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BY  Sibashree Sep 19, 2025

Disneyland Hong Kong is now celebrating its 20th anniversary with “The Most Magical Party of All.” The celebration has already begun on 28th June 2025, and it will continue throughout the year.  Furthermore, Disneyland Hong Kong is now getting bigger and better with new partnerships and attractions.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, I will decode what’s new at this wonderland located at Penny’s Bay, Lantau Island, Outlying Islands, and all the experiences and details you need to know about. What’s New At Disneyland Hong Kong? Partnership With Cathay And New Marvel Attractions Hong Kong Disneyland, or HKDL, is going to play a crucial role in boosting tourism in Hong Kong. It has now signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Cathay Pacific.  Thanks to this MoU, the two leading Hong Kong brands will now combine the theme park fun of HKDL with the premium flight experiences of Cathay.  Ronald Lam, the chief executive officer of Cathay, and Michael Moriarty, the managing director of HKDL, attended the event at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel. Of course, Mickey Mouse was there to share the quintessential Disney Charm.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hong Kong Disneyland (@hkdisneyland) At the event, Michael Moriarty said,  “As we celebrate Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th anniversary, this collaboration with Cathay strengthens our commitment to elevating Hong Kong’s global tourism appeal. We look forward to creating magical, immersive experiences that captivate today’s travelers and reinforce Hong Kong’s position as a world-class destination.” Earlier, Michael Moriarty also shared his thoughts on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Disneyland Hong Kong. He said,  “HKDL has become the tourism flagship for Hong Kong and the region now. We hope this milestone year will be filled with immersive entertainment, unforgettable moments, and boundless magic and surprises that only Hong Kong Disneyland can create.” Moreover, Disneyland Hong Kong on 12th September 2025 (the 20th anniversary of HKDL), has shared a “new concept art for the upcoming Spider-Man ride.”  The Rides And Attractions At Disneyland Hong Kong View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hong Kong Disneyland (@hkdisneyland) Disneyland Hong Kong offers the ultimate experience with rides and attractions, live entertainment, and miscellaneous Disney characters.  The Ant-Man and The Wasp, The Barrel of Fun, The Castle of Magical Dreams, Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, and Garden of Wonders are some of the best rides and attractions for people of all age groups and heights.  Most of them are also inclusive, allowing the rider to remain seated in a wheelchair or ensuring a smooth transfer from the wheelchair. Best Offers On Disneyland Hong Kong Tickets And Hotels  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hong Kong Disneyland (@hkdisneyland) Currently, Disneyland Hong Kong is providing the following offers. Here are the details. 1. Park Tickets You can now log in to your MyDisney HK Account and purchase tickets to get a HK$100 discount voucher on shopping and dining. Furthermore, if you are buying a ticket of HK$100, you will get a gift of at least the same amount.  Nevertheless, here are more details about the park tickets.  Park TicketsDetailsNon-stop 2-Day Fun Ticket• Add HK$100 to the price of a regular 1-day ticket and get tickets for two consecutive visits. • General Admission: HK$7691-Day Ticket with Free 20th Anniversary SouvenEAR Mini Party Hat• Enjoy a park visit and get a “complimentary 20th Anniversary SouvenEAR Mini Party Hat.” Offer ends on 27th September, 2025. • General Admission: HK$6691-Day Tickets• General Admission: HK$669• Valid for 3 Months• Choose your type of ticket. Furthermore, the park offers free entry to children under 3 years of age.  2. Magic Access Or Annual Pass From 17th September to 30th December 2025, HKDL is offering a 20% discount on the purchase of three or more Magic Access or Annual Passes.  There are three types of Magic Access or Annual Passes. You can choose a silver, gold, or platinum pass, and the benefits will vary based on the pass you choose.  3. Priority Access And More Do you want the best experience at Disneyland Hong Kong? You can choose a Disneyland VIP Tour at HK$16668. Furthermore, you can have your Disney Princess Moments or have personalized photography services with additional charges.  Furthermore, you can buy an Early Park Entry Pass and Disney Premier Access for priority access and more benefits in the park. The Best Dining Options At Disneyland Hong Kong  There are multiple dining options inside the park with a valid park ticket. You can even take the dining fun a few notches higher by being a part of the Crystal Lotus Disney Friends Dim Sum Making Class with Lunch.  