Ninh Binh Excursion: Phat Diem Catholic Capital & Galaxy Cave – 01 Day

Morning:
◾ Depart from Hanoi and transfer to Nho Quan, Ninh Binh, passing through the lush vegetation of the Red River Delta.
◾ Ninh Van Stone Carving Village: Upon arrival, visit the renowned Ninh Van village, famous for its exquisite stone sculptures. Stroll around and witness the convergence of history, culture, religion, and lifestyle in their products. Make a special visit to a unique 100-year-old house built almost entirely of natural blue stone. Meet the owner, Mrs. Dinh Thi Long, and enjoy an interesting conversation about the village's history and her husband’s grandfather, who was invited to build the famous stone Phat Diem Cathedral.
◾ Note: Mrs. Long is an elderly lady and may not always be at the house. In such cases, you will view the house from the outside.
Mid-Morning:
◾ Thien Ha Pier: Continue to Thien Ha Pier and embark on a small bamboo sampan boat for a fantastic two-hour boat trip with a local rower. Explore the mystical limestone mountains as the picturesque rural countryside unfolds before your eyes. Buffaloes, ducks, and simple houses at the foot of the mountains create an idyllic rural scene.
◾ Thien Ha Cave: Walk up to Thien Ha Cave (Celestial River Cave), discovered in 2007. Covering about 12,000 square meters, the cave features magnificent stalagmites and stalactites with mystical shapes. Walk the first 200 meters, then take another boat trip inside the cave to discover its paradisiacal beauty.
Midday:
Lunch:
◾ Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
◾ Phat Diem Cathedral: Transfer to Phat Diem Cathedral, known as the “Catholic capital” of Vietnam. Constructed between 1875 and 1899, the cathedral features a unique combination of traditional pagoda architecture and a western church built of stone and wood.
◾ Upon arrival, take a leisurely walk to visit the Jesus Christ statue on the middle islet and the impressive house-gate.
◾ Continue to the grand Catholic Church named “Nha Tho Duc Me Man Coi,” built with six rows of monolithic ironwood and a two-layer tile roof. Located at the end of the courtyard, the completely stone church is the most incredible building in the complex.
◾ Chinh Kim Village: After leaving the church, enjoy a leisurely walk to Chinh Kim village. Visit workshops where locals knit sedge products and perhaps try a cup of their well-known rice wine liquor.
Evening:
◾ Return to Hanoi: Transfer back to Hanoi, arriving around 6:00 PM.
◾ Note: Please dress modestly when visiting worship places.