ninh binh vietnam tourism

• Culture & Arts
• Ho Chi Minh City
• Attractions
• Phu Quoc Island
• Mekong Delta

All You Need to Know about Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, about 93 km south of Hanoi, was selected as a primary shooting site for Kong: Skull Island – the famous Hollywood movie. It possesses striking limestone karsts, record-breaking temples and pagodas, amazingly vast rice paddies, making the place exposed to the foreign travel market as well as international travelers. The province of Ninh Binh also has a rich diversifies tourist potential with a lot of world heritage sites. Surrounded by stunning landscapes like Tam Coc-Bich Dong, Trang An tourism complex, Bai Dinh pagoda – the biggest pagoda in Vietnam, Cuc Phuong National Park, Van Long Nature Reserve, Hoa Lu Ancient Temple,…, Ninh Binh has so much to offer tourists.

All about Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh Restaurants & Eating

Content is updating...

Ninh Binh Activities

What to Do in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh Top Lists

Tuyet Tinh Coc – a Fairyland in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh of Vietnam has long been famous for its tourist destinations with the combination of historical constructions…

Van Long Nature Reserve – All You Need to Know

Van Long Nature Reserve is a popular destination in Northern Vietnam, especially for those who love ecotourism type.…

An Exclusive Journey to Kenh Ga Floating Village, Ninh Binh

When it comes to Ninh Binh, almost tourists will immediately mention places of interest that are typical for…

Thai Vi Temple: A Sacred Temple In The Ancient Capital

Located in the stunning scenery of limestone mountains interleaved with rice fields, lakes, and swamp, Thai Vi Temple…

Tired of Urban Pollution? Let Us Escape to Mua Caves in Ninh Binh!

Ninh Binh, apparently, is one of Vietnam’s most famous tourist attractions thanks to its wide range of cultural…

11 Awesome Things to Do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam for First-time Travelers

Located 100 kilometers southeast from Hanoi, Ninh Binh province is a hidden gem that features plenty of less-visited…

Bai Dinh Pagoda (Ninh Binh) – The Travel Guide

Bai Dinh pagoda is famous for its great size and imposingness. The pagoda will be also set more record…

Cuc Phuong National Park in Ninh Binh

Located in Ninh Binh Province, Cuc Phuong National Park is the oldest and largest national park in Vietnam.…

Tam Coc-Bich Dong, Ninh Binh

Located in the Ngu Nhac Son Mountains, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province, it is a grandiose complex…

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Ninh Binh

Located near the town of Ninh Binh, 90 km south of Hanoi, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is the capital…

Trang An Complex, Ninh Binh

What is better than immerse yourself in such a spectacular nature in Vietnam? Let's go to visit Trang…

Destinations

Tours by style.

• Shore Excursions

Travel Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Getting around
• Transportation
• Best Beaches
• Vietnam Honeymoon
• Travel esim to Vietnam

Our Company

• Responsible travel
• Terms of use
• Privacy Policy
• Recruitment

Connect with us:

• Email: [email protected]
• Hanoi, Vietnam: 23rd Floor, TASCO Building, Pham Hung road, Me Tri, Tu Liem, Hanoi.
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: 2nd Floor, VIPD Building, No. 4 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC
• Hong Kong: Vietnam discovery Travel Limited Room 1D, 2/F, Fu Tao Building,98 Argyle Street, Mongkok, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Where Do You Want to Go?

• Tell us details of your holiday plan.
• Get multiple quotes from our expert agents, compare, then customize further.
• Select & book the best deal.

Home » Travel Guides » Vietnam » 25 Best Things To Do In Ninh Binh (Vietnam)

25 Best Things To Do In Ninh Binh (Vietnam)

Ninh Binh is a town which lies to the southeast of Hanoi and acts as a base for visitors to explore the surrounding area. Slightly confusingly, the state is also known as Ninh Binh, with Ninh Binh town also acting as the capital city, so often when people refer to this part of Vietnam they are talking about the whole Ninh Binh district which comprises several towns, villages and key attractions.

There are not many set ‘sights’ in the town on Ninh Binh itself, but this is a great place to visit if you want to get out and about and spend time in some of the prettiest and most unspoilt parts of Vietnam. Ninh Binh town is usually used as a jumping off point to Tam Coc, Van Long and Hoa Lu and although it is not as well known as other places in the country, it is a great spot for anyone with an interest in nature thanks to its craggy limestone scenery. As other parts of the country such as Halong Bay and Sapa become more popular, if you want to take the road less traveled then Ninh Binh is the ideal choice.

Here are the 25 best things to do in Ninh Binh …

1. Visit Tam Coc

Located outside of Ninh Binh town, Tam Coc is one of the best nature destinations in Vietnam although it remains firmly off the tourist trail.

Tam Coc is known for its karst landscape which is similar to the better known Halong Bay, although here you will find some scenic limestone hills which are dotted amongst emerald green rice paddies.

Halong Bay has larger cliffs, although it is also more crowded, so Tam Coc is the place to come if you want to get off the beaten track and you can explore the area by boat which takes around two hours.

2. Eat at the Snail Restaurants

If you have a hankering for the local food, then head to the lane next to D Luong Van Tuy where you will find a wealth of snail restaurants.

These eateries are known for serving oc luoc xa which is the Vietnamese for snails which are then cooked with a mix of aromatic lemongrass and hot chilies.

If this doesn’t appeal then you will also find a number of bars here where you can grab a drink, although the snails are a delicacy in these parts and are well worth trying.

3. Visit Phat Diem Cathedral

Some 34 kilometers away from the center of Ninh Binh is Phat Diem Cathedral which sits in the middle of some scenic canals and rice paddies.

This would have been the central place of worship for the commune of Phat Diem which was also called the ‘Vatican of Vietnam’ during the colonial period.

The cathedral dates from 1898 and was built using a mix of Vietnamese and Western styles which include two gothic chapels and some massive iron wood columns.

The scale of the cathedral and its location are extremely impressive and this is one of the top sights not to miss in Ninh Binh district.

4. Explore Van Long Nature Reserve

If you want to keep exploring outside of Ninh Binh then you can head to Van Long which is a wetland reserve that is the place to come for keen birdwatchers.

As this is a protected area of land, it is teeming with local flora and fauna, so if you are a nature and want to check out the Vietnamese wildlife then don’t miss it off the itinerary.

The wetlands are the home to a number of Vietnamese species like monkeys, reptiles, and birds.

5. Have lunch at Cho Bop Market

If you want to find some cheap local bites in Ninh Binh town and don’t fancy dining at the snails restaurants then head to Cho Bop Market which is the central market in town.

Here you will find a number of carts and small cafes serving Vietnamese dishes such as toothsome noodle soups and other fried goodies.

They also sell delicious fresh fruit and vegetables if you want to try the local produce but try to go in the morning as this is when you will find the biggest selection.

6. Shop at Van Lan

Van Lan is a small village close to Tam Coc which is famous for its handicrafts.

The real draw here however is the intricate embroidery which is famous in the region and you will find a number of artisans here tending to their craft.

Just some of the items that you can pick up here include napkins, pillowcases, tablecloths and even t-shirts, and you should note that haggling is considered normal.

With that in mind make sure to bargain to get the best price for your souvenirs.

7. Bich Dong Pagoda

Just past Tam Coc you will find one of the most interesting pagodas in the region which dates from the 15th century.

The Bich Dong Pagoda is located on the side of a mountain and is made up of three levels called the Ha, Trung and Thuong Pagodas.

The temples are also built so that they back on to caves which you can also explore as part of a visit here.

As you would expect from pagodas built into a cliff, the path to the top is steep but the views are well worth it.

8. Spend the day at Hoa Lu

Hoa Lu is yet another spot that makes a great trip from Ninh Binh although some visitors skip it in favor of neighboring Tam Coc and Van Long.

Many people don’t know however that Hoa Lu would have been the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century and there is a large citadel here which is filled with scenic temples that you can explore at your leisure.

For that reason, it is well worth a trip here if you are in the region.

9. Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is one of the main national parks in Vietnam and was established in 1962. This is part of a huge swathe of protected land in Ninh Binh and was set up in order to take care of the wildlife in the region which has been in decline for many years as a result of poaching.

The park now spans 222 square kilometers and is made up of tropical forest which is home to a plethora of wildlife.

On a visit here you will find some 307 species of birds as well as 133 species of mammals and 122 species of reptiles.

You will also find over 2,000 different kinds of plants here making it a must visit for nature lovers.

10. Visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center

Inside Cuc Phuong National Park you will find the Endangered Primate Rescue Center which is overseen by the Frankfurt Zoological Society.

At the rescue center you will find 150 monkeys as well as 12 kinds of langur and 3 species of gibbon.

The animals here were rescued to save them from illegal traders and the focus of the facility is to educate visitors on how to protect wild animals in Vietnam.

You can also visit the Turtle Conservation Center at the same time as the rescue center using the same ticket.

11. Admire Chua Bai Dinh

Chua Bai Dinh is a colorful Buddhist temple complex that is located on a scenic hill close to Ninh Binh town.

The temple was built in 2014 and has quickly become one of the top attractions in the area.

The entrance leads to walkways which are lined with 500 stone arhats (images of enlightened Buddhists) and inside you will find the Phap Chu Pagoda which extends over some three tiers.

There is also a bronze Buddha inside which weighs 100 tones and is 10 meters high as well as two smaller gilded Buddhas.

12. Explore Mua Cave

Located close to some scenic rice paddies is the Mua Cave which has gorgeous views over the surrounding peaks.

There is a stone staircase that takes you up to the mouth of the cave and past eerie karst formations.

Once you have climbed the 500 steps to the top, you will get to the altar of Quan Am who is the revered Goddess of Mercy and the vistas are spectacular as you can see all the way down to the Ngo Dong River.

13. Try the goat meat

Many visitors won’t realize that Ninh Binh is known for its mountain goat which is known as de nui.

The meat is a specialty in these parts and is usually served with fried rice called com chien.

The meat has a gamey flavor and it is usually barbecued to produce a smoky and delicious dish that is a must-try while you are in Ninh Binh.

The goat is also usually served with rice paper rolls and a plethora of fresh herbs.

14. Take a boat trip in Trang An

Neighboring Trang An is known for its scenic water ways and you can hire a boat here and float along the Sao Khe River.

This will take you through other-worldly caves and you can take in the scenery and also visit the caves and temples at the same time.

Boat trips usually last around 2 hours and Trang An is around 7 kilometers from Ninh Binh town so you can easily visit for the day.

15. Scale the Hang Mua Peak

Hang Mua Peak is known for being one of the most amazing sites in Tam Coc and you will have to walk along some 500 steps to the summit.

It is all worth it when you get to the top however as you can look out over some of the most stunning scenery in Vietnam which include the Red River Delta and the towering mountains.

Make sure to wear proper shoes however, especially in the rainy season as the steps can become slippery when wet.

This is also the same spot that houses the Mua Cave although you can skip this and just trek along the mountain trail if you are not a fan of spelunking.

16. Tour the Turtle Conservation Center

Also located inside the Cuc Phuong National Park is the Turtle Conservation Center which has over 1,000 different aquatic creatures.

These include 20 different species of turtles, and many of the residents here were saved from poachers or smugglers.

