Dam Khe Trong Village: Ninh Binh’s Tranquil Countryside Escape & Sustainable Eco-Tours with Legend Travel Group

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 vibrant rural culture, often dubbed “Halong Bay on Land.” Now a unified province encompassing former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, Ninh Binh offers an authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s countryside. Dam Khe Trong Village, nestled in Ninh Hai Ward (formerly Hoa Lu District), just 7 km from Ninh Binh City and 3 km from Tam Coc, is a serene hamlet surrounded by lotus ponds, rice paddies, and limestone karsts. This hidden gem, attracting over 20,000 visitors annually, provides a peaceful retreat from busier sites like Trang An, with its rustic charm and sustainable tourism focus. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers eco-friendly tours to Dam Khe Trong, bookable via links around this guide. Experience rural Vietnam’s simplicity—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 combine Dam Khe Trong’s tranquil village life with eco-adventures like Tam Coc boat rides and tasting local cơm cháy (crispy rice), ensuring a culturally immersive journey. Committed to sustainability, we support local communities, use low-impact transport like bicycles and electric vehicles, and align with Ninh Binh’s “Heart of Heritage” project. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we prioritize your satisfaction. Explore our curated tours to discover Dam Khe Trong responsibly—book via the links on this page

Dam Khe Trong Village, located in Ninh Hai Ward, Ninh Binh Province, is a picturesque rural settlement near Tam Coc, part of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by small lakes, lotus ponds, and towering karsts, it offers a tranquil escape with narrow paths winding through rice fields and traditional homes. Known for its unspoiled beauty and authentic Kinh and Muong community life, the village is ideal for eco-tourism. Open year-round, access is free, though guided activities like cycling or homestays have costs. Its proximity to Tam Coc (3 km), Bich Dong Pagoda (2 km), and Trang An (4 km) makes it a perfect base for exploring Ninh Binh’s countryside.

Administrative Update

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 restructuring does not impact tourism, and Dam Khe Trong 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.

Dam Khe Trong’s history is tied to Ninh Binh’s ancient role as Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s 10th-century capital under the Dinh and Early Le dynasties. The village’s rice paddies and waterways supported early agricultural communities, while its karst surroundings provided natural defense. Today, it preserves traditional Kinh and Muong lifestyles, with residents farming, fishing, and crafting. Annual festivals, like the Trang An Festival (mid-third lunar month, March–April), feature boat races and folk performances, reflecting local heritage. Visiting supports sustainable tourism, as tourism revenue funds community projects and environmental preservation, ensuring the village’s rustic charm endures.

1. Cycle Through Scenic Paths
   Bike 3–5 km along narrow village trails, passing rice paddies, lotus ponds, and karsts, immersing in Ninh Binh’s tranquil countryside. Guided tours enhance the experience with local insights.

   • Cost: Bike rental $2.50/day (62,500 VND); guided cycling $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

   • Highlights: “A serene rural escape” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

   • Tip: Cycle at dawn (6:00–8:00 AM) for cool weather; bring water. Included in our Ninh Binh Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95).

2. Experience Local Life
   Join villagers in rice planting, fishing in ponds, or bamboo weaving workshops, offering hands-on insight into Kinh and Muong traditions while supporting local artisans.

   • Cost: Workshops $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND); tips $1–$2.

   • Highlights: “Authentic cultural immersion” (Vietnam Tourism).

   • Tip: Book workshops via your guide; ask permission before photographing locals. Included in our Ninh Binh Cultural Village Tour ($85–$110).

3. Stay in a Homestay
   Spend a night in a traditional stilt house or eco-lodge, enjoying home-cooked meals and village hospitality, fostering sustainable community tourism.

   • Cost: $10–$20/night (250,000–500,000 VND), including meals.

   • Highlights: “A true taste of rural Vietnam” (Legendtravelgroup.com).

   • Tip: Reserve 2 weeks ahead; tip hosts ($1–$2). Included in our Ninh Binh Homestay Experience ($100–$135).

4. Photography of Lotus Ponds and Karsts
   Capture Dam Khe Trong’s lotus ponds (July–August), rice paddies (May–June), and karst backdrops, especially at sunrise or sunset for vibrant shots.

   • Cost: Free.

   • Highlights: “A photographer’s haven” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

   • Tip: Use a wide-angle lens; visit during harvest for golden hues. Included in our Sunset Photography Tour ($70–$90).

5. Savor Ninh Binh Cuisine
   Taste local dishes like thịt dê (mountain goat), cơm cháy, and nem chua at nearby eateries (e.g., Tam Coc Nature Lodge Restaurant, 2 km away) or homestays.

   • Cost: $3–$15 per meal; drinks $0.60–$4.

   • Highlights: “Flavorful regional specialties” (Vietnam Tourism).

   • Tip: Try thịt dê with Bần sauce. Included in our Ninh Binh Foodie & Village Combo ($100–$135).

6. Explore Nearby Attractions
   Combine with Tam Coc ($7 boat tour, 3 km), 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” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

   • Tip: Cycle to Bich Dong; book combo tours for savings. Included in our Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure($135–$175).

