Brilliant Northern Vietnam School Tour – 8 Days

Day 1: Arrival – Hanoi (-)

Upon arrival at Noibai Airport, you’ll be met & transferred to your hotel in Hanoi for a Check-in. (Hotel check-in time is after 14:00)

The rest of time, you’ll be free on your own.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi – Zen Tour at Tram Tue – Halfday City tour (B)

After having breakfast at hotel, our guide will take you over Nhat Tan bridge to Đông Anh – the suburb of Hanoi to visit a great Zen place named Tram Tue being run by a true Buddhist which is known as a Non-Profit Buddha Enterprise.

This “Tram Tue” is just located right on the bank of Red river with peaceful surroundings & also one of the first Buddhist companies applying Buddha doctrines in the business as well as seeding / enlightening quintessences of Buddha doctrines/nature into the normal life of local communities. This amazing Zen school is also attracting lots of Foreign Ambassadors to experience meditation courses, traditional high-class tea ceremonies as well as the ecosystem of Agarwood’s products … in the weekends. And there will be some following activities:

=>  Attending an introduction course with CEO (a Buddhist) of the company to know more about the history – culture, vision & mission

=> Learning about the Worshiping Space of Buddha’s Three Treasures – also Zen/Meditation Center

=> Visiting Ecosystem of Agarwood’s Products as well as High-Class teas (Hundred-year-old teas of Vietnam)

=> Tasting special Vietnamese Vegetarian Foods cooked by gourmet chefs (knowing more about meaning, rites of worshiping Buddha before the meals, origin … of Vegetarian Foods)

=> Attending a tea ceremony together CEO & Monk to enjoy some special high-class teas in Vietnam & even from China & sharing more about the history, religions …

=> Practicing Zen/Meditation with Agarwood incense under the right instruction of Buddhists

=> At around 13:00, we’ll say goodbyes to Buddhists then go back to Hanoi city

After back Hanoi city,you will be transfered to visit around the Ho Chi Minh Complex, which contains the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace, and the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts. Close to this complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, whose origins date back to the foundation of city. We follow it with a visit to the Temple of Literature, which is well known as the first university of Vietnam.

Later, we will take a visit at Ngoc Son Temple then return to hotel.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 3: Hanoi – Mai Chau – Pu Luong (B)

Morning: After breakfast at hotel, our driver and Tour Guide pick up you in Hanoi City to depart for Pu Luong.In the process of moving to Mai Chau, the bus stops for the group to see the scenery and take photos of Thung Khe pass, admire the majestic valley and mountains of the Northwest.

11h30: Arriving at Ban Lac, you go to the restaurant to rest and prepare for lunch (by your own cost).

Afternoon: Visit Thai ethnic villages, visit traditional stilt houses, learn about Thai customs, learn how to weave brocade and shop for souvenirs.

15h30: The group boarded the bus to depart to Pu Luong, admire and learn to feel the life of the people in the West of Thanh Hoa.

17h00: Check in at Pu Luong accommodation .

Overnight in Pu Luong.                                    

Day 4: Pu Luong – Cuc Phuong – Tam Coc (B)

The day begins with a hearty breakfast in Pu Luong, providing you with the energy needed for the day’s adventures. Pu Luong is known for its stunning landscapes, so you might want to take some time to explore the natural beauty of the area before setting off to the next destination.

Afternoon :After have lunch at local restaurant (by your own cost), you will be left Pu Luong, then head towards Cuc Phuong National Park. This park is one of Vietnam’s oldest national parks and is renowned for its biodiversity. 

Cuc Phuong National Park: Explore Cuc Phuong National Park, which is home to diverse flora and fauna. You might visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, a conservation facility dedicated to protecting endangered primate species in Vietnam.

Take a nature walk through the park to immerse yourself in the lush greenery and discover the unique wildlife.After exploring Cuc Phuong, you’ll continue your journey to Tam Coc. Tam Coc is famous for its stunning karst landscapes, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land.” then back to hotel.

Overnight in Tam Coc.

Day 5: Tam Coc – Hoa Lu – Hang Mua (B)

Start your day with a delicious breakfast, preparing for a day filled with exploration. As you enjoy your morning meal, you can soak in the anticipation of the scenic boat ride and cultural experiences awaiting you.

Boat Ride in Tam Coc: Embark on a traditional sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc. The landscape is characterized by towering limestone karst formations and lush green rice paddies. The boat journey takes you through picturesque caves and winding waterways, providing a unique and tranquil experience.

After the boat ride, enjoy a leisurely lunch (By your own cost) in Tam Coc. Savor local Vietnamese cuisine, which may include fresh seafood, rice dishes, and flavorful herbs and spices.

Afternoon: Hoa Lu – Ancient Capital:  Then you will head to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Explore the historic site, which includes ancient temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties. Learn about the rich history and cultural significance of this former capital as you stroll through the well-preserved remnants of the royal citadel.

