Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is not only a valuable relic site but also a remarkable tourist attraction in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. It offers tourists the great chance to appreciate both stunning historical scenery and unique architectural values of a bygone era. Read the article for insightful advice and tips on how to explore this breathtaking location in Ninh Binh.
History of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Vietnam
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital address: Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital entrance fee: 20,000 VND for each person
- Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
As the first capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is famous for its rich architectural and historical landmarks. In 968, King Dinh Bo Linh of Dai Co Viet (an ancient name of Vietnam) constructed his capital in Hoa Lu and ruled until 980.
Afterward, Hoa Lu also endured for almost 31 years through the Le dynasty (980–1009) and the Ly dynasty (1009–1010). In 1010, King Ly Thai To moved his capital to Thang Long (Ha Noi now), and Hoa Lu became an old capital with many preserved historic temples and relic locations in Vietnam.
Highlights on Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Temple of King Dinh Tien Hoang
King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple is a unique architecture in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. Located at the foot of Ma Yen Mountain, King Dinh Temple was a great work of wood and stone carving created by Vietnamese artists in the 17th century. This temple offers an ethereal, timeless beauty that transports us to a millennium-old version of the city.
The complex consists of three shrines: the inner one honors King Dinh Tien Hoang, the middle shrine is called Thien Huong, and the outer shrine is Ngo Mon Gate.
Temple of King Le Dai Hanh
Not far from the Dinh Temple, King Le Dai Hanh Temple was built in the 17th century and included three parts: the front shrine, Thien Huong House, and the Sanctum to worship King Le. In comparison to King Dinh Temple, this temple is smaller and shares the same architectural style.
In front of the main temple are the altar and a giant drum. At the back, there are beautiful images of King Le Dai Hanh, his wife, and his unpopular son – King Le Long Dinh.
Nhat Tru Pagoda
Nhat Tru (also known as One Pillar Pagoda) is a place of spiritual activities and an indispensable part of the Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel. Constructed in the 10th century, this pagoda preserves various antiquities attached to the history of the former imperial capital.
Covering an area of over 3,000 square meters, this pillar was erected in the Dinh architectural style with five front halls, three upper halls, and a south-facing tiled roof. The front hall was made of wood and decorated with stylized lotus blossoms and twisted foliage from the Nguyen dynasty. The upper hall adopted the truss structure design with regular pillars and corners carved with dragons and swords in the style of the Le Dynasty.
Hoa Lu Tu Tran (Four sacred temples of Hoa Lu)
Being the capital of the first fundamental dynasty of Vietnam, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the cultural center of Ninh Binh, has witnessed many important historical events.
Hoa Lu is famous for its four sacred temples which are built to worship the Gods of the four directions, including Quy Minh Temple in the South, Nguyen Temple in the North, Thien Ton Temple in the East and Cao Son Temple in the West. It is highly suggested to visit those temples and offer incense to commemorate the merits of the gods as well as experience the spiritual life of the locals.
Am Tien Cave
Am Tien Cave, or Tuyet Tinh Coc in Hoa Lu, is not only an imposing natural landscape but also a cultural site with long-lasting values.
Tuyet Tinh Coc is a great combination of lakes, mountains, and temples. No one can deny its charming appearance. Coming here, you can marvel at the harmonious blend of limestone mountains, a tranquil lake and the diverse ecosystem. Ao Giai Lake is the highlight of this whole site, thanks to its crystal-clear water reflecting the contemplation of the surrounding mountains. Coming here, you can take in the clean air, enjoy the scent of nature, and hear the sounds of life.
Best time to visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
In fact, you do not need to choose an ideal time to visit Hoa Lu. Each time you visit this location, you will learn something new. But Vietnamese locals claim that spring is the best time to travel to Hoa Lu since there will be a lot of wonderful festivals taking place after the Lunar Tet holiday.
During the festival months, you can participate in the bustling atmosphere, try traditional foods, and enjoy exciting cultural activities with local people. Otherwise, if you like the peace of Hoa Lu, you can visit it in the remaining months.
Besides Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, you should not miss other famous attractions in Ninh Binh, such as Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Caves, Phat Diem Cathedral, Bich Dong Pagoda, Tam Coc Bich Dong, Cuc Phuong National Park, Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, etc.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Map
How to get to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital?
Starting from Hanoi, it will take about 2 hours to travel around 110 kilometers to Hoa Lu. You have plenty of transportation options, including taking a bus, train, or car from Hanoi to Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh.
- By Bus
You can easily find the Ha Noi – Ninh Binh bus route among many bus operators at the Giap Bat or My Dinh Bus Station in Ha Noi. The ticket price is affordable, ranging from 100,000 VND to 150,000 VND per person. Every day from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., there is a bus that runs every 30 minutes.
- By Car or Motorbike
Departing from Giai Phong Street, you should head to Phap Van – Cau Gie Highway and go straight. Then, you can follow the signposts along the roads until arriving in Ninh Binh Province. Once you have reached Ninh Binh, you can quickly get to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
- By Train
The price of train tickets from Hanoi to Ninh Binh varies from 90,000 VND to 200,000 VND, depending on the type of train and seat. Remember to buy your train tickets before the departure time. The train will stop at Ninh Binh Train Station and you will have to pick up a taxi or rent a motorbike to get to Hoa Lu.
For travelers who want to visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital with private services, you can book a private tour from Vietnam Shore Excursions. Professional and knowledgeable tour guides will share profoundly many interesting stories about this place and Ninh Binh, as well as the local life of local people during the tour. Here are some Ninh Binh Tours which customers can find out and book for you and your group.
- Ninh Binh Tour from Hanoi
- Hoa Lu Tam Coc Day Tour
- Cuc Phuong National Park Tour
- Bai Dinh Trang An Tour
- Ninh Binh Tour 2 Days 1 Night
In conclusions, Ninh Binh has long been popular among tourists for its historical constructions and natural scenery. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is a must-see destination in Ninh Binh and a significant cultural and historical landmark. Visiting this fantastic relic site will help you expand your knowledge and see the ancient architecture of the Vietnamese dynasties. Besides Hoa Lu, you are highly recommended to stop by other nearby attractions, including Tam Coc – Bich Dong and Bai Dinh – Trang An to complete your Ninh Binh trip.
