Explore Co Vien Lau, Ninh Binh’s ancient Vietnamese village near Tam Coc! Discover historic houses, cultural heritage, costs, and sustainable eco-tours with Legend Travel Group for an authentic Vietnam experience.
Capture the historic beauty of Ninh Binh’s cultural treasure (Source: Internet)Ninh Binh Province, 90 km southeast of Hanoi in Vietnam’s Red River Delta, is renowned for its karst landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and rich cultural heritage, often dubbed “Halong Bay on Land.” Now a unified province encompassing former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, Ninh Binh offers a captivating blend of history and nature. Co Vien Lau, an ancient Vietnamese village in Ninh Hai Ward (formerly Hoa Lu District), just 7 km from Ninh Binh City, is a hidden gem near Tam Coc wharf. This meticulously preserved collection of 22 historic houses, dating from 90 to over 400 years old, showcases traditional Red River Delta architecture and attracts over 30,000 visitors annually. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers eco-friendly tours to Co Vien Lau, bookable via links around this guide. Step into Vietnam’s past—reserve your tour today
Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Vietnam and Southeast Asia experiences with expert English-speaking guides, eco-conscious practices, and tailored itineraries. Our Ninh Binh tours pair Co Vien Lau’s cultural heritage with eco-adventures like Tam Coc boat rides and cycling through rice paddies, ensuring a culturally immersive journey. Committed to sustainability, we support local artisans, use low-impact transport like electric vehicles, and align with Ninh Binh’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we prioritize your satisfaction. Discover our curated tours to experience Co Vien Lau responsibly—book via the links on this page!
Photograph the natural allure of Ninh Binh’s heritage (Source: Internet)Co Vien Lau, located in Van Lam Village, Ninh Hai Ward, Ninh Binh Province, is a living museum of traditional Vietnamese architecture, established in 2008 by businessman Nguyen Van Thoa. Spanning 22,000 m², it features 22 authentic wooden houses from the Red River Delta, collected over 20 years and dating from the 17th to early 20th centuries. These houses, crafted without nails using intricate wooden joinery, reflect the Nguyen and Le dynasties’ aesthetics. Nestled near Tam Coc wharf and Thai Vi Temple, with mountains to the north and the Ngo Dong River to the west, it’s a feng shui haven within the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, entry costs $2.33 (50,000 VND) per adult, supporting preservation efforts. Its proximity to Tam Coc (500 m) and Bich Dong Pagoda (2 km) makes it a cultural highlight.
Ninh Binh Province has merged with former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, with Ninh Binh City as its hub. District-level units, like Hoa Lu District, are now wards or communes (e.g., Ninh Hai Ward). This change does not affect tourism, and Co Vien Lau retains its identity in Ninh Hai Ward. Ninh Binh aims to become Hoa Lu City, a “Millennium Heritage Urban Area,” enhancing its cultural tourism appeal.
Experience Ninh Binh Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Co Vien Lau preserves the architectural and cultural heritage of Vietnam’s Red River Delta, with houses like the 400-year-old Tho Xuan (Thanh Hoa, 17th century) and the 1853 Van Hai (Thanh Hoa). Each house, relocated and reassembled by skilled artisans, showcases Nguyen Dynasty craftsmanship, featuring jackfruit, oak, or ironwood with carved floral motifs and goose-neck porches. The village reflects traditional Vietnamese lifestyles, with spacious courtyards for drying crops and flexible door-tables for ancestral ceremonies. Its location near Tam Coc, part of Ninh Binh’s UNESCO-recognized sediment layers, underscores its role in Vietnam’s geological and cultural narrative, dating back millions of years. By visiting, tourists support local artisans and sustainable preservation, ensuring this heritage endures.
Start your Ninh Binh Travel with tranquil vibes (Source: Internet)Tour the Ancient Houses
Explore 22 historic houses, like the 1807 Luu Phuong (Ninh Binh, jackfruit wood) and Tho Xuan with its shamanic history, each displaying antiques such as carved beds and tea cabinets. Guided tours reveal their stories and architectural techniques.
Cost: Entry $2.33 (50,000 VND); guided tours $7–$15 (175,000–375,000 VND).
Highlights: “A living history lesson” (Vietnam Tourism).
Tip: Join a guided tour for insights; respect artifacts by not touching. Included in our Co Vien Lau Cultural Tour ($75–$95).