Many of the turtles swim in the ponds of the center and there is also a visitor center which will fill you in on the conservation projects in place to protect the turtles.

17. Have a beer on the waterfront

Ninh Binh Town is known for its bia hoi which is the local draft beer.

As such, if you want to relax with a cool drink at the end of a long day of sightseeing then this is the place to do it.

The main bia hoi part of Ninh Binh is located along the riverside and you can look out over the water and enjoy the sunset at the same time.

18. Take a bicycle tour

One of the best ways to explore Ninh Binh is by bicycle.

The reason for this is that the land here is mainly flat which means that you can easily rent a bicycle and ride to many of the sights in town.

Many of the guesthouses have free bicycles for guests, or you can sign up for a dedicated tour with a guide who will show you all the key attractions in the area and fill you in on the history and culture of this part of Vietnam.

19. Take a trip to Chicken Village

Chicken Village is called Kenh Ga in Vietnamese and is made up of a floating village in Ninh Binh which is known for the local oarsmen and women.

One of the reasons that people come here is to see the locals rowing their boats with their feet, so if you want a glimpse of an authentic fishing village in Vietnam then this is the place to visit.

You can take a tour of the floating village by boat and observe this quirky way of rowing up close.

As well as the actual waterways, this riverside town is also very pretty in its own right and well worth an afternoon spent browsing in the little alleyways.

20. Check out the Thung Nham Bird Garden

Strangely, the Thung Nham Bird Garden is not well known in Ninh Binh which is a shame as it is a picturesque attraction that is worth a visit.

The park is located in the mountains and is known as a place where a huge number of indigenous species of birds make their nests.

If possible try to visit in the early morning or late afternoon as the trees in the park are covered in a plethora of colorful avians.

In addition to the birds, you can also go fishing in the park and can even camp here depending on the season.

21. Try the local food

Ninh Binh is known for its local specialties and one of these is called com chay.

This dish is made from rice which is burnt and then scraped off the bottom of a cooking pot.

This may not sound like the most appetizing dish, but it produces a nutty and crunchy result.

The best part about com chay is that it is served topped with juicy pork.

You will find plates of com chay all over Ninh Binh and it is also often served as an accompaniment to goat meat which is swapped for the usual pork.

22. Visit the Hoa Lu Temples

Nestled against Yen Ngua Mountain are two of Hoa Lu’s temples which are adorned with gorgeous pillars covered in dark red lacquer.

The most famous of these is called Dinh Tien Hoang which is dedicated to the time of the Dinh Dynasty and was restored in the 17th century At the front of the temple you will find a stone throne and the interior features a statue of Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang with his children.

You will also find the usual bronze bells here that feature in all temples across Vietnam.

23. Have a drink at Chookie’s

If you are looking for a place in Ninh Binh town to have a drink, then head to Chookie’s.

This is known as the prime spot to get a beer in the evenings and they also serve up some delicious Vietnamese and Western food at cheap prices.

The nightlife scene in Ninh Binh can be a little sparse and this is your best bet if you are looking for something to do in the evenings.

They also offer tours and bicycle rental if you want to explore the rest of the province.

24. Eat at Father Cooking

Many visitors and locals alike in Ninh Binh will tell you that one of the best restaurants in town is Father Cooking.

This is certainly the place to come if you want to try local bites at great prices, and this is a family owned establishment where you can get noodle and rice dishes.

Ninh Binh is known for its regional delicacies like goat meat and snails, so if you want to try a slice of authentic Vietnamese cuisine when you are in town then this is hard to beat.

25. Hike to Silver Cloud Peak

If you are in Ninh Binh and like hiking then you need to make your way to Silver Cloud Peak in Cuc Phuong National Park.

It is around a four hour trek to Silver Cloud Peak, so you need to be in relatively good shape if you are going to attempt it, but the views across the park more than make up for it.

You can either hike with a ranger which is recommended, or go it alone if you are feeling adventurous.

There are also some night treks here which are the perfect opportunity to look out for nocturnal animals in the park.

25 Best Things To Do In Ninh Binh (Vietnam):

• Visit Tam Coc
• Eat at the Snail Restaurants
• Visit Phat Diem Cathedral
• Explore Van Long Nature Reserve
• Have lunch at Cho Bop Market
• Shop at Van Lan
• Bich Dong Pagoda
• Spend the day at Hoa Lu
• Cuc Phuong National Park
• Visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center
• Admire Chua Bai Dinh
• Explore Mua Cave
• Try the goat meat
• Take a boat trip in Trang An
• Scale the Hang Mua Peak
• Tour the Turtle Conservation Center
• Have a beer on the waterfront
• Take a bicycle tour
• Take a trip to Chicken Village
• Check out the Thung Nham Bird Garden
• Try the local food
• Visit the Hoa Lu Temples
• Have a drink at Chookie’s
• Eat at Father Cooking
• Hike to Silver Cloud Peak

• Work With Us
• Blogging Bootcamp

• Van Conversion Academy
• Campervan Shop
• Campervan Rentals
• Plan a Trip
• Itineraries
• Destinations
• Responsible Travel
• Family Travel
• Budget Travel
• Scuba Diving
• Travel Credit Cards
• Digital Nomad
• Teach English Abroad
• Blogging Resources
• Income Reports
• Travel Shop
• Meet Katie & Ben
• About Two Wandering Soles
• Personal Stuff
• Portfolio & Press

11 Best Things to Do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Home » Blog » Vietnam » 11 Best Things to Do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

With ancient roots and adventurous activities, visiting the Ninh Binh, Vietnam should be on every traveler’s bucket list. In this guide, we’ll show you the best things to do in Ninh Binh, beyond the typical tourist experiences. 

Written by guest author: Alice Pham

Located in the heart of Northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh is a mesmerizing symphony of nature’s best work and historical grandeur, a must-visit place for any travelers to Vietnam. 

Often referred to as the ‘Halong Bay on Land,’ this hidden gem offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. It was also the place where the first capital of Vietnam was established. Now, this region is a paradise for cultural and historical lovers, with majestic landscapes, ancient temples, and peaceful countryside. 

In this article, we are going to share the best things to do in Ninh Binh, each promising an unforgettable experience that blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Ninh Binh Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Ninh Binh, Vietnam, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

Best time to visit Ninh Binh

How to get to ninh binh from hanoi.

• What to pack for Vietnam
• Round up of best things to do in Ninh Binn

Top things to do in Ninh Binh

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Ninh Binh, here are our top recommendations. 

• Discover Tam Coc
• Take a boat tour through Trang An Eco-tourism Complex
• Explore Van Long Nature Reserve
• Marvel at Bich Dong Pagoda

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. 

1. Discover Tam Coc

• Location: Hoa Lư District
• Exact location on Google Maps
• Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily
• Entrance fee: 120,000 VND per person (~$5 USD)
• Boat trip: 150,000 VND per person (~$6 USD)

Tam Coc, often hailed as the ‘Halong Bay on Land’ , is a spectacular destination in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. 

It is famous for a unique blend of stunning natural beauty and serene rural landscapes. Unlike its coastal counterpart, Tam Coc is adorned with majestic karst mountains that rise dramatically from lush green rice fields, creating a breathtaking panorama. 

The highlight of any visit to Tam Coc is undoubtedly the boat trip , a serene journey that takes you through an enchanting world of natural wonders. 

As local rowers skillfully navigate the calm waters, you’ll glide through towering limestone cliffs, observe mysterious caves, and be treated to picturesque views that change with every turn. 

Each boat ride can take up to two hours . You will have to pay 120,000 VND per person for the sightseeing fee and 150,000 VND per person for the boat trip. A total of 270,000 VND per trip (~$11 USD). 

2. Take a boat tour through Trang An Eco-tourism Complex

• Hours: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily
• Entrance fee: 250,000 VND per adult (~$10 USD)

Embarking on a boat trip through Trang An Eco-Tourism Complex is like navigating through a living masterpiece, a journey that takes you into the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site . 

The landscape here is a dramatic canvas of nature’s finest work: rugged, slate mountains lush with greenery, towering cliffs, and the serene, mirror-like clarity of the water. 

Gliding through this dreamlike setting, you’ll pass under natural caves that reveal the earth’s ancient stories, glide beside ancient temples that stand as silent sentinels of history, and drift across tranquil lakes that reflect the sky above.

The boat trip in Trang An also takes about 2 hours . It is a serene journey where every turn brings a new, breathtaking view. 

In Trang An, each moment on the water is said to be a step through a hidden, untouched world.

The sightseeing fee is 250,000 VND per adult (just over $10 USD). Children under 1.5 meters enjoy the price of 100,000 VND (~$4 USD). 

If you only have 1 or 2 days in Ninh Binh, consider choosing either Tam Coc or Trang An boat trip as they offer quite the same experience.

3. Explore Van Long Nature Reserve

• Location: Gia Viễn District
• Hours: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily
• Entrance fee: 20,000 VND per person (<$1 USD)

A visit to the Van Long Nature Reserve also promises an enchanting experience, a serene encounter with one of North Vietnam’s most precious natural treasures. 

As the largest wetland area in the region , Van Long is a tapestry of ethereal beauty, where limestone mountain peaks rise majestically above sprawling paddy fields that stretch to the horizon. 

This tranquil haven is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a vital sanctuary for wildlife , including several primate species, most notably the endangered Langur. The reserve plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of these animals , nurturing them back to health before they are gently released into the wild. 

As you explore this serene landscape, whether by boat or on foot, you’ll feel a deep connection to nature. The peacefulness of the reserve, coupled with the sight of wildlife thriving in their natural habitat, makes a visit to Van Long Nature Reserve a truly memorable and inspiring experience.

The sightseeing fee in Van Long Nature Reserve is quite low; just 20,000 VND per person (less than $1 USD).

4. Marvel at Bich Dong Pagoda

• Entrance fee: entrance included with your ticket to Tam Coc (120,000 VND per person (~$5 USD))

Bich Dong Pagoda is a captivating ensemble of mountain cave temples and historic shrines that date back to the 15th century. 

This architectural marvel is gracefully perched along a hill, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through time and spirituality. As you traverse the path to each monument, your efforts are rewarded with breathtaking views and a profound sense of peace. 

Each step brings a discovery, from intricately carved statues to hidden sanctuaries bathed in the soft light filtering through the cave openings. 

The entrance, marked by an iconic bridge, is a haven for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts, offering a picturesque frame of this ancient wonder set against the backdrop of lush greenery and tranquil waters.

It is free to visit this temple . Also, Bich Dong Pagoda is close to Tam Coc and you can take a bike ride between these two destinations.

5. Check out Bai Dinh Pagoda

• Location: Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Vien District
• Hours: 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily
• Bai Dinh Pagoda entrance fee: free
• Bao Thap Tower entrance fee: 50,000 VND/person (~$2 USD)

Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the most famous temples in Vietnam , standing as a monumental testament to Vietnamese spirituality and architectural grandeur.

Recognized as the largest temple complex in Vietnam , Bai Dinh Pagoda has become a pivotal destination for both religious pilgrims and tourists drawn to its spiritual essence and Buddhist art. The pagoda’s vastness is awe-inspiring, featuring record-setting structures such as Southeast Asia’s largest bronze Buddha statue and the longest corridor of Arhat statues. 

