Essence Of Northern Vietnam 9 Days -

From: ₹993 4-star hotels

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Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

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About this tour

This package offers an immersive journey into the heart of Northern Vietnam, where we delve into its rich culture, captivating landscapes, and fascinating communities. Departing from the elegant boulevards of Hanoi, we embark on an enchanting expedition to rural Ba Be Lake and the awe-inspiring limestone marvels of Tam Coc, traversing on two wheels and boats. Our next destination is Sapa, where we step back in time to visit remote hill tribe villages embraced by lush green hills and mountain streams, all set against the backdrop of dramatic limestone karsts. The pinnacle of our adventure awaits at Halong Bay, where we spend a night on a luxurious junk boat, enjoying island excursions, delectable cuisine, swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking. A splendid conclusion to our immersive showcase of Northern Vietnam’s cultural and scenic allure!

Highlights

* Ha Long Bay: A stunning bay with thousands of limestone cliffs and islets rising from the water. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam.
* Sapa: A mountainous region in the northwest of Vietnam, known for its beautiful rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities.
* Ninh Binh: An area of natural beauty, with stunning karst landscapes, rice fields, and ancient temples.
* Hanoi: The capital of Vietnam, with a mix of old and new architecture, street food, and cultural sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of Indochina Royal Travel
* All sightseeing as specified including entrance fees
* Airfares if specified in the program. ( E-Economy class, B-Business calss)
* Visa Approval Letter if specified in the program

• Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
• Meals not mentioned in the program
• Any flights (Domestic and International) and airport tax
• Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
• Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
• Surcharge for the festive seasons
• Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
• The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
• Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi, our car/van will warmly welcome you and transport you to the heart of the city. After a delightful 40-minute drive, you will reach your hotel where you can check-in and enjoy a leisurely day exploring the charming Old Quarter and the vibrant night market in downtown Hanoi. Overnight at a cozy hotel located in Hanoi's historic Old Quarter.

<span> Day 2 </span>Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hanoi

07:45 - 8:30: Our team will pick you up from your hotel/stay. 08:30: We begin our scenic journey to Ninh Binh Province. 10:30: Arrive at the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. 10:45: Immerse yourself in the historical wonders as we visit the temples of King Dinh and King Le. 12:15: We reach Tam Coc Wharf, where a delightful buffet lunch awaits, featuring authentic Vietnamese Cuisine. 13:30: Embark on a serene Sampan boat ride through mesmerizing caves and picturesque countryside landscapes. 15:00: Return to Tam Coc Wharf for some relaxation time. 15:15: Hop on bicycles and explore the scenic village via charming country roads. 16:00: Board the shuttle bus for a comfortable journey back to Hanoi. 18:30 – 18:45: Bid farewell at your hotel/stay. Dinner will be at your own leisure, and you'll spend the night at your hotel in Hanoi.

06:20: Depart from Hanoi Opera House to venture into the captivating Ba Be National Park. 12:30: Relish a delightful lunch at Ba Be Lake View homestay, the highest homestay in our village. 14:00: Embark on a picturesque stroll to the boat station in Pac Ngoi village (1km). 14:30: Delight in a scenic 2-hour boat excursion around the lake, visiting Fairy Pond and An Ma temple. 16:30: Immerse in the most special activity of Ba Be Lake - swimming in its pristine waters. 17:30: Trek back to the homestay for a delectable dinner. 21:00: Overnight at the traditional stilt house homestay of the Tay people.

07:30: Savor a delicious breakfast at our homestay. 08:00: Set off on a cycling adventure to visit Hua Ma Cave (6km), the largest cave in Ba Be National Park. 11:00: Return to the homestay, check out, and enjoy lunch. 13:00: Board the van for the return journey to Hanoi. 19:30: Arrive at Hanoi Opera House. Enjoy free leisure time for dinner. 20:30: We'll pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and transfer you to Hanoi train station. You'll embark on an overnight train trip to Lao Cai, sharing a comfortable sleeping compartment with fellow travelers (2 lower & 2 upper berths per compartment). The train departs at approximately 21:30.