The price for being a part of the Dim Sum Making Class with Lunch is HK$1388 per person. Moreover, you can join the Mickey and Friends Afternoon Tea Party Set at HK$618.  River View Cafe, Explorer’s Club Restaurant, and Enchanted Garden Restaurant are some of the best places to dine in the park. However, to dine at these places or have a fun dining experience, you will need to carry a valid ticket to the park.  How To Reach Disneyland Hong Kong? Disneyland Hong Kong is located at a distance of around 13 km from the Hong Kong International Airport. So, you will reach the park from the airport by road in less than 15 minutes.  Here are more details on how to reach Hong Kong Disneyland.  1. Traveling To Disneyland Hong Kong By MTR Trains Trains run frequently from the Sunny Bay Station to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort. You can board a train from the MTR Kowloon Station and MTR Hong Kong Station to reach HKDL in 30 minutes.  Furthermore, you will get a train from the Hong Kong International Airport MTR Station. However, you will have to transfer at Tsing Yi Station to reach HKDL.  2. Public Bus You will find many local buses from Tung Chung, Downtown Hong Kong, Lantau Link Interchange, and Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port.  The bus ticket charges range between HK$3.2 and HK$23.5.  3. Guangdong Cross-Border Bus You can take the Wonderland Express from Huanggang Port. Eternal East Bus runs this service. Furthermore, you can board a cross-border bus from Guangdong Province & Macau.  Trans-island ChinaLink Bus, CTS Bus, and Eternal East Bus offer services on these routes.  4. Taxi The urban taxis or the red taxis, New Territories taxis or green taxis, and Lantau taxis or blue taxis are available to Disneyland Hong Kong.  The government transportation department operates all these taxis.  Moreover, you can choose a car or coach service, resort shuttle service or airport transfers to reach HKDL from various parts of Hong Kong.  Disneyland Hong Kong: Spreading Disney Magic With Community Impacts  Throughout its 20-year journey, Disneyland Hong Kong has been one of the top entertainment employers in the country. Furthermore, the Disney VoluntEARS have devoted around 123,000 hours to help children with ailments and disabilities.  In 2025, as a part of the 20-year celebration of the park, Disneyland will double its donation of 100,000 complimentary park tickets for community organizations serving those in need.  The Future Of Disneyland Hong Kong  The pipeline for the future growth of HLDL looks solid. Michael Moriarty, the managing director of HKDL, says in this context,  “We remain agile and committed to providing innovative experiences and exceptional service for our guests,” Moriarty said. “Those are a testament to the ideals that have guided us for the last 20 years.” An offering of Pixar-themed entertainment and new superhero attractions is going to be the biggest attraction at the park in the near future.  Disneyland Hong Kong: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Disneyland Hong Kong. 1. Is One Day Enough For Disneyland Hong Kong? Yes, one day is enough to visit Disneyland Hong Kong. However, you can add just HK$100 more to your usual one-day ticket and get access to two consecutive entries. Thus, you can enjoy all the rides and attractions of Disneyland Hong Kong at a much relaxed pace.  2. What Is The Disneyland Hong Kong Fireworks Time? The fireworks at Disneyland Hong Kong or Momentous: Party in the Night Sky usually start from 8 PM. However, the exact time of the fireworks can change on different days based on specific dates and weather conditions.  3. What Are The Disneyland Hong Kong Opening Hours? The park opens at 10:30 AM and it shuts down at 8:30 PM. However, with the Early Park Entry Pass, you are eligible to enter the park before the usual opening hours.  4. What Is The Best Time To Visit Disneyland Hong Kong? October to March is the best time to visit Disneyland Hong Kong, as the temperature is cooler and the humidity in the air is lower. Furthermore, these months usually do not have typhoons.However, if you want to avoid the crowd, you can visit HKDL in early July or September.  5. Can I Bring Food To Disneyland Hong Kong? Yes, you can bring food to Disneyland Hong Kong. However, it must not have pungent odors. Also, you cannot process, heat, or refrigerate the food. Read Also: Best Places To Travel With Kids: 8+ Places Across The Globe You Must Take Them To What Are The Best Places To Plan A Destination Proposal In The World? The Ultimate Guide To Becoming A Disney Travel Agent

BY  Ankita Oct 26, 2023