Walking through the complex, you will be enveloped in an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence, amidst intricately designed temples and lush, serene gardens. 

The artistry displayed in the statues, carvings, and the overall layout of the complex is a remarkable representation of Buddhist philosophy and Vietnamese culture . 

Whether you’re seeking spiritual enrichment, an appreciation of religious art, or simply a peaceful retreat, Bai Dinh Pagoda promises to offer an enriching experience that resonates long after your visit.

6. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu

• Hours: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily
• Entrance fee: 20,000 VND/adult , 10,000/child (<$1 USD)

The ancient capital of Hoa Lu is cradled between the majestic limestone mountains of Ninh Binh province. As the capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries , it holds a special place in the nation’s rich tapestry of history and is said to be a place where history whispers from every corner.

Today, Hoa Lu stands as a cultural beacon, brimming with ancient pagodas, temples, and remnants of citadels that pay homage to the Dinh dynasty’s royal past. These historical structures are not just architectural marvels but also storytellers of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the lives and times of ancient Vietnamese royalty. 

A visit to Hoa Lu is more than a journey through a scenic landscape; it’s a walk through time , where each step brings you closer to understanding Vietnam’s illustrious past. 

If you are going to visit Ninh Binh, exploring the ancient capital of Hoa Lu is undoubtedly one of the most enriching experiences.

7. Go birdwatching at Thung Nham Bird Park

• Hours: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. in the summer, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in winter
• Entrance fee: 100,000 VND/person (~$4 USD)

Thung Nham Bird Park is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. As a relatively new attraction, it offers a serene escape from the more crowded tourist spots, allowing you to immerse in the tranquility of nature. 

The park is a haven for a diverse array of bird species, making it a prime spot for observing these feathered creatures in their natural habitat. 

The most magical times to visit this tourist destination are early morning or late afternoon, when the birds are most active, either setting out at dawn or returning at dusk in a spectacular display. Around 4 pm, the park becomes a stage for the birds’ return, creating a mesmerizing scene against the backdrop of the setting sun. 

Besides bird watching, the park offers boat trips that glide through the lush forest, enhancing the experience with the beauty of the surrounding landscape, and connecting you with the subtle yet profound wonders of the natural world.

8. Have an adventure in Cuc Phuong National Park

• Location: Nho Quan District
• Hours: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Entrance fee: 60,000 VND/person (~$4 USD)

Cuc Phuong National Park is renowned as an institution of biodiversity in Vietnam and a must-visit if you are passionate about nature and conservation. 

As the country’s largest nature reserve , this lush rainforest sanctuary is a vibrant tapestry of ecological wonders, home to over 300 species of rare birds and an astounding 2000 plant species. The park’s commitment to preserving the unspoiled beauty of Ninh Binh is evident in every corner of its sprawling expanse. 

You can visit the park within a day tour from Hanoi. Or, if you are seeking an immersive experience, do a homestay with the local Muong people , an ethnic group indigenous to the northern mountainous regions of Vietnam.

A visit to the Endangered Primate Rescue Center within the park adds another layer to your experience. This sanctuary plays a crucial role in the rescue and conservation of Vietnam’s most endangered primates , where you can get a rare glimpse into the efforts to protect these precious species. 

9. Explore the Mua Cave

• Hours: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily

Mua Cave is also a breathtaking destination of Ninh Binh that captivates visitors with its natural beauty. 

While the cave itself is a fascinating feature, the true highlight of Mua Cave is the panoramic view waiting at the top of its viewpoint. 

After climbing about 500 steps, you will be rewarded with a stunning vista that stretches across the Tam Coc River. This vantage point offers a picturesque scene, encompassing the surrounding mountains, verdant rice fields below, and the serene river winding through the landscape. 

10. Sample delicious local cuisine

Indulging in the local culinary specialties is a must when visiting Ninh Binh. Among these, com chay and de tai chanh stand out as iconic dishes that capture the essence of the region’s flavors. 

Com chay, a delightful fried rice crust , is a popular snack in this province. Crispy and savory, it can be enjoyed on its own or dipped into a warm, flavorful stew, offering a unique textural experience.

Equally famous is de tai chanh , a dish that showcases Ninh Binh’s most favored protein: goat meat. 

This delicacy involves lightly curing the goat meat in lemon juice, which is then tossed with a vibrant mix of chilies, lime leaves, and sesame seeds. The result is a refreshing and zesty dish that perfectly balances the robust flavors of the meat with the tangy and spicy accents. 

Psst! Calling all foodies!! We have a complete guide to Vietnamese street food that includes everything you’ll want to eat during your visit!

11. Take a cooking class

If you have more time in Ninh Binh, why don’t you consider participating in a cooking class with a local ? This is a fantastic way to learn about local ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, and the cultural significance of various dishes.

To start your cooking lesson, you will follow a local tour guide to the market to buy the ingredients, including fish, pork, fresh vegetables, and other kinds of herbs. 

Then, return to the Buffalo Cave, where you will meet with a local chef and start to cook some traditional Vietnamese dishes, like rice paper rolls, grilled fish, Vietnamese spring rolls, etc. 

This is not only a chance to enhance your cooking skills but also a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle of Ninh Binh. 

What you need to know:

• Hours: 10:30 a.m – 1:30 p.m.
• Price: $20.35 USD per person
• Meeting location

What guests are saying:

“ Amazing class, great hosts. Would recommend to anyone! ” – Charlotte, Feb. 2024

The best time to visit Ninh Binh is during the spring (February to April) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the stunning landscapes and historical sites of the region. 

In spring, the climate is comfortably warm with occasional light rains, enhancing the lush greenery of the rice fields and mountains, creating a picturesque setting perfect for photography and outdoor activities. This is also the time when the countryside is vibrant with life, as local farmers engage in their rice cultivation, bringing you a chance to get a glimpse into the rural life of Vietnam.

Autumn, on the other hand, brings cooler temperatures and less rainfall, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. The landscape transitions into a golden hue as the rice harvest season begins, offering a different yet equally enchanting backdrop. 

Both seasons avoid the extreme heat of the summer and the chilly, wet conditions of the winter, ensuring a more enjoyable and fruitful visit to this breathtaking landscape of Vietnam.

Psst! For an in-depth guide on the seasonal weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Vietnam .

There are several ways to travel from Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam to Ninh Binh. The means of transportation you choose should depend on your preference for comfort, speed, and experience.

The most convenient way is by bus, which is fast and economical. Buses to Ninh Binh depart from various stations in Hanoi, including Giap Bat and My Dinh bus stations, with the trip taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Another popular and safe way to get to Ninh Binh is by train. The journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and offers a chance to see the picturesque countryside of Vietnam. Trains to Ninh Binh leave regularly from Hanoi Railway Station , and you can choose between different classes of seats for varying levels of comfort.

For those seeking more flexibility and convenience, hiring a private car or taxi is a great option, though more expensive. This way, you can enjoy a direct route to Ninh Binh with the freedom to stop along the way.

By motorbike

Lastly, if you are an adventurous traveler, renting a motorbike to drive to Ninh Binh will be an exhilarating experience and a chance to truly immerse yourself in the Vietnamese landscape. 

This option is best suited for experienced riders and those comfortable with navigating local traffic.

What to pack for traveling to Vietnam

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this free SE Asia packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra medicines you may want to have on-hand just in case.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Southeast Asia that you won’t find anywhere else!

Round up of the best things to do in Ninh Binh

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Nonh Boing, Vietnam so you can see everything in one place.

• Check out Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu
• Go birdwatching at Thung Nham Bird Park
• Have an adventure in Cuc Phuong National Park
• Explore the Mua Cave
• Sample delicious local cuisine
• Take a cooking class

About the guest author

Alice Pham is a passionate travel enthusiast and seasoned blogger with a deep love for exploring the hidden gems of the world. With a keen eye for detail and a zest for adventure, Alice brings to life the unique experiences encountered on her journeys.

Her blog is a treasure trove of travel tips, insightful narratives, and vivid photography, capturing the essence of each destination she visits. Her adventures are a testament to her belief that travel is not just about places, but about the stories and connections created along the way.

Are you planning a trip to Vietnam?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Vietnam and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Vietnam Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Perfect 1 Month Itinerary for Vietnam
• Best Time to Visit Vietnam: When to Go & When to Avoid!
• Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Hanoi
• Fun Things to Do in Hoi An

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Which of these things to do in Ninh Binh is going straight to the top of your bucket list? Are you planning a trip to Vietnam and still have questions? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The ultimate guide for visiting Ninh Binh, Vietnam: must-see attractions, tips and advice

• July 27, 2023
• curious goose

This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use these links, with no extra cost to you.

Ninh Binh is a small city 2 hours south of Hanoi, in the north of Vietnam. When people refer to Ninh Binh when travelling, they are most likely referring to the province of Ninh Binh, rather than the city itself. Known as ‘ Halong bay on land’, Ninh Binh province is an area of natural beauty and is definitely worth visiting when you are travelling in Vietnam. For that reason, I’ve put together this complete guide to visiting Ninh Binh covering what to do, how to get there and where to stay.

The main towns in Ninh Binh province are Trang An and Tam Coc. This is where most people stay when visiting Ninh Binh province. The area here boasts stunning landscape with karst mountains, deep green valleys and winding rivers. It is here where the film Kong: Skull island was filmed – something Ninh Binh is now well known for.

During my month-long trip to Vietnam in May 2022, I spent 5 relaxing days staying in Trang An and exploring the beautiful scenery around the province of Ninh Binh. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Ninh Binh, including the must see attractions, as well as tips and advice for planning your trip.

First time in Southeast Asia? Make sure you also check out my 50 essential travel tips for visiting Southeast Asia to help plan your trip!

9 Must-see attractions and things to do in Ninh Binh province, Vietnam

1. Take the Trang An Scenic Landscape boat ride 2. Climb up Hang Múa viewpoint 3. Visit Am Tien lake 4. Cycle around the countryside 5. Spend a few hours in Tam Coc 6. Visit Hoa Lu Ancient capital 7. Go bird watching at Van Long nature reserve 8. Trek through Cúc Phương National Park 9. Take some time to relax

Tips and advice for visiting Ninh Binh province, Vietnam How to get to Ninh Binh? What’s the best way to explore Ninh Binh? Where to stay in Ninh Binh province? When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh? How many days do you need in Ninh Binh? Are there ATMs in Tam Coc and Trang An? What facilities are there in Tam Coc and Trang An?

Before we get into the practical information of what you need to know before visiting Ninh Binh, here’s 9 of the best things to do in Ninh Binh, including the top must-see attractions in Trang An and Tam Coc.

1. Take the Trang An Scenic Landscape boat ride

If you only do one activity in Ninh Binh, make sure it is the boat ride through the Trang An Scenic Landscape. It is without a doubt, the best thing to do in Ninh Binh.

Tickets for the Trang An boat ride are 150k vnd each (£5.30) and the boat seats 4 adults. If you have less than 4 people in your party, you will be paired up with other people to make a full boat. (If you want the boat to yourself, you can pay extra to have a private boat). The boat is rowed by hand and the guide will give you information about key sights along the way. We were joined by a lovely Vietnamese family and therefore the guide we were given spoke no English but he did point out wildlife and various sights to us along the way.