Experience Traditional Music Performances
Enjoy evening performances of Ca Trù, a 200-year-old northern Vietnamese musical art, by Ninh Binh artists in Co Vien Lau’s tranquil courtyard, immersing you in cultural heritage.
Cost: Free with entry; tips $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Highlights: “A soulful cultural experience” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Arrive by 6:00 PM for performances; book tours for guaranteed spots. Included in our Ninh Binh Cultural Evening Tour ($85–$110).
Photography and Scenic Views
Capture Co Vien Lau’s ancient houses, palm-lined paths, and Ngo Dong River backdrop, with karsts framing the village. Sunset views from nearby Thai Vi Temple enhance the scene.
Cost: Free with entry.
Highlights: “A photographer’s delight” (Legendtravelgroup.com).
Tip: Shoot at golden hour (5:00–6:00 PM); use a wide-angle lens. Included in our Sunset Photography Tour ($70–$90).
Cycle to Tam Coc and Bich Dong
Bike 500 m to Tam Coc wharf or 2 km to Bich Dong Pagoda, exploring rice paddies and Ninh Hai’s countryside, supporting eco-friendly tourism.
Cost: Bike rental $2.50/day (62,500 VND); guided cycling $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Highlights: “A serene rural ride” (Vietnam Tourism).
Tip: Cycle early morning; wear sunscreen. Included in our Ninh Binh Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95).
Savor Ninh Binh Cuisine
Taste local specialties like thịt dê (mountain goat), cơm cháy (crispy rice), and nem chua (fermented pork) at eateries near Tam Coc (e.g., Tam Coc Nature Lodge Restaurant, 500 m away).
Cost: $3–$15 per meal; drinks $0.60–$4.
Highlights: “Authentic regional flavors” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Try cơm cháy with goat dipping sauce. Included in our Ninh Binh Foodie & Cultural Combo($100–$135).
Explore Nearby Attractions
Combine with Tam Coc ($7 boat tour, 500 m), Bich Dong Pagoda ($4.67 entry, 2 km), Trang An ($9–$12 boat tour, 4 km), or Hoa Lu Ancient Capital ($1.50 entry, 10 km) for a full itinerary.
Cost: Varies; combo tours $20–$45.
Highlights: “A comprehensive Ninh Binh circuit” (Vietnam Tourism).
Tip: Cycle to Bich Dong; book combo tours for savings. Included in our Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure($135–$175).
Entrance Fee: $2.33/adult (50,000 VND); children under 15 $1.17 (25,000 VND); free for children under 6.
Activities: Guided tours $7–$15; cycling $2.50–$15; performance tips $1–$2; photography free.
Transport (Hanoi to Co Vien Lau, 90 km, round-trip):
Bus: $10–$14 (250,000–350,000 VND) + $6–$10 taxi.
Train: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND) + $6–$10 taxi.
Private Car/Taxi: $70–$110 (1,750,000–2,750,000 VND).
Motorbike: $7–$12 rental + $10 fuel.
Guided Tour: $75–$175.
Transport (Ninh Binh City to Co Vien Lau, 7 km): Motorbike $7–$12/day; bicycle $1.50–$2.50/day; taxi/Grab $6–$10 round-trip.
Dining: Meals at nearby eateries (e.g., Tam Coc Nature Lodge Restaurant) $3–$15; drinks $0.60–$4.
Accommodation: Budget homestays (e.g., Tam Coc Banana Bungalow) $18–$50/night; mid-range (The Reed Hotel) $50–$120; luxury (Ninh Binh Legend Hotel) $120–$300.
Total Daily Cost: $20–$100 (budget: $20–$40; mid-range: $40–$70; luxury: $70–$100).
Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Ninh Binh City; book tours for eco-transfers.
Bus: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND) from Giap Bat/My Dinh to Ninh Binh (2 hours); taxi to Co Vien Lau ($3–$5, 10–15 minutes). Every 30 minutes (5:00 AM–11:00 PM).
Train: $5–$9 (125,000–225,000 VND) from Hanoi Station to Ninh Binh Station (2 hours); taxi ($3–$5). Trains: SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, SE19.
Private Car/Taxi: $35–$55 (875,000–1,375,000 VND) via Hanoi–Ninh Binh Expressway. Use Xanh SM electric taxis.
