Which Trang An Boat Tour Route Is Best for First-Time Visitors?
If you’re visiting for the first time, you might wonder: Which Trang An boat tour route is best? The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex currently offers four boat tour routes, each with its unique charm. This guide will help you choose the best route based on your interests.
Overview of Trang An’s 04 Boat Tour Routes
A Trang An boat tour typically lasts 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the chosen route. Each wooden boat carries around 4-5 passengers, making it a relaxing experience for families, solo travellers, and groups. The gentle rowing speed ensures that all ages can comfortably enjoy the trip, from young children to elderly visitors.
The boat tours are available year-round, and the experience changes with the seasons. Spring and autumn offer cool weather and misty landscapes, summer brings lush greenery, while winter adds a mysterious, foggy charm to the limestone formations. Even in light rain, the journey remains enjoyable, as the mist creates an ethereal atmosphere over the water.
Trang An now operates four official routes: the original Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3, plus the newly introduced Phoenix Route. Let’s take a closer look at what each route offers.
Route 1: The Classic Cultural & Historical Tour
Trang An Boat Route 1 - Map (Source: Disantrangan)
- Main stops: Tran Temple, Nau Ruou Cave, Khong Cave, Trinh Temple.
- Highlights: This is the most historically rich route, featuring ancient temples and important spiritual sites. You’ll explore Trang An’s famous caves, including Wine Brewing Cave (Hang Nấu Rượu), where legend says kings once brewed wine from the underground water.
- Best for: Travelers interested in Vietnamese history, culture, and sacred sites.
Ninh Binh Trang An Boat Route 1: Insider Tips and Detailed Exploration Guide
Route 2: The Scenic Nature & Cave Adventure
Trang An Boat Route 2 - Map (Source: Disantrangan)
- Main stops: Suoi Tien Temple, Vu Lam Royal Steps, Cao Thanh Son Temple, Dia Linh Mountain
- Highlights: This route combines breathtaking nature with historical landmarks. You’ll pass through several hidden caves in Trang An and visit Hanh Cung Vu Lam, an important military base during the Tran Dynasty. The journey takes you through stunning rock formations, making it one of the best Ninh Binh boat tours for nature lovers.
- Best for: Travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, caves, and historical landmarks.
Trang An Boat Trip 2: Details itinerary and highlights of route 2
Route 3: The Kong: Skull Island & Hidden Caves Route
Trang An Boat Route 3 - Map (Source: Disantrangan)
- Main stops: Dia Linh Mountain, Voi Valley, Trinh Temple and Dai Cave
- Highlights: This route is perfect for movie fans and adventure seekers. You’ll visit the Trang An boat tour caves featured in Kong: Skull Island, including Skull Island before, where you can see the remains of the film set and now is Khe Coc Island. The journey also passes through less crowded caves, offering a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
- Best for: Movie lovers, photographers, and travellers looking for unique landscapes.
Route 3 in Trang An Ninh Binh: A Comprehensive Review and Guide
Phoenix Route: The Newest & Most Unique Experience
Trang An - Phuong Hoang Route - Map (Source: Disantrangan)
- Main stops: Thanh Cao Son Temple, Thanh Truot Cave, Dai Cave and Vu Lam Royal Steps
- Highlights: The Phoenix Route is the latest addition to the Trang An tour system. It offers a fresh perspective on the landscape, likely featuring new caves and scenic waterways. If you’ve already visited Trang An before, this is a great way to explore new routes and hidden gems.
- Best for: Returning visitors and travellers seeking a different experience or guests with limited time who want to see the most highlights of Trang An.
Discover the Phoenix Route: Trang An's Newest and Shortest Boat Tour in Ninh Binh
Which Trang Boat Tour Route Should You Choose?
If you’re unsure which Trang An tour to choose, here’s a quick comparison:
- For history and temples → Choose Route 1.
- For nature and caves → Choose Route 2.
- For a cinematic & adventurous experience, → Choose Route 3.
- For something new and less crowded → Try Phoenix Route.
Trang An Caves are amazing to explore by boat
No matter your route, you’ll experience Trang An’s breathtaking scenery, peaceful boat rides, and fascinating limestone caves.
Mua Cave - Near Trang An and it offers a great panoramic view of Tam Coc Area
Trang An can be easily combined with other famous Ninh Binh attractions. Many travellers visit Hang Mua (Mua Cave) before or after the boat tour for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Trang An landscape. Tam Coc, another popular boat tour destination, offers a similar but slightly different experience with rice paddies lining the riverbanks. Additionally, Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, is just a short drive away. By planning your itinerary wisely, you can enjoy a full day of exploring Ninh Binh’s most stunning landmark.
Essential Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Not only caves but ancient temples in Trang An are great
- The best time to visit: Spring (cool and misty) or autumn (pleasant weather). Summer can be hot, and winter may bring foggy views.
- Ticket prices & where to buy: Tickets are available at the entrance gate. Prices are fixed, and all routes cost the same. You can also buy an online ticket to save time in the holiday season.
- What to bring: A hat, sunscreen, a waterproof bag for your phone/camera, and comfortable clothing.
- Avoiding crowds: Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
What should I do in Trang An Ninh Binh: Is a long boat trip boring?
Choosing the best Trang An boat tour depends on what you want to see. Whether it’s ancient temples, hidden caves, or film locations, Trang An has something for everyone. No matter which route you choose, you’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich history. Enjoy your journey through one of Vietnam’s most beautiful destinations!