There are three routes you can choose from for your boat ride. To be honest we really didn’t know which to pick! We ended up choosing route 2, but it seemed that whatever route you did, you all ended up seeing the main attractions anyway, so I don’t think it really mattered that much. The boat ride lasts anywhere between 1.5hours – 3 hours, depending on how busy it is and along the way you will stop at a couple of small islands where you can get off the boat and wander around the small temples and gardens.

The scenery floating through Trang An is incredible! The water is so calm and still and it felt very tranquil gliding past the huge limestone and karst mountains which rose up straight from the water.

Trang An’s claim to fame is that parts of the film Kong: Skull Island were shot here and we saw the famous rock where Kong leaves his bloody handprint.

You can also take a boat ride at Tam Coc, but having spoken to other travellers who did this, I would avoid it. The Tam Coc boat ride has a bad reputation and we heard of instances where the rowers just stopped in the middle of the river and refused to continue rowing until they were tipped. We also heard of stories where fruit and souvenir sellers were allowed to stop by the boat and when the tourists refused to buy anything, the seller gave the rower items and then demanded money for them from the tourists.

There was nothing like this in Trang An, and in fact, they actively discouraged this behaviour. The Trang An boat ride was the highlight of my time in Ninh Binh and is one of the most popular and well known activities in the area.

We saw the famous rock from the film Kong: Skull Island (L) whilst rowing around Trang An Scenic Landscape

2. Climb up Hang Múa viewpoint

If you have seen photos of Ninh Binh, then you have most likely seen images of the Hang Múa viewpoint. This spot is one of the most visited attractions in Ninh Binh and rightly so, the views are incredible!

Hang Múa sits in between Trang An and Tam Coc, and therefore is easily accessible by bicycle from both places. The entrance fee for Hang Múa is 100k vnd each (£3.50) and you can park your bicycle at the entrance for 5k vnd (20p). Tip: As you cycle down the road towards the entrance, you will see parking signs and people coming into the road to guide you to small parking lots. The fee for these parking areas is higher at 10k vnd (35p) and you will have to walk the rest of the way, so just ignore them and go all the way to the end.

The main attraction at Hang Múa is the viewpoints. There are two small mountains next to one another which you can climb. There are stone steps all the way up, and it should take no more than 15-20 minutes to reach the top. Just be careful, especially if it has rained as the steps are uneven and there is no handrail. The mountain on the left side (as you stand facing up the stairs) has the better views. From here you can see down to the river and rowing boats of Trang An on one side and across to the other mountain on the other side, with views of rice fields and the bamboo bridge in the centre. The walk up to the top of the viewpoint was not too strenuous and didn’t take too long, but the views from here are truly stunning.

Once you’ve made it back down from the viewpoint, there’s a couple of cafes at the bottom around the small lake where you can get a drink or ice cream. You can also walk along the bamboo bridge which stands above a lily pond, surrounded by the rice fields. There were plenty of locals dressed in beautiful floaty dresses and even heels at this spot – it is definitely a great location for those instagram photos!

Climb the left mountain at Hang Mua for the best all round views

3. Visit Am Tien lake

Am Tiên lake is a small attraction north of Trang An. It is one of the lesser known spots in the area, but it is a nice place to stop for an hour if you are cycling nearby, or if you are visiting Hoa Lu ancient capital. Am Tiên lake is a man-made lake completely surrounded by mountains. Two large tunnels have been carved into the mountain in order to reach the lake.

At either end of the lake are two small temple buildings and a temple cave at one end. There’s also a little shop and cafe by the shoreline. From the main tunnel entrance, make your way to the main temple, situated above the shop. This is where you will get the best views of the lake.

There is a smooth, paved path all the way around the lake, so it is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. You can rent bicycles at the entrance but honestly you don’t need to. The path around the lake is only about 1-2km long but it is a nice, pretty stroll. There’s also several carts and even a cinderella style carriage that you can hire! You can see goats grazing on the mountainside and watch the large fish in the lake.

On the lake there are a couple of small rowing boats which have been decorated with colourful fake flowers, perfect for photo opportunities.

Entry to Am Tiên lake is only 20k vnd each (70p) and parking for a bicycle is 5k vnd (20p). You probably only need an hour here but it is a nice activity to do whilst you are cycling around.

4. Cycle around the countryside

Cycling around the countryside is one of the best activities in Trang An and Tam Coc, plus if your homestay lends you their bicycles, it is completely free! You don’t really need to follow a map or have a planned route (although I always recommend downloading an offline google map of the area when you are out exploring), just set off on your bike and enjoy the scenery!

As much as I enjoyed cycling round the beautiful town of Hoi An , I think the landscapes here were even better! Cycling around the countryside you will pass rice fields, mountains, rivers, lakes and grazing buffalo. There’s plenty of local cafes to stop and get lunch or a smoothie. One particularly scenic spot for lunch is the Trang An Lotus lake Homestay. It’s hard to explain just how beautiful and tranquil the landscape is in this area, you definitely have to experience it for yourself!

5. Spend a few hours in Tam Coc

Tam Coc is the place to go if you are looking for more westernised restaurants and cafes. You can get Indian, Mexican, fast food and of course local Vietnamese food here. There’s even several bars and pubs if you fancy more of a night out too. Tam Coc is also where you will find grocery stores, pharmacies, tour companies and even massage salons. Spend an hour or so walking around Tam Coc lake and down the high street, treating yourself to lunch or a smoothie.

6. Visit Hoa Lu Ancient capital

Surrounded by the limestone mountains of Trang An, is Hoa Lu – the ancient capital of Vietnam. Hoa Lu was Vietnam’s capital city for 41 years and it’s a place of historical importance, with many temples, pagodas and tombs on this site. The Dinh Tien Hoang Temple and Le Hoan Temple are two of the most popular sites in the complex – these 17th century temples were built in the style of the previous 11th century buildings which preceded them. Another notable building in Hao Lu is Nhat Tru Pagoda, which dates back to the 10th century.

Many people who visit Ninh Binh take a trip to Hoa Lu, it is one of the most popular sites in the area. However, we actually chose to skip this as we had read reviews where people had said it was quite touristy and the temple buildings were not so impressive. We had just visited the ancient city of Hue a week before this trip and we found ourselves disappointed there, so we decided not to visit Hoa Lu. Perhaps after visiting Ankgor Wat in Cambodia and the many beautiful temples in Chiang Mai , Thailand we were just a bit spoiled by the amazing things we had already seen!

If you are interested to learn about the history of Vietnam and enjoy visiting temples, then Hoa Lu could be a great place for you to visit. It’s only 5km from Trang An and can be reached by bicycle or taxi.

7. Go bird watching at Van Long nature reserve

Van Long nature reserve sits 20km north of Trang An, on the edge of Ninh Binh Province. Similar to the Trang An Scenic Landscape, the main thing to do in Van Long is to ride a boat on the winding canals and rivers that make up the wetlands of Van Long reserve. The protected area is dotted with limestone mountains and over 30 caves. The mountains and forests around the wetlands are home to many langurs, but it is perhaps most well known for being a great place to visit for bird watching. Whether you are an avid bird-spotter or not, the Van Long wetlands are a great place to visit on a day trip from Trang An or Tam Coc.

8. Trek through Cúc Phương National Park

Cúc Phương National Park is a preserved rainforest in the north west of Ninh Binh province. As the largest nature reserve in Vietnam, it holds significant importance and is home to over 2000 plant species and 300 types of birds, as well as reptiles and mammals. One of the best things to do in Cuc Phuong is to go jungle trekking. There are various treks you can take, ranging from easy, 1 hour long walks to guided full day treks. You can also go kayaking on the lake and visit the langurs and gibbons in the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre.

9. Take some time to relax

Most of the homestays and hostels in Tam Coc and Trang An have a pool and an area to sit and enjoy the scenery. The whole atmosphere of this area is tranquil and calming, so take some time to enjoy some relaxation by the pool, read a book, or sit with a coffee and enjoy the beautiful, quiet surroundings. It really is very peaceful here, so make sure you soak it up before you head off to the likes of Hanoi, where nothing is quiet!

Our little hut by the pool at Trang An Memory homestay, with views over the lake

Tips and advice for visiting Ninh Binh province, Vietnam

Now you know the best things to do and the must-see attractions in Ninh Binh, let’s cover some top tips, advice and practical information for visiting this beautiful part of the country.

How to get to Ninh Binh?

The best and most popular way to travel to Ninh Binh city is by bus. Buses and minivans run regularly between Hanoi and Ninh Binh city and can be booked via 12go. The journey is only 1 hour 45 minutes. You will then need to catch a taxi to travel between the city of Ninh Binh and where you are staying in Tam Coc or Trang An. We paid 160k vnd (£5.50) for a taxi from Trang An to Ninh Binh city and then £11.50 for two people to get a minivan to Hanoi.

If you are travelling to Ninh Binh city from the south of Vietnam, there are buses and trains which run from Hue, Da Nang (for Hoi An ) and Dong Hoi (for Phong Nha). You can book these online in advance, or get your homestay to book for you. You could also fly into Hanoi from the south of the country and then get a bus from Hanoi.

What’s the best way to explore Ninh Binh?

The best way to explore the area of Ninh Binh province is definitely by bicycle! You can easily cycle between Trang An and Tam Coc in 30 minutes, through rice fields and alongside the river. Cycling around the beautiful landscape is actually one of the best things to do in Ninh Binh! Most of the homestays have free bicycles which you can use during your stay. For some of the attractions which are farther out, like Cúc Phương National Park and Van Long nature reserve, your homestay can easily arrange a local taxi for you. If you want to rent a scooter and explore further out on your own, most homestays can organise this for you. Just be aware that a lot of the roads in this area are gravel roads with a lot of potholes, so it will be a bumpy ride!

Where to stay in Ninh Binh province?

Don’t make the mistake that some travellers do and stay in Ninh Binh city. There’s nothing to see or do in Ninh Binh city and you will need to get taxis every day to and from the main sights and attractions in Tam Coc, Trang An and the wider area of Ninh Binh province.

Tam Coc and Trang An are the two main areas in Ninh Binh province to stay. Tam Coc is the main town and here you will find a busy high street with cafes, restaurants and shops. There are several hostels in Tam Coc, one of the main ones is The Banana Tree hostel , by Tam Coc river.

If you prefer somewhere quieter and more surrounded by nature, then head to Trang An. The area of Trang An is not as concentrated, or as ‘touristy’ as Tam Coc and doesn’t have a main centre. In Trang An the accommodation is mostly homestays and the shops and restaurants are more local. Many of the homestays in Trang An are situated alongside the river and nestled under the mountains, like the Trang An memory homestay which we stayed in (and had a great time!)

The best place to stay in Ninh Binh really is down to what experience you would prefer. If you want to be able to go out in the evening and have a choice of lively places to eat and drink, then your best bet is to stay in Tam Coc. However, if you want to be surrounded by nature and have mountains and riverside views, and don’t mind eating at your homestay most evenings, then choose somewhere in Trang An.

The landscape around Trang An and Tam Coc in Ninh Binh Province is just beautiful

When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?

The rainy season in Ninh Binh falls between May – October. The months of August and September are the worst, receiving high levels of heavy rainfall, flooding, frequent storms and occasional typhoons. Travel during these two months is not recommended.