Motorbike: $7–$12/day + $5 fuel; 2–2.5 hours via National Highway 1A.
Guided Tour: Our tours ($75–$175) include eco-transfers and guided visits.
Motorbike: $7–$12/day; 10–15 minutes via National Highway 1A to Tam Coc wharf.
Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day; 20–30 minutes.
Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND); 10 minutes.
Guided Tour: Our half-day tours ($75–$95) include transfers.
Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day; 5–7 minutes.
Walk: Free; 7–10 minutes.
Motorbike/Taxi: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); 5 minutes.
Route Tip: From Ninh Binh City, take National Highway 1A to Tam Coc wharf; Co Vien Lau is adjacent, near Thai Vi Temple. Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: $0.65/motorbike (15,000 VND).
Spring (February–April): Cool (15–25°C), ideal for exploring houses and cycling; Lunar New Year (January–February) features cultural events. Book 2–3 weeks ahead for March–April.
Summer (May–June): Warm (25–35°C), with golden rice fields near Tam Coc; perfect for photography.
Dry Season (November–April): Pleasant (15–25°C), great for outdoor activities and Ca Trù performances.
Rainy Season (July–October): Hot (25–35°C), showers; budget-friendly with 20–35% discounts. Morning visits (7:00–10:00 AM) avoid rain; bring an umbrella.
Tip: February–March offers mild weather and festivals; early visits ensure tranquility.
Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance for dry season via Legend Travel Group, Baolau.com, or IZITOUR (+84 382 536 266). Confirm hours (7:00 AM–6:00 PM).
Dress Code: Wear light, breathable clothing; sturdy shoes for walking; modest attire for nearby temples (long pants, covered shoulders).
Pack Smart: Sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, umbrella for drizzles, camera (no flash in houses).
Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$100/day; use VND; ATMs in Ninh Binh City. Confirm entry prices to avoid overcharges.
Stay Safe: Secure valuables; watch uneven paths; respect house interiors by not touching artifacts.
Sustainability: Dispose of waste properly; support local artisans by purchasing crafts; choose bicycles or electric taxis. Our tours promote cultural preservation.
Cultural Respect: Maintain silence in houses; ask permission before photographing performances; tip guides and performers ($1–$2).
Navigation: Start at Tam Coc wharf; Co Vien Lau is a short walk or cycle away. Allow 1–2 hours for exploration, plus time for nearby sites.
Our eco-friendly tours immerse you in Co Vien Lau’s cultural heritage, paired with Ninh Binh’s highlights:
Co Vien Lau Cultural Tour ($75–$95/person): Co Vien Lau entry ($2.33), guided house tour, Ca Trù performance, lunch at Tam Coc Nature Lodge Restaurant ($3–$15). Includes transfers from Hanoi/Ninh Binh.
Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure ($135–$175/person): Co Vien Lau, Tam Coc boat tour ($7), Hoa Lu Ancient Capital ($1.50). Includes meals and eco-transfers.
Ninh Binh Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95/person): Co Vien Lau, cycling to Bich Dong Pagoda ($2.50 bike rental), Trang An boat tour ($9–$12). Includes transfers and lunch.
Ninh Binh Foodie & Cultural Combo ($100–$135/person): Thịt dê, cơm cháy ($3–$15), Co Vien Lau, Thai Vi Temple (free). Includes transfers and meals.
Ninh Binh Explorer ($380–$600/person, 3–4 days): Co Vien Lau, Tam Coc, Trang An, Cuc Phuong National Park ($3), homestays ($18–$50/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include guides, transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page!
Co Vien Lau in Ninh Binh’s Ninh Hai Ward is a cultural treasure, preserving 22 ancient Red River Delta houses that reflect Vietnam’s architectural and historical legacy. From intricately crafted wooden homes to evening Ca Trù performances, it offers a serene journey into the past, set against Tam Coc’s karst landscapes. As part of the Trang An UNESCO site, it champions sustainable tourism, supporting local artisans and preservation. Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours guide you through this ancient village, ensuring a sustainable Ninh Binh Travel experience blending Co Vien Lau’s heritage with Ninh Binh’s natural wonders and culinary delights like cơm cháy. Don’t miss this ancient village—browse our featured tours and book your Co Vien Lau adventure today!
Ready to step into Vietnam’s ancient past? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Ninh Binh’s cultural and natural splendor!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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