<span> Day 5 </span>Lao Cai - Sapa - Lao Chai - Ta Van - Sapa

Upon your arrival at the train station, we'll be there to warmly welcome you. 07:00: Indulge in a delightful breakfast and unwind at our restaurant while we take care of your luggage arrangements. 08:30: Embark on a captivating 4-hour trek to Lao Chai Village, the abode of the Black H'mong minority. Traverse through the picturesque Muong Hoa Valley, adorned with stunning sceneries alongside the flowing river. 12:00: Relish a local restaurant lunch before reaching Ta Van village, where you'll be warmly welcomed by a Giáy family at their homestay. 13:30: Be chauffeured back to Sapa by car to check-in at the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore the town, visit places like Dragon Mount, the Orchid garden, and the vibrant market. 18:30: Dine and spend the night at the hotel.

<span> Day 6 </span>Sapa - Cat Cat - Hanoi

08:00: Savor a delicious breakfast before embarking on a half-day trek through lush rice terraces, immersing yourself in the daily life of the Black H'Mong people and visiting Cat Cat village. 12:00: Enjoy a satisfying lunch. The afternoon is free for you to explore Sa Pa town, interact with friendly locals, and take in the charming surroundings. 17:00: Transfer to Lao Cai Railway Station for your return train journey to Hanoi. Dinner will be at your own leisure, and you'll take the overnight train back to Hanoi.

05:00: Arrive in Hanoi and take a taxi to your hotel. Enjoy a well-deserved rest and a scrumptious breakfast. 8:15 - 8:45: The shuttle bus and our knowledgeable tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Ha Noi Old Quarter. 9:00: Depart for Halong Bay, with a brief 20-minute break to relax. 12:00: Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor and begin your enchanting cruise experience. Receive a warm welcome with a refreshing drink and an introduction to the cruise and safety guidelines. Check-in to your comfortable air-conditioned cabin. 13:00: Delight in a special lunch featuring authentic Vietnamese traditional dishes while cruising through the majestic Halong Bay, marveling at its captivating rock formations. AFTERNOON ITINERARY: 15:00: Explore the remarkable Sung Sot Cave (Surprising cave). 16:00: The cruise will take you to Titop Island, known for its panoramic viewpoint offering splendid vistas of Halong Bay, or you can indulge in swimming on the charming sandy beach. 17:15: Return to the cruise for a refreshing shower, and relax on the sundeck while witnessing the magical sunset. Savor this moment while sipping a cocktail or engrossed in a captivating book. EVENING RELAXATION: 19:00: Relish a delectable dinner, accompanied by the mesmerizing view of the night bay, through sea view windows, adding a touch of romance to your evening. 20:30: Engage in enjoyable sports games like Squid Fishing, sing your heart out with karaoke, or simply unwind on the sundeck. Overnight on the boat in a comfortable, air-conditioned room, savoring the pristine air of the bay.

6:00: Greet the early morning with a breathtaking sunrise view from the sundeck. 7:00: Start your day with the mesmerizing scenery of the bay while sipping a cup of tea or coffee, followed by a delightful breakfast. 7:40: Embark on a fascinating visit to the Halong Bay Pearl farm, where the most renowned pearls in Vietnam are cultivated through a meticulous process that takes years. 8:30: Engage in an invigorating kayaking experience, exploring the captivating beauty of Halong Bay at your own pace. 10:00: Check-out from the cruise and savor the final moments of this fantastic journey on the bay. 10:45: Enjoy a sumptuous lunch as the cruise makes its way back to Tuan Chau Harbor. 12:00: The cruise docks at Halong Bay harbor, bidding farewell to the sailors, and concluding the memorable cruise. 12:30: Return to Hanoi via Shuttle Bus, with a short 20-minute break for relaxation. 15:30: Arrive in Hanoi and drop off at your hotel. Dinner will be at your own leisure, and you'll spend the night at the hotel.