The best time to visit Ninh Binh is during the dry season, between November to April, when the weather is cooler and drier.

How many days do you need in Ninh Binh?

I would recommend having at least two full days in Ninh Binh province. This way you can cover the must-see attractions in the area before continuing your journey in Vietnam. In two days, I would recommend taking the Trang An boat ride, visiting Hang Mua viewpoint and enjoying a cycle ride around the countryside. If you have a little more time to spare, and would like to explore at a more leisurely pace, then you could easily fill 4 days in Ninh Binh, visiting the various sights and attractions further out such as Cúc Phương National Park and Van Long nature reserve.

Are there ATMs in Tam Coc and Trang An?

There are two ATMS in Tam Coc. One is at the BIDV bank on the main high street. The second is outside the front of the Ninh Binh Hidden Charm hotel on the main road going into Tam Coc.  

There is also an ATM at the Trang An Scenic Landscape visitor centre (where the boats depart from). 

However, I’d really recommend making sure that you have some cash with you as well. 

What facilities are there in Tam Coc and Trang An?

Tam Coc has plenty of cafes, shops and restaurants, as well as a couple of pharmacies. However, facilities are limited in Trang An, with just a few local shops selling snacks dotted around the countryside. If you are staying in Trang An, it may be worthwhile bringing some snacks with you, or making a trip to one of the grocery stores in Tam Coc to pick up a couple of things to take back to your homestay.

Related Posts

50 Essential travel tips for first time backpackers visiting Southeast Asia

One month Vietnam Itinerary: Travel guide, tips and recommendations

Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – A 3 day itinerary

• Customized Tour

Ninh Binh Travel Guide

Only 100km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh has become a popular destination in North Vietnam thanks to its beautiful natural scenery of vast rice fields, shimmering rivers, limestone mountains, along with many historical sites, pagodas and temples. Ninh Binh is an ideal place to explore rural Vietnam, immerse yourself in nature and tranquil atmosphere. So if you are looking for a break away from the busy and bustling city life, Ninh Binh is the perfect choice for you. This Ninh Binh Travel Guide below will provide you all useful information that you need to plan a perfect trip to this fascinating place. Let’s check it out:

Table of Contents

1. Brief History

2. ninh binh weather and best time to visit, 3. how to get to ninh binh, 4. how to get around ninh binh, 5. accommodation in ninh binh, 6. what to see and do in ninh binh, 7. travel tips and advice, 8. conclusion.

Temple of King Dinh Tien Hoang at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Ninh Binh was originally called Hoa Lu – the capital of Dai Co Viet (Vietnam today) for 42 years, through 3 dynasties, including the Dinh, the Early Le and the Ly. Thanks to its ideal location with many high mountains and valleys acting as a natural barrier to protect the kingdom, Ninh Binh was chosen to become the capital at that time. In 1010, King Ly Cong Uan moved the capital of the country from Hoa Lu to Dai La and changed the name of Dai La into Thang Long, which is Hanoi capital nowadays. However, Hoa Lu was still an important military base in the north of Vietnam.

Like in all North Vietnam, Ninh Binh is characterized with tropical monsoon climate. This wonderful land has four seasons including winter (dry season), summer (rainy season), spring and autumn as two transition periods. It can be said that almost any time of the year is good to visit Ninh Binh but there are some special occasions that you can enjoy the best of Ninh Binh.

– From March to April: The weather during this period is mild and pleasant, not too hot and too cold, perfect for getting lost in nature. You can take a boat ride to explore the landscapes or pay a visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.

Picturesque landscape of Ngo Dong River, golden rice paddies and limestone mountains

– Late May and early June: This time is a great chance for you to admire the golden rice paddies in Ninh Binh. The weather is relatively hot but the beautiful sight makes up for. The best way is to take a rowing boat tour along Ngo Dong River and enjoy the surrounding picturesque views or conquer Mua Cave to see the panoramic view of Tam Coc – Bich Dong . Other than that, June is the time for blooming lotuses, which is great for lotus lovers and photographers.

– October and November: Traveling to Ninh Binh during this time, you cannot see rice fields but the weather in autumn is relatively pleasant and the temperature is around 20°C, perfect for outdoor activities such as trekking in Cuc Phuong National Park, cycling around countryside, climbing to Mua Cave…

Time to avoid: Apart from the best times to visit Ninh Binh, there are some months which are not most appropriate for boat rides, such as December and January when the weather is relatively cold and has a lot of drizzle. Also, it may not be a good idea to travel just before or after Vietnamese Traditional Lunar New Year – Tet holiday due to heavy crowds.

The easiest way to reach Ninh Binh is by bus from Hanoi. On either the local bus from Giap Bat Station, south of the city, local bus tickets will cost 70,000 – 80,000 VND (~3 USD) or a tourist bus for 7- 10 USD which will pick you up from your hotel. The bus ride will take 2 hours approximately. You can see more details about getting to Ninh Binh from Hanoi here .

It takes about 2 hours to get to Ninh Binh from city center of Hanoi

If you coming from Halong Bay or Cat Ba, there are direct buses to Ninh Binh so no need to return Hanoi. From other places from South Vietnam like Hue, Danang, Quy Nhon…, it is best to take a train.

Ninh Binh is the type of place where you need your own transportation since sites are so far apart.

Renting a bicycle at your hotel or homestay in Ninh Binh is easy or they can recommend a place to get one. It is great fun and gives you the chance to get out into the countryside, explore the surrounding villages and get to beautiful temples when riding a bicycle. Since some amazing spots are quite far though, be ready to do at least 30 to 40 kilometers per day.

Cycling around countryside of Ninh Binh is an interesting experience

By motorbike

A motorbike is probably the best way to get around Ninh Binh. Again, you can get one at your hotel with the price around 100,000 VND (~4 USD) per day plus gas. Getting a motorbike will make it easy for you to get to all amazing places in Ninh Binh without tiring yourself out completely before even reaching your destination.

A private car with driver is another option to get around Ninh Binh. You can book this service with a local travel agency and a local tour guide is recommended to accompany with you to help you know more about the places, rather than exploring them by yourself. This is a good option if you are traveling in a group or with small kids.

As a famous attraction, nearby Hanoi, Ninh Binh has a wide range of accommodations, from hostels in city center, homestays to the luxury hotels and resorts. It is suggested to book your hotel or homestay in or around Tam Coc area for the quiet and tranquil atmosphere. It is also closer to many top sights in Ninh Binh such as temples, pagodas, beautiful rice fields and offers a nice experience of a small countryside town.

Here below are some recommended hotels for your considerations:

Tam Coc Rice Fields Resort (3-star)

Tropical bamboo bungalows at Tam Coc Rice Fields Resort

Tam Coc Rice Fields Resort offers a chance to immerse yourself in wild nature with paddy rice fields, beautiful gardens, marvelous mountains and typical tropical bamboo bungalows. With an area of 38 sq.m, every room, with its private terrace, opens onto a panorama of rice fields or limestone peaks. The tastefully decorated rooms marry material with furnishings, to give them a refined charm without pretentiousness. Stone, wood, traditional tiles, ceramic and bamboo are naturally integrated for ultimate charm.

Address: Hai Nham, Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh Price: from 40 USD

Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort (4-star)

Swimming pool at Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort

Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort is located in Tam Coc – Bich Dong, a famous tourist attraction in Ninh Binh. This is a 4-star hotel with total of 98 rooms designed in warm colors and decorated with mosaic ceramic tiles and fine-art items. Each room at the hotel offers the stunning view of vast rice fields and beautiful limestone mountains.

Address: No. 9, Tam Coc – Bich Dong Tourist Center, Ninh Thang, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh Price: from 80 USD

Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh (5-star)

Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh is designed in style of the traditional Tonkin Vietnamese villages

Nestled in the Van Long Nature Reserve, a primeval tropical forest, and surrounded by spectacular mountains, Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh has been built and furnished in the style of traditional Tonkin Vietnamese villages but with modern comforts and environmental commitment. The resort offers large rooms, a beautiful restaurant and a spa complete with all kinds of relaxing treatments.

Address: Van Long Reserve, Gia Van, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh Price: from 100 USD

In the fact that the city of Ninh Binh itself is not pretty and there is basically nothing to see. It is the reason why you should not book hotels in the city center, but in the other tourist areas in Ninh Binh.

Ninh Binh offers many landscapes and historical sites for you to explore from dawn to dusk, including:

• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Trang An Grottos

Bai Dinh Pagoda

• Thung Nham Bird Garden
• Tam Coc Boat Tour

Bich Dong Pagoda

• Cuc Phuong Pagoda

Read more detailed information at Things to do in Ninh Binh

– There is no appeal to visit or stay in Ninh Binh City so let’s look for hotels in or around Tam Coc area. – Ninh Binh is best discovered by motorbike or bicycle. If you are not comfortable with these means of transportation, a private car with driver and local tour guide accompany is recommended. – There is no ATMs in Tam Coc area so remember to bring enough cash with you; otherwise, you need to go to Ninh Binh City. – One day is enough to explore Ninh Binh but if you have more time, stay at least 1 or 2 nights here for better experience.

Ninh Binh is definitely a worthy place you should not miss when visiting North Vietnam, along with Halong Bay and Hanoi Capital. Travel Vietnam hopes that the above travel guide has delivered useful information for you to plan a future trip to Ninh Binh . If you have any questions, contact us for constant support.

Related Posts

Things to do in Ninh Binh

Visit Ninh Binh by Helicopter

Ninh Binh Day Trip From Hanoi

Tam Coc – Bich Dong: A Quick Guide

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

Leave a Comment Cancel comment

Request a free quote, thank you we have received your travel request. you will receive an email shortly. please check your email and verify the information. your request will be processed after your confirmation..

You have chosen a tour duration longer than 20 days. Please specify the exact number of days you want to travel in the message box below, so that we can have enough information and make a program for you. Thank you for your cooperation.

You have selected a number of travellers greater than 20. Please let us know the exact number of people in your group in the message box below so that we can quote you accurately. Thank you for your cooperation.

You have selected a number of travellers and duration greater than 20. Please let us know the exact number of people in your group and the exact number of days in the message box below so that we can quote you accurately. Thank you for your cooperation.

• Vietnam Travel Guides
• Travel Planning
• Festivals & Events
• Food & Drinks
• Tourist Maps
• Travel Blog
• Travel News

Our Recommendations

Guideline to get Vietnam E-visa

Vietnam Weather: General information & Best Time to Visit

50 Things You should Know before Traveling to Vietnam

Best Vietnam Private Tours you should know before traveling

Info for travelers on Covid-19 in Vietnam: Entry requirements & Restrictions

You May Also Like

Saigon Tours – Suggested Travel Routes for Saigon Trips

TOP 15 Famous Pagoda & Temples in Vietnam

Vietnamese Women’s Museum

Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue

Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Beaches Near Phu My Port

Cat Ba National Park

How to get to Vietnam Golden Bridge

3 Airports Near Halong Bay

• Be Inspired
• Destinations
• Things to do
• Eat & Drink

Ninh Binh map

We would like to introduce you to the Ninh Binh tourist map. The map includes the most popular attractions as well as useful information such as restaurants, bars, and shopping in Ninh Binh.

