Hanoi| Hao Lu and Tam Coc Tours

happened in November 2016

I enjoyed this tour more than Halong Bay tour.   It includes (1) mandatory factory and souvenir shops visit, (2) Old Temple, (3) Hao Lu Tam Loc, (4) Bicycle tour, (5) lunch and (6) land transportation from and to Old Quarters.  Travel time is around 1.5 - 2 hours from the Old Quarters to Ninh Binh Province.

We started with Hao Lu Ancient Capital.

entrance to the temples

from Wikipedia:  It is the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries in Truong Yen Thuong Village.  It is an independent Vietnamese polity founded in 948AD by local warlord "First Dinh Emperor".  It is believed that his soul rests in this temple.

ricefields and mountains 

I enjoyed the view here of ricefields and mountains.  The air is so fresh as well.  It's the country side at its best state.  

I spent most of my time looking at the details of each temple.  If only the walls can speak.  I'm sure they have an interesting story to tell.

huge doors

ancient throne

the intricate details

no nails used

the first emperor shrine

with bes J

After lunch, we went to Tam Coc Wharf for the Halong by the Lands tour.  J and I were assigned to a single boat with a lady paddler.  Take note that they use their feet in rowing for around 2 hours.

Tam Coc literally means three caves - Hung Ca, Hang Hai and Hang Ba.  The tour will literally take you to these caves via the Ngo Dong River cruise.

a photographer in action

our jolly paddler that doesn't look her age of 50 years

the third cave

paddlers usually stop here for you to buy them snacks.  yup, goods are over priced

Last part of the trip and the most enjoyable for me is biking in the Van Lam Village.  We biked for more than two hours.  I can't forget how the cool breeze is striking on my face.  It's been a long time since I last sat on a bike so it took a while for me to be comfortable and confident with it. 

the complete gang

an ancient home

You'll get back in the city at around 9PM.  It's a very tiring but so worth the trip.  In addition, a very affordable one so if you are in Hanoi, don't stress yourself by availing some packaged tours,  Just be smart in dealing with one.  Researching is always the best option.