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you'll have some free time until we pick you up for your transfer to the airport.

Durations

9 - 12 days

Regional Tours

Vietnam

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:

BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ba Be National Park, Sapa, Halong Bay

Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit - Exploring Vietnam’s Revolutionary Spirit When you travel through Hanoi, you’ll notice that the city’s history isn’t just preserved in its temples and French villas — it also lives on in its museums. One of the most fascinating places to experience this is at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, home to what was once the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution. Today, it forms part of the National Museum of History, focusing on Vietnam’s revolutionary journey — from the earliest anti-colonial movements in the 19th century to the nation’s dramatic transformation after reunification in 1975. This museum is more than a collection of artifacts; it’s a powerful narrative of resilience, patriotism, and hope, told through rare documents, photographs, and stories of the people who shaped modern Vietnam. 🏛️ A Museum with Revolutionary Roots Originally established as the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution, the site was dedicated to chronicling the struggles of the Vietnamese people against colonial powers and foreign domination. In recent years, the collection was integrated into the larger National Museum of History, giving visitors a complete picture of the nation’s past in one cohesive institution. Walking through its halls in 2025, you’ll find that the displays are thoughtfully curated to guide you through the country’s turning points — from underground resistance newspapers to iconic photographs of revolutionary leaders. 📜 The Story Told Through Documents and Words Unlike other museums that rely heavily on artifacts, this one leans on the power of documents and writing to bring history to life. Clandestine Newspapers 📰 – The earliest whispers of resistance often came through underground publications, secretly printed and distributed despite colonial surveillance. These fragile papers now rest in glass cases, a reminder of the courage it took to spread ideas of freedom. Revolutionary Tracts ✍️ – Many of these were penned by Ho Chi Minh, whose words inspired generations to resist oppression and fight for independence. His essays, pamphlets, and letters remain a central feature of the museum’s collection. Rare Photographs 📸 – The museum proudly displays portraits of Vietnam’s revolutionary heroes. Some of these images cannot be found elsewhere, making the exhibit especially valuable for history enthusiasts. ⚔️ War and Resistance: Key Exhibitions The museum also shines a spotlight on some of the defining battles and wars of Vietnam’s modern history. 🌄 Dien Bien Phu – The Decisive Victory No exhibit about Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle would be complete without a tribute to the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in 1954. This historic victory against French forces marked the end of colonial rule in Indochina and paved the way for the Geneva Accords. The museum presents documents, maps, and photographs that capture the determination of the Vietnamese fighters. 🇻🇳 The War of Independence The displays offer an in-depth look at Vietnam’s long fight for sovereignty, from grassroots resistance groups to organized national movements. Visitors can see how everyday people became part of a collective force determined to reclaim their homeland. 🪖 The American War (Vietnam War) Though the Military History Museum provides more extensive coverage of the Vietnam War, this site still offers a compelling collection. Visitors can explore carefully presented exhibits about the conflict, highlighting both the struggles and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. From propaganda posters to personal items of soldiers, these stories personalize a war that changed the world. 🌟 Why Visit 216 Tran Quang Khai in 2025? Authenticity: Many of the documents and photos are one-of-a-kind, offering perspectives not found in other museums. Emotional Impact: The focus on writings, faces, and personal stories creates a human connection with history. Contextual Learning: When combined with the main History Museum at Trang Tien and the Military History Museum, you gain a well-rounded understanding of Vietnam’s journey. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed on the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entrance fee required; combined tickets with the National Museum of History are available for convenience.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn🚶 Getting There: Just a short walk from the Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to include in your Hanoi itinerary. 💡 Travel Tips for Visitors Pair Your Visit: Plan to see both 216 Tran Quang Khai and the main History Museum at 1 Trang Tien on the same day. Together, they tell the full story of Vietnam. Allow Enough Time: While smaller than the main site, the depth of the documents and exhibits deserves at least 1–2 hours. Photography: Limited photography may be allowed; check current rules upon entry. Guides & Audio Tours: Hiring a guide or using an audio tour app can provide richer insights, especially if you’re not familiar with Vietnam’s revolutionary figures. Respect the Space: For many locals, these exhibits are not just history but part of their family’s lived experiences. 🌏 Connecting Past and Present Visiting 216 Tran Quang Khai is not simply about studying old documents. It’s about standing in the presence of a nation’s collective memory — of battles fought, sacrifices made, and dreams of independence realized. For travelers in 2025, when Vietnam is thriving as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies and cultural destinations, the museum is a poignant reminder of how far the country has come. From clandestine newspapers to post-war reconstruction, the exhibits encapsulate the resilience and determination that continue to define Vietnam today. ✨ Final Thoughts If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to go beyond the surface, make time for 216 Tran Quang Khai. It’s not as flashy as the Old Quarter or as glamorous as the Opera House, but it holds something deeper — the soul of Vietnam’s revolutionary journey. Walking through its halls, you’ll encounter not just names and dates but real voices from the past, still echoing with a call for freedom and unity. And that makes this museum one of Hanoi’s most powerful and unforgettable cultural experiences.Hanoi’s National Museum of History - 🏛️ Hanoi’s National Museum of History: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Past If you want to truly understand Vietnam — its struggles, triumphs, and cultural depth — there’s no better place to start than the National Museum of History in Hanoi. Nestled just one block east of the Hanoi Opera House, this museum is not only a treasure trove of artifacts but also a masterpiece of architecture, blending French colonial charm with traditional Vietnamese motifs. In 2025, the museum continues to be one of Hanoi’s must-visit cultural landmarks, offering travelers a chance to step back thousands of years into Vietnam’s past. From prehistoric tools to imperial treasures and wartime relics, every corner tells a story of resilience and creativity. 🏯 Architecture: A Blend of French Elegance and Vietnamese Tradition Before even stepping inside, the building itself demands admiration. Designed in the 1930s by the École Française d’Extrême-Orient, the structure combines the grandeur of a French villa with the curves and rooflines of Vietnamese palatial design — a style often referred to as Neo-Vietnamese architecture. With its ochre-yellow walls, graceful balconies, and tiled roofs, the museum feels like a harmonious fusion of East and West. Even today, photographers and architecture enthusiasts are drawn here, not just for the exhibits but also for the artistry of the building itself. ⏳ A Walk Through Time: The Museum’s Layout The National Museum of History is divided into two main sections: The main building at 1 Trang Tien Street — covering Vietnam’s history up to 1945. The annex across the street at 216 Tran Quang Khai Street — focusing on the post-1945 era, including Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification. This division allows visitors to follow Vietnam’s journey step by step, from prehistoric times to the modern nation it has become. 🥁 Ground Floor Highlights: The Bronze Age and Beyond Stepping into the ground floor is like traveling back over 2,000 years to the era of the Dong Son culture (1200–200 BC). This sophisticated Bronze Age civilization thrived in the Red River Delta and left behind remarkable artifacts that continue to astonish historians. 