Ninh Binh weather

Ninh Binh has a tropical climate and monsoon. The seasonal weather is divided into four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. So you can go to Ninh Binh in any season, and each season has its unique beauty.

Travelling Ninh Binh in the Spring

Spring in Ninh Binh lasts from January to the third lunar month. Ninh Binh’s weather in spring is enjoyable with chilly winds, suitable for sightseeing and immersing in the bustling festive atmosphere. It is the time before the Lunar New Year, so there are many festivals held during the beginning of the year, such as Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival, Hoa Lu ancient capital Festival, Thai Vi temple festival.

Travelling Ninh Binh in the summer

Discovering Ninh Binh in the summer (from April to June) is an exciting experience for many visitors. Ninh Binh weather in April is not too hot, even a little chilly in the early morning. At this time, Ninh Binh is no longer crowded, so visitors can freely explore the attractions without having to hustle and wait.

The end of May and June is the time of lotus blossom season and ripe rice season in Tam Coc. Ninh Binh is adorned with the golden color of ripe rice at this time. The scene is extraordinarily poetic.

Travelling Ninh Binh in autumn

Ninh Binh autumn lasts from July to October. When autumn comes, Ninh Binh puts on a gentle, poetic look. The weather was no longer hot. The sky was clear and bright. The early autumn breezes, the yellow rays which are weaving through the cliffs and the thin mist that spread in the early morning create a romantic, poetic beauty for this land.

Coming to Ninh Binh in the autumn, visitors have the opportunity to admire a forest of water lily blooming on the water.

Travelling Ninh Binh in winter

Going to Ninh Binh in the last days of the year, you should prepare warm clothes because now Ninh Binh has entered the cold winter. If you want to enjoy the cold of the North, travelling to Ninh Binh in December will be an exciting experience.

In the winter, the reed flower fields in Ninh Binh simultaneously bloom, which cover with pure white soft on this land. Visiting Trang An scenic landscape complex, the area near Bai Dinh pagoda or Hoa Lu cave, visitors will admire the endless field of white reed flower.

How to go to Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh is about 93 km from Hanoi to the South. The way is extremely convenient thanks to National Road 1A and North-South Railway. Therefore, you can Ninh Binh by both road and rail in the following ways.

From Hanoi to Ninh Binh

From Hanoi, you need to move to Giap Bat bus station or My Dinh bus station, then you take a bus to Ninh Binh. There are many bus companies for you to choose from, with fares ranging from 100.000 to 150.000 VND/person/way, travel time is 1,5 hours.

2. By train

Ninh Binh is located on the North-South railway so travelling by train will be a perfect choice. Train fares range from VND 90.000 – 200.000 VND depending on the train and seat class. The train takes more than 1 hour to reach Ninh Binh station. From there you take a motorbike taxi or taxi to go into the central.

3. By motorcycle

Depending on your speed, it takes from 1 to 2 hours to get to Ninh Binh.

If you are from  Saigon or Da Nang , then you can go to Hanoi by plane and come to Ninh Binh as directed.

Getting around Ninh Binh

Grab, or bus services are still not widespread in places far away from Ninh Binh City, so the most convenient way of transportation is motorbikes or bikes. Usually, hostels and homestays are available for motorbike rental, which is from 100.000 VND – 120.000 VND/ day. Before deciding to rent a motorbike, you should check the accessories carefully, such as rearview mirror, and turn signals. When renting a motorcycle, you may have to return your identity card and a deposit of 200.000 VND to 500.000 VND.

Some reputable motorbike rental addresses in Ninh Binh:

• Motogo Ninh Binh: No.42 22/7 Street, Nam Binh Ward
• Ninh Binh Motorbike Rental: 49/16 Ngo Gia Tu Street, Nam Binh Ward

Where to stay in Ninh Binh?

Like other famous tourist destinations in Vietnam, accommodation service is diverse in Ninh Binh. You can easily find a suitable place to rest, depending on the needs and the money you spend.

1. Hotel in Ninh Binh

Hotels in Ninh Binh are diverse, from suburban to central, from budget hotels to luxury. The price ranges from 200.000 VND to millions of VND. You should rent a hotel in the city centre to go to other tourist destinations conveniently.

2. Homestay in Ninh Binh

Homestay is a great choice when you come to Ninh Binh. Most homestays in Ninh Binh were built in places with beautiful mountain lake views, often close to tourist sites. In addition to enjoying the natural beauty of Ninh Binh mountains, you also have the opportunity to talk with the landlord to understand the locals better. Homestays are also very affordable, which from 150.000 VND, you have a nice room to stay. Top famous homestays that must be mentioned in Ninh Binh are Nan House, Chezbeo Homestay, Tam Coc Homestay, and Ninh Binh Panorama Homestay.

3. Resort in Ninh Binh

If the budget is a bit more prosperous, you can choose to stay at resorts in Ninh Binh with top-class services. Ninh Binh Emeralda Resort and Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel And Resort are rated as the top 2 resorts in Hoa Lu ancient capital.

Here are some recommendations for accommodation in Ninh Binh by price range, which are excerpted from the Vietnam travel guide book.

Top 10 attractions in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is a famous tourist city in Northern Vietnam with many beautiful landscapes. Here are the most famous places to visit in Ninh Binh.

1. Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda is the most famous tourist destination in Ninh Binh, which is a spiritual landscape located in the population of Bai Dinh – Trang An eco-tourism area. Bai Dinh Pagoda has a history of more than 1.000 years of age, which was associated with the land of many feudal dynasties such as the Dinh Dynasty, the Tien Le Dynasty, and the Ly Dynasty.

Bai Dinh Pagoda is located on Bai Dinh mountain in Gia Sinh commune, Gia Vien District, about 5km from the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to the Northwest and 12 km from Ninh Binh City. It is one of the largest temples in Southeast Asia. With unique architecture and a long history, Bai Dinh Pagoda has become a famous eco-tourism destination in the North in general and Ninh Binh in particular. There have been 8 Vietnamese and Asian records recorded in Bai Dinh pagoda such as the largest bronze bell in Vietnam, the tallest Buddha statue in Asia, the most giant Buddha in the world, The largest bronze Maitreya statue in Southeast Asia, the pagoda has the most significant arhat corridor in Vietnam, the pagoda has the most Bodhi trees in Vietnam.

2. Trang An landscape complex

Once appeared in the blockbuster Kong Skull Island, Trang An landscape complex is a destination that attracts a lot of domestic and foreign tourists visiting Ninh Binh.

The Trang An complex covers an area of ​​over 6.000 hectares, including Trang An – Tam Coc – Bich Dong and the ancient capital Hoa Lu. In particular, the centre of Hoa Lu ancient capital is in the north, Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourist area, is in the south, and Trang An eco-tourism site is in the centre. These three areas are linked together by Hoa Lu special-use forest on limestone mountains and systems of rivers, lakes, and swamps. This is the first and only dual world heritage site in Southeast Asia recognized by UNESCO with outstanding values ​​of the natural landscape, cultural history, and geological tectonics.

The ticket to visit Trang An is 200.000 VND for adults and 100.000 VND for children under 1.4 m, which includes a boat trip to visit Trang An across Sao Khe River. Each boat can accommodate about 4-5 people, which takes about 3-4 hours. Some places to visit in Trang An include Trinh Temple, Tran Temple, Phu Khong, Dia Linh Cave, Liquor Cave, and Ba Giot Cave.

3. Tam Coc – Bich Dong

Tam Coc – Bich Dong complex is still a destination that most tourists can not ignore when coming to Ninh Binh. Like Trang An, coming to Tam Coc, you will also be sitting on a boat watching the mountains close to each other along the Ngo Dong River.

With its poetic beauty and charming scenery, Tam Coc will surely captivate any visitor. Tam Coc has a system of 3 caves consisting of Ca cave, Hai cave, Ba cave. These three caves are all connected to the Ngo Dong River that people still liken to Ha Long Bay. The ticket price for the boat is about 150.000 VND for four guests.

Next to Tam Coc, Bich Dong is the most attractive tourist attraction of Ninh Binh. Bich Dong was an ancient temple built in a long Asian style. Around the pagoda is surrounded by beautiful and majestic mountains. If you want to see the beautiful panorama of Ninh Binh, you have to follow the path leading to the middle of the mountain, and climb to the highest peak of Bich Dong.

4. Hoa Lu ancient capital

Located in Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lu District, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is the most famous national monument complex in Vietnam. UNESCO recognized it as one of four core regions of the Trang An World Heritage site. Hoa Lu ancient capital is the place to preserve Vietnam’s thousand-year-old historical relics through the ages.

Hoa Lu was the first capital of Dai Co Viet, the central feudal state, as well as the capital of the kings of Dinh, Tien Le and Ly Dynasties. After Thang Long (Hanoi) was chosen as the capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu became the ancient capital. Although the Kings were no longer in Ninh Binh, they still renovated and built many more constructions here such as temples, palaces, communal houses, and tombs.

Hoa Lu ancient capital is an architectural complex, and each architecture has its characteristics. Historical vestiges remain in the diverse and vibrant complex, including the walls, citadel, caves, temples, tombs, and many other valuable architectural works that have high historical and cultural values.

5. Mua Cave

Mua Cave is located in Khe Dau Ha village, Ninh Xuan commune. Situated at the foot of the Dance Mountain, this is a place that many people visit in Ninh Binh. The road to Mua Cave is similar to the ancient structure of the Great Wall of China. You need to climb 500 stone steps stretching from the foot of the mountain to the top of the cave to see the whole picture of majestic mountains. On the two sides of the stair are beautiful stone sculptures with many unique art shapes such as the image of dragon and phoenix.

Mua Cave is located in the east of the mountain, visitors should climb to the cave in the early morning to enjoy the crisp, fresh. As soon as you reach the top of the mountain, you will be immersed in the vast natural space. The scenery below is so beautiful that you will not want to leave this fairyland.

6. Am Tien Cave

Am Tien Cave is a national monument of Hoa Lu ancient capital complex, which is about 10km from the center of Ninh Binh City. Most parts of Am Tien Cave area is a flooded valley surrounded by rocky cliffs. To enter the cave, after going through the gate, you have to go down a path on the left-hand side; next to is the large lake with lotus and water lily. From the foot of Nua Mountain to the top of Am Tien, you will still have to walk about 4 km. The two sides of the way to the relic are covered with the deep green of old nacre trees, which is halfway up the mountain.

7. Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is located 45 km northwest of Ninh Binh City centre. Cuc Phuong has an area of ​​25.000 ha, adjacent to 3 provinces of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa. The forest is like a vast natural museum, home to the most abundant fauna and flora of limestone mountains in Vietnam. Coming to Cuc Phuong, visitors will admire the thousand-years ancient trees, the species of plants that exist from the third century, and the beautiful precious birds.

The dry season from December to May is the best time to explore Cuc Phuong National Park. The weather is cool, dry, which comfortable to go around. Especially in May, millions of colorful butterflies flock here, creating a magical scenery for this place. The entrance fee to Cuc Phuong National Park is now 40.000 VND/one.

8. Phat Diem Stone Church

Phat Diem Stone Church is one of the most beautiful Catholic church complexes in Vietnam, which is located on an area of 22 hectares in Phat Diem Town, Kim Son District, Ninh Binh Province. This ancient church is over 100 years old, which was built for 30 years. The work made entirely of stone and ironwood has been dubbed the “Vietnamese Catholic capital.”

