About Ha Nam
Located in northern Vietnam’s Red River Delta, Ha Nam is a small province bordered by Hanoi to the north and Ninh Binh to the south. Its capital, Phu Ly, serves as a regional hub and lies along the main route connecting Hanoi to Ninh Binh, making Ha Nam an easily accessible stop for travelers exploring northern Vietnam. The province is known for its peaceful countryside, traditional villages, and cultural landmarks.
Historically, Ha Nam has seen significant events, from the French colonial era to the Vietnam War. Phu Ly was captured by French forces in 1873 and later bombed during the Vietnam War, leaving a lasting historical legacy. Today, Ha Nam offers a quieter alternative to its famous neighbor, Ninh Binh, with similar scenic landscapes of limestone mountains, rivers, and temples but without the crowds. While it doesn’t boast as many major attractions, Ha Nam provides a less-touristy glimpse into rural Vietnamese life, with some unique things to do in its serene surroundings.
Is Ha Nam worth to visit?
Ha Nam may not rival Ninh Binh in terms of iconic sights or diverse activities, but it can be a worthwhile destination for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. Its peaceful scenery and lack of tourists make it ideal for those looking to avoid crowds. However, if you’re short on time, Ninh Binh offers more to see and do, making it a better choice for most travelers. For those with extra time or passing through the region, Ha Nam’s sights can provide a unique cultural and natural experience, especially when paired with a journey between Hanoi and Ninh Binh.
Best time to visit Ha Nam
Ha Nam is located in northern Vietnam, near Hanoi, and shares the region’s temperate climate. The weather features a distinct dry season and rainy season. Winters can be cool, particularly from December to February, with temperatures occasionally dropping below 15°C (59°F).
The best time to visit Ha Nam is during the dry season, from October to April, with the most favorable months being November to March. During this period, the weather is cool and comfortable, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the scenic landscapes. The rainy season, from May to September, brings higher humidity and occasional heavy rains, which can make sightseeing and trekking less convenient, especially in rural areas.
How to travel to Ha Nam
Ha Nam’s main hub is Phu Ly, a city that serves more as a transit point than a destination. While it is located on the main north-south highway, the newer express highway from Hanoi to Ninh Binh bypasses it entirely. Ha Nam lacks its own airport but is easily accessible from Hanoi, just an hour’s drive away.
Day Tours to Ha Nam & Ninh Binh
If you’re short on time and want to explore both Ha Nam and Ninh Binh in a single trip, day tours combining these destinations are an excellent option. Many tours include a stop at Ha Nam’s biggest attraction, the Tam Chuc Pagoda Complex, before continuing to iconic Ninh Binh sights such as Tam Coc, Trang An, or Mua Cave.
This is a great way to see the highlights of both provinces without the hassle of organizing transport and an itinerary yourself. Such tours are typically only feasible with a private car or as part of an organized day trip. For the best experience, consider small group tours for a more personal and comfortable journey, as large tour groups can feel less intimate.
Bus options
Buses, particularly limousine vans, are the most economical choice to travel from Hanoi to Phu Ly. These smaller, comfortable vehicles often provide door-to-door service from Hanoi hotels to accommodations in Phu Ly, with prices starting at 6 USD. The journey takes about 1 hour. However, while convenient for reaching Phu Ly, buses don’t solve the challenge of getting around the province to visit its sights. Finding a taxi in Phu Ly is relatively easy, but in more remote areas, securing onward transportation can be difficult.
Private car with driver
The most recommended option is renting a private car with a driver, which not only takes you to Ha Nam but also provides transportation between its scattered sights. This flexible option allows you to start your journey in Hanoi and, after exploring Ha Nam, either return to Hanoi or continue to Ninh Binh. Unlike taxis, private cars operate on a fixed-price basis for the entire itinerary, ensuring a stress-free experience.