If you occasionally yearn for an escape to a tropical paradise, Punta Cana may beckon you with its irresistible allure.  This picturesque stretch of the Dominican Republic's coastline is graced with magnificent beaches such as Cortecito and Bavaro, exceptional golf courses, and a sun-drenched tropical climate—lounge beneath the shade of swaying palm trees while your family embarks on snorkeling adventures with rays.  Indulge in expertly crafted cocktails infused with Caribbean rum and tropical fruits, watching the sun descend below the horizon. Explore the lush Dominican Alps by canoeing or rafting in the scenic terrain, or journey to Santo Domingo to witness the oldest European city in the Western Hemisphere. Alternatively, you can unwind and bask in the beauty of Punta Cana. The charm of Punta Cana lies in its versatility – it accommodates both active vacations and leisurely sunbathing, making it one of the Caribbean's premier destinations. About Punta Cana Neighborhoods Punta Cana, a renowned resort town on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a captivating destination celebrated for its breathtaking beaches, upscale resorts, and a wealth of leisure activities.  Beyond the pristine shores and luxurious accommodations, the area comprises several distinct neighborhoods, each with character and allure. These neighborhoods offer travelers diverse experiences, from bustling nightlife to tranquil escapes in natural beauty. One of the most iconic neighborhoods in Punta Cana is Bavaro. Famous for its postcard-perfect beaches, Bavaro is a hub for water sports and recreational activities.  The neighborhood boasts a wide selection of high-end resorts, fine dining establishments, and shops, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a luxurious beachfront experience. Cap Cana stands out for those searching for an exclusive and opulent retreat.  This upscale neighborhood features lavish resorts, championship golf courses, and a world-class marina. Cap Cana's marina is a magnet for yachting and deep-sea fishing enthusiasts, while its golf courses, designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, cater to golf enthusiasts. Punta Cana Village offers a different atmosphere, catering to locals and expatriates. This neighborhood is a vibrant center for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It hosts a variety of international restaurants, supermarkets, and charming boutique shops, making it a bustling locale within Punta Cana. For a more lively and culturally rich experience, visitors often gravitate toward Cortecito. Nestled near Bavaro Beach, Cortecito is renowned for its energetic ambiance.  What Are The Must-See At Punta Cana  Punta Cana is a tropical paradise with many must-see attractions and activities catering to various interests. Here are some of the top must-see things in Punta Cana: Pristine Beaches: Punta Cana is renowned for its stunning beaches, including Bavaro Beach, Macao Beach, and Juanillo Beach. Relax on powdery white sands, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy water sports like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and parasailing. Water Adventures: Explore the vibrant underwater world by snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs. You can also enjoy catamaran cruises, speedboat tours, and swimming with dolphins. Saona Island: Take a day trip to Saona Island, a protected nature reserve with beautiful beaches, mangroves, and a serene lagoon. It's an ideal spot for relaxation and nature appreciation. Hoyo Azul: Visit Hoyo Azul, a natural cenote (sinkhole) in Scape Park. The vibrant turquoise waters surrounded by lush tropical vegetation create a mesmerizing sight, and you can even take a refreshing dip. Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park: Explore this ecological park, part of the Puntacana Resort & Club, which features 12 freshwater lagoons, a lush forest, and walking trails. It's an opportunity to witness the region's native flora and fauna up close. Manati Park: Meet the local wildlife at Manati Park, where you can interact with dolphins, sea lions, parrots, and other animals. The park also offers cultural displays and horseback riding. Altos de Chavón: Visit this charming Mediterranean-style village located in La Romana. It boasts a cultural center, theater, art galleries, and picturesque streets. It's a great place for art and culture enthusiasts. Other Places To Visit Punta Espada Golf Course: If you're a golf enthusiast, tee off at Punta Espada Golf Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus. It offers breathtaking ocean views and is considered one of the best golf courses in the Caribbean. Zip Lining: Experience the thrill of zip-lining in the tropical forests of Punta Cana. Several adventure parks offer zip-lining adventures through lush canopies. Explore Local Cuisine: Savor Dominican and international cuisine at restaurants and beachside shacks. Try traditional dishes like mofongo and fresh seafood. Nightlife: Punta Cana's nightlife scene is vibrant, with beachfront clubs and bars offering music, dancing, and entertainment. It's an excellent way to enjoy the Caribbean rhythm. Higuey: Take a day trip to Higuey, a nearby town with cultural and historical significance. Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia, a revered Catholic pilgrimage site. How To Visit? Arrival by Air Punta Cana boasts its own international airport, PUJ, which is a major Caribbean air hub, serving over 30 airlines across three terminals. The added convenience is that Punta Cana can be reached in hours from numerous major North American cities. Travelers must ensure they possess a valid passport for stays of up to 30 days, while visits exceeding 30 days require a travel visa. Great flight deals can be easily found through our flight search tool. Private Transfers In Punta Cana, private transfer options offer a seamless as well as enjoyable journey from the airport to your lodgings. Professional drivers will take you to your destination in comfort.  Private sedan transfers for up to 4 passengers generally come to around USD 6, while for larger groups, private van transfers accommodating up to 8 passengers usually start at approximately USD 13. Reserving your private transfer in advance is advisable. Taxis Getting a taxi in Punta Cana is a straightforward process, with taxis readily available at the airport taxi bay. Taxi rates in Punta Cana are established by local authorities and categorized by zones. It's worth noting that taxis are one of the more expensive modes of transportation in Punta Cana. Fares typically range from $10 to USD 80, and additional fees of $10 to USD 20 are common for nighttime fares. Taxis can be hailed directly from the Punta Cana Airport taxi bay, just outside the customs area on the right. Most taxi drivers carry fare charts and accept currencies, including dollars, euros, as well as Dominican pesos. Car Rental Renting a car to explore Punta Cana is a convenient option, and most rental companies have a presence at Punta Cana International Airport. Car rental prices in Punta Cana usually range from $21 to USD 55 per day. You can rent a full-sized SUV for approximately USD 57 per day or an intermediate car for about $38 per day. A valid driver's license is required to rent a car Punta Cana, but it's important to note that most rental companies do not permit travel into Haiti. You can find excellent rental car deals through our search tool. By Bus If you're considering bus travel, bus operations in Punta Cana as well as nearby towns are primarily from Expreso Bavaro, with buses departing roughly every 15 minutes. However, it's important to note that bus schedules in Punta Cana are only sometimes there, and you may sometimes face lengthy wait times, exceeding an hour, for a scheduled bus. While public transportation, such as local buses known as Guaguas, is available, there are more recommended choices for tourists. Regrettably, the bus system around Punta Cana is generally an unreliable mode of transportation, but it is an economical option. The bus fare in Punta Cana is USD 1 (40 DOP), making it an exceptionally budget-friendly means of travel throughout the Punta Cana area. This fare is typically consistent for bus travel within Punta Cana. Final Thoughts Punta Cana is a tropical haven with many experiences waiting to be explored. From pristine beaches and lush golf courses to cultural gems as well as natural wonders, this Caribbean paradise has something for everyone. As you plan your visit, remember the diverse neighborhoods that offer unique charms and attractions. When traveling to Punta Cana, the journey begins with flights to Punta Cana International Airport. It is conveniently accessible from numerous North American cities. Remember to check your passport validity and visa requirements, especially if you plan to stay longer than 30 days. Upon arrival, various transportation options are available, from private transfers that provide comfort and convenience to taxis and car rentals for more independent exploration. Bus travel is an economical choice but may involve unpredictable schedules. As you delve into Punta Cana's neighborhoods, each has its own story. From the lively atmosphere of Bavaro as well as the exclusive luxury of Cap Cana to the cultural charm of Punta Cana Village, you'll find the perfect setting for your Caribbean adventure. Whether you're looking for water adventures, cultural immersion, golfing getaways, or simply relaxing on the beaches, Punta Cana neighborhoods offer diverse experiences. Remember to savor the local cuisine, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, and prioritize safety during your stay. In Punta Cana, the possibilities are endless. With careful planning as well as a spirit of adventure, visiting these must-see neighborhoods will be an unforgettable journey through the heart of this tropical paradise. So, pack your bags and let Punta Cana's beauty and culture inspire your next vacation. Read Also: Best Neighborhoods To Discover In Mexico City How To Make The Most Of Your Trip To Rome 10 Best Restaurants In The US

