Overview of Tran Temple

Tran Temple is a particularly important historical and cultural relic complex located in Nam Dinh Ward, Ninh Binh province, a place to worship the kings and ancestors of the Tran Dynasty and the civil and martial mandarins with meritorious support. The complex was built on the foundation of the ancient Thien Truong palace, including three main architectural works: Thien Truong Temple (worshiping 14 Tran kings), Co Trach Temple (worshiping Hung Dao Dai Vuong Tran Quoc Tuan) and Trung Hoa Temple. These works bear the mark of ancient architecture, showing deep respect for the dynasty that had great contributions in the nation's history.

Tran Temple

Tran Temple is not just a monument historical site but also the leading spiritual tourism center of Vietnam. This place preserves many precious artifacts and plays an important role in preserving traditional culture. In particular, the Tran Temple Seal Opening Festival taking place on the full moon night of the first lunar month every year is the most prominent event, attracting tens of thousands of people and tourists from all over to attend to ask for the seal, praying for a lucky, successful and prosperous new year. This festival is an opportunity for people to commemorate the merits of the Tran kings and express their unique beliefs.

Outstanding attractions at Tran Temple

Thien Truong Temple 

Den Thien Truong

Thien Truong Temple is the central building in the Tran Temple complex, built on the foundation of the ancient Thien Truong palace. The temple has majestic architecture, the official place of worship for 14 Emperors of the Tran Dynasty, from Tran Thai Tong to Emperor Tran Thieu, along with their ancestors and relatives. Visiting Thien Truong Temple helps visitors learn about the history and merits of the Tran Dynasty during the process of building and protecting the country.

Co Trach Temple 

Den Co Trach

Co Trach Temple is located east of Thien Truong Temple, a place to worship the national hero Hung Dao Dai Vuong Tran Quoc Tuan (Thanh Tran) along with his family and meritorious generals. The temple's architecture is majestic yet intimate. This is an important pilgrimage site, where tourists pay their respects to the Saint who is revered by the people.

Chung Hoa Temple 

Chung Hoa Temple

Chung Hoa Temple was built opposite Thien Truong Temple, considered a reconstruction of the Trung Hoa palace - where the Tran kings once lived and worked. Temple of Tran Dynasty kings and their statues. Trung Hoa Temple has the symbolic meaning of recreating the royal living space, helping visitors feel the ancient royal atmosphere.

Dragon Well and Crescent Lake Area

Dragon Well and Crescent Lake Area

Community Tran Temple also includes auxiliary works and landscapes such as Dragon Well (located behind Thien Truong Temple, legendary to be where King Tran placed the Dragon Vein) and the Crescent Lake area. These areas not only create harmonious architectural beauty but are also places for tourists to stop to rest and admire the ancient landscape.

Monument grounds and auxiliary works

Temple grounds Tran

The Tran Temple campus is large, in addition to the three main temples, there are also auxiliary works such as Tower Pagoda (located next to Thien Truong Temple), Ngu Mon Gate (majestic main gate), and stone stele areas, creating a complete architectural complex. These works help visitors better understand the planning and spiritual architecture of the Tran Dynasty.

Below are suggestions for other attractions nearby Tran Temple (Nam Dinh Ward):

  • Pho Minh Pagoda: The ancient pagoda is famous for its Pho Minh Tower (14-storey tower), which is an important historical relic, often combined with sightseeing. Tran Temple.

  • Provincial Museum: A place to display historical, cultural and archaeological artifacts of Ninh Binh province.

  • Day River Area: The river flows through the area near Tran Temple, suitable for walking or enjoying the riverside landscape.

  • Dong Van Tourist Area: Located in the surrounding area, providing modern entertainment and culinary services.