Learn how to rent a car with a driver in Vietnam
Train connections
Phu Ly Station is a minor stop on the North–South Reunification Express train route, originally built during the colonial period for transporting raw materials. While trains can provide a scenic ride and an alternative for longer journeys from central or southern Vietnam, they are less convenient for short trips between Hanoi and Ha Nam. Train schedules are limited, and you’ll need additional transport to explore the province after arriving in Phu Ly.
Driving motorbike
For adventurous travelers, driving a motorbike is an option to explore Ha Nam’s sights independently. You can start from either Hanoi or Ninh Binh and enjoy the flexibility to visit multiple locations. Ensure you’re experienced with driving in Vietnam’s traffic conditions before attempting this option.
Things to do in Ha Nam
Ha Nam may not be as well-known as neighboring destinations like Ninh Binh, but it offers unique cultural and natural attractions for those looking to explore off the beaten path. Below are the top sights and things to do in Ha Nam, designed to help travelers decide if this province is worth adding to their itinerary.
1. Tam Chuc Complex
The Tam Chuc Complex is the main highlight of Ha Nam and the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam. It is set against a backdrop of limestone mountains and Tam Chuc Lake, offering a mix of impressive architecture and stunning natural surroundings. The complex is a must-visit for those interested in cultural heritage or who want to see one of Vietnam’s most remarkable religious sites.
Temples and sights in the complex
The complex consists of several key structures:
- Tam The Temple, the centerpiece, houses three enormous Buddha statues and features walls decorated with intricate carvings depicting Buddhist stories.
- Ngoc Pagoda, perched on a mountain, offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. It’s a short hike to reach the pagoda, which adds to the experience.
- The Stupa of Enlightenment, a tall structure symbolic of Buddhist philosophy, is another highlight of the complex.
Tam Chuc Lake
The lake is integral to the charm of the complex, with its calm waters reflecting the surrounding limestone peaks and temple structures. A unique feature is the floating pagoda, one of the main parts of the temple complex. Boat tours across the lake are available, allowing visitors to view the temples and mountains from different angles.
2. Temples and Pagodas in Ha Nam
Ha Nam is home to several temples and pagodas that showcase the province’s cultural heritage and historic importance.
Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda
Located in a tranquil area surrounded by forested hills, this pagoda features traditional Vietnamese architecture and an interesting layout. Visitors come to explore its serene setting and admire the intricate details of the structure, which blends beautifully with the natural surroundings.
Ba Danh Pagoda
Known locally as the “forgotten pagoda,” Ba Danh is a hidden gem situated along the Day River. Its remote location means it sees fewer visitors, but the charm lies in its peaceful riverside setting and traditional design. For those looking to discover a lesser-known cultural site, this pagoda is a worthwhile stop.
Long Doi Son Pagoda
This ancient temple, built during the Ly Dynasty, is one of the oldest in the region. Its historical value and detailed carvings make it a fascinating place to visit, especially for travelers interested in Vietnam’s rich history.
Truc Temple
Nestled at the foot of Thi Son Mountain, Truc Temple is known for its picturesque setting along the Day River. The surrounding limestone peaks and lush greenery enhance the visit, making it a great spot for combining sightseeing with a scenic experience.
3. Cam Mountain
Cam Mountain, also called Forbidden Mountain, is a natural and spiritual attraction in Ha Nam. The mountain features a network of caves known as Ngu Dong Thi Son, or the Five Connected Caves, which extend deep into the rock and are decorated with stalactites. Exploring these caves offers a glimpse into the natural beauty and geological features of the region.
The trek up the mountain involves climbing stone steps, and while it requires some effort, the view from the top rewards visitors with panoramic sights of the surrounding countryside and the Day River.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler.
4. Luon Cave (Ao Dong Tourist Area)
Luon Cave, located within the Ao Dong Tourist Area, is a hidden gem in Ha Nam offering a blend of natural beauty and local charm. The cave is known for its impressive stalactites and serene atmosphere. Managed by local households, it retains a rustic and uncommercialized feel, making it a great spot for those seeking a more authentic and quiet experience.
