Top experience you may interested in:
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Located nearly 100km from Hanoi, Hoa Lu in Ninh Binh is not only known as an ancient capital with valuable historical relics but also a destination with many attractive landscapes waiting for you to explore. Let’s discover the complete and detailed Hoa Lu ancient capital with VNTRIP.VN through the following article!
Introduction to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is a unique architectural complex in Ninh Binh province, recognized by UNESCO as one of the four core zones of the Trang An World Heritage site. It is also classified as a special and important national historical architectural complex that requires strict preservation.
With a history of over 1000 years, this place has witnessed the ups and downs of our nation and preserved historical relics from various periods, serving as historical evidence for our country throughout the ages. Despite the passage of time, Hoa Lu still retains its historical traces, such as sturdy city walls and two solemn temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh, which were built to resemble the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
Best Time to Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Ninh Binh
You can visit Hoa Lu at any time of the year. However, spring is the most beautiful time and also when many festivals are organized. So, if you want to experience the lively and bustling atmosphere of these festivals, spring is the best time for you. But if you prefer a serene environment, you can choose other days to visit.
Transportation to Hoa Lu Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
- From Hanoi to Ninh Binh, you can choose one of the following transportation options:
- Train: The ticket prices for the Hanoi – Ninh Binh train range from 90,000 to over 200,000 VND, depending on the train and seat type. Be cautious about choosing trains that are not too late, as they might affect your schedule.
- Bus: You can take a bus from Giap Bat or My Dinh bus station to Ninh Binh, with ticket prices ranging from 50,000 to 60,000 VND per person. The average travel time is about 1.5 hours. Make sure to communicate with the conductor in advance for proper guidance.
- Motorbike: If you enjoy the thrill of riding a motorbike, you can take the Phap Van – Cau Gie expressway and then continue towards Cau Gie – Phu Ly – Ninh Binh, with a travel time of about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Architecture of the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Complex
In the past, Hoa Lu was a majestic and magnificent imperial city. The surrounding hills formed a solid wall surrounding the capital. The winding Hoang Long River and the vast Nho Quan and Gia Vien fields created a favorable and natural landscape.
The entire historical and cultural complex of Hoa Lu, including the special protection zone, buffer zone, and various relics like the Thiên Tôn Cave and Bái Đính Pagoda, are all located within the limestone mountains in Ninh Binh province, belonging to Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lu district, bordering Gia Vien and Hoa Lu districts. It is about nearly 100 km south of Hanoi.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is an architectural complex, with each structure having its unique features, contributing to the ancient and magnificent appearance of historical relics. Various historical traces remain diverse and abundant, including city walls, palaces, caves, temples, tombs, and other valuable architectural structures with high historical and cultural significance.
Explore the Temples of King Dinh and King Le
Notably, there are two historical relics preserved here: the temples of King Dinh and King Le. These two temples were built in the 17th century with exquisite wood and stone carvings. The path leading to King Dinh’s temple is surrounded by ancient phoenix trees.
Hoa Lu is often referred to as the “stone capital,” and both the temples of King Dinh and King Le extensively use stone materials. For instance, as visitors step into the temple yard, they will see a stone floor and two stone sculptures of mythical lions. Inside the royal chamber, a bronze statue of King Dinh is placed on a green stone pedestal.
King Le’s Temple is located 50 meters from King Dinh’s temple and shares a similar structure. Another 200 meters away is the One-Pillar Pagoda, built during King Le Dai Hanh’s reign, with an octagonal stone column that bears the inscribed Lăng Nghiêm sutra, a tribute to the Buddha. Adjacent to it is a site linked to the story of the third princess of King Dinh Tien Hoang, who jumped into the well to avoid marriage and rebellion against her father. This temple is dedicated to the princess.
Traditional Festivals in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
From March 8th to March 10th each year, the traditional festival of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital takes place to honor the kings and national heroes who built and developed the Hoa Lu capital, establishing the Dai Co Viet state in the 10th century. The Hoa Lu Festival consists of two parts: the formal ceremony and the festive activities. In addition to the formal rituals, the festive part includes traditional games such as boat racing, wrestling, and traditional singing, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere.
Some Notes for Visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu Ninh Binh is a spiritual tourism site, so when visiting, please dress politely and conservatively. When visiting the temples of King Dinh and King Le, be gentle and orderly to maintain the solemnity and offer incense to pay respect to the kings who contributed to the nation.
The top attraction in Ninh Binh
Phat Diem Cathedral
