NAM DINH, VIET NAM
Nam Dinh is where Catholicism first took root in Vietnam and the church’s footprint in the area is astonishing, most date back to the late 19th century. Along with the historical and cultural heritage, Nam Dinh also preserves a wide range of quintessential craft villages.
HERITAGE ROADS OF NAM DINH
Day 1: Ha Noi – Nam Dinh
From 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Upon arrival, visit Co Le pagoda built in the 12th century with its unique architecture of 9 storeys representing 9 lotus corollas.
From 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Then wind your way to Co Chat silk-making village to explore unravelling silkworm cocoons and weaving silk thread. Nowadays, the elders still keep their habit of making silk thread using the traditional methods to preserve their ancestor’s craft, while the younger generation uses modern machines to increase the productivity of silk thread. Lunch is at a local home with regional specialities.
From 14:30 am – 16:00 pm
Hop on your local bike for a leisure ride to a Brass Trumpet village. Pham Phao villagers are known as true farmer artists and we will visit the home of a local artist. He is a fourth generation craftsman known for his brass instruments. The family has been practising this craft for decades and he is famous for repairing and making new brass instruments as well as playing them.
Day 2: Nam Dinh – Ha Noi
From 7:00 am – 8:00 am
Get up early to enjoy the sound of rustic countryside. Optional to ride around your homestay to see local people start the day. Then enjoy Pho served based on family traditional recipes. Nam Dinh is believed to be the geographical cradle of this well-known noodle soup.
From 9:00 am – 11:30 am
Drive to Ninh Cuong church – the original church where Christianity entered Vietnam in 1533 for the first time to admire the shape of the magnificent castle with the finest details. Then enjoy a simple lunch at a local home with Nam Dinh’s specialities.
From 13:00 pm – 15:00 pm
Later this afternoon, pay a visit to the 600 years old village of Hanh Thien – famous for having a lot of successful laureates. The village still retains traditional architectural value which reflects the wisdom and vision of the village founders hundreds of years ago. Around 3.00 pm, return to Hanoi with vivid memories of the Heritage Roads of Nam Dinh.
NOTES:
* OPERATES: 2 days/ 1 night
* INCLUSIONS: Transportation, Mineral water on car, English-speaking guide, Tours & Activities as mentioned, Interaction with host, home-hosted meal, Local standard bike, 1 night at Ecohost homestay
* EXCLUSIONS: Drinks at mentioned Meals, Tips and Gratuities
* REMARKS: It is possible to combine Nam Dinh with Ninh Binh – just more than 45min drive away