Visitors can explore the cave by boat, which is highly recommended to fully appreciate its geological features and unique formations. The tour costs 40,000 VND per person, and each boat accommodates 4–7 people. With an entrance fee of only 10,000 VND, this is an affordable and worthwhile visit for nature enthusiasts.
5. Craft Villages
Ha Nam is home to several craft villages that showcase the region’s traditional craftsmanship and provide a glimpse into local culture. These villages are great stops for those interested in Vietnam’s artisanal heritage.
Nha Xa Silk Weaving Village
This village is renowned for its high-quality silk products, created using traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations. Visitors can watch the weaving process and purchase beautifully crafted silk items, including scarves and clothing.
Thanh Ha Lace Embroidery Village
Known for its intricate lace embroidery, Thanh Ha is a haven for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship. The artisans create delicate lacework used in everything from tablecloths to decorative garments, making it an interesting stop for craft enthusiasts.
Doi Tam Drum Craft Village
This village specializes in producing traditional Vietnamese drums, which are used in ceremonies and festivals across the country. Visitors can observe the drum-making process and learn about the cultural significance of these instruments. Doi Tam’s craftsmanship is particularly famous for its high-quality ceremonial drums.
Vu Dai Village
6. Ba Kien’s House
Ba Kien’s House is a historically significant site tied to Vietnamese literature. It is famously featured in Nam Cao’s “Chi Pheo,” a classic story that reflects rural life and societal struggles in Vietnam. The house itself has been preserved as a cultural relic and offers a window into the setting that inspired one of Vietnam’s most celebrated literary works.
Where to stay in Ha Nam
For most travelers, staying in Ha Nam is not the best option. The province is better suited for a day trip from Hanoi or Ninh Binh, where accommodation options are more plentiful and enjoyable. Ninh Binh, in particular, offers charming countryside stays and a wider range of choices, making it a more atmospheric and convenient base.
If you must stay in Ha Nam, countryside accommodations near Tam Chuc Complex offer a more peaceful environment and a better overall experience. The city of Phu Ly, while having several hotels, lacks charm and is mainly practical for those with specific reasons to stay, such as work-related visits or layovers.
Day trip itinerary to Ha Nam and Ninh Binh
Ha Nam and Ninh Binh both offer unique attractions, but Ninh Binh alone has enough sights to fill an entire day or even multiple days. However, if you are determined to visit both in one day, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time.
Morning: Tam Chuc Pagoda (Ha Nam)
- Start early: Leave Hanoi as early as possible, ideally by private car, to maximize your time. Tam Chuc Pagoda opens at 6:00 AM, allowing you to arrive before the crowds.
- Explore the complex: Visit the main temples and enjoy a boat trip on Tam Chuc Lake to take in the serene surroundings and the mountain-framed scenery.
Midday: Trang An Boat Tour (Ninh Binh)
- After Tam Chuc, head to Trang An, the most scenic boat tour in Ninh Binh.
- Tour duration: The boat trip takes approximately 2–3 hours and showcases stunning limestone karsts, caves, and lush landscapes.
Afternoon: Mua Cave (Ninh Binh)
- If time permits, visit Mua Cave, located near Tam Coc.
- Highlight: Climb to the top for the best panoramic view of Ninh Binh’s rice fields and limestone peaks. Arriving here for sunset offers breathtaking views and is one of the best times to visit.
Evening: Return to Hanoi
After your visit to Mua Cave, head back to Hanoi. A private car ensures flexibility and comfort for the journey back.
Travel Tips
- Private car recommended: A private car offers the most efficient way to navigate between Ha Nam and Ninh Binh, maximizing your time.
- Group tour alternative: If you are on a budget, look for day tours that include Ha Nam and Ninh Binh, but keep in mind they might be more rushed and less flexible.
- Bring snacks and water: With a packed itinerary, having refreshments on hand will save time and energy during your trip.
