you can skip the wait and go straight to your boat ride. This saves precious time and gives you more freedom to explore nearby attractions like Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Cave, or Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – all located just a short drive away.

You can buy official Trang An online boat tickets HERE.

Discover the New Phoenix Boat Route

Perhaps the most exciting update in 2025 is the launch of a brand-new boat route known as the Phoenix Route. Until now, visitors could only choose from three main boat routes, each offering a mix of temples and caves. The Phoenix Route adds something fresh to the mix – new scenery, hidden spots, and a less crowded journey. It's an ideal choice for returning visitors or those looking for a more unique and tranquil experience on the water.

Discover the Phoenix Route: Trang An's Newest and Shortest Boat Tour in Ninh Binh

Khe Coc Island: From Skull Island Film Set to New Tourist Spot

Adding even more value to the trip, Khe Coc Island has officially opened to tourists. This new destination was developed on the site of the former Skull Island film set, which had been closed to the public. Today, Khe Coc Island welcomes travelers with serene boat paths, scenic limestone cliffs, and nature walks. It’s a quieter, more peaceful alternative to some of the more crowded parts of Trang An, perfect for those who enjoy slow travel and photo opportunities.

Khe Coc, Ninh Binh: A Unique Cultural Space in Trang An Heritage

Trang An vs Tam Coc: Which Boat Tour Should You Choose?

Trang An and Tam Coc are the two most popular boat tours in Ninh Binh, but they offer quite different experiences. 

Trang An is known for its majestic cave systems, spiritual temples, and UNESCO World Heritage status. The boat ride here lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours, taking you through a network of 9 to 12 caves, depending on the route you choose. Along the way, you’ll stop at ancient temples like Trinh Temple or Suoi Tien Temple and pass through mysterious caves such as Nau Ruou or Dot Cave. The scenery is dramatic and constantly changing – from dark cave interiors to bright open lakes surrounded by limestone cliffs. Tickets to Trang An cost 250,000 VND per person.

In contrast, Tam Coc offers a shorter and more peaceful experience, perfect for those who want to enjoy Ninh Binh’s countryside charm. The boat trip lasts about 1.5 hours and takes you through three caves – Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba – with vast rice fields and karst mountains on both sides. During spring, the rice fields turn bright green or golden, creating a stunning backdrop for photos. One unique aspect of Tam Coc is that the boat is rowed by local women, often using their feet to paddle – a special cultural sight. The ticket price is the same, 250,000 VND per person. However, Tam Coc can feel a bit repetitive for some, as there are fewer temples or varied stops along the way. Also, the area tends to get very hot around midday, and boats offer limited shade.

All About Boat Tour in Ninh Binh: Tam Coc vs Trang An Boat Tour?

Travel Tips for Your 2025 Trang An Visit

To make the most of your 2025 visit to Trang An, it's a good idea to book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues at the entrance. Arriving early in the morning not only helps you beat the crowds but also lets you enjoy the cooler weather during your boat tour. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as you may explore temples and caves on foot during the trip. Don’t forget to bring sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially if you're visiting during the warmer months. If you want a deeper understanding of the area’s history and culture, consider joining a guided tour that includes stops at nearby attractions like Bai Dinh Pagoda or Mua Cave – it's a great way to save time and enjoy a more complete Ninh Binh experience.

In general, Trang An in 2025 is more exciting than ever. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to discover something new, this destination will not disappoint. From the Phoenix boat route to the creative art tunnel and peaceful Khe Coc Island, Trang An offers an unforgettable experience.

Ready to explore Trang An and beyond?
Check out our best-selling Ninh Binh day tours, Trang An & Bai Dinh combo tours, or Trang An - Tam Coc 2-day packages – all with hotel pickup, local guides, and flexible options.