1. Introduction to Phu Khong Trang An
The serene scenery of Phu Khong Trang An amidst picturesque mountains and waters. (Source: Collected)
Located in the heart of Ninh Binh's overlapping limestone mountains, Phu Khong Trang An is located within the Trang An ecological tourist area, belonging to Tay Hoa Lu ward, Hoa Lu district. This location is gifted by nature with a uniquely rare position, its back leaning against the sacred Khong Cave, embraced on both sides by towering limestone mountain ranges like a majestic citadel wall, in front opens up an endlessly stretching turquoise water valley.
Before Phu Khong is a calm lake reflecting the sky and clouds. (Source: Collected)
The outstanding attraction of Phu Khong is the harmonious beauty of mountains and water, creating a vibrant natural picture. As the boat gently glides past the rocky cliffs, a small temple suddenly appears, hidden behind lush green trees, visitors will feel as if they have stepped into a peaceful fairy tale. The meaning of this scenery is further deepened because Phu Khong Trang An is part of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage complex, recognized by UNESCO.
The most ideal time to visit is in the early morning from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, the air is fresh and quiet, or in the late afternoon from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM when the sunlight is gentle, suitable for capturing beautiful moments with nature.
2. Directions to Phu Khong Trang An
To visit Phu Khong, visitors can start their journey from Hanoi by car, bus, or motorbike, covering a distance of about 90 km, taking around 2-3 hours. Upon arriving at Trang An tourist area, visitors will purchase tickets at the main ticket counter. Currently, tickets for adults over 1.3m are priced at approximately 250,000 VND, children from 1-1.3m are 120,000 VND, and this price includes the boat tour service.
To reach Phu Khong, you should choose boat route number 1 – a route that passes through famous caves such as Bright Cave, Dark Cave, Wine Cooking Cave before reaching the destination. This route takes about 2.5-3 hours, enough for visitors to admire the majestic scenery of mountains, rivers, and unique limestone caves.
Upon arriving at Phu Khong, you will have about 30-40 minutes to visit the entire temple, listen to the guide talk about the history and folk tales associated with this place, and feel the sacred atmosphere enveloping the area. Movement within the tourist area is entirely by traditional sampan boats, rowed by local people. Each boat carries about 2-4 people, offering a sense of closeness to nature and a relaxing, leisurely experience amidst the water and rocky mountains.
The journey to Phu Khong is not just a simple tour but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the peaceful natural space, enjoy the serene beauty of the caves, and understand more about the historical and cultural values of the ancient capital land of Ninh Binh.
3. Historical Stories and Mysterious Legends at Phu Khong Trang An
3.1. Legend of the Seven Loyal Officials of the Dinh Dynasty and King Dinh Tien Hoang
In the flow of Vietnamese history, the legend of Phu Khong Trang An is one of the most touching and meaningful stories. After King Dinh Tien Hoang, the first king of the independent Dai Co Viet, passed away, seven loyal officials undertook the important mission: to prepare the body and protect the secret of the king's resting place.
Dinh Cong Tiet Che erected incense bowls to commemorate seven loyal officials. (Source: Collected)
According to historical documents, to keep the location of King Dinh Tien Hoang's tomb secret, seven officials had 100 bronze coffins made and organized processions in various directions to mislead. As a result, malicious individuals could not determine the true location of the tomb. This is considered one of the wise methods of tomb protection by the feudal dynasties of Vietnam.
When the Dinh dynasty ended and Le Hoan ascended the throne, many officials who did not accept the change revolted. Dinh Cong Tiet Che and other loyal officials were confined to the area now known as Phu Khong. Faced with news of the rebellion's failure and the deaths of their comrades, they chose to commit suicide to preserve their loyalty and honor. The name 'Khong' in Phu Khong Trang An is believed to signify a place of deep spiritual remembrance, honoring loyal individuals.
3.2. The 'thousand-year-old' persimmon tree and its wonders
A special feature that impresses visitors when visiting Phu Khong Trang An is the presence of an ancient persimmon tree over 1,000 years old growing right in front of the temple. The persimmon tree has a large trunk, rough bark, and foliage green year-round like an umbrella providing shade for the small temple below.
A thousand-year-old fig tree casts a sacred shade in front of Phu Khong. (Source: Collected)
What makes this fig tree famous is the fact that two types of fruit appear on the tree simultaneously: round fruits and flat fruits. Local people see this as a symbol of rebirth, representing the cycle of life and death in spiritual beliefs.
Legend has it that the ancient fig tree witnessed the passing of seven loyal officials right under its shade centuries ago. Over the years, the ancient tree grew old and fell, but miraculously, a young fig sapling grew from the old stump, becoming the current tree. This story is seen as a continuation of traditional values, a testament to the resilient spirit of heroism across generations.
4. Outstanding experiences at Phu Khong Trang An
4.1. Admire the Dinh-shaped architecture and sacred space
Phu Khong Trang An is built based on traditional Dinh-shaped architecture, reflecting the sophistication of ancient Vietnamese construction art. The temple has a U-shape, with a corridor leading to the main worship area, creating a solemn and tranquil atmosphere for visitors. The temple gate stands out with its intricate carved details, vividly recreating the historical story of the seven loyal officials.
Phu Khong features Dinh architecture in a sacred space. (Source: Collected)
The main structures of Phu Khong use four precious woods (Dinh, Lim, Sen, Tau) – rare woods with timeless durability, helping the work stand for over 1,000 years. This architecture is not only a testament to the skillful hands of ancient artisans but also expresses reverence for the historical figures worshipped.
The location of Phu Khong Trang An was carefully chosen according to feng shui principles: the sacred Khong cave behind serves as the "rear support", limestone mountains on both sides act as the "green dragon white tiger", and the front opens to a vast water valley called the "bright hall". This combination creates a space converging sacred energy, where nature and spirituality harmonize.
4.2. Enjoy folk music at Phu Khong
On major holidays or weekends, Phu Khong Trang An often hosts performances of Ca Tru and Ninh Binh folk songs. The ancient melodies echo in the tranquil space amidst the mountains and forests, offering visitors an unforgettable cultural experience. Sitting under the canopy of an ancient persimmon tree, listening to traditional music narrate the heroic past is an emotionally rich activity.
These artistic programs are not just for enjoyment but also help visitors understand more about the spiritual culture and the long-standing music tradition of the ancient capital region. Along with the sacred scenery of Phu Khong , folk music contributes to creating a connection between generations, reminding us of national traditions.
4.3. Combine with visits to nearby tourist attractions
After visiting Phu Khong Trang An, tourists can continue their journey to fully explore Ninh Binh. An ideal suggestion is to visit Bao Hieu Pagoda – a pagoda with serene Buddhist architecture, nestled amidst scenic overlapping mountains, offering a peaceful, tranquil space for those wishing to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle. Afterwards, you can stroll around Ninh Binh walking street, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the vibrant life of the mountain town.
Bao Hieu Pagoda hidden amidst serene mountains and forests. (Source: Compilation)
If you want to extend your journey and experience more entertainment activities, Sun World Ha Nam is also an interesting destination not far away, where visitors can immerse themselves in exciting games, vibrant landscapes, and modern entertainment spaces, creating a day of exploration that is both relaxing and colorful.
Phu Khong Trang An is a suitable place for those who seek an intersection of spirituality, history, and nature. Book a tour today to experience the sacred atmosphere right in the heart of the Ninh Binh UNESCO World Heritage site!
