Why Ninh Binh Should Be on Your Northern Vietnam Travel List?

A precious place in northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh swathes most of its areas in natural and cultural beauty. It is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tràng An Complex. Such a fabulous destination, one must delve into every nook and cranny of it.

Majestic is the word that fits best for this place; it has views that will leave you standing before it. Make sure to check our guide to gather the most from your stay, where you will find everything you need to prepare for a trip to Ninh Binh. It includes everything from its location, places, things to do, an itinerary of 1 to 3 days, how to reach it, when to visit, as well as a general map to explore.

Written by Oliver PHUNG (Local expert)Updated on 21-02-2025

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Where is Ninh Binh?

Named as Ha Long Bay of Land, Ninh Binh is a region of northern Vietnam that lies about 90 kilometers from the capital, Hanoi (1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours by car). It hides such an inestimable wealth, not only in magnificent landscapes but also in imperial history, religious culture, and archaeological and geological treasures.

Trang An is a landscape complex in the Red River Delta, the cradle of civilizational development in Vietnamese civilization. Some are fully opened and some are submerged; this spectacular landscape of karst peaks is intertwined with valleys and framed almost entirely by steep, sometimes almost vertical, cliffs. This "land Ha Long Bay" was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014 for its natural beauty and cultural landscape.

Ninh Binh is both a historical heritage site and the location of Hoa Lu, the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries of invincible glory, along with numerous temples, pagodas, and other places sacred to the people.

What does Ninh Binh mean?

The Vietnamese name "Ninh Binh" means "stable and peaceful land," and it comes from combining Ninh (safe) and Binh (peace). Since 1822, the name Ninh Binh has been relevant to its cultural and historical values and heritage, with settlements in the region being traced back as far as the Stone Age, and the peace found in a region of such deep tradition in northern Vietnam.

Things To Do In Ninh Binh

• Trang An Complex

The Trang An Complex is on the list of Ninh Binh attractions one should see. The limestone rocks are skillfully carved out by the beautiful waterways, rice terraces, and green valleys around them. Such stunningly beautiful places have been the setting of many big productions, such as Indochine with Catherine Deneuve and Kong: Skull Island. In our opinion, the best way to explore this movie set is on a bike and a boat.

You can also discover the numerous caves hidden within the karst cliffs and take in wonderful views of the rice paddies below. Those who like to take it a bit slower may opt for a ride on a sampan instead. Enjoying the scenery by this little boat, which is rowed mostly by women using their feet, is a delightful experience.

More on: Why Tourists Can't Stop Raving About Trang An?

• Tam Coc and Its Hidden Caves

If Ninh Binh has been given the title of "Halong Bay on the mainland," it has undoubtedly been so due to the limestone peaks that remind one of the famous Halong Bay in the sea, except that these are positioned amid rice paddies, while the Ngo Dong River makes a unique voyage to discover this territory of rare beauty.

Tam Coc means "3 caves," and they really are the caves of Hang Ca, Hang Giua, and Hang Ba, formed by the erosion of the rocks arranged by our guide-rambler, taking us through. These caves sometimes conceal interior lakes that are accessible through little entrances, and you have to bend down to avoid hitting yourself against a stalactite that must be ancient. It's really fun twisting and turning in the crouched position in a boat like that.

The starting point for exploring Tam Coc is directly in the middle of the city and is thus quite accessible. For a 2-hour boat ride, one can indulge in the beauty of the famous Halong Bay on land. During this excursion, the tranquility, fresh air, and sunlight enveloping you provide a perfect harmony with nature.

>>>🔎 If you find all of this complicated, please contact Kampá Tour, and we'll help you tailor-make the best Vietnam tours for you.🌾

• Mua Cave aka Hang Mua

From Tam Coc, a magnificent bike ride slowly pedals to Mount Hang Mua, one of the most beautiful places in Ninh Binh. Make sure to climb the 450 steps to Hang Mua Peak, take a breath, where the namesake pagoda and the viewpoint are, because you will, by every measure, find it thoroughly worth your efforts. With it comes a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire limestone landscape.

