Ninh Binh, located about 90 kilometers from Hanoi, is a great choice for tourists who want to see the natural beauty of Vietnam. This charming province is full of stunning landscapes that will amaze you.
Nestled in the Red River Delta of Northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh is a captivating destination offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure to add Ninh Binh to the top of your travel itinerary.
1. About Ninh Binh Province in Vietnam
Ninh Binh, located about 90 kilometers south of Hanoi, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, deep historical roots, and unique cultural heritage. The province is home to several popular tourist attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Trang An Landscape Complex, the picturesque Tam Coc, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land,” and the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda, among others.
In addition to its natural beauty, Ninh Binh has a rich history spanning thousands of years. It once served as the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and early Le dynasties, and many historical relics and monuments from this era can still be visited today.
Ninh Binh experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot, rainy summers from May to September and cold, dry winters from November to March. Transitional spring and autumn periods occur in April and October. With an average temperature of around 23.5 degrees Celsius, Ninh Binh is an ideal destination to visit any time of the year.
2. Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh – Vietnam
Ninh Binh has a humid subtropical climate, with distinct seasons that each offer a unique experience for visitors. The best times to visit, based on the weather, are from April to June and September to October, when the conditions are most pleasant, and rainfall is low.
- April to June: During this period, Ninh Binh enjoys mild temperatures, typically between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. The landscape is lush and vibrant, with rice paddies in a beautiful shade of green, making it a perfect time to explore the famous karst mountains, caves, and rivers.
- September to October: The weather is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 31 degrees Celsius, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and boat trips. September is also the rice harvest season, offering a stunning view of golden rice fields.
- February and March: These months are also a great time to visit for those interested in local festivals. Ninh Binh comes alive with vibrant celebrations, showcasing the rich traditions, customs, and spiritual beliefs of the local community.
3. The 9 Top-Rated Places to Visit in Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Ninh Binh is home to numerous captivating attractions. Here’s a list of the top 10 must-visit places in the region:
3.1. Cuc Phuong National Park
Exploring Cuc Phuong National Park is one of the best activities in Ninh Binh. As Vietnam’s first national park, it offers a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species that will fascinate nature lovers.
One of the park’s highlights is the butterfly season from April to June, when thousands of colorful butterflies fill the air. During this time, guided tours are available, allowing visitors to experience this enchanting sight and learn about the park’s unique ecosystem.
In addition to the butterfly season, visitors can enjoy hiking along the park’s many trails, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, and explore the ancient caves and limestone formations scattered throughout the park.
3.2. Trang An, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Trang An is one of Ninh Binh’s most popular destinations, renowned for its breathtaking karst formations, which include limestone mountains, caves, and rivers. This exceptional landscape has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status and served as a filming location for the movie Kong: Skull Island.
To explore Trang An, you can take a boat tour along the meandering rivers, passing through various caves and soaking in the stunning natural scenery. For those who prefer a more active experience, hiking up one of the mountains offers panoramic views of the area. The hiking trails are well-maintained and accessible to most visitors, making it a great option for everyone.
Whether you choose to explore Trang An by boat or on foot, the experience will be unforgettable. Admission to Trang An is 250,000 VND for adults and 100,000 VND for children under 1.4 meters tall. A tour guide can be hired for an additional fee of 300,000 VND.
3.3. Mua Caves
Mua Caves, also known as Hang Mua, is one of the most remarkable attractions in Vietnam, offering breathtaking views from the top of Mua Mountain. According to legend, Emperor Tran Thai Tong once watched dance performances here, which is why it’s called “Hang Mua,” meaning “dancing cave.”
To reach the summit of Mua Mountain, you’ll need to climb around 500 steep steps. Although the climb is challenging, the effort is well worth it. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding majestic mountains and expansive rice fields. The caves themselves are adorned with intricate carvings and ancient shrines, adding to the historical significance and charm of this site.
For the best experience, visit Mua Caves early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is less intense, and the views are at their finest. The entrance fee to Hang Mua is 100,000 VND per person.
3.4. Tam Coc Bich Dong
Tam Coc Bich Dong is a paradise for nature lovers, featuring stunning limestone karsts rising from rice paddies and the serene Ngo Dong River winding through the landscape. During the rice season, the fields turn a golden yellow, enhancing the already breathtaking scenery, which has earned Tam Coc the nickname “Ha Long Bay on land.”