🌟 Must-See Exhibits on the Ground Floor The Ngoc Lu Drum 🥁 – Considered the crown jewel of the collection, this ceremonial bronze drum is adorned with delicate carvings of deer, birds, and musicians. Its craftsmanship demonstrates advanced casting techniques far ahead of its time. Bronze Tools and Utensils ⚒️ – From arrowheads to cooking implements, these everyday objects reveal the ingenuity of early Vietnamese societies. Artifacts from Hanoi’s Imperial Citadel 🏯 – Excavations in recent decades have uncovered treasures from Hanoi’s historic citadel, shedding light on its role as a political and cultural center. 11th-Century Amitabha Buddha 🧘 – A graceful wooden statue reflecting the influence of Buddhism in Vietnam’s medieval era. Celadon Ceramics 🍵 – Exquisite pale-green pottery from the Ly dynasty, admired for its elegance and durability. Bach Dang River Stakes ⚓ – Wooden stakes used in the legendary 13th-century battle, when Vietnamese forces under General Tran Hung Dao defeated Mongol invaders by luring their fleet into a deadly trap. Standing before these relics, you don’t just see artifacts — you feel the spirit of Vietnam’s ancestors who shaped the nation’s identity. 📜 Second Floor Treasures: Dynasties, Art, and Colonial Influences Moving upstairs, the second floor offers a vivid journey through Vietnam’s dynastic golden ages and its encounters with foreign powers. 🌟 Highlights of the Second Floor Le Loi Stele (3 meters tall) 🗿 – This monumental stone slab recounts the life of Le Loi, the national hero who led the resistance against Ming Chinese rule and established the Later Le dynasty (1428–1788). Ceramics Collection 🍶 – An extensive display of intricately painted ceramics, showcasing how Vietnamese artisans perfected techniques over centuries. Nguyen Dynasty Exhibits 👑 – Furniture inlaid with ivory, embroidered silk garments, and ceremonial items once used by emperors inside Hue’s Imperial Citadel. 19th-Century Ink Wash Paintings 🎨 – Evocative depictions of Hue’s imperial court life in the 1890s, capturing the elegance and rituals of Vietnam’s last dynasty. French Colonial Era Relics 🏛️ – Artifacts reflecting Vietnam’s transition during the late 19th and early 20th centuries under French rule, offering insight into cultural exchanges and struggles for identity. This section bridges the past with the dawn of modern Vietnam, revealing how the country endured centuries of outside influence while preserving its cultural soul. 📍 The Annex: Vietnam After 1945 Across the street, the second museum building covers the modern chapter of Vietnam’s history. Here, visitors encounter exhibits from the August Revolution, the First Indochina War, and the Vietnam War (known in Vietnam as the American War). You’ll see military uniforms, personal belongings of revolutionary leaders, propaganda posters, and photographs documenting the nation’s struggle for independence and reunification. It’s a powerful and emotional experience, particularly for visitors seeking to understand Vietnam’s resilience in the 20th century. 🕘 Visitor Information (Updated 2025) 📍 Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi🕗 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM (Closed the first Monday of each month)🎟️ Tickets: Entry fee applies (with additional small fee if bringing a camera). Tickets can now be purchased online via the museum’s official website to skip queues.🌐 Official Website: baotanglichsu.vn 💡 Travel Tips for Visiting in 2025 Best Time to Visit: Mornings are quieter, especially on weekdays. Arrive early to avoid tour groups. Combine With Nearby Attractions: The Opera House, Trang Tien Plaza, and Hoan Kiem Lake are all within walking distance. Bring a Guidebook or Audio Guide: While many exhibits now have English and French explanations, a guidebook or hired guide adds context to the vast collection. Photography: A small fee is required for cameras, but the photos are worth it, especially for the architectural details. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be on your feet for at least 2–3 hours exploring the two buildings. 📸 Why the Museum is a Must-See in Hanoi Unlike many museums that feel static, the National Museum of History in Hanoi is alive...

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From: ₹993

4-star hotels

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Essence of Northern Vietnam 9 Days

About this tour

Highlights

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1Hanoi Arrival

Day 2 Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hanoi

Day 3 Hanoi - Ba Be Lake

Day 4 Ba Be Lake - Hanoi

Day 5 Lao Cai - Sapa - Lao Chai - Ta Van - Sapa

Day 6 Sapa - Cat Cat - Hanoi

Day 7 Hanoi - Halong Bay

Day 8 Halong Bay – Hanoi

Day 9 Hanoi Departure

Durations

Regional Tours

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:

Tour's Location

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