Ninh Bình adventures: pagodas, buffaloes and ravines

The next day we hopped on scooters to visit the Bich Động pagoda complex. Built into a mountainside, the pagoda sits halfway up a staircase and features delicate carvings that almost touch the cave ceiling. We learned about karma and reincarnation from a local monk, then continued to Buffalo Cave where the boys fished and played with ducks, buffaloes and even a baby goat.

To finish the day we took a boat through Khe Gioi ravine. The scenery—towering cliffs mirrored in still water—earned two thumbs up from everyone.

Family travel tip: Respect temple dress codes by covering shoulders and knees, and always supervise kids around animals and near water.

Have you ever fished in a cave? Our customised Vietnam itineraries include unique stops like this one. Altogether, we spent about $157 for the day.