Photography of Vietnam’s Terrestrial Ha Long Bay and Hoa Lu – Karst Landscapes and Spiritual Serenity
Explore the poetic stillness of Vietnam’s Terrestrial Ha Long Bay through a peaceful photo journey. Limestone peaks, flooded rice paddies and ancient temples guide you along quiet rivers into the spiritual heart of Ninh Binh. Glide in a rowing boat, visit the imperial capital of Hoa Lu, and climb to Bich Dong Pagoda carved into the mountain. A visual escape between nature and heritage.
Often described as the inland counterpart of the iconic Ha Long Bay, Terrestrial Ha Long Bay lies in the province of Ninh Binh, northern Vietnam. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this natural wonder features a harmonious blend of limestone karsts, winding rivers, and flooded rice fields.
The best way to experience its beauty is aboard a small rowboat, typically steered by local women—sometimes using their feet. These 1.5 to 2-hour journeys take you through caves and valleys, offering scenes worthy of traditional ink paintings. The shifting light, reflections on the water and rocky silhouettes make it a dream for photographers.
Hoa Lu – Former Imperial Capital
Before or after the boat trip, be sure to visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s 10th-century imperial capital. While few remains are left today, the temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le, ancient ramparts, and preserved natural surroundings make it a culturally rewarding stop.
This peaceful site offers a striking contrast to bustling cities like Hanoi or the Imperial City of Hue. Its serenity invites you to observe daily life and architectural details in quiet reflection.
Bich Dong Pagoda – A Spiritual Gem in the Mountain
A few kilometers away lies the famed Bich Dong Pagoda, also called the Jade Pagoda. Built into the cliffside, it comprises several shrines constructed at different levels inside the rock. It served as a filming location for the movie Indochine starring Catherine Deneuve.
The path to the pagoda, lined with lotus ponds in season, and the stairway carved into the rock leading to upper grottos provide stunning photo opportunities and a mystical ambiance. For another spiritual atmosphere in southern Vietnam, explore the Ba Thien Hau Pagoda in Saigon.
Photography Tips
For the best light and a quiet atmosphere, arrive early in the morning. The softer contrasts and mirror-like reflections on the water enhance the peaceful mood. Use a shutter speed of at least 1/125 s to offset the boat’s gentle rocking.
Overhead views are rare, as drone usage is strictly regulated in Vietnam. Instead, focus on low-angle compositions, upward shots of karst cliffs, and close-ups of temples or pagodas.
A Must-See in Northern Vietnam
This stop in Ninh Binh perfectly complements an itinerary including the Ha Long Bay, the Phat Diem Cathedral and Hanoi. It is ideal for travelers seeking nature, serenity and spiritual insight.
If you’re continuing south, explore central Vietnam with Hue and Hoi An, offering rich contrasts in architecture and culture. Further south, the Mekong Delta awaits with floating markets and lush waterways.
About the author: Sebastien Desnoulez is an independent photographer exploring the intersections of nature, heritage, and visual serenity. His travel photography captures striking contrasts between landscapes and daily life. Discover more of his work at Une image pour rêver.
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All the photos displayed on this website are copyright protected © Sebastien Desnoulez. No use allowed without written authorization.
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