Best time to travel

The most ideal time to visit Tran Temple is in the spring, especially around the middle of January of the lunar calendar. At this time, the weather in Nam Dinh Ward is cool and dry, very favorable for pilgrimage and outdoor sightseeing activities. This is the pinnacle of the Tran Temple Seal Opening Festival, which takes place on the full moon night of the first lunar month (ie January 14 to 15), attracting tens of thousands of tourists and people to apply for seals, creating a solemn and bustling atmosphere.

In addition to the festival season, visitors can visit Tran Temple in the Summer and Fall (from May to October) to enjoy a more peaceful and peaceful space. Although the weather can be hot, avoiding the crowds of the festival season helps visitors to leisurely admire the architecture and historical works of the complex, better feeling the long-standing historical and cultural value of this monument.

Transportation information

Airline

Even though Ninh Binh province does not have a stadium By civil flight, tourists can access this area through two large neighboring airports:

  • Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) - Hanoi Departure airports: Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang, Can Tho, etc. Travel time (to Tran Temple, estimated): About 2 - 2.5 hours (after landing) After landing, visitors should take a taxi or limousine to travel along Phap Van - Cau Gie - Ninh Binh Highway.

  • Cat Bi Airport (HPH) - Hai Phong Departure airport: City. Ho Chi Minh (SGN), Da Nang (DAD), etc. Travel time (to Tran Temple, estimated): About 1.5 - 2 hours (after landing) Tourists travel by road along Highway 10 to reach Nam Dinh Ward area.

Rail

The Thong Nhat North - South railway is an economic and safe means to get close to the Tran Temple area.

  • Hanoi – Ninh Binh Station Departure station: Hanoi Station Travel time (estimated): About 2.5 hours Ninh Binh Station (Hoa Lu Ward) is the nearest station. From here, Tran Temple (Nam Dinh Ward) is about 8 - 10 km away. Visitors need to take a taxi or motorbike taxi for about 15 - 20 minutes to get to the relic.

Passenger car and Limousine

This is the most popular and flexible means of transportation to travel directly from Hanoi to the center of Nam Dinh Ward.

  • Hanoi – Nam Dinh Ward. Dinh/Hoa Lu Ward Departure station: Giap Bat bus station, Nuoc Ngam bus station, or inner-city Limousine offices Travel time (estimated): 1.5 - 2 hours (according to the highway) Many high-quality bus companies have routes running through or stopping in the Nam Dinh Ward area, very convenient for tourists.

Movement in the Tran Temple area

The Tran Temple complex is located in the Nam Dinh Ward area, visitors can travel conveniently by the following means:

  • On foot: Suitable for: Visiting the three main temples (Thien Truong, Co Trach, Trung Hoa) and Ban Lake area Nguyet, because the projects are located adjacent to each other.

  • Taxis and technology vehicles: Popular means of transport: Mai Linh, Xuan Thanh, Grab (central area) Suitable for: Traveling from Ninh Binh Station or hotels to Tran Temple.

  • Intra-provincial buses: Intra-provincial bus routes connecting Hoa Ward. Lu, Nam Dinh Ward and surrounding areas are economic choices. Reference ticket price: About 10,000 - 20,000 VND/trip.

Accommodation information

Luxury class

Nam Cuong Hotel

Nam Cuong Hotel

  • Address: 538 Tran Hung Dao, Nam Dinh Ward, Ninh Binh Province - price from 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 VND/night

Nam Cuong Hotel is a great resort location with full amenities of 4-5 star standard. The hotel stands out with its luxurious rooms, indoor swimming pool, modern gym and high-end restaurants. The location on the main road helps visitors easily move to Tran Temple and historical relics.

Tru By Hilton Nam Dinh City Center

  • Address: 272 Tran Hung Dao, Nam Dinh Ward, Ninh Binh province - price from 1,200,000 - 2,000,000 VND/night

This is an international brand hotel, with a modern, youthful and convenient style. The hotel offers comfortable guestrooms, a spacious lobby area, a fitness center and quality breakfast service. The central location of Nam Dinh Ward is very convenient for tourists to visit monuments and shopping areas.