“Tam Coc” translates to “three caves” in Vietnamese, referring to the three natural caves that can be explored on a boat tour. The boat ride takes you along the river, passing through these caves while offering stunning views of lush green rice paddies and distant rural villages.
The area also features the remarkable Bich Dong Pagoda, which is built into a mountain and consists of three levels. Surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil pond, this pagoda provides a peaceful setting for reflection and meditation. Constructed in the 15th century, Bich Dong Pagoda is still an active site of worship, adding to its cultural and historical significance.
Admission to Tam Coc Bich Dong is 120,000 VND per person, and a boat ride in Tam Coc costs 150,000 VND per trip.
3.5. Bai Dinh Pagoda
Bai Dinh Pagoda is a must-visit destination in Ninh Binh for those interested in Buddhism and Vietnamese culture. Spanning 539 hectares, it is one of the largest temple complexes in Southeast Asia.
The complex was built between 2003 and 2010, blending ancient and modern architectural styles. It includes both the old Bai Dinh Pagoda and the newly constructed one. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the pagoda, set against a backdrop of beautiful natural scenery.
One of the highlights of Bai Dinh Pagoda is the massive bronze Buddha statue, which stands 10 meters tall and weighs 100 tons, making it the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam. This statue is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. The complex also features 500 Arhat statues, each with a unique facial expression.
You can explore the complex on foot or opt for an electric car ride, which costs 30,000 VND per person per trip.
3.6. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is a must-visit destination in Ninh Binh for both history buffs and nature lovers. Serving as the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and early Le dynasties in the 10th and 11th centuries, it holds great historical significance.
The site features a well-preserved collection of relics and monuments, including the temples of Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, two former Vietnamese kings. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of the ancient capital through various exhibits and artifacts, gaining a deeper understanding of the culture and traditions of Vietnam’s feudal dynasties.
In addition to its historical importance, Hoa Lu is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with towering limestone mountains and scenic rice paddies adding to its charm. Entrance to the ancient capital is available for 20,000 VND.
3.7. Van Long Lagoon
Located in Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh, Van Long Lagoon is a tranquil and scenic natural wonder, spanning over 3,500 hectares and recognized as the largest wetland reserve in Northern Vietnam.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lagoon, gliding through its calm waters while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding limestone mountains and lush rice fields.
Van Long Lagoon is also a haven for wildlife, hosting a variety of species, including the rare and endangered Bonelli eagle, langur monkey, and black-faced spoonbill. This makes it a particularly appealing destination for nature lovers.
The entrance fee to Van Long Lagoon is 20,000 VND per person, and a boat ride for two people costs 60,000 VND.
3.8. Thung Nham Bird Garden
Thung Nham Bird Garden is a must-visit destination in Ninh Binh for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Spanning approximately 334 hectares, the garden features limestone mountains, caves, and wetlands, making it an ideal habitat for a wide variety of bird species.
Visitors can take a boat ride through the wetlands to observe numerous bird species, including storks, herons, mallards, forktails, and even flamingos. In addition to bird watching, Thung Nham offers other activities such as hiking, cave exploration, and sampling local cuisine.
The entrance fee to Thung Nham Bird Garden is 100,000 VND per person, and the boat ticket for bird watching is 20,000 VND per person.
3.9. Phat Diem Stone Church
Phat Diem Stone Church is a must-visit attraction in Ninh Binh, known for its stunning architectural design that uniquely blends Vietnamese and European styles. Constructed entirely of stone, the church complex includes a bell tower, a main cathedral, smaller chapels, and statues.
The church was designed and built by Father Tran Luc, a Vietnamese priest who skillfully combined European architectural elements with local construction techniques, creating a remarkable and enduring structure. Since its completion, Phat Diem Stone Church has become an important pilgrimage site for Catholics in Vietnam.
Beyond its religious significance, the church is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its intricate design and rich history. Located in a picturesque rural setting, the church is surrounded by lush rice paddies and limestone mountains, enhancing its charm.
Entrance to Phat Diem Stone Church is free, and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and admire its unique beauty.
4. How to Reach Ninh Binh and Get Around During Your Tour
4.1. Getting to Ninh Binh
- From Hanoi: You can reach Ninh Binh from Hanoi by taking a bus from Giap Bat Bus Station or opting for a limousine bus. Ticket prices typically range from 100,000 to 150,000 VND, and the travel time is about 2 hours.
- From Ho Chi Minh City: For those traveling from Ho Chi Minh City, the first step is to fly to Hanoi with airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, or Jetstar. After arriving in Hanoi, you can continue your journey to Ninh Binh by bus, using the same options mentioned above. One-way flight ticket prices range from 900,000 to 1.3 million VND.
- From Other Provinces:Tourists from other provinces can also reach Ninh Binh by train. Tickets can be purchased through the Vietnam Railways website or at the train station. The Ninh Binh train station is conveniently located in the city center, making it easy to access your next destination.
- By Car:If you prefer driving, take the Giap Bat – Phap Van – Cau Gie expressway from Hanoi and head towards Phu Ly, which will lead you directly to Ninh Binh.
4.2. Exploring Ninh Binh
To explore Ninh Binh, renting a motorbike is a convenient option, costing around 100,000 to 150,000 VND per day. This allows you to easily visit the various tourist attractions, which are often spread out across the region. If you’re traveling in a group, taking a taxi might be a more cost-effective and comfortable choice for getting around.
5. What to Eat in Ninh Binh? – Top Mouthwatering Dishes to Try
Ninh Binh offers a diverse array of Vietnamese dishes that are known for their unique and rich flavors. Here are some must-try foods when visiting the region:
- Goat Meat Dishes: Ninh Binh is famous for its goat meat dishes, including goat meat hotpot, grilled goat meat, and stir-fried goat meat with lemongrass. The meat is tender and flavorful, making it a must-try for visitors.
- Ninh Binh Rice Crust (Com Chay): This dish is made from rice flour, fried until crispy, and typically served with a variety of toppings, such as minced pork or shrimp. It’s a popular snack or appetizer in Ninh Binh.
- Eel Vermicelli Soup (Mien Luon): A traditional noodle soup featuring thin rice noodles and tender pieces of eel, this dish is flavored with a blend of herbs and spices and often garnished with fresh herbs.
- Nem Yen Mac (Fermented Pork Roll): A beloved dish made from sliced and crushed pork rump meat, typically served with guava leaves, fig leaves, aromatic vegetables, and a dipping sauce made from garlic, lemon juice, pepper, and chili.
- Sticky Rice with Ant Eggs: A unique dish made from sticky rice mixed with ant eggs, cooked with a variety of herbs and spices. This delicacy offers a truly one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
- Ninh Binh Mountain Snail (Oc Nui): A regional delicacy, these snails are harvested from the mountainous areas around Ninh Binh. They can be enjoyed in various ways, such as stir-fried with lemongrass, steamed with ginger, or grilled with chili.
After exploring the stunning scenery of Ninh Binh province in Vietnam, be sure to discover the country’s other captivating destinations. From the tropical paradise of Phu Quoc and the coastal charm of Nha Trang, to the heritage-rich town of Hoi An, the vibrant city of Da Nang, and the picturesque Ha Long Bay, there are countless amazing places to visit. To make the most of your journey, it’s important to plan ahead and choose the perfect place to stay for a memorable experience.
6. Where to Stay in Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam?
Ninh Binh offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly homestays. Here are some popular choices:
6.1. Luxury Resorts
– Tam Coc Garden Resort: A peaceful, eco-friendly resort surrounded by rice fields and limestone mountains, offering an authentic Ninh Binh experience with luxurious amenities.
– Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh: Located near Van Long Nature Reserve, this upscale resort features spacious villas, a large pool, and a spa, perfect for a relaxing stay.
6.2. Mid-Range Hotels
– Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort: Offering comfortable rooms with scenic views of Tam Coc, this hotel provides great value with its modern facilities, including a pool and restaurant.
– The Reed Hotel: Situated in the city center, The Reed Hotel is a great mid-range option with a rooftop bar and convenient access to many attractions.
6.3. Budget-Friendly Homestays
– Tam Coc Bungalow: A popular choice for travelers, these affordable bungalows are located near the Tam Coc boat tour area, offering a cozy and scenic stay.
– Nguyen Shack Homestay: Known for its unique bamboo bungalows, this eco-friendly homestay provides an authentic rural experience surrounded by natural beauty.
Whether you prefer luxury, comfort, or a more local experience, Ninh Binh has a range of accommodation options to ensure you enjoy your stay.
Ninh Binh, a picturesque destination in Vietnam, captivates travelers with its diverse activities and attractions. Whether you’re admiring the breathtaking limestone karsts of Tam Coc or exploring the ancient temples of Bai Dinh, there’s no shortage of cultural and natural wonders to discover. Start planning your trip to Ninh Binh today and embark on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Vietnam’s natural beauty!
