Ninh Binh travel tips and must-see attractions
Ninh Binh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a breathtaking site in northern Vietnam that rivals the natural and cultural beauty of Halong Bay.
This region’s stunning scenery will leave you speechless, making the word “majestic” the most accurate description. Towering limestone mountains, flowing rivers, natural caves, and blooming lotus fields combine to form vistas reminiscent of surrealist paintings. Follow our guidance to make the most of your time in this interesting location!
Ninh Binh is a spectacular destination in northern Vietnam.
Ninh Binh, known as the “Inland Halong Bay,” is located in northern Vietnam, around 90 kilometers south of Hanoi (a 1.5-2 hour trip). This region is abundant in natural beauty, imperial history, religious culture, and archaeological and geological resources.
What to see in Ninh Binh, Vietnam?
Bai Dinh Pagoda: The Largest Buddhist Pagoda in Southeast Asia
Located 15 km from Ninh Binh City, west of the ancient capital Hoa Lu, Bai Dinh Pagoda is a breathtaking complex perched on a lush limestone mountain. It features both an ancient temple and a new one, a bell tower, a stupa, a monumental Buddha statue atop a hill, and three kilometers of corridors with 500 unique Arhat statues. Bai Dinh holds the title of the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia.
Van Long Nature Reserve: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
At the northern edge of Trang An lies the Van Long Nature Reserve, the largest wetland reserve in northern Vietnam. It is home to rare bird species such as egrets, herons, and jacanas, making it a haven for bird lovers. A serene sampan ride will take you through calm waters reflecting the stunning karst hills. Along the way, you’ll encounter caves like Hang Ca (Fish Cave), Hang Bong (Balloon Cave), and Hang Rua (Turtle Cave), each offering a unique charm.
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014, the Trang An Complex is a remarkable area of karst formations interwoven with valleys, waterways, and lush greenery. Visitors can explore the area by sampan, pedaled by skilled locals who often use their feet to row, or by cycling through the verdant countryside. This cinematic destination has served as the backdrop for movies like Indochine and Kong: Skull Island.
Tam Coc: The Land of Three Caves
Famed for its limestone karsts rising from emerald rice paddies, Tam Coc offers a serene boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, which meanders through picturesque valleys and caves. The name “Tam Coc” means “three caves,” referring to Hang Ca, Hang Giua, and Hang Ba, natural grottoes carved by water over centuries.
For a panoramic view, climb the 450 steps to the top of Hang Mua Peak, where a pagoda and a viewpoint reward you with stunning vistas of the landscape below.
Cuc Phuong National Park
About 40 km from Ninh Binh lies Cuc Phuong, Vietnam’s first and largest national park. Known for its rich biodiversity, it houses over 2,000 plant species, 133 mammal species, and thousands of insects. Between November and April, the park is graced by colorful butterflies, creating an ethereal experience for visitors. Archaeological discoveries in Cuc Phuong reveal evidence of human habitation dating back 7,000 to 12,000 years.
Bich Dong Pagoda: A Jewel in the Mountains
Bich Dong Pagoda—meaning “Pagoda of the Jade Cave”) is a spiritual and architectural marvel nestled against a limestone mountain. The pagoda, built in 1705, is made up of three storeys that blend nicely with the natural surroundings. A short bike ride through rural villages will take you to this peaceful retreat, which boasts panoramic views of lotus fields and quiet waters.
Phat Diem Cathedral: A Blend of Cultures
Phat Diem Cathedral, built in 1891 by Vietnamese priest Pierre Tran Luc, is a unique architectural complex blending Buddhist pagoda design with traditional Catholic elements. Known as the center of Vietnamese Catholicism, this 130-year-old landmark features stone and wooden structures, reflecting a harmonious fusion of cultures.
Thung Nham Bird Park: A Natural Sanctuary
Located near Trang An, Thung Nham Bird Park is an ecological paradise featuring forests, caves, rivers, and mountains. This site is a haven for birdwatchers, with rare species like kingfishers and vultures calling it home. Visitors can explore by hiking, cycling, or paddling traditional boats through the serene landscape.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Once the capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries, Hoa Lu is a historic site with a wealth of cultural significance. The area boasts temples, pagodas, and remnants of ancient structures that reflect its glorious past. Each year, the Hoa Lu Festival, held on the 9th to 11th days of the third lunar month, attracts thousands with traditional performances, games, and rituals.
How to Get There?
- By train.
The safest and most convenient method to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is by rail. Multiple trains depart daily from Hanoi Railway Station for Ninh Binh, with the travel taking approximately 2 hours. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the station (dsvn.vn). Ninh Binh Station is about 8-9 kilometers from renowned destinations such as Tam Coc and Trang An.
- By Bus
Another alternative is to take the bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Regular busses depart from Hanoi’s Giap Bat Bus Station and take roughly 2 to 2.5 hours. However, it is important to note that traffic congestion occurs frequently during peak hours.
- By Private Car.
Booking a private automobile is a simple choice, particularly if you want a more personalized experience. Contact a travel agency to organize a private transfer that includes round-trip transportation. Prices vary depending on the car type and number of passengers, making this an excellent option for families or parties.
- Getting Around Ninh Binh.
Once in Ninh Binh, rent a scooter or bicycle to explore the area at your leisure. Guided tours are also provided, providing insight into the caves, temples, and natural landscapes that make Ninh Binh unique.
Ninh Binh Climate: A Seasonal Overview
Ninh Binh is in northern Vietnam, and it has four different seasons:
Winter (late November to early March)
There is a lot of humidity, cool weather, and light drizzles in the Red River Delta in the winter. There will be beautiful days here and there that are great for sightseeing.
Spring (from early March to late April)
Spring brings better weather and more sunshine, which makes it a great time to explore the outdoors. At this time of year, the surroundings are lush and colorful, which adds to the beauty of the area.
Summer (late May to late September)
Ninh Binh’s summers are hot and sticky, and it rains hard and briefly every so often. Even though it’s raining, the area’s dramatic beauty is at its best, especially the rice paddies and rock karsts.
Fall (late September to late November)
One of the best times to visit Ninh Binh is in the fall, when the weather is nice and warm most of the time. During this time of year, the calm and peaceful climate is perfect for exploring at your own pace.
The best time to visit Ninh Binh
It is best to visit this gorgeous location once the rice has been planted. Transplanting begins in February after the rice paddies have been left fallow over the winter. The first harvest occurs at the end of May, and the second at the end of September. The vistas are particularly magnificent around this time, when the rice fields turn a hypnotic bright yellow just before harvest.
Be cautious, during the Têt festivals, which take place from late January to mid-February depending on the year, many Vietnamese come to Ninh Binh with their families. There may be a large crowd at the region’s key tourist attractions, making it difficult to find suitable accommodations.
The warm months of April to June are great for visiting Ninh Binh. The region is less populated. It is also the season for lotus blooming and rice harvesting, resulting in a spectacular landscape of undulating rice fields and majestic lotus blossoms on water bodies. However, during this season, make sure to wear a hat and sunscreen.
Hotel tips
The Banana Tree Hostel Kitchen Bar – Budget Hostel in Ninh Binh
Address: Tam Coc Wharf, Thai Vi Street, Tam Coc, Ninh Binh
Price Range: 150,000 VND – 600,000 VND per room per night (Approx. $6 – $25 USD)
The Banana Tree Hostel Kitchen Bar is a budget-friendly accommodation in Ninh Binh, ideal for solo travelers and backpackers. It offers both shared dormitory rooms and private spaces, providing a cozy, home-like atmosphere. The hostel features a café and a poolside bar serving a variety of local and international dishes, attracting many international visitors. With prices starting at just 150,000 VND per room (Approx. $6 USD), it’s a great choice for affordable stays.
Ninh Binh Central Backpackers Hostel
Address: Tran Hung Dao, Street 1, Dong Thanh Ward, Ninh Binh
Price Range: 120,000 VND – 160,000 VND per bed (Approx. $5 – $7 USD)
Ninh Binh Central Backpackers Hostel offers capsule-style rooms, perfect for solo travelers or small groups. With beds starting at 120,000 VND (Approx. $5 USD), it provides a budget-friendly option for those looking for a place to rest after a long day of exploring.
Golden Bell Backpacker Hostel
Address: 34 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Ninh Binh
Price Range: 120,000 VND – 160,000 VND per room per night (Approx. $5 – $7 USD)
Golden Bell Backpacker Hostel is designed in a trendy Boho style with bright colors and a refreshing atmosphere. Offering both dormitory and private rooms, it’s an affordable option for travelers, with rates starting at 120,000 VND per night (Approx. $5 USD).
Ninh Binh Central Hostel
Address: 45 July 27th Street, Nam Binh, Ninh Binh
Price Range: 89,000 VND – 450,000 VND per room per night (Approx. $4 – $19 USD)
Located just 8 km from the ancient capital Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh Central Hostel offers budget accommodation with basic amenities. The clean and spacious rooms are ideal for individuals, couples, or groups, with rates starting as low as 89,000 VND per night (Approx. $4 USD).
We hope this article has been helpful to you, and we wish you a wonderful trip to this beautiful region!
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Thanh Nam Nguyen
Born in Ho Chi Minh City with Vietnamese-American roots, Thanh Nam Nguyen is passionate about adventures and traveling in Indochina. As a local guide for All Vietnam Senses, he leads tours in southern Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, sharing his knowledge with travelers and inspiring readers to explore the region. Leave a comment below for him to respond directly!
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