In the late afternoon, visit Hang Mua (Mua Cave), located near Tam Coc. This attraction offers panoramic views of the Tam Coc valley and its karst formations. You may opt to climb the steep steps to the viewpoint, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes, particularly stunning during the golden hues of the sunset.

Back to hotel for relaxing.

Overnight in Tam Coc

Day 6: Tam Coc – Halong – On cruise (B/L/D)

*Note: Cruise itinerary and schedule are subject to change due to weather, tide levels, and operating conditions.

08:00  Pick up at hotel in Tam Coc for transfer to Halong Bay

11:30  Your first stop on arrival at Tuan Chau Island is the Aquamarine check-in lounge. You will have time to refresh yourself after the long drive from Hanoi and wait for checking-in.

12:15  After taken to Cruise, you will be checked in. While enjoying welcome drink, you will be introduced the itinerary and safety briefing by Cruise Manager.

13:00  You will have a delicious lunch and enjoy the stunning views when the boat cruises towards the southeast of Halong Bay, passing Fighting- Cock and Finger Islet.

14:45  Visiting Luon Cave or Pearl Farm area by bamboo boat or kayaking.

16:00  You are going to Titov Island – where you can go swimming or hiking to the top for another stunning, panoramic view of the Bay

17:30  Back on board, you can enjoy Sunset party with HAPPY HOUR (from 17:30 – 19:00) – buy 2 get 1 free at bar.

18:30  If you are interested in Vietnamese cuisines, please join our traditional Vietnamese cooking class on sundeck under the experienced Chef’s guiding (or in the restaurant in case of inclement weather).

19:00  Delight in the shimmering atmosphere of thousands of stars while eating a fantastic, expertly prepared dinner.

20:30  This is the perfect time for you to relax with spa treatments or enjoy a cocktail. Besides, we provide free for squid fishing tools at reception.

Overnight on Cruise

Day 7: Ha Long Bay – Ha Noi (B, L)

06:00  Warm up your day with a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck with a breathtaking view as the sun rises on Halong Bay.

07:00  Light breakfast is served at the restaurant.

08:00  Your next stop is the magnificent Sung Sot Cave, one of the biggest caves in Ha Long Bay with beautiful stalactites. You will be surprised by the breathtaking panoramic view across the Bay once you exit the cave as well as the stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years which have taken on fascinating shapes.

09:30  Back on board, check-out and return to Tuan Chau Island

10:00  Brunch is served at the restaurant and payment

10:45  Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina, return to Hanoi.

16:00: Arrive in Hanoi. You will have freetime to discover Hanoi Old Quarter or buy some souvirneers by your own.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 8: Hanoi – Departure (B)

Breakfast at hotel. You have free time to have more experience in Hanoi until be transferred to the Noibai airport to catch a flight for departure.

End of services!

Peak season Surcharge:

COMPULSORY BUFFET GALA DINNER 24 Dec 31ST Dec 2024/2025: to be advised

*3 Star Hotels in use:

• Hanoi: Hanoi Silk Queen Hotel Grand (Deluxe) http://silkqueenhotel.com/silkqueengrand/home.htm or similar one
• Pu Luong:Pu Luong Bocbandi Retreat (Superior moutain view) or similar ones
• Tam Coc: Tam Coc Holiday resort
• Ha Long Cruise: Mila Cruise (Deluxe Cabin) https://milacruises.com/ or similar ones

*4 Star Hotels in use:

• Hanoi: Hanoi Silk Path (Deluxe room) https://silkpathhotel.com/hanoi/ or similar ones
• Pu Luong: Pu Luong Jungle lodge (Deluxe) or similar ones
• Tam Coc: Ninh Binh Hidden Charm ( Superior room) or similar ones
• Ha Long Cruise: Athena cruise 21 Cabins (Executive Cabin) or similar ones

* Inclusive of above prices:

• Private transportation and airport transfers
• Accommodation in Double/Twin shared room with daily breakfast
• Local English speaking tour guide
• Excursion Tours
• Full-board Halong Bay Cruise with 1-way shuttle bus transfers from Halong – Hanoi
• Bottled water

* Exclusive of above prices:

• Visa stamping fee on arrival
• Travel Insurance in all kinds
• Single room (quoted separately)
• Peak tourist season or special event rates
• Tip, drinks and other personal expenses
• All international and domestic airfares
• Optional Tours

Check-in and Check-out Time

Early check-in or late check-out is subject to room availability.

• Check-in time: 14:00 hours
• Check-out : 12:00 hours
• Early check-in before 06:00 : 01-night room rate on the arrival date
• Check-in from 06:00 to 12:00 noon: Half day charge     
• Late check-out from 14:00 to 18:00: Half-Day Charge
• Late Check-out after 18:00 : Full Day Charge

Child policy

• Children under 6 years old is free of charge, maximum 01 child per room.
• Children from 6 years old till 11 years old: half charge
• Children from 11 years old will be considered as an adult