BY  Sibashree Mar 2, 2026

Ninh Binh or Halong Bay on Land is a UNESCO-protected site and a hidden gem in the tourism landscape of Vietnam.  It has ancient temples, a surreal riverine landscape, and dramatic limestone mountains. A Ninh Binh boat tour and climbing up its beautiful peaks is the best way to explore this serene place.  Moreover, if you see Ninh Binh on the map, you will find it in the northern region of the country. Along with its natural abundance, it is also known for its historical and cultural heritage.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about what Ninh Binh is famous for, how to reach Ninh Binh from Hanoi, the things to do in Ninh Binh, where to eat in Ninh Binh, and more.  What Is Ninh Binh Famous For?  If you are a follower of the TheLowDownUnder Travel philosophy, Ninh Binh will become your instant favorite. It’s authentic, sustainable, and perfect for mastering the art of slow traveling.  In this way, Ninh Binh reminds me of Luang Prabang in Laos. During my Luang Prabang itinerary planner, I found out how it practices sustainable tourism.  In fact, being environmentally responsible is a common feature of these two neighbors.  Also, Ninh Binh is one of the most exotic places to watch the sunrise in Vietnam.  Nevertheless, here are the reasons why Ninh Binh is famous for.  1. Waterways And Wetlands Ninh Binh is a lush and fertile region blessed by a network of waterways. The Red River and the Day River function as the lifeline of this region, and at the same time, many smaller rivers have added to the fertility and unique topography of the region.  You can enjoy a boat tour of these waterways and experience an adrenaline rush.  Moreover, these wetlands, especially in places such as the Van Long Nature Reserve, are home to different types of birds and other animals.  2. Karst Limestone Cliffs Trang An, Tam Coc, and Van Long Nature Reserve are some of the most famous Karst limestone cliff areas in Ninh.  Most of the karst limestone formations here rise from the waterways and the rice paddies. Thus, this sudden rise against the lows of the waterway creates a sense of drama.  3. Grottes And Caves The limestone karsts in Nin Binh are all the more fascinating due to the underground exploration and adventure opportunities they offer.  Some of them, especially the ones in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, come with caves and grottes. Moreover, these caves and grottes are some of the largest in Southeast Asia. 4. Proximity To Hanoi Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital, is one of the cheapest places to visit in the world.  The Hanoi to Ninh Binh journey by road takes around 2 hours. Drive south from Hanoi, and you will reach the former capital of the country.  However, despite this proximity, Ninh Binh has maintained its idyllic charm. So, often, it is the go-to destination for a day trip or weekend trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.  5. Transportation Hubs The Ninh Binh City railway station is the gateway to the Ninh Binh region for the rest of the country.  Furthermore, Ninh Binh is well-connected via road. Thus, this scenic region of Vietnam is quite easily accessible.  6. Gateway To Exploration Ninh Binh is the gateway to Halong Bay in the east and the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.  Furthermore, from Ninh Binh, you can explore northern regions such as Sapa and the Vietnam-China border.  7. Historical And Cultural Heritage Ninh Binh is home to Hoa Lu, the first capital of independent Vietnam. The Dinh and Early Le dynasties ruled over Hoa Lu from 968 to 1010 AD before the capital was moved to Hanoi.  You will find here 10th-century temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le in Hoa Lu.  Furthermore, Nin Binh has many ancient pagodas, and its cultural significance lies in being a UNESCO-Protected Site.  8. Scenic Beauty  The waterways of Ninh Binh are tranquil. Furthermore, the lush landscape and karst limestone formations act as the most dramatic backdrop.  You will love trekking, birdwatching, and of course boating at Ninh Binh. How To Get From Hanoi To Ninh Binh? A Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi is quite common. You can take a bus or train, or reserve a private car for the day trip.  1. Hanoi To Ninh Binh By Train  You can take a train ride from Hanoi to the Ninh Binh Railway Station.  