Resort (Resort, Retreat)

Fairy Mountain Retreat

  • Address: Binh Khe Village, Ninh Nhat Commune, Ninh Binh Province - price from 1,021,300 VND/night (Estimated)

This resort is highly appreciated for its peaceful, quiet space and very close to nature. The rooms are spacious, airy and clean. Fairy Mountain Retreat provides a true resort experience, suitable for travelers looking for a place to relax after visiting historical and cultural sites.

An's Eco Garden

  • Address: Binh Khe Village, Ninh Nhat Commune, Ninh Binh Province - price from 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 VND/night (Estimated)

This eco-resort is isolated in the middle of a green space, bringing the experience of immersing yourself in Ninh Binh nature. An's Eco Garden has bungalows designed in a rustic, intimate style, with full resort amenities, very suitable for family or couple vacations.

Other experiences (2–3 star hotels, Homestays)

Tuan Ngoc Hotel

  • Address: Near Trang An Entrance, Tay Hoa Lu Ward, Ninh Binh Province - price from 500,000 VND/night

This 3-star hotel is located in an area with easy access to main monuments. Tuan Ngoc Hotel provides comfortable, clean rooms at reasonable prices.

Phuong Vi Hotel

  • Address: Area near Trang An Entrance Gate, West Hoa Lu Ward, Ninh Binh Province - price from 700,000 VND/night

The hotel provides convenient, clean resting services, located near main roads and administrative centers of the province.

Suggested additional accommodation options:

  • Green River Hotel: 3-star hotel in Hoa Lu Ward (located near the river), price about 700,000 VND/night.

  • Homestays/Motels in Nam Dinh Ward: The area around Tran Temple has many homestays and motels with prices ranging from 350,000 - 600,000 VND/night, suitable for tourists who want to be close to the festive atmosphere.

  • Thanh Binh Hotel: 3-star hotel located in the center of Hoa Lu Ward, convenient to move to Ninh Binh Station, price about 650,000 - 850,000 VND/night.

  • Minh Toan Hotel: Good price hotel, located near the Day River area and administrative facilities, price about 500,000 - 700,000 VND/night.

  • Kim Son Hotel: 3-star hotel with a beautiful location in Hoa Lu Ward, with basic food and beverage service, price about 750,000 - 950,000 VND/night.

  • Tam Coc Westlake Homestay: Although located further away (Tam Coc area), this is an ecological homestay option with lake and mountain views, priced around 400,000 - 600,000 VND/night.

Festival cuisine and culture

Floating restaurant language

Thanh Nam Quan

Thanh Nam Quan

  • Address: 475 Giai Phong, Nam Dinh Ward, Ninh Binh province - reference price about 150,000 - 300,000 VND/person

Is Thanh Nam Quan available? The space is spacious and cozy, specializing in serving diners special dishes, especially dishes with strong Northern flavors. The restaurant has a rich menu, suitable for organizing intimate parties and festivals at affordable prices. The shop also has a comfortable private room.

>Dai Lam Cuisine Restaurant

  • Address: Thien Truong Avenue, Nam Dinh Ward, Ninh Binh Province - reference price ranges from 250,000 - 500,000 VND/person

Located right on Thien Avenue School, Dai Lam Cuisine Restaurant is the ideal place for intimate meals. This place has a modern design, spacious space and large capacity with many separate areas. The restaurant has a rich menu, diverse from seafood to forest specialties, and even VIP dishes such as tuna sashimi or lobster with premium flavors.

Local cuisine

Mountain Goat Meat and Burnt Rice

Mountain Goat meat is considered the "soul" of Ninh Binh cuisine. The goat meat here is firm and low in fat because the goats are grazed on limestone mountains. This dish is often processed into many delicious dishes such as grilled goat with lemon and grilled goat. Crispy burnt rice, served with heart-kidney sauce or shrimp paste, is a gift tourists often buy after the trip.

Suggested address:

  • Specialty eateries in Hoa Lu Ward (Tran Hung Dao street): Concentrate many reputable mountain goat and scorched rice restaurants.

  • Restaurants near Ninh Binh Station: Serving traditional cuisine, convenient for travelers on the go.

Bun Moc, Bun Cha Fan

Bun Moc and Bun Cha Fan are popular breakfast and rustic snacks in the Nam Dinh Ward area. These dishes have the traditional flavors of the Red River Delta, with sweet broth and fragrant grilled pork patties.

Suggested address:

  • Breakfast restaurants at Rong Market (central area of Nam Dinh Ward): In the morning, there are many shops selling vermicelli noodles, pho, and sticky rice with affordable prices.

Experiential Cuisine

Eating and drinking at the Opening Festival area

In the vicinity of Tran Temple, especially on the occasion of the Opening Festival (January of the Lunar Calendar), there are many food stalls serving fast food, snacks, and traditional festival dishes such as day cake and sweet sticky rice. These dishes are not only convenient but also imbued with traditional flavors, helping visitors fully feel the sacred and vibrant atmosphere of the festival.

Nam Dinh Ward Night Market

The night market/walking street in Nam Dinh Ward is where visitors can experience street food, enjoy snacks and shop for local products in the evening. This is the ideal place to discover typical dishes of Nam Dinh such as beef pho, banh cuon, and mixed sweet soup in a bustling space, imbued with local life.

Culture & Festival Experience

Tran Temple Opening Festival

Opening Festival Tran Temple

Takes place on the full moon night of the first lunar month every year at Tran Temple. This is the largest cultural and spiritual event in the region. The festival includes solemn traditional rituals such as the palanquin procession, sacrifice ceremony and opening ceremony. Tourists attend to ask for a seal (seal for) with the desire to pray for fortune, fame and peace.

Worshiping rituals at the Temple

Visitors can participate in incense offering and worshiping rituals at Thien Truong Temple and Co Trach Temple. These rituals have the meaning of remembering the merits of the Tran Kings and expressing traditional beliefs.

Other cultural festivals in the surrounding area:

  • Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival - Takes place from January to March of the lunar calendar (about 15km from Tran Temple).

  • Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Festival - Takes place in the third lunar month (about 10km from Tran Temple).

Amusement areas

Here are some suggestions for amusement parks, entertainment and relaxing attractions located near the Tran Temple area (Nam Dinh Ward):

Vi Hoang Park 

Vi Hoang Park

Vi Hoang Park is located in the center of Nam Dinh Ward, is the largest and oldest outdoor entertainment area in the area. The park has spacious, airy space, lakes and large green areas, suitable for picnics, strolls and exercise. The park is also often a place to organize cultural and entertainment events on weekends or holidays.

Some other attractive places to visit and experience:

  • Ninh Binh Provincial Museum: A place to display historical, cultural and archaeological artifacts of the province. This is an educational attraction, ideal for learning about the ancient capital.

  • Walking Route along the Day River: Beautifully planned routes along the banks of the Day River, very suitable for walking, cycling or watching the sunset in the fresh, quiet air.

  • Pagoda Pho Minh: The ancient pagoda is famous for its Pho Minh Tower (14-storey tower), which is an important historical site, often combined with a visit to Tran Temple.

  • Night Market/Walking Street of Nam Dinh Ward: Night market area (if any) provides space for shopping, enjoying street food and local handicraft products.

Suggested tours

Experience tours

1 day Tran Temple - Pho Minh Pilgrimage Tour

  • Itinerary: Hanoi - Tran Temple (Visit Thien Truong Temple, Co Trach Temple, Trung Hoa Temple) - Pho Minh Pagoda - Hanoi

  • Transportation: Tourist car

  • Reference tour price: 750,000 - 950,000 VND/person

  • Organizing unit: Cultural and spiritual tourism companies

Adventure tour - discovery

Tour Tam Coc - Tran Temple - Hoa Lu ancient capital 2 days 1 night

  • Itinerary:

    • Day 1: Hanoi - Hoa Lu ancient capital (visit the temples of King Dinh and King Le) - Afternoon: Tam Coc Tourist Area - Overnight in the Ward Hoa Lu.