9. Thung Nham Birds Ecological Tourism Area

Thung Nham ecotourism area is located in Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh, which is about 12 km to the west of Ninh Binh.

Thung Nham ecotourism area has a total area of ​​334.2 hectares. It is home to about 46 species of birds, including some of which are recorded in Vietnam Red Book, 109 species of plants, 150 animals including 58 species of fish, seven species of amphibians, ten species of animals, and other animals.

Travelling to Thung Nham on a small boat, you will have the opportunity to weave through the flooded forests, immerse in the beautiful natural scenery. Besides, you can also discover the wild beauty of caves such as Voi Gioi Cave, Tien Ca Cave, Aquarium Cave, But Cave, and Ba Co Cave.

10. Van Long lagoon

Another famous ecotourism area in Ninh Binh is Van Long lagoon, which possesses wild beauty, attracting tourists to admire the diverse natural ecosystems. Coming here, you will be sitting on a boat watching the immense swamp, birds, and limestone mountains, the romantic natural scenery that makes everyone fall in love.

Located about 80 km from Hanoi, Van Long is the largest wetland nature reserve in the Northern Delta. This reserve is located in the northeast of Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh. It is not only a habitat for many flora and fauna, but also a habitat for fish, birds, and storks, including more than 40 species of white-buttocks.

Top 5 must-try dishes in Ninh Binh

Coming to Ninh Binh, you not only admire the beautiful scenery but also enjoy the delicious specialties. Here are five specialties that you cannot miss in Ninh Binh.

1. Ninh Binh Burned rice

Burned rice is a dish that attracts tourists every time visiting Ninh Binh, which is the most famous dish of Ninh Binh land because of its delicious taste. Ninh Binh Burned Rice is fried and processed in many different ways, but the rice grain still keeps it greasy and crispy. You can also buy it as a gift for friends and relatives after a trip to Ninh Binh.

Recommended restaurants to eat or buy burned rice:

• Thang Long – Trang An, Truong Yen, Hoa Lu
• Hoang Giang Restaurant – Hang Ca, Truong Yen, Hoa Lu 
• Duc De Restaurant – 446 Nguyen Hue, Hoa Lu

2. Hoa Lu goat meat

Goat meat has become one of 5 delicacies in Ninh Binh, which can be processed in 20 different dishes, each bringing its flavour to customers. Probably the most popular dish is the pale lime goat, grilled goat, fried goat roll, and goat wine cellar. Of which, goat meat with lime is still the most delicious and nutritious. Goats in Ninh Binh are raised naturally on the grasslands of the limestone mountains. So the goat meat is delicious and more nutritious than other goats.

Recommended restaurants to eat goat meat:

• Hoang Giang Restaurant – Hang Ca, Truong Yen, Hoa Lu

3. Yen Mac fermented pork roll

Yen Mac fermented pork roll (Nem Yen Mac) is food not to be missed when travelling in Ninh Binh. This is a long-standing specialty dish in Ninh Binh that is sought by many people. Nem Yen Mac is made from thinly sliced shredded pigskin mixed with ground meat, marinated, and left to ferment for a long time. Yen Mac fermented pork roll served with garlic and chilli lemon sauce and vegetables. The delicious sour taste of this dish originates from the famous one of Hue city. Up to now, it has become a recognized specialty in Ninh Binh.

Recommended restaurants to eat Nem Yen Mac:

• No. 70, Street 11, Ward Van Giang, Yen Mo

4. Eel vermicelli Ninh Binh

Also made from vermicelli and eel, but traditional eel vermicelli in Ninh Binh is outstandingly delicious, different from other regions. Eel meat is rimmed according to a unique recipe. So the eel meat is sweet, fat without any fishy smell. Eel vermicelli here is always served with a plate of vegetables, such as herbs marjoram, basil, and sliced banana flowers, which is an indispensable accompaniment and also contributes to the uniquely delicious flavor for Ninh Binh eel vermicelli. 

Recommended restaurants to eat Ninh Binh eel vermicelli:

• Mrs Phan eel Vermicelli, 999 Tran Hung Dao Street, Van Giang, Ninh Binh
• Hoang Long Restaurant, Pho 10, Trang An Street, Ninh Binh

5. Sticky Rice with Ants Eggs

Xoi Trung Kien (sticky rice with ant eggs) is known to many people as an attractive dish in Ninh Binh. After being fragrant, the ant eggs are carefully wrapped into dried banana leaves to marinate with spices. Sticky rice is also cooked meticulously from round glutinous rice grains. When the sticky rice is cooked, sprinkle on the ant eggs. Then, stir well for sticky rice and eggs are mixed. When eating, diners can feel a taste of ant eggs with the fragrance of sticky rice.

Recommended restaurants to eat Xoi Trung Kien

• Nho Quan Town

Festivals in Ninh Binh

Coming to Ninh Binh land, tourists not only can visit the beautiful natural scenery but also participate in special festivals. Here are the unique festivals in Ninh Binh.

1. Trang An Festival

Trang An Festival usually takes place on March 18 of the lunar calendar. The festival opens to commemorate the merits of Saint Quy Minh Dai Vuong, who have built and preserved the country.

During the days of Trang An festival, people gather to offer incense and pick up the palanquin to pray for a peaceful and happy new year.

Visitors coming to Trang An at this festival will take a boat to admire the scenery, enjoy the folk songs performed by artists of many different ethnic groups and regions. Besides, they can also admire the charming mountain scenery as well as enjoy the fairy scene.

2. Bai Dinh Temple Festival

Bai Dinh Temple Festival is a spring festival, which is held on the occasion of Lunar New Year. The festival starts on the afternoon of the first day of the Lunar New Year, which is a festival to commemorate the merits of the national heroes of the country and pray for peace and prosperity.

The festival is officially opened on the 6th of Lunar New Year and lasts until March. It is the starting time for the pilgrimage to return to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, back to Buddha-land, and offer him pleas. Besides, participants also have the opportunity to blend in with the majestic nature by the legendary Hoang Long River.

Bai Dinh Temple Festival consists of two parts. The ceremony includes rituals of incense burning for worshipping Buddha, such as praying tradition to pay tribute to the saint of Nguyen Minh Khong and sacrifice to Cao Son mountain god. The festival includes cultural performance and folk games. One of the unique things when coming to the Bai Dinh Pagoda festival is to enjoy the performing arts and music of the artists from the Ninh Binh Art Cheo Theater. Surely you will be impressed with the performances that recreate the ceremonial posting ceremony of King Dinh Tien Hoang and the sacrificial ritual of King Quang Trung before the battle.

3. Thai Vi Temple Festival

Thai Vi Temple Festival is a big festival in Van Lam commune, which is held on the 14th to 16th of the 3rd lunar month to worship King Tran Thai Tong, Tran Thanh Tong, Tran Nhan Tong, Tran Anh Tong, and Queen Dowager Hien Tu.

The ceremony consists of a grand palanquin procession with flag-bearers and a drum set followed by many palanquins, which is held right on the front yard of the Thai Vi Temple with many solemn procedures to pay respect. Part of the festival is entertainment activities, folk games such as dragon dance, lion dance, chess play, boat racing, and wrestling.

4. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Festival

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Festival as knows as the Truong Yen Festival, which is a traditional festival held in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. This festival takes place annually from the 6th to the 8th of the 3rd lunar month.

Communion procession of King Le and King Dinh takes place magnificently with a procession of echelons and a trumpets group. The ceremony includes a parade of water, incense offering, commemoration ceremony, and flower-lanterns release. The festival always includes exciting folk games, attracting many locals as well as tourists to participate.

The most favorite part of the ceremony is releasing flower-lanterns on the Sao Khe River. It is the most intriguing ritual held in the evening. The lights glistening of flower-lanterns in the water carry the wishes of people for a better future.

A favorite travel combo for many travelers is “ Hanoi – Ha Long Bay – Ninh Binh “, these are also the three most attractive places in Northern Vietnam.

From Hanoi, you can come to Ha Long Bay by bus, with the price of 200.000 VND and the travel time is 3 hours. Some major bus companies such as: Hoang Long Bus, Kumho Viet Thanh and Phuc Xuyen Bus.

From Ha Long Bay, you can come to Ninh Binh by bus for 350.000 VND and the travel time is 4 hours. We recommend the buses Ninh Binh Limousine and The Long Travel.

With the above Ninh Binh detailed travel guide, we hope you will have a wonderful trip to this beautiful land! 

Meet in Ninh Binh.

Related Articles

Mui ne, phan thiet, ha long bay.

• A guide to the boat tours of Ninh Binh

Heading north during your holiday in Vietnam? You simply can’t miss a trip to Ninh Binh As it’s about 100km from Hanoi, it’s perfect for a weekend stopover. And while it’s nowhere near the sea, its many waterways are best explored on a unique boat tour. 

A natural haven, rich in history.

To be clear, when people refer to Ninh Binh the tourist destination, they really mean the nature region to the west of Ninh Binh City. In particular, they’re referring to the town of Tam Coc and the province’s Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, which has been recognised as  UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. The Trang An eco-tourism area is central while Tam Coc is to the south. The north is also where you’ll find the ancient capital, Hoa Lu. 

In all, the 6,226ha of Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex complex includes three protected areas linked by evergreen forests, lakes, and rivers weaving between limestone mountains. The region boasts over 300 rare and exotic plant types, plus endangered animals.

With distinctive deep valleys between steep, limestone karsts, the region is magical. The mountains are full of caves, and many of the valleys are filled with pretty waterways and fertile fields laden with rice and other crops.

Hoa Lu, 100km from Hanoi, was once the kingdom of the Dai Co Viet, who reigned during the Dinh and Le dynasties. It’s known as ‘the first capital of Vietnam’, and there are many sacred historical relics and temples. While the capital was here back in the 9th and 10th centuries, UNESCO states that “exploration of caves at different altitudes has revealed archaeological traces of human activity over a continuous period of more than 30,000 years”. 

UNESCO also say: “Visitors, conveyed in traditional sampans rowed by local guides, experience an intimate connection with the natural environment and a relaxing sense of serenity and security. The dramatic mountains, secretive caves and sacred places in Trang An have inspired people through countless generations.”

Tam Coc or Trang An? 

The two most beautiful places in Ninh Binh are undoubtedly Tam Coc and Trang An. Travellers often wonder, which of these main boat tours should I take? Well, Tam Coc is closer to the tourism hub and is the quicker, more budget-friendly option. 

But both places feature the distinctive, ingenious ‘foot rowing’ technique that boaters developed to lessen strain on their hands, arms and backs. 

The Tam Coc boat tours

As this is the main tourist area, the boat tours from here are popular. As the routes are shorter, this option is suited to travellers with less time.

Buy tickets at the Van Lam pier. Then you’ll wind peacefully between the lush fields and dramatic karsts, typically stopping at the three caves the name ‘Tam Coc’ refers to: Ca, Hai and Ba. The scenery is stunning during rice harvest season, especially, when the rice has turned golden. To see some of the route from a high vantage point, climb to the lookout point at Mua Cave. 