Depending on the class, your ticket price will be between VND 60000 and 200000, or around $8 USD.  Moreover, the travel time will be around 2.5 hours.  2. Hanoi To Ninh Binh By Bus If you are a budget traveler, you can take a bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. The buses, however, take a little longer, and based on the traffic, it may take up to 3 hours.  The ticket price for a Hanoi to Ninh Binh bus ride is around USD 6 or VND 70000-150000.  3. Hanoi To Ninh Binh By Car  You can book an Uber or just take a private car to reach Ninh Binh by car from Hanoi. Of course, it is the most expensive mode of transportation and costs around 1,380,000 VND or USD 60.  Furthermore, the travel time will be around 1.5 hours.  Moving Around Ninh Binh  Once you are in Ninh Binh and want to explore it locally, you can do it on foot. The city of Ninh Binh is very walkable.  However, if you want to explore more, you can take a bicycle or rent a bike.  1. Exploring Ninh Binh On A Bicycle  It’s a miss if you are in Ninh Binh and don’t explore Tam Coc or other quieter areas of Ninh Binh.  I got a bicycle from the homestay I was staying in for free. However, some homestays can charge a little for the bicycle rental.  2. Exploring Ning Binh On A Bike  Renting a motorbike is the best way to roam around Ninh Binh. You have to spend around $6 USD or VND 80,000–150,000 to rent a bike for a day.  Then, you can explore all corners of this UNESCO Protected Site and explore how history speaks in its every corner.  What Are The Things To Do In Ninh Binh?  The Ninh Binh Vietnam attractions are endless. You have to just figure out the best time to visit Vietnam based on your areas of interest.  Also, the things to do or the places to visit will depend on your duration of stay. Here, I have enlisted the activities that will fit well into your Ninh Binh itinerary for two days.  Nevertheless, here are the details on what to do in Ninh Binh.  1. Ninh Binh Trang An Tour Tràng An is designated by UNESCO as a heritage site, and you can reach it by taking a no-hassle boat ride from Ninh Binh.  The boatride in the serene rivers with the karst limestone cliffs in the background feels cinematic.  Furthermore, on the way, you will find a few temples where you can sniff history and appreciate the architecture.  Why Take A Trang An Tour You must take a Trang An Tour because it is not as expensive as a trip to Bến Thạch Bích. Bến Thạch Bích tour is expensive and has now become a tourist scam.  A tour to Trang An costs around $10 USD or 250000 VND per person.  2. Hiking The Lying Dragon Mountain Or Núi Ngoạ Long The boat rides through the ancient waterways, watched over by the karst limestones, are not the only adventures offered by Ninh Binh.  You can plan a hike to the Lying Dragon Mountain top. You have to climb 500 steps to reach the top, and the view from there is unreal.  From the top, you will see the lush paddy fields and the waterways winding through the limestone cliffs. There is even a temple on a rocky spire.  Ideal Time For Hiking The Lying Dragon Mountain Sunrise and sunset hours are the best for hiking the Lying Dragon Mountain. You can enjoy the golden and red glow from the top of the mountain.  Also, if you are hiking early in the morning, you will have fewer people taking the steps to the top.  Entry Fee And Parking Tip  The entry fee for the Lying Dragon Mountain hike is 100,000 VND or $4 USD. However, please note that your parking fee is included in this fee.  The parking attendants are very aggressive, and they will often misguide you by saying that the parking lot is full. So, be strict about not paying them extra or giving in to their tricks. 3. A Visit To Bich Dong Pagoda The Bich Dong Pagoda in the Hoa Lu District was built by Ly Thai To. It is on the Truong Yen limestone mountain range, and its history dates back to 1428.  However, it was abandoned for many centuries until Tri The and Tri Kien discovered it in 1705. Furthermore, it was named the Bich Dong Pagoda or Green Pearl cave by Lord Trinh Sam of Dang Ngoai in 1774.  The Unique Structure Of The Bich Dong Pagoda  The pagoda has three levels, and the Dark Cave and the Xuyen Thuy Cave.  • Ha Pagoda Or Lower Pagoda The Ha Pagoda, or Lower Pagoda, has 5 rooms and 10 roofs.  Furthermore, there is a monolithic stone pillar adorned with the statues of Lord Buddha. The lower pagoda is used for worship, and you will smell incense once you enter it, and the smell evokes a spiritual feeling.  • Middle Pagoda Or The Trung Pagoda Then, you have to take 120 steps to reach the Middle Pagoda or the Trung Pagoda. It has beautiful tiles and scriptures written in Chinese.  