Hoa Lu ancient capital is a historical valuable relic site, a remarkable tourist attraction that you should visit in Ninh Binh. This ancient capital reigned from 10th century to 11th century. With Yen Ngua limestone hills offered a good defence.

Where is Hoa Lu Ancient Capital? 

• Location: Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam
• Entrance fee: 20,000 VND/Pax
• Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hoa Lu ancient capital is about 90 in the south of Hanoi, approximately 20 km far away from Ninh Binh city. This is an ancient capital of the Vietnamese Kingdom in the X century with the name " Dai Co Viet". 

Hoa Lu ancient capital covered by Yen Ngua limestone surrounded, creating a good defence for the  stout attack of the Chinese. 

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital at night

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital history

Hoa Lu Ancient capital is the first capital of Vietnam, existing almost 31 years from Le dynasty ( 980 - 1009) to Ly dynasty ( 1009 - 1010). After, Ly Thai To ( Ly Cong Uan ) King decided to move the capital to Thang Long which is Hanoi capital currently. 

Before Hoa Lu, it was built in 968 by King Dinh Bo Linh. Today, this place became a famous spot and attracts many tourists to come here. 

The beautiful landcapes of Hoa Lu ancient capital

Hoa Lu is bordered by Hoang Long river in the northwest with tributaries of which run through the capital, bringing the cool atmosphere.

With an area of 150 ha, the construction plays an important role in tourism of Ninh Binh with stunning landscape, largest ponds and limestone range.

Hoa Lu ancient capital is recognized as one of the 4 cores forming the UNESCO World Heritage. 

What to do in Hoa Lu capital? 

Visiting King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple

The temple is located at Ma Yen mountain's foot and was built in the 17th century. King Dinh Tien Hoang has a unique architecture, signature with stone carving created by artists. 

King Dinh Tien Hoang temple brings a stunning beauty, taking you to return to the past. 

King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple

The architecture includes 3 shrines: The shrines of King Dinh Tien Hoang, The middle ones of Thien Huong, The outer ones of Ngo Mon gate. 

Explore of King Le Dai Hanh temple

King Le Dai Hanh temple is near the Dinh Tien Hoang Temple, and was built in the 17th century. The temple was 3 par: The front shrine, Thien Huong house, The Sanctum where King Le. 

The front shrine has an altar and a giant drum. Going deeper into the side, you will see the largest statues of King Le Dai Hanh, his wife and King Le Long Dinh.

Discover Nhat Tru Pagoda

Nhat Tru Pagoda was constructed in the 10th century and is a place where many activities occur at Hoa Lu ancient citadel. 

This pagoda is built with an area of over 3000m2, bringing Dinh architecture signature includes 5 front halls, 3 upper halls and a south facing tiled roof. 

The architecture of the front hall was made of wood with lotus blossoms and twisted foliage, influenced from the Nguyen dynasty style.  The upper hall has the pillars and corners carved with dragons and swords from the Le dynasty. 

Visiting to Tam Coc - Bich Dong

A trip to Tam Coc - Bich Dong from Hoa Lu will be an interesting experience to attract many tourists. You will have an opportunity to admire the stretching mountain views, spectacular caves, yellow rice paddies with beautiful Ngo Dong river. 

Tam Coc Ninh Binh

Tam Coc - Bich Dong is called a "Halong on land" with 4 distinct seasons. You can go here any time of year. 

Conquer to Ma Yen Mountain

Ma Yen Mountain has the shape of a saddle, a low shape in the middle and a high shape in the other two heads.  This mountain is related to the King in Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh - King Dinh Bo Linh. 

In 968, the King built the capital at the mountain of Ma Yen, surrounded by high mountains and trees. 

After King Dinh Bo Linh passed away, people buried his body on top of Ma Yen. If you get here, remember to light some incense to pray for him. 

How to get to Hoa Lu ancient capital? 

Distance from Hanoi to Hoa Lu ancient capital is about 110km. It takes about 2 hours to get to Hoa Lu. There are many vehicles to transfer from Hanoi to Hoa Lu such as buses, trains, and private cars... 

There are amny bus company to operate Hanoi - Ninh Binh bus route at Giap Bat, My Dinh bus station. The price ranges from 200.000 - 300.000 VND. 

If you want to transfer by train, you can book a ticket from Hanoi to Ninh Binh train station with a price of 90,000 VND to 200,000 VND. After the train stop at Ninh Binh train station, you can book a taxi, rent a motorbike to travel to Hoa Lu ancient capital. 

Minivan 16 seats

Renting a private car transfer from Hanoi to Hoa Lu is the best choice. Our driver will pick up and drop off following your schedule. You don't have to wait for other people and the train. Book in advance via Vietnam Trust Car Rental. 

Best time to visit Hoa Lu ancient capital

Each season, Hoa Lu brings a stunning beauty. So, if you are planning to go to Hoa Lu, you can get here any time of year. 

However, from the experience of local people, the best time to visit Hoa Lu is from January to march. This time many festivals take place. You can immerse yourself in a bustling and vibrant atmosphere. 

Besides, don't pass up on traditional foods and enjoy exciting cultural activities with local people. 

In addition, you can visit Hoa Lu on the remaining days to explore the peace of Hoa Lu. 

Ninh Binh is a famous place to visit with historical constructions and captivating natural scenery. With Hoa Lu ancient capital is a significant cultural and historical landmark to help you have more knowledge and see the ancient architecture. Besides, you can explore other tour attractions in Ninh Binh during your trip.