1. Introduction to Vu Lam Trang An Royal Court

Vast waters reflect the beauty of Vu Lam Royal Palace. (Source: Collected)

Hidden amidst the majestic mountains and the turquoise waters of Trang An, Vu Lam Royal Palace is considered one of the most significant historical relics in the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Not only does it mark cultural and spiritual values, but it also bears witness to a glorious period in the history of the Tran Dynasty, when our country fiercely resisted the invasion of the Yuan-Mongol army. The blend of majestic natural beauty and historical depth has created a unique charm for the Vu Lam Royal Palace Trang An .

1.1. Geographical location and scale of Vu Lam Royal Palace Trang An

Vu Lam Royal Palace is located in the southern part of the Trang An complex, in Nam Hoa Lu ward, Ninh Binh province. This area is surrounded by the limestone mountains of Thanh Nam, belonging to the ancient Hoa Lu capital, which is not only convenient for defense but also close to important waterway routes in the region. Thanks to this location, the kings of the Tran Dynasty could proactively command, coordinate forces, and control important developments throughout the Northern region.

The Vu Lam Royal Palace appears amidst the vast and majestic mountains and forests. (Source: Collected)

The terrain here is characteristic of the tropical karst region with towering limestone mountains, creating a system of interconnected natural caves, both rugged and majestic. Rivers, streams, and lakes winding through the valleys serve as special waterways, facilitating the easy and discreet concealment of troops and transportation of supplies. Around the Vu Lam Trang An Royal Palace, there is also the presence of many rare animal and plant species, representing the unique tropical limestone forest ecosystem combined with the Trang An wetland area.

1.2. History of formation and role of the Vu Lam Trang An Royal Palace

After the first victory against the Yuan-Mongol army in 1258, to strengthen defense capabilities and organize effective counter-attacks, King Tran Thai Tong decided to build the Vu Lam Royal Palace as the strategic command center for the second resistance war in 1285. This was the location of the general headquarters, where kings and generals discussed strategies, deployed forces, and organized logistics for the entire national defense effort.

The Vu Lam Royal Palace is also associated with many important events, as Kings Tran Thai Tong, Tran Nhan Tong came here to practice Buddhism, laying the foundation for the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen school, contributing to the strong development of Buddhism during the Tran Dynasty. In this area, there are still traces of 24 ancient pagodas, along with structures related to the military achievements and spiritual life of that era. This is where the spirit of national self-reliance converges, a solid symbol of the will and intellect of the Tran Dynasty, and a support for the spirit of East Asia in the history of the Vietnamese nation.

2. Guide to traveling to Vu Lam Royal Palace

To visit the Vu Lam Trang An Royal Palace, visitors will depart from Trang An boat station and choose the Vu Lam tour route among the three main boat routes in the tourist area. The kayak boat journey takes visitors through many large and small caves, offering a unique experience, with a stop at the Vu Lam Royal Palace and prominent historical sites along the way. The boats are operated by experienced local people who are knowledgeable about the history and geography of the area.

The time for the boat trip and sightseeing usually lasts from 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the level of exploration and stops by each group of visitors. For a more convenient journey, visitors should prepare non-slip sports shoes, long-sleeved shirts, drinking water, sunglasses, hats or caps to avoid the sun, along with cameras and light personal belongings.

The best time to explore the Vu Lam Trang An Royal Palace is during the dry season, from October to April next year, which helps limit the impact of heavy rain and rising water levels on the visitor experience.

3. Suggested itinerary for visiting relics and attractive nearby tourist spots

3.1. Caves and logistical traces of the Tran Dynasty

The Vuon Kho (Warehouse Garden) at the Vu Lam Royal Palace was once a food gathering place, serving as a crucial logistical warehouse for the Tran army. This place preserves many traces of food storage methods, ensuring a stable supply for the resistance forces. Upon arrival, visitors can appreciate the sophistication in utilizing natural terrain to build secret storage systems, demonstrating the intelligence of ancient military tactics.

Vu Lam Royal Palace Warehouse Garden preserves the imprint of military provisions during the Tran Dynasty. (Source: Collected)

Tuan Cao is the point where officials and generals received orders from the king, serving as an important stopover on the sightseeing boat route. This is also authentic evidence of the command and military coordination role of the Vu Lam Trang An Royal Palace within the overall defense system of the Tran Dynasty. Cong Rong is notable for its stone bridge spanning the river used for travel and transportation of provisions, simultaneously demonstrating the advanced construction standards and architectural techniques of that era. Cua Quan takes the form of a narrow natural rock crevice, which was once a checkpoint for entering and exiting a vital area, reflecting the strict security requirements of the command center.

3.2. Complex of ancient pagodas at Vu Lam Trang An Royal Palace

At the Vu Lam Trang An Royal Palace, many ancient pagodas are preserved, holding great historical and architectural value. Thong Pagoda, San Pagoda, Kim Pagoda, and Chan Lu Pagoda are typical pagodas that still retain the characteristic architectural features of the Tran Dynasty. This is a place associated with famous kings and eminent monks, as well as a center for cultural and religious activities of soldiers and ancient residents.

Ancient pagoda complex at Hanh Cung Vu Lam appears amidst lush green mountains and clear blue waters. (Source: Collected)

Many pagodas have been carefully restored and preserved, becoming spiritual stopovers for visitors whenever they visit Trang An. The pure and sacred atmosphere here brings peace to the soul, while also helping visitors understand more about the prosperous period of Buddhism under the Tran dynasty and the role of the kings in developing the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect.

3.3. Boating to explore the heritage region in Trang An

The Vu Lam boat route takes visitors winding along winding rivers, through mysterious cave systems and lush green valleys, offering an experience of immersing oneself in the stunning river, water, and mountain scenery of the Trang An heritage site. This journey is not just an exploration but also helps visitors truly feel the pure, nature-close beauty of Vietnam.

Tourists relax on a boat admiring the scenery of Vu Lam Royal Palace. (Source: Collected)

The main stops along the route include Ca Cave, Hai Cave, Ba Cave, as well as logistical relics, ancient pagodas, and military vestiges. Each destination is a distinct slice, connecting culture, history, and nature to form a vivid picture of the Vu Lam Trang An Royal Palace within the broader context of the Trang An complex.

After the journey to explore the Vu Lam Royal Palace and the Trang An complex concludes, visitors can visit Time Square – a modern architectural work, symbolizing the youthful vitality and the intersection of tradition with modernity in Ha Nam, Ninh Binh. The square frequently hosts major cultural events and festivals of the province, bringing a vibrant and fresh atmosphere compared to the ancient charm of the historical sites.

Times Square is brilliant. (Source: Collection)

This is also a suitable place for tourists to relax, enjoy local specialties, or buy souvenirs characteristic of the Ninh Binh region before ending their trip.

On the way back to Hanoi, if there is time, tourists can also continue to explore Sun World Ha Nam – a large-scale entertainment complex, gathering many impressive works along with high-quality tourism services.

Sun World Ha Nam offers a vibrant and modern entertainment space. (Source: Collected)

The diversity of tourist attractions in Ninh Binh will bring you a rich series of experiences, from serene spaces imbued with spiritual cultural characteristics, to bustling street corners or modern entertainment spots. Each destination leaves its own impression, contributing to colorful memories, making the trip not only complete in terms of sightseeing but also rich in cultural, culinary, and emotional experiences.

Vu Lam Trang An Palace is not only a historical relic but also a special spiritual destination in the heart of the Trang An World Heritage site. Take time to explore this place to fully appreciate the tranquil beauty and profound cultural value of this thousand-year-old ancient capital land!