Also, you will find the figures of Lord Buddha, flying dragons, turtles, fairies, and little boys here.  • The Upper Pagoda Or The Thuong Pagoda Finally, you will take 40 steps to reach the upper pagoda or Thuong Pagoda. There is a forecourt, two rooms, and a stone altar in the outer room of the pagoda.  Furthermore, there is an inner room, which has the idol of the Bodhisattva. Moreover, the Cam Lo pond near the upper cave is used for curing ailments.  • Dark Cave Bich Dong You will again climb 21 steps from the Upper Pagoda to reach the Dark Cave Bich Dong.  You will find a large bronze bell there in 1707. Furthermore, inside the cave wall, you will find amazing embossed pictures.  • Xuyen Thuy Cave The Xuyen Thuy Cave is semicircular in form and has a length of around 350 meters. In places, the cave is 6-15 meters in width.  4. Birdwatching At The Thung Nham Bird Valley The Thung Nham Bird Valley is a great spot for nature lovers. You will find the birds early in the morning or late afternoon.  However, if you are late in the morning or in the afternoon at the Thung Nham Bird Valley, you will find goats and ducks roaming.  Overall, the view of the field is amazing.  5. Exploring The Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Hoa Lu, or the ancient capital of Vietnam, is the place to enjoy the history of Ninh Binh.  Being here feels straight out of a movie scene, and this place of reign by the Le and Dinh dynasties, with the surrounding mountains looks straight from a movie scene. Where To Stay In Ninh Binh? You will find many budget-friendly homestays and hotels in Ninh Binh. Having said that, these are my favorite picks.  We stayed at the Ruby Homestay, and it offered a local and authentic experience. It was budget-friendly and still had amenities such as a pool.  However, if you want a more luxurious experience, you can even try the Ninh Binh Royal Homestay. It is a resort with a 3-star rating.  What To Eat In Ninh Binh? The mountain goat meat cooked in various styles, braised fish, rice, and crispy rice are some traditional Vietnamese dishes you can eat in Ninh Binh.  Furthermore, if you are more adventurous, you can try delicacies such as the snakehead fish salad and oakit or jackfruit snail.  Chookie's in Tam Coc and the local markets were our favorite go-to places for trying authentic Vietnamese cuisines and a mix of Western delicacies at times.  Is Ninh Binh Worth Visiting?  Yes, Ninh Binh is worth visiting, and it is the heart of Northern Vietnam for tourists. It has pagodas and temples that go back to the 10th century. Furthermore, the winding waterways through the karst limestone formations simply create a landscape of contrast.  Moreover, it is one of the best places to see sunrise and sunset in Vietnam.  It’s soulful, sustainable, and fertile with lush greenery. Come, visit Ninh Binh.  Ninh Binh, Vietnam: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Ninh Binh.  1. Which Is Better, Ninh Binh Or Halong Bay? Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a more celebrated attraction in Vietnam. Ninh Binh, despite being a UNESCO-protected site, is more like a hidden gem. However, Ninh Binh is closer to Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital, and only a 2-hour drive south. Also, the experiences in these places are very different. In Ha Long Bay, the activities include swimming in the Gulf of Tonkin, overnight cruises, kayaking, and exploring the limestone karsts. Ninh Binh, on the other hand, with a more rural charm, has ancient temples, pagodas, rice paddies, waterways, and dramatic limestone karsts.  2. How Many Days To Stay In Ninh Binh? Two to four days are ideal for staying in Ninh Binh. From hiking up the Lying Dragon Mountain to boat rides to Trang An and Tam Coc, you can cover the major attractions of Ninh Binh in two days. However, if you want to explore the Cuc Phuong National Park or have an in-depth understanding of rural life, you must plan a trip for 3-4 days.  3. How Far Is Ninh Binh From Hanoi? The Ninh Binh and Hanoi distance is around 94 km. The travel time by road down south is around 1.5 to 2 hours. Of course, the travel time will depend on the mode of transport. For example, if you are traveling by bus, the travel time will be around 2.5 to 3 hours. Also, if you are taking a train, it will take around 2.5 hours.  4. What Is The Best Time To Visit Nin Binh? November to April is the best time to visit Nin Binh if you want to enjoy pleasant weather conditions. Having said that, the exact timing of planning your trip will depend on the kind of experience you want. For example, March to May is the ideal time for seeing the blooming flowers. However, if you want to see the golden paddies along the Ngo Dong River, you have to plan a visit in late May to early June.