Alternatively, visitors can either take a boat cruise along the Ngo Dong River to view the karst scenery or rent a bicycle to explore the surrounding rural areas and local villages.

>>> Read More: Why Mua Cave Should Be on Your Vietnam Bucket List?

• Bich Dong pagoda

Pedal through narrow paths lined with pretty villages, simulating the real countryside of Vietnam, and you will come to the Bich Dong Pagoda. The Bich Dong Cave Pagoda, meaning "the pagoda in the Jade Cave," is located on the side of a steep mountain, overgrown with jungle, an architectural miracle.

It is said that around 1705, two monks settled in the place, which was considered one of the five mountains making the petals of a lotus, to build three small pavilions. The panorama 26,073 feet high on the top affords a view over the endless expanse of reed fields stretching as far as the eye can see. Some scenes of the film Indochine were shot at this extraordinary site.

• Hoa Lu Imperial City

A fitting conclusion to your trip lies in a walk through Hoa Lu imperial city, home to the remains of the former imperial capital, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After Vietnam suffered its third invasion by China, internecine wars followed, aiding the rise of Dinh Tien Hoang. A capital was built in the Hoa Lu precinct, which, in a deserved turn, would evolve into a grand imperial city in time. Queen Duong Van Nga connects the old Dinh dynasty with the new emperor Le Dai Hanh of the new Le dynasty, as she was the wife of both.

Temples have been erected in his honor. All the sites mentioned, including the tombs of Emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh and their shared consort Queen Duong Van Nga, ought to be visited. Hoa Lu was the capital of the feudal state of Dai Co Viet during the tenth and eleventh centuries before its relocation by King Ly Thai To to the city of Thang Long (the modern-day Hanoi) in A.D. 1010.

You might like to extend your days in Ninh Binh to experience other wonders of this outstanding region.

• Van Long Nature Reserve

An ecological jewel, Van Long Nature Reserve has its birds nesting among leafy trees near the riverbank. It ought to be on the must-see list during your stay in Vietnam! Just north of Trang An, the largest submerged nature reserve in northern Vietnam is Van Long National Reserve.

Van Long is a true paradise for birds, a lively destination for all nature lovers. Hundreds of bird species can be sighted, such as egrets, grey herons, night herons, rails, and long-tailed jacanas. A splendid rowing boat tour will take you to appreciate this grand setting where several caves can be found: Hang Ca (fish cave), Hang Bong (balloon cave), Hang Rua (turtle cave), Hang Chanh (lemon cave)... It is like a dream sailing in small boats as the calm waters reveal enchanting landscapes of karst hills mirrored in the water.

• Cuc Phuong National Park

About 40 km away from Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park is the first national park in Vietnam and the largest nature reserve in the country. It is a natural realm full of abundance and diversity regarding its flora and fauna: more than 2,000 species of higher plants, 122 species of reptiles and amphibians, 65 fish species, almost 2,000 species of insects, and 133 species of mammals.

Thousands of colorful butterflies flutter across the park from November to April. They look wonderful against a backdrop of lush flowers and plants surrounding them. Nature lovers can stroll along the trails of this forest to catch a glimpse of the beauty these butterflies bring to their surroundings.

Cuc Phuong also has great archaeological value because the earliest traces of human existence in this forest date to between 7,000 and 12,000 years ago. Remains of objects from that period have been found in several caves inside the park.

• Thung Nham Ecological Park

The Thung Nham Ecological Park is a genuine paradise for among 46 species, which are all protected migratory birds. An exciting short bike ride, especially in the cool, fresh early mornings, will let nature lovers enjoy this experience of refreshing air. Viewing this biodiversity in its natural habitat shall certainly bring delight to all eyes.

Opening hours:

• Summer: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Winter: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Price: 100,000 - 150,000 VND / ticket. 

