On the morning of October 26, 2024, at Trang An Cultural Park, the Ninh Binh Department of Tourism officially opened the Trang An – Cuc Phuong Hot Air Balloon Festival 2024 with the theme “Beauty of the Ancient Capital.”
Attending the opening ceremony were distinguished guests including Doan Minh Huan, Member of the Central Committee, Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee; Tong Quang Thin, Member of the Standing Committee and permanent Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee; Tran Song Tung, Member of the Standing Committee, Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee; members of the Provincial Standing Committee; leaders of various departments, sectors, and local governments; representatives from several corporations, businesses, and tourism service providers in the province; media representatives from both central and local agencies; and a large number of residents and tourists from near and far.
In recent years, thanks to the strong leadership and guidance from the Provincial Party Committee, People’s Council, and People’s Committee, along with the cooperation of various levels, sectors, and localities, as well as the investment efforts by organizations and individuals, the tourism industry has experienced significant growth. This growth has positively contributed to the province’s socio-economic development, stimulating the advancement of various other sectors. Ninh Binh continues to shine on the map of tourism in Vietnam and the world, being recognized by many prestigious international travel publications as the only Asian locality to rank 7th in the list of the 10 friendliest destinations in the world. In the first nine months of 2024, the province welcomed over 7.3 million visitors, a 32% increase compared to the same period in 2023, with an estimated revenue of over 7.251 trillion VND, up 43% year-on-year.
In recent years, hot air balloon tourism has become increasingly popular in Vietnam, appealing not only to adventure-seeking tourists but also offering a fresh perspective on the country’s scenic landscapes. The Trang An – Cuc Phuong Hot Air Balloon Festival 2024, being held for the first time in Ninh Binh, is expected to provide visitors with unique and exciting experiences, catering to the desires of both domestic and international tourists to explore heritage in new ways.
The festival features hot air balloons and paragliding activities operated by foreign pilots and the Hanoi Paragliding Club. This presents an opportunity for adventure enthusiasts to experience the thrill of being in a hot air balloon while enjoying breathtaking views of the World Heritage Site – the Trang An Landscape Complex, Cuc Phuong National Park, and many famous landmarks in Ninh Binh, as well as the chance to witness the sunrise and sunset over the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
Numerous activities will take place throughout the festival, including hot air balloon light displays, artistic performances, and exhibitions of regional OCOP specialties. Visitors to the Trang An – Cuc Phuong Hot Air Balloon Festival will immerse themselves in a vibrant atmosphere filled with lively sound and artistic celebrations, while enjoying distinctive culinary delights from the ancient capital.
The Trang An – Cuc Phuong Hot Air Balloon Festival will run until October 29, 2024.
