A Journey Through Time: Hoa Lu and the Ancient Capital

As a retired teacher with a penchant for road trips, I often find myself drawn to places that echo with the whispers of history. The Hoa Lu Temple & Mua Cave tour in Ninh Binh was one such journey that promised to transport me back to the 10th and 11th centuries, a time when the Dinh and Le Dynasties ruled the ancient capital of Dai Co Viet. Our day began early, with a comfortable shuttle bus ride from Hanoi Old Quarter, a journey that reminded me of the long drives across the American Midwest, where the open road stretched endlessly before us.

Upon arriving at Hoa Lu, we embarked on a bicycle tour through the ancient capital. The temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le Kings stood as silent sentinels of a bygone era, their architecture a testament to the skill and artistry of ancient Vietnamese craftsmen. As I pedaled through the historic landscape, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the small towns of America, each with its own unique story to tell. The quiet beauty of Hoa Lu, with its lush greenery and serene atmosphere, was a stark contrast to the bustling cities I had visited in my youth.

The Tranquil Waters of Trang An

After a delightful Vietnamese buffet lunch, we set off for the Trang An Grottoes, a highlight of the tour that promised a boat ride through a network of caves and waterways. As our bamboo boat glided silently through the water, I was reminded of the peaceful rivers and lakes I had encountered on my travels across the United States. The stalactites hanging from the cave ceilings sparkled in the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing display that left me in awe of nature’s artistry.

Our boat captain skillfully navigated the narrow passages, ensuring we were among the first to experience the breathtaking views without the distraction of other tourists. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse myself in the natural beauty of Ninh Binh. The two-hour journey through the grottoes was a reminder of the simple pleasures of life, much like the quiet moments spent on the open road, where the journey itself is as rewarding as the destination.

Conquering the Heights of Mua Cave

The final leg of our tour took us to the Mua Cave, where a challenging climb awaited us. The 500 steps to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain promised a panoramic view of Tam Coc and Ninh Binh city, a reward for those willing to brave the midday sun. As I began the ascent, I was reminded of the many hikes I had taken in the national parks of America, each step bringing me closer to a breathtaking vista.

The climb was not without its challenges, as the heat and the steep incline tested my resolve. But with each step, I felt a sense of accomplishment, a reminder of the resilience and determination that had carried me through countless road trips and adventures. At the summit, the view was nothing short of spectacular, a sweeping panorama that stretched as far as the eye could see. It was a moment of reflection, a chance to appreciate the beauty of the world around us and the journeys that bring us closer to it.

As we made our way back to Hanoi, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences and memories that travel has given me. The Hoa Lu Temple & Mua Cave tour was a journey through time and nature, a reminder of the rich tapestry of history and beauty that exists in every corner of the world. It was a day well spent, a chapter in my travelogue that I will cherish for years to come.