Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Ha Long Bay on land," is located in northern Vietnam, known for its stunning limestone karsts, caves, rivers, and ancient temples. It's a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
The best time to visit Ninh Binh is during the spring (from February to April) or autumn (from September to November). These months offer mild weather, avoiding the heat of summer and the heavy rains of the winter.
Spring: Temperatures are moderate and the region’s rice paddies are lush and green, which makes for picturesque views, especially in Tam Coc and Trang An.
Autumn: This period offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures, which are perfect for outdoor activities like trekking or boat rides.
Ninh Binh is easily accessible from Hanoi, which is about 90 km (56 miles) away, and can be reached by:
By Train:
Trains from Hanoi to Ninh Binh take around 2-2.5 hours. The train station in Ninh Binh is centrally located, and you can catch a taxi to your accommodation or the attractions.
By Bus:
Several bus companies operate between Hanoi and Ninh Binh, with a journey time of about 2-3 hours. Buses are a cheap and convenient option.
By Car:
Renting a private car or taking a taxi from Hanoi is the most comfortable and flexible option. The trip takes about 2 hours.
By Motorbike:
For the adventurous, you can rent a motorbike in Hanoi and drive to Ninh Binh. The road is well-paved, and the ride offers some stunning views along the way.
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex:
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this area features a breathtaking landscape of towering limestone karsts, caves, and rivers. You can explore it on a boat trip, gliding through caves and enjoying views of rice fields and lush greenery.
Tam Coc:
Often referred to as the “Halong Bay on land,” Tam Coc offers a stunning boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by lush rice paddies and limestone mountains. It's a must-do activity, especially during the rice harvesting season when the fields turn golden.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital:
Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. It’s home to several historic temples, including the Temple of King Dinh Tien Hoang and the Temple of King Le Dai Hanh. The historical and architectural significance makes it a must-visit for history lovers.
Bai Dinh Pagoda:
Known as one of the largest Buddhist complexes in Vietnam, Bai Dinh Pagoda is home to the country’s largest bronze Buddha statue. The pagoda is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Cuc Phuong National Park:
Vietnam’s first national park, Cuc Phuong is a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. It’s home to hundreds of plant species and endangered animals, including the delacour’s langur. Visitors can enjoy trekking, birdwatching, and exploring the park’s caves and ancient trees.
Mua Cave:
Mua Cave offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Ninh Binh. After climbing about 500 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning vista of Tam Coc and its surrounding rice fields and mountains.
Thung Nham Bird Park:
A serene park known for its diverse wildlife, particularly birds. You can take a boat ride through the park’s lagoons, exploring its caves and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Kenh Ga Hot Springs:
A relaxing stop where you can bathe in natural hot springs, located in a remote area of Ninh Binh. This quiet location is perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Boat Tours:
The iconic boat tours in Tam Coc and Trang An are the main activity in Ninh Binh, where you row through caves and past rice paddies, limestone peaks, and lush greenery.
Hiking to Mua Cave Viewpoint:
Take a hike to the Mua Cave viewpoint for one of the best panoramic views in the region. The view of Tam Coc’s rice fields and the surrounding limestone mountains is truly breathtaking.
Cycling Around Tam Coc:
Rent a bicycle and explore the peaceful countryside of Tam Coc. Cycling along the river with towering limestone cliffs and lush fields is an unforgettable experience.
Cuc Phuong National Park Trekking:
If you love nature, you can trek through the Cuc Phuong National Park to explore the jungle, see rare flora and fauna, or visit the park's Endangered Primate Rescue Center.
Visit Local Villages:
Spend time in one of Ninh Binh’s charming villages. You can explore Bich Dong Village, experience daily life, and learn about the local agriculture and fishing.
Visit Ancient Temples:
Ninh Binh has numerous ancient temples to explore, such as the Temple of King Dinh and Le Temple in Hoa Lu, each with rich history and peaceful settings.
Ninh Binh offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.
Ninh Binh Legend Hotel:
A highly-rated mid-range hotel offering comfortable rooms and a range of amenities. It’s centrally located and ideal for those looking to explore the city.
Tam Coc Garden Resort:
A beautiful resort located near Tam Coc, offering peaceful surroundings and a mix of traditional and modern comforts. Perfect for a relaxing stay amidst nature.
Bai Dinh Hotel:
Situated close to Bai Dinh Pagoda, this hotel offers convenient access to the pagoda and nearby attractions.
Mua Caves Ecolodge:
Located near the famous Mua Cave, this ecolodge offers a tranquil experience in the midst of nature, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
The Long Hotel:
A budget-friendly hotel located in the center of Ninh Binh, offering clean and simple rooms for those traveling on a budget.
Ninh Binh is famous for its local dishes, especially those featuring rice and fresh ingredients from the region.
Cơm Cháy (Burnt Rice):
A signature dish of Ninh Binh, it consists of crispy rice topped with pork or chicken and served with a flavorful dipping sauce. It's a unique local treat.
Bánh Rán (Fried Rice Cake):
A sweet snack made from glutinous rice, often filled with mung beans or peanuts and fried to perfection.
Goat Meat:
Ninh Binh is known for its tender and flavorful goat meat dishes. You can try it grilled, stewed, or served in a hotpot.
Eel Soup:
A light and tasty soup made with eel, herbs, and spices, often served with rice.
Chay Quan Tam Coc:
A vegetarian restaurant near Tam Coc, offering delicious plant-based dishes made from fresh local ingredients.
The Reed Hotel Restaurant:
Located inside The Reed Hotel, this restaurant offers a wide range of Vietnamese and international dishes, including many local specialties.
Minh Quang Restaurant:
Famous for its goat meat dishes and cơm cháy, this restaurant is a great place to sample authentic Ninh Binh cuisine.
Tam Coc Lotus Bar & Restaurant:
Offering beautiful views of the rice paddies, this restaurant serves a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including vegetarian options.
Ninh Binh is steeped in rich history and culture, combining ancient temples with vibrant traditions.
Historical Significance: Ninh Binh was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Many temples and monuments from the era, like those in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, still stand today.
Local Traditions: The region is home to several ethnic groups, including the Kinh, Muong, and Hoa. These groups maintain traditional customs, with many festivals, dances, and songs celebrating local history and beliefs.
Farming Culture: Ninh Binh’s economy is largely based on agriculture, especially rice farming. The landscape is dominated by terraced rice fields, which are a big part of the local lifestyle.