• Phat Diem Cathedral

The cradle of Vietnamese Catholicism and Phat Diem Cathedral represent the largest center of Catholic architecture in the country and, hence, the headquarters of Catholicism in Vietnam. The cathedral was built in 1891 under the leadership of Pierre Tran Luc, the Vietnamese priest popularly called Father Six. The gigantic historic structure lies in the very heart of Ninh Binh and is already over 130 years old.

The architectural complex comprises about ten stone and wooden structures designed in a form of hybrid architecture between Buddhist pagodas and Catholic churches. It was classified as a cultural and historical monument by the Ministry of Culture in 1988.

• Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist pagoda in Southeast Asia

Possessing an area of more than 1,000 square meters, the temple complex at the Bai Dinh Mountains serves as a pilgrimage site for Buddhist devotees across Vietnam. This site is about 15 kilometers west of the ancient Hoa Lu capital. It is located in the city of Ninh Binh. Built on limestone mountains with a thick foliage cover, Bai Dinh Pagoda features extensive structures, including an ancient and new temple, a bell tower, a stupa, a monumental hilltop Buddha, and three kilometers of corridors with approximately 500 statues of Arhat in a variety of poses.

For a country with a strong Buddhist tradition, Bai Dinh is the biggest pagoda in Southeast Asia. It holds 12 national records, such as the largest copper bell; tallest and heaviest statue of Sakyamuni; largest three copper Buddhas (past, present, and future); and longest arhat hall.

>>> Read More:

• Bai Dinh Pagoda: Ninh Binh’s Record-Breaking Marvel
• Top 11 Must-Visit Temples and Pagodas in Vietnam

Should you spend 2 or 3 days?

▶️ People with limited time for a visit would generally do well to see at least one or two major attractions in Ninh Binh within one day. Usually, tourists land at Bai Dinh Pagoda or Tam Coc-Mua Cave for a day tour. The distance between tourist attractions must be taken into consideration.

▶️ For a high degree of pleasantness, a two-day itinerary is recommended if one can spare the time. Suggested itineraries are:

Itinerary I:

• Day 1: Arrival in Ninh Binh - Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Day 2: Tam Coc - Mua Cave - Departure

Itinerary II:

• Day 1: Arrival in Ninh Binh - Tam Coc - Mua Cave
• Day 2: Trang An - Bai Dinh Pagoda - Departure

▶️ In the case of a long itinerary for Vietnam, with Ninh Binh worth 3 days, we suggest the following itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival in Ninh Binh - Relaxing (bike ride, discovery of the rural areas, etc.)
• Day 2: Tam Coc - Mua Cave - Hoa Lu Temples
• Day 3: Bai Dinh Pagoda - Departure

Vietnam tours to include Ninh Binh:

• TOURS OF VIETNAM 10 DAYS
• TOURS OF VIETNAM 2 WEEKS

How To Get There?

• Train

The safest way to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi is by train. Multiple trains depart from Hanoi station to Ninh Binh, and the journey takes about 2 hours. Tickets can be booked in advance online or purchased directly at the station (official website: dsvn.vn). From Ninh Binh station, attractions like Tam Coc and Trang An are about 8-9 km away.

• Bus

You can also take a bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Buses regularly depart from Giap Bat Bus Station in Hanoi, and the journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Be aware of potential traffic jams during peak hours.

• Private Car

Consider booking a private car through a travel agency for a more convenient visit to Ninh Binh. These agencies offer complete packages with round-trip transportation. Rates vary based on the type of vehicle and the number of passengers.
Once in Ninh Binh, you can explore local attractions by renting a scooter or bicycle. Guided tours are also available to help you discover the caves, temples, and natural landscapes of the area.

>>> 🗺️ For a detailed overview of these stunning locations, explore our  Vietnam Tourist Map. 

When Are The Best Times To Visit Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh Weather: An Overview by Season

Located in northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh experiences four distinct seasons:

• Winter (Late November to Early March)

Winter in the Red River Delta is marked by humidity, low temperatures, and light drizzle, though occasional sunny days do occur.

• Spring (Early March to Late April)

Spring brings rising temperatures and increasing sunshine, making it a lovely time to visit.

