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Explore the Phat Diem Cathedral and Quang Phu Cau Incense Village on a guided tour. Discover the unique blend of Eastern and Western architecture and witness the vibrant colors of the incense village

Highlights

• Enjoy a boat ride through caves and rivers in Trang An
• Taste authentic Vietnamese dishes at a local buffet lunch
• Hike up Mua Cave for panoramic views of Ninh Binh’s landscape
• Trai Tim Duc Me Stone Church, Phat Diem Cathedral a masterpiece of stonework
• Discover the Quang Phu Cau Incense Village and its vibrant colors

Description

Private Tour: Incense Village & Phat Dien Cathedral Discover the unique blend of Eastern and Western architecture at Phat Diem Cathedral. Begin your journey at the main church, a stunning structure with four roofs and five intricately carved entrances. Admire the altar made of monolithic stone, adorned with patterns representing the four seasons. Next, visit the Phuong Dinh bell tower, an iconic symbol of the cathedral. Marvel at its three floors, each adorned with reliefs of saints and stories associated with Jesus. The top floor features five tower blocks, with the central block housing a massive 1.4-meter-tall bell weighing 2 tons. Continue to the Trai Tim Duc Me Stone Church, the most noticeable among the five small churches. Every detail, from the foundation to the pillars, is crafted from stone. During Christmas, the church is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a magical ambiance. After exploring the cathedral, head to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, a place steeped in tradition and craftsmanship. Witness the vibrant rows of vividly dyed incense sticks arranged like blooming flowers, creating a surreal, colorful landscape. Observe artisans hand-dyeing bamboo sticks and drying incense under the sun, offering a rare glimpse into a centuries-old craft rooted in Vietnam. Option: Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu, Trang An, Mua Cave , 'SMALL GROUP' 07h15 – 8h00: Pick up from your hotel in the Old Quarter area and departure for Ninh Binh. Due to the ban on buses picking up passengers on some streets between 6:30 and 8:30 from 1 March 2025, we may need you to come to one of our meeting points depending on your location to wait for us. We appreciate your support. 09h15: Have a short break for relaxing & rest room at a stop-over about 15 - 20 minutes. 10h00- 10h30: Arrive at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century, visit the King temples. Under the introduction of our local guide, you will get to know more about the Vietnamese history. Relax before lunch: - A short bike ride with tour guide : Get on a bike and start cycling to explore the beautiful scenery and limestone mountains with a unique route (optional and free of charge) - If you don't wish to cycle, feel free to explore the village on foot or rest at a local restaurant. 12h00: Enjoy buffet lunch at a local restaurant – goat meat dishes is the local specialty ( Vegetarian foods are avaiable ) 13h30: Arrive Trang An and spend about 1h40 - 2 hours exploring Trang An– the core of natural heritage in a Sampan boat (4 people per boat), rowed by a local people. Explore the amazing cave tunnel system & passing through sacred temples associated with legends in the history of Trang An. Get back to limousine bus then leave for Mua Cave. Walk up almost 500 steps, you can reach the top of Lying Dragon Mountain & have an amazing panoramic view of Tam Coc from here. Leave Ninh Binh & drive back to Hanoi. 19:00 – 19:30 Arrive in Hanoi, drop you back to your hotel . Trip ends.

Includes

Visit to Phat Diem Stone Cathedral Visit to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village Some free incense after you made your own incense Tour guide Pick up & drop off in Old Quater area Mineral water Buffet lunch with Vietnamese cuisine (Optional) All sightseeing tickets and boat fees Free using of hat/ rain-coat during the trip Transportation Boat trip to Trang An Entrance fees as per the itinerary Biking visit to villages and Tam Coc town Bike rental

Important Information

• Phat Diem Cathedral combines Eastern and Western architectural styles The construction of Phat Diem Cathedral took nearly 30 years Quang Phu Cau Incense Village is known for its traditional incense-making methods The village offers a photogenic setting with vividly dyed incense sticks

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund