1. About Ha Nam

When it comes to destinations near Hanoi, Ha Nam may not be a familiar name to many Southern tourists, but it holds countless fascinating attractions. This land is located at the southern gateway of the capital, just about 55 km from Hanoi, and stands out with its harmonious blend of fertile fields and majestic limestone mountains. In recent years, Ha Nam has increasingly attracted tourists from Saigon thanks to the strong development of tourism services, especially spiritual tourism associated with its long-standing culture.

Visit Ha Nam to experience a unique spiritual cultural space. (Source: Collected)

The most outstanding value of Ha Nam is expressed through ancient pagodas preserving thousands of years of history, along with typical traditional craft villages such as Vu Dai fish stew or Nha Xa silk, where traditional manual methods are still maintained. The system of communal houses, pagodas, and relics spread across this land contributes to reviving the characteristic values of rice civilization of the Northern Delta.

If you want to visit Ha Nam from Saigon, the best times are from February to April and from September to December. In spring, the festive atmosphere fills the countryside, and visitors can immerse themselves in many unique folk cultural and artistic activities. In late autumn and early winter, the weather is cool, pleasant, and with little rain, making it very suitable for leisurely exploration and fully enjoying the peaceful beauty of the region.

2. Guide to traveling to Ha Nam from Saigon

2.1. Flight route from Saigon to Hanoi

Departing from Saigon to explore Ha Nam, the quickest and most time-saving option is to fly directly to Hanoi. It only takes about 2 hours of travel, and visitors can easily choose flights from airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, or Bamboo Airways – these airlines frequently operate multiple time slots throughout the day, catering to diverse needs.

To secure good ticket prices, it is advisable to prioritize early morning flights from 6 AM to 8 AM or afternoon flights from 1 PM to 3 PM. This is convenient for connecting to Ha Nam and also minimizes the chances of flight delays into late evening hours.

Some tips for hunting cheap tickets include planning 1-2 months in advance and signing up for promotional notifications via airline emails. Special occasions like airline anniversaries, Black Friday, or low seasons often feature attractive discount programs. Additionally, participating in loyalty programs and accumulating reward points is also a good way to save costs for future trips.

2.2. Traveling from Hanoi to Ha Nam

Ha Nam has an extremely convenient geographical location. (Source: Collected)

From Hanoi to Ha Nam, visitors can choose from a variety of transportation options to suit their needs. Buses are the most convenient option, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours with prices ranging from 80,000 to 200,000 VND depending on the quality and type of vehicle. Bus companies such as Cuc Mung, Viet Trung, or Thoi Dai Limousine have many daily trips, mainly departing from Giap Bat or My Dinh bus stations.

If you want to admire the countryside scenery along the way, you can choose the Hanoi – Phu Ly railway line with a travel time of about 1 hour, ticket prices from 50,000 to 150,000 VND. However, train schedules are not as flexible as buses, so you should proactively book tickets on the Vietnam Railways website or directly at the station.

In addition, those who want to save time arranging their itinerary can refer to group tours for 1 or 2 days, including a tour guide and accompanying services. However, this format limits personal freedom, so it is suitable for those who prioritize the overall experience.

2.3. Transportation in Ha Nam

Upon arriving in Ha Nam, visitors have many transportation options to easily travel between attractions. For large groups or families, taxis and inter-provincial limousines are convenient choices, with prices ranging from 13,000 – 15,000 VND/km, especially suitable for visiting distant points from the center such as Tam Chuc Pagoda or Sun World Ha Nam tourist area.

If you love freedom, flexibility, and want to explore the rural lifestyle, renting a motorbike will be an interesting experience. Rental prices range from 120,000 – 150,000 VND/day, usually available in Phu Ly center or within some large hotels, allowing you to be more proactive in your journey and stop to take photos at any time.

For tourists who prefer freedom and flexibility, motorbikes can be chosen for transportation in Ha Nam. (Source: Collected)

Additionally, the intra-provincial bus system is also an economical choice with fares ranging from only 7,000 – 15,000 VND/trip, conveniently connecting many attractions to the city center. At prominent sites like Tam Chuc Pagoda, tourists can also use shuttle electric vehicles, saving time and increasing comfort when visiting the vast complex.

3. Outstanding attractions and entertainment when traveling to Ha Nam

3.1. Sun World Ha Nam

Sun World Ha Nam, located in Ha Nam ward, has been invested with a modern scale and has quickly become the most prominent entertainment and recreation destination in the region. This complex offers diverse experiences for all ages, from thrilling adventure rides like roller coasters and giant Ferris wheels, to gentle activities suitable for children and the elderly.

One of the biggest draws is the water park with its diverse range of slides and a large wave pool, where visitors can have endless fun and beat the summer heat. The surrounding landscape is harmoniously designed with nature, creating ideal small resorts for resting and relaxing after experiencing the games.

Enjoy endless fun at Sun World Ha Nam. (Source: Collected)

Besides entertainment, Sun World Ha Nam is also meticulously invested in its landscape, with many unique check-in spots skillfully combining traditional and modern elements, making every commemorative photo impressive. The culinary area here is equally diverse, from exquisite Asian and European dishes to familiar street food, or luxurious dining spaces, offering a rich choice for visitors of all ages.

3.2. Tam Chuc Pagoda

Tam Chuc Pagoda is known as the largest pagoda complex in Southeast Asia, located on an area of over 5,000 hectares, with its back leaning against majestic limestone mountains and its face looking out at the clear blue lakes. The entire scene here is like a giant ink wash painting, blending the overlapping mountains and the calm water surface, leaving visitors awestruck from the very first moment.

Discover the largest pagoda complex in Southeast Asia. (Source: Collected)

The highlight of the pagoda complex is the system of spiritual structures built in the traditional Vietnamese architectural style, while skillfully integrating modern elements. This harmonious combination creates a space that is both majestic and sacred, possessing unique artistic value, highly appreciated by experts.

When visiting, tourists should note to dress respectfully and modestly, and refrain from bringing food and drinks into the premises to maintain solemnity. The pagoda is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, welcoming millions of visitors from all directions to worship, sightsee, and learn about culture and beliefs. Today, Tam Chuc is not only a religious destination but also a distinctive cultural tourism symbol of Ha Nam, attracting domestic and international tourists.

3.3. Nha Ba Kien and Vu Dai Village

Nha Ba Kien is one of the relics associated with the work “Lang Vu Dai Ngay Ay”, which still retains its original appearance with a sturdy ironwood frame and intricate carvings characteristic of ancient houses in the Northern region. The space here takes visitors back in time, allowing them to clearly feel the rhythm of life of the people in the Red River Delta in the early 20th century.

Besides its historical and cultural value, Vu Dai Village is also known for its renowned traditional fish braising craft. When visiting, tourists can witness firsthand the meticulous processing procedure: black carp are cleaned, marinated with characteristic spices, and then slowly braised for many hours in clay pots. The rich aroma fills the space, creating a unique charm for this village.

Enjoy the famous braised fish specialty of Vu Dai Village. (Source: Collected)

Not stopping at just learning, visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy the braised fish dish right at the homes of local artisans. The braised fish is eaten with fragrant sticky white rice, a little fresh vegetables, and a bowl of simple sour soup; all blend into a flavor typical of the North of Vietnam, leaving an unforgettable aftertaste in the experience journey.

3.4. Famous ancient pagodas: Ba Danh Pagoda, Bau Pagoda, Long Doi Son Pagoda

Ba Danh Pagoda is familiar through a folk idiom, but in reality, it is a sacred destination attracting a large number of visitors from all directions. The pagoda stands out with its sturdy green stone pillar system, vivid and artistic wall paintings telling Buddhist stories. In the first, second, and third lunar months, this place is bustling with the atmosphere of folk festivals, combined with water puppetry and Cheo Van singing, offering a unique cultural experience.

Bau Pagoda impresses with its traditional Northern Vietnamese architecture and an ancient Buddha statue from the 17th century that is still preserved intact. The spacious area with lotus ponds and cool green trees creates a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for those seeking peace of mind.

Long Doi Son Pagoda is located on a high hilltop, where the famous Sung Thien Tower from the Ly Dynasty stands, a testament to the historical and cultural depth of the Ha Nam region. Every year, on the 21st day of the 3rd lunar month, the pagoda organizes a traditional festival with many rich activities, attracting a large number of tourists. From the pagoda's location, a vast expanse of rice fields and the Day River winding around villages appear before your eyes, evoking a scene that is both poetic and majestic.

Admire the spiritual cultural space at famous ancient pagodas. (Source: Collected)

3.5. Traditional Craft Villages of Ha Nam

Nha Xa Silk Village is home to the famous traditional handmade silk weaving craft of Vietnam. The weaving workshops here still use traditional looms that are centuries old, creating exquisite silk products with a characteristic soft, smooth, and shiny surface. Visitors can also observe the complete process from silkworm rearing, cocoon reeling, and thread spinning to the finished silk cloth.

Discover the unique characteristics of Nha Xa silk village. (Source: Collected)

Silk products in Nha Xa are extremely diverse, from silk scarves, ao dai, handmade jewelry to unique artistic souvenirs. Prices purchased in the village are usually 30-40% cheaper than in large stores, while also ensuring clear origin and quality.

4. Must-try cuisine when traveling to Ha Nam

4.1. Ca kho lang Vu Dai

When mentioning Ha Nam cuisine, Ca kho lang Vu Dai is always a prominent name, especially for tourists from Saigon wanting to experience traditional Northern Vietnamese flavors. Black carp are carefully selected, cleaned, then marinated with a secret blend of spices, and then stewed in an earthenware pot for 8-10 hours. When the fish pot is finished, each piece of fish has a beautiful glossy brown color, firm yet tender meat, with a savory flavor mixed with a slight sweet thanh, a taste that will be remembered after the first bite.

4.2. Banh cuon Phu Ly

Banh cuon Phu Ly has long captivated diners with its thin, translucent, soft, and chewy cake layers and the aroma of fresh rice. The artisans skillfully steam each layer of rice batter on a cast-iron pan to create smooth, standard cakes. When served, the cakes are usually accompanied by golden grilled pork sausage, sliced pork roll, and a bowl of sweet and sour fish sauce. All blend together to create a distinctive, simple yet captivating flavor.

4.3. De nui Kim Bang

Kim Bang mountain goat meat is irresistibly delicious. (Source: Collected)

Kim Bang mountain goat is famous for being naturally grazed on rocky mountains, resulting in firm, lean meat with a characteristic sweet aroma. From this ingredient, local people create many attractive dishes such as steamed goat, grilled goat, lime-marinated raw goat, goat stir-fried with lemongrass and chili, or goat hot pot. Each dish retains the original sweetness of the meat, bringing an unforgettable culinary experience to anyone who tries it.

4.4. Dai Hoang Royal Banana

Experience the delicate sweetness of Dai Hoang royal bananas. (Source: Collected)

Dai Hoang royal bananas, also known as "emperor's tribute bananas," have long been the pride of Nam Cao's homeland. The bananas are small and delicate, with thin skins, and when ripe, they have a glossy golden hue, emitting a gentle fragrance and a delicate sweet taste, which becomes richer with time. Not just a simple fruit of the countryside, royal bananas also carry special cultural value, often appearing on the five-fruit tray during Tet or in solemn ceremonies.

5. Notes, experiences, and tips for traveling to Ha Nam from Saigon

Ha Nam will surely bring memorable experiences to visitors. (Source: Collected)

Ha Nam's climate is quite different from Sai Gon's, especially in the early morning and evening at the end or beginning of the year, it is often chilly. Therefore, visitors should prepare a light jacket, long pants, and comfortable shoes for easy movement between attractions. When visiting pagodas, pay attention to choosing modest and polite attire, avoid wearing short clothes, tank tops, or overly elaborate outfits to maintain solemnity.

During your journey to explore Ha Nam, respecting local customs is always important. In spiritual spaces, visitors should limit casual photography, especially in worship areas. When visiting craft villages, you should ask for permission before filming or photographing, and avoid disturbing the production activities of the local people.

Due to the temperature difference between Sai Gon and Ha Nam, some visitors may feel tired or easily catch a cold during seasonal changes. Bringing a small first-aid kit including cold medicine, headache medicine, masks, and hand sanitizer will help you proactively protect your health.

Especially, major festivals such as the Tam Chuc Pagoda Festival or the Long Doi Son Pagoda Festival (March of the lunar calendar) are ideal opportunities to experience the cultural depth of this land. However, you should book hotel rooms and attraction tickets early to avoid overcrowding. Additionally, don't forget to bring a power bank and camera memory card to capture memorable moments throughout your trip.

Traveling to Ha Nam from Sai Gon is an experience-rich journey, allowing you to fully appreciate the Northern Vietnamese cultural space with reasonable costs and convenient travel time. Proactively prepare and plan your itinerary to fully enjoy the unique aspects of this land rich in traditional values.