• Summer (Early May to Late September)

Summers are characterized by high temperatures, high humidity, and heavy but brief rains.

• Autumn (Late September to Late November)

Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful sunny days, ideal for exploring the region.

What is the best time to visit?

The rice is already planted during late April/early May and again in late September when Ninh Binh seems most beautiful. The first crop will yield by the end of May, while the second one will yield by the end of September.

Around this time, the views are at their most outstanding because of the rice paddies shining in a hypnotizing luminous yellow just before harvest. If one wants to visit Ninh Binh during summer, they will get an opportunity to see the lotuses in bloom. However, this season requires hats and sun protection.

>>>> Also read: Best Time to Visit North Vietnam

Where should you stay?

In Ninh Binh, you'll find a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly choices to luxurious stays. Selecting the right place is crucial for a pleasant experience. Use reputable hotel booking sites like Booking.com and Agoda, and be sure to read other travelers' reviews. Don't hesitate to contact the hotel directly to confirm all details.

• Emeralda resort

Address: Van Long Nature Reserve, Gia Van Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam.

Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh is a luxury resort offering high-quality accommodations, leisure facilities, and excellent dining options. The resort features a large outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, gym, billiards, and a children's play area. The on-site spa provides a range of relaxing treatments, including traditional Vietnamese massages. This combination of amenities makes Emeralda Resort an ideal choice for a luxurious and relaxing stay in Ninh Binh.

• The Clos du Fil boutique hotel

Address: Rue Hoa Binh 1, Van Lam, Commune Ninh Hai, District Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh, Vietnam.

Le Clos du Fil is a unique boutique hotel nestled in the historic 700-year-old craft village of Văn Lâm. The Hoa Lu region, once the capital of Vietnam, is renowned for its lace and fine embroidery. In 1989, Ngân Đỗ, daughter of Huần Chu, took over the family business and opened Le Clos du Fil to share the village's rich embroidery traditions with visitors.

At Le Clos du Fil, you can visit the family workshop and discover precious garments crafted with delicate techniques that blend classic patterns with refined modernity. Visitors can also purchase these unique pieces directly from the embroiderers.

The hotel perfectly balances rustic charm with high-end comfort and services. Guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and captivating local culture, finding inspiration in every detail.

• Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow

Address: Thai Vi Temple, Van Lam, Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh, Vietnam.

This hotel offers an immersive experience in the midst of nature, with majestic limestone mountains on one side and expansive green fields on the other. The peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Guests can stay in traditional Vietnamese-style wooden bungalows, each equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Enjoy stunning views of the iconic karst mountains in the Tam Coc area, making your visit both relaxing and memorable.

What should you eat?

Cơm cháy (fried rice) is a dish that is prepared and eaten in several ways. Apart from ready-to-eat packets that visitors can enjoy immediately or buy as gifts, cơm cháy is served in restaurants on plates and accompanied by soups, broths, etc. Cơm cháy is crunchy and aromatic; thus, it is a must-try. More information includes the best gifts to buy in Vietnam.

Make sure to include Ninh Binh goat meat on your list of delicacies to try. This meat, which is usually tender and not too hard, is a local specialty. If curious, dive right into steamed goat, grilled goat, or goat with ginger sauce.

There are multi-cuisine restaurants serving both Vietnamese and Western dishes available in Ninh Binh. You will find these easily when you go there.

Ninh Binh Tourist Map

To make it easier for you to visualize your exploration trip in Ninh Binh, we want to share with you a map that includes the most attractive places.

Note: Green markers indicate the best spots in Tam Coc. The other markers correspond to Ninh Binh in its entirety.

Conclusion

Ninh Binh, the ancient capital, has many interesting things to occupy your time during this vacation. Whether you are a nature lover or one who loves culture, history, or even just people-watching, Ninh Binh promises to cater to your kind of spirit. Plan your trip well, and with this, you are assured of an experience to remember. We hope this article has been of assistance, and we wish you well as you enjoy this ancient land.

Contact us if you would like to incorporate Ninh Binh into your complete tour program for Vietnam:

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