    • Day 2: Morning: Tran Temple (visiting the relic complex) – Noon: Lunch at Nam Dinh Ward – Afternoon: Hanoi.

  • Transportation: Car + bamboo boat

  • Reference tour price: 1,900,000 - 3,000,000 VND/person

  • Organizer: Vietrantour / Fiditour

Family tour

>Trang An tour – Tran Temple – Explore the center 2 days 1 night

  • Itinerary:

    • Day 1: Hanoi – Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (boat ride).

    • Day 2: Morning: Tran Temple (visit the ruins, Pho Minh Pagoda) - Afternoon: Visit Ninh Binh Provincial Museum - Return to Hanoi.

  • Transportation: Car + bamboo boat

  • Reference tour price: 2,000,000 - 3,200,000 VND/person

  • Organizer: Hanoitourist / Vietravel

Eco-tourism

>Tour Phu Day - Tran Temple - Spiritual pilgrimage 1 day

  • Itinerary: Hanoi Noi - Phu Day (Nam Dinh) - Tran Temple - Hanoi

  • Transportation: Tourist car

  • Reference tour price: 800,000 - 1,000,000 VND/person

  • Organizer: Companies specializing in festival tours

Shopping and Souvenirs

The Tran Temple area, especially during the festival season (January of the Lunar Calendar), is home to many stalls selling spiritual items, souvenirs and local specialties. The main shopping destinations are concentrated in the temple gate area and traditional markets near Nam Dinh Ward.

Souvenirs and Spiritual Items

Tran Temple Seal

  • Tran Temple Seal (January): As the most prominent and sacred item, tourists line up to ask for the seal (given seal) at the Opening Ceremony (full moon night of January) with the desire to pray for fame and fortune. This is a gift with great spiritual value.

  • Articles crafted from Wood and Bronze: Including beads, small statues, models of Tran Temple or exquisitely crafted feng shui items, often sold at shops around the relic.

  • Items for worship: Objects offerings, votive offerings, incense, and publications about the history of the Tran Dynasty and the relic complex.

Local culinary gifts

  • Ninh Binh Scorched Rice: This is the most popular culinary gift, often purchased at large specialty stores in the central area of Nam Dinh Ward. Elder rice is crispy, easy to carry and produced by famous brands.

  • Emperor Wine: A typical wine of the region, often sold in beautiful bottles for tourists to buy as gifts.

  • Millet cake and Gai cake: Traditional snacks and cakes with strong Dong flavor along the Red River, often sold at street vendors around the market area and temple gate.

Support information and other information

Tran Temple Relics Management Board

  • Address: Near Ngu Mon Gate, Nam Dinh Ward, Ninh Binh Province

  • Function: Providing information and guidance on relics, worship rituals, managing festival activities (especially the Opening Ceremony), and solving problems related to security and order within the temple grounds.

Ninh Binh Provincial Police

  • Address: Dinh Tat Mien Street, Hoa Lu Ward, Ninh Binh Province

  • Emergency phone number: 113

  • Phone: 0229.3871.097

Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Ninh Binh Province

  • Address: No. 29 - Le Dai Hanh Street - Hoa Lu Ward - Ninh Binh Province

  • Phone: 02293.880.470

>Ninh Binh Province Market Management Department (Consumer Protection)

  • Address: No. 01, Van Giang Street, Hoa Lu Ward, Ninh Binh Province

  • Phone: 02293 873 468

As a major spiritual center with a rich history, the Tran Temple Complex is a place to honor the merits of the Tran Dynasty and is the main venue for the famous Opening Festival, giving visitors profound discoveries about traditional culture.