• Entrance Fee: Free; donations for community projects $0.60–$1.20 (15,000–30,000 VND).

• Activities: Guided cycling $10–$15; workshops $5–$10; homestays $10–$20/night; tips $1–$2; photography free.

• Transport (Hanoi to Dam Khe Trong, 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 Dam Khe Trong, 7 km): Motorbike $7–$12/day; bicycle $1.50–$2.50/day; taxi/Grab $6–$10 round-trip.

• Dining: Meals at nearby eateries $3–$15; drinks $0.60–$4.

• Accommodation: Homestays $10–$20/night; budget hotels in Ninh Binh City $18–$50; mid-range $50–$120; luxury $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.

From Hanoi (90 km, ~2 hours)

• Bus: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND) from Giap Bat/My Dinh to Ninh Binh (2 hours); taxi to Dam Khe Trong ($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 activities.

From Ninh Binh City (7 km, ~10–30 minutes)

• Motorbike: $7–$12/day; 10–15 minutes via National Highway 1A to Tam Coc, then local roads.

• 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.

From Tam Coc (3 km, ~5–15 minutes)

• Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day; 10–15 minutes via DT491C.

• Motorbike: $7–$12/day; 5–10 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND); 5 minutes.

Route Tip: From Ninh Binh City, take National Highway 1A to Tam Coc wharf, then DT491C to Dam Khe Trong. Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: $0.65/motorbike (15,000 VND).

• Spring (February–April): Cool (15–25°C), ideal for cycling and festivals like Trang An Festival (March–April). Rice paddies bloom green.

• Summer (May–June): Warm (25–35°C), with golden rice fields during harvest; perfect for photography.

• Lotus Season (July–August): Hot (25–35°C), vibrant with blooming lotus ponds; great for scenic views.

• Dry Season (November–April): Pleasant (15–25°C), fewer showers, ideal for outdoor activities.

• Rainy Season (May–October): Hot (25–35°C), showers; budget-friendly with 20–35% discounts. Morning visits (7:00–10:00 AM) avoid rain.

• Tip: May–June offers golden paddies; July–August is best for lotus blooms.

• 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 homestay availability.

• Dress Code: Wear light, breathable clothing; sturdy shoes for cycling; modest attire for village visits (covered shoulders).

• Pack Smart: Sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, insect repellent, camera, umbrella for drizzles, cash (VND) for small transactions.

• Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$100/day; carry VND due to limited ATMs; confirm activity prices.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables; watch uneven paths; follow guide instructions during workshops. Check for insects in rainy season.

• Sustainability: Dispose of waste properly; respect village customs; choose bicycles or eco-transfers. Our tours support local farmers and conservation.

• Cultural Respect: Engage politely with villagers; ask permission before photographing; tip hosts and guides ($1–$2).

• Navigation: Start at Tam Coc wharf; cycle or walk 3 km to Dam Khe Trong. Allow 3–4 hours for cycling, workshops, and dining.

Our eco-friendly tours immerse you in Dam Khe Trong’s rural charm, paired with Ninh Binh’s highlights:

• Ninh Binh Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95/person): Dam Khe Trong cycling ($2.50 bike rental), Tam Coc boat tour ($7), lunch at Tam Coc Nature Lodge ($3–$15). Includes transfers from Hanoi/Ninh Binh.

• Ninh Binh Cultural Village Tour ($85–$110/person): Dam Khe Trong workshop ($5–$10), homestay experience ($10–$20/night), Bich Dong Pagoda ($4.67). Includes transfers and meals.

• Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure ($135–$175/person): Dam Khe Trong cycling, Trang An boat tour ($9–$12), Hoa Lu Ancient Capital ($1.50). Includes meals and eco-transfers.

• Ninh Binh Foodie & Village Combo ($100–$135/person): Thịt dê, cơm cháy ($3–$15), Dam Khe Trong homestay, Thung Nham Bird Park ($7). Includes transfers and meals.

• Ninh Binh Explorer ($380–$600/person, 3–4 days): Dam Khe Trong, Tam Coc, Trang An, Cuc Phuong National Park ($3), homestays ($10–$20/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!

Dam Khe Trong Village in Ninh Binh’s Ninh Hai Ward is a serene countryside retreat, offering a window into Vietnam’s rural life with its lotus ponds, rice paddies, and karst-framed paths. From cycling through tranquil trails to immersing in Kinh and Muong traditions, it’s a haven for eco-tourists seeking authenticity. As part of the Trang An UNESCO site, it champions sustainable tourism, supporting local farmers and cultural preservation. Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours guide you through Dam Khe Trong’s rustic charm, ensuring a sustainable Ninh Binh Travel experience blended with Ninh Binh’s historical sites and culinary delights like thịt dê. Don’t miss this peaceful escape—browse our featured tours and book your Dam Khe Trong adventure today!
Ready to pedal through Ninh Binh’s countryside? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Vietnam’s natural and cultural 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. By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.