Which Trang An Boat Tour Route Is Best for First-Time Visitors?
This complete guide compares all four official Trang An boat routes, helping you pick the best one based on your interests, whether you love culture, nature, or adventure.
Phoenix Mountain in Hanh Cung Vu Lam - One of the most famous sites in Trang An Ninh Binh
If you’re visiting Trang An, Ninh Binh, for the first time, you might wonder: Which Trang An boat tour route is best? The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex currently offers 04 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 from 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the chosen route. Each traditional wooden boat carries around 4–5 passengers, making it a comfortable and peaceful experience for families, couples, or solo travellers.
A long cultural tunnel in Trang An, which you pass through, from the parking slot to the boat station
The boat journey is slow-paced, allowing you to fully enjoy the stunning scenery like towering limestone cliffs, tranquil water, and lush greenery.
Boat tours operate year-round, but each season offers a unique beauty:
- Spring (Feb–Apr): Cool and misty, perfect for photography.
- Summer (May–Aug): Lush green mountains and bright sunshine, but heavy rain can occur
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Clear skies and pleasant weather.
- Winter (Dec–Jan): A peaceful atmosphere with fog adding a mysterious touch.
Even during light rain, the mist floating over the water makes Trang An feel like a natural wonderland.
Trang An currently has four official routes: the classic Route 1, Route 2, Route 3, and the newly added Phoenix Route. Let’s explore each one in detail.
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
Duration: ~3 hours
Route 1 is the most historically and spiritually rich option. It takes visitors through ancient temples and sacred sites linked to Vietnam’s royal history.
A highlight is Nau Ruou Cave (Wine Brewing Cave), legend says kings once brewed wine here using water from an underground spring. You’ll also visit Tran Temple and Trinh Temple, both important religious landmarks where locals pray for peace and prosperity.
- Best for: Travellers interested in Vietnamese culture, temples, and legends.
See also: 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 Son Temple, Dia Linh Mountain
Duration: ~2.5–3 hours
Route 2 is perfect for those who want to enjoy nature and adventure. The trip combines historical sites with stunning natural scenery. You’ll pass through several hidden caves, peaceful rivers, and lush valleys surrounded by limestone mountains.
A must-see stop is Hanh Cung Vu Lam, an important military base of the Tran Dynasty, where kings once directed battles against Mongol invaders.
With its mix of caves, temples, and calm waterways, Route 2 offers a balanced experience; it’s scenic without being too long.
- Best for: Nature lovers, cave explorers, and first-time visitors.
See also: 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, Dai Cave
Duration: ~2.5–3 hours
If you’re looking for something cinematic, Route 3 is a must-try. This route passes through the filming location of “Kong: Skull Island” (2017), where you can see Khe Coc Island, formerly known as Skull Island. The movie set remains were removed, but the area still retains its wild, cinematic beauty.
You’ll pass through quiet valleys and mysterious caves that are often less crowded than other routes — ideal for photography and those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Best for: Movie fans, photographers, and adventurous travellers.
See also: 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, Vu Lam Royal Steps
Duration: ~2 hours
The Phoenix Route (Phuong Hoang Route) is the newest addition to Trang An’s boat system. It introduces newly accessible caves and scenic waterways while remaining shorter than other routes.
This route allows visitors to admire Trang An’s beauty from a fresh perspective, passing through crystal-clear rivers and hidden grottoes surrounded by karst mountains.
Best for: Returning visitors or those with limited time who still want to see the main highlights.
See also: Discover the Phoenix Route: Trang An's Newest and Shortest Boat Tour in Ninh Binh
Quick Comparison Table: Which Trang An Route Fits You Best?
| Route | Theme | Main Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Route 1 | Culture & History | Tran Temple, Nau Ruou Cave | Cultural travelers, spiritual visitors |
| Route 2 | Nature & Caves | Suoi Tien Temple, Vu Lam Royal Steps | First-time visitors, nature lovers |
| Route 3 | Movie & Adventure | Kong Island, Dai Cave, Voi Valley | Movie fans, photographers |
| Phoenix Route | New & Scenic | Thanh Truot Cave, Cao Son Temple | Returning visitors, short-trip travelers |
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.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Trang An
Mua Cave - Near Trang An and it offers a great panoramic view of Tam Coc Area
A Trang An boat trip can easily be combined with other famous Ninh Binh landmarks:
- Hang Mua (Mua Cave): A short drive from Trang An, this viewpoint offers one of the best panoramic views of the Tam Coc and Trang An area.
- Bai Dinh Pagoda: The largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, known for its impressive architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
- Tam Coc: Another scenic boat route, often compared to Trang An but known for its golden rice fields along the Ngo Dong River.
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?
In short, Trang An boat tours offer the perfect mix of nature, caves, and culture.
Ready to plan your trip? Book your Trang An boat tour in Ninh Binh today and experience the beauty of this world heritage site for yourself!
Tuyet Tinh Coc - Mua Cave - Trang An
Or check more tours here: Ninh Binh Best Tours - Daily Tours