Please note, your guide will tell you whether two or four people can share the boat. The tours take between two hours for a round trip. 

The Trang An boat tours

Got more than one day? Travel to Trang An, a countryside region about 20 minutes from Tam Coc. Here you can choose from three boat tours that are considered more dramatic and rewarding than the Tam Coc route.

Why? Because they travel through a pristine, protected area that is full of impressive grottoes and temples. Trang An is where to go to see sacred historical and cultural sites, such as the Bao Hieu pagoda, en route. You can make stops at the sights, the mountains are larger, and the caves are longer. There are three main boat-tour options: 

Option One (3-4 hours): It takes you in a circular route to: Trinh Temple, Dark Cave, Light Cave, Nau Ruou Cave, Tran Temple, Ba Giot Cave, Seo Cave, Son Duong Cave, Khong Palace, Bao Hieu Pagoda, Tran Cave and Quy Hau Cave. 

Option Two (2-3 hours): Visits Lam Cave, Cao Son Temple, Vang Cave, Thanh Truot Cave, Dia Linh Mountain, Suoi Tien Temple, Dai Cave and Hanh Cung Vu Lam (Vu Lam Royal Step-over Place). This is one of two tours that go to where scenes from the movie Kong: Skull Island were filmed.

Option Three (3 hours): This tour explores a large cave and a location from Kong: Skull Island. You go to Trinh Temple, Dot Cave, May (Cloud) Cave, Suoi Tien Temple, Dia Linh Mountain, Dai Cave and Hanh Cung Vu Lam (Vu Lam Royal Step-over Place). 

Other boat tours in the area

Curious about caves? Take a boat tour to Thien Ha cave, the ‘galaxy grotto’. Admire the stalactites in this 700m cave, which includes dry and wet areas. Signs of ancient Vietnamese habitation have been found here.

Source: Internet

Bird watchers shouldn’t miss the birdwatching tour through the Thung Nham Bird Park. Spot species such as fire warblers, starlings and storks in an area that includes forests, orchards and flowers.

To be immersed in nature, tour the clear and gentle waters of the Van Long Nature Reserve, a biodiverse region on the Global Green List Commission’s (IUCN) green list. Travel through the wetlands, discover grottoes, and look for precious flora and fauna, such as Delacour’s Langur, chamois, Chinese pond heron and stump-tailed macaque. Sacred sites in the reserve include the Dich Long Pagoda. 

These lesser-known options aren’t as busy as the Tam Coc and Trang An tours. 

Tips for taking Ninh Binh’s boat tours: 

Wear sunscreen and a hat 

If you don’t like crowds, avoid peak times of the year (such as Tet, the Lunar New Year)

Stay hydrated

Follow the safety rules and always wear your life jacket

• You are here:
• Things to do

Create an account

Already have an account? Click here to sign in

By clicking submit, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

Sign in with your social accounts

Sign in with your email

Forgot password? Click here to get it back

Don't have an account? Sign up here

Forgot Password

The entered email has subscribed for Vietnam Tourism monthly newsletter

Ninh Binh: The Definitive Guide

After it was selected as a primary shooting location for Kong: Skull Island, the amount of international visitors expected to travel to Ninh Binh, Vietnam in the upcoming future will surely increase. As it becomes a widely marked destination due to its striking limestone karsts, largely undisturbed atmosphere, picturesque rice paddies and record-breaking pagodas, we can be sure to hear the name Ninh Binh beginning to catch wind on major travel blogs across the world.

Although already a popular tourist destination for the Vietnamese community, it’s just recently been exposed to the foreign travel market and western visitors are already trickling in. Lucky for you, we’re here to uncover all you need to know before you travel to Ninh Binh, Vietnam.

Location and Transport: Ninh Binh is 92.4 kilometers south of Hanoi, and can be reached via bus, taxi, motorbike or train and takes 2-3 hours total. There are also direct bus routes from Halong Bay and Hue as well.

Trang An Boat Trip

The first thing most people do when they travel to Ninh Binh, Vietnam is hop in a boat and take a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Trang An Grottos. This two hour trip is sure to impress as guests are taken on a winding river journey beneath colossal limestone caps and dark caves as local oarswomen helm the ship with their feet. Yea, that’s right, their feet. I won’t lie it’s pretty impressive. These women are tough.

Hoa Lu Temple

The best way to visit this temple is by including it as part of your Trang An boat trip so you catch all nearby sites in one go. Hoa Lu is known because of its historical context as it served as the ancient capital for the Le and Dinh Dynasties which ruled during the 10-11th centuries. A visit to the attractive complex is rich with history and ideal for the history buff.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

This is Vietnam’s largest pagoda, and is a result of combining a 1,000 year old pagoda with a new addition built in 2008. The Bai Dinh pagoda attracts nearly 400,000 visitors each year and holds an additional number of records including Asia’s largest corridor (3 km), the biggest bronze buddha statue in Southeast Asia, and is home to over 500 Arhat statues which display the evolution of buddhism throughout the dynasty periods.

Note: To avoid large crowds, it’s best to travel to Ninh Binh outside of Vietnamese religious holidays. If you do any of the boat tours be sure to book early in the morning or late in the afternoon. In other words, don’t expect to have the river for yourself on this one. It isn’t going to happen!

Tam Coc Boat Trip

The Tam Coc boat trip will take you through three caves along the Ngo Dong River and depending on what kind of tour package you decide upon, perhaps other attractions as well. The two hour boat journey is nothing short of spectacular and the Tam Coc area is home to countless knockout natural landscapes as well as numerous revered religious relics.

Bich Dong Pagoda

The Bich Dong Pagoda, built in 1948, is a trifecta of temples laboriously carved into the mountainside and weaved throughout three caves. They rest charmingly stacked on top each other in ascending order with a ground floor pagoda, middle level and an abrupt incline to the third and final temple which opens up to an immaculate view of the surrounding Tam Coc countryside.

Hang Mua Temple

Also in the Tam Coc area, yet only accessible by a short, but intensely steep 500 step trek to the top of the mountain lies, in my opinion, one the best views in Ninh Binh. It’s ideal to beat the heat by waking up early and beginning your ascent to watch the sunrise. Once you reach the top you will get a birdseye view of the boats quietly making their way down the Ngo Dong River and entering the cave below. Behind lies a monumental view of limestone karsts and dense, resplendent canopies.

Visit the Locals

Riding bicycles around small villages is a treat if you travel to Ninh Binh, Vietnam. Residents retain a beautifully innocent charm and are extremely kind and welcoming. As you cycle around, embrace yourself for plenty of waves, big smiles and friendly hellos from the youngsters in the region. It’s a highly satisfying experience and an honest gaze into a more traditional way of life. The small village and trails leading into the entrance of the Hang Mua temple is a perfect place to do this.

Cuc Phuong National Park is a highly preserved rainforest revered for its botanical gardens and Endangered Primates Rescue Center. Although it lies about 45 kilometers outside of Ninh Binh, it remains the perfect place for any nature lover to explore wildlife such as butterflies, a wide range of birds, 150 kinds of rare primates and wild mountain goats.

Phat Diem Cathedral

It was built over a 24-year span from 1875-1898 and was made using only wood and stone. Renowned for its architectural amalgamation, it gently combines both western cathedral architecture with eastern religious features. Phat Diem Cathedral is also very near the Gulf of Tonkin and is known as the place where Catholicism was first introduced to Vietnam.

Van Long Nature Reserve

Van Long Nature preserve is for those that love to travel off the beaten path. It contains some of the most untouched land in the region and the wetlands here have been reported to be the most bio-diversified in the entire country. It’s even home to the elusive silver langur , an endangered species can be spotted if you’re paying attention, and have some luck going for you. If you travel to Ninh Binh, Vietnam, the Van Long Reserve retains some of the most pristine scenery in the province and most certainly deserves a visit.

Dich Long Cave and Pagoda

This pagoda complex is located in the Gia Vien district and is perched 80 meters atop a karst formation. It rests above three caverns which contain buddha states and stunning stalagmites. The name translates to ‘wind flute’ due to the beautiful sound effect created when a gust of wind blows through the grottos creating a natural whistle. It was said to have been abandoned for many years and then discovered by a local around 1739. If you’re into temple hopping, jot this one into your itinerary for sure.

Local Cuisine: Three to Try

Ninh binh eel vermicelli.

Fried eel seasoned with vinegar, onion, black pepper, red chili and fish sauce. Served with banana flowers, ginger, lime and vermicelli noodles.

Rare Mountain Goat Meat

It’s often mixed with basil and duckweed before getting just the slightest boil. The meat is then mixed with fried sesame, chili, citronella, ginger, lemon leaf, lemon juice and often served with a soybean jam on the side.

Sour Perch Fish Soup

Massive, meaty perch are in abundance in the region, particularly in the caves of Hoa Lu district. This soup contains a sweet and sour pickle-ish broth with tofu, tomatoes, morning glory and most importantly, the unique flavor of the crunchy, meaty perch. Chili peppers are usually left optional for this one.

Where to Stay: Three of the Best

Budget: go ninh binh hostel.

If you like the backpacker hostel scene this is one of the best there is in Ninh Binh province. It’s central, cheap and offers both dorms and private rooms. Have some cold beers, bust out the guitar and play pool at this chilled out spot. Dorm beds start at about USD $7.

Nature Lover: Nguyen Shack

If you don’t like to be out in the middle of nowhere, skip this one. These incredible bamboo bungalows float on a small lake near the base of Hang Mua pagoda. Sitting quietly underneath 360 degrees of limestone, this is perfect place to stay if you love nature, like to explore the countryside and mingle with the local people. It’s an ideal place to hang out in the hammocks and rest up, or grab a bicycle and go dodge the traffic. And by traffic I mean mountain goats and buffalos. Make sure to book before you go because this spot is in high demand.

Luxury Resorts: Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to travel in style. So, if you want to be pampered in a luxurious resort, this is the best we found in the region. It’s perfect for families or couples and is home to sweeping natural views, an exclusive spa and wellness center, a kids’ club, and elegant indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

Climate / When to Visit

When you travel to Ninh Binh province, you should most certainly check the weather before you plan your trip. The yearly average temperature is 23 degrees celsius (73.4 fahrenheit). So, the best time to visit could depend on your personality, and what kind of weather you prefer.

Also, keep in mind that the rice harvest plays a very important role in regards to the color of the landscape. Before the harvest, the rice fields are a gorgeous bright green, but once picked, the land becomes cloaked with an amber brown, which many find to be less visually appealing.

The dry season is equivalent to winter in Ninh Binh and typically lasts from November-April. At this time, temperatures range from 17-22 degrees celsius (62-71 degrees fahrenheit). January-March sees even colder weather and marks the coldest time of year.

Conversely, the summer season runs from May-October. Bear in mind that this time is extremely hot and humid, so if you don’t to sweat, plan a trip during the winter season.

In regards to rain, July-September is the wettest time of the year, and makes for difficult trekking and a thick fog that can intrude on your time spent staring down those beautiful views.

Insider Tips: Three for the Road

Prepare to walk.

Ninh Binh province is a destination for nature lovers, and walking is involved in order to see many of the sites. Make sure you have the proper clothes depending on the season, and shoes for hiking as well.

Bring Plenty of Cash

There are hardly any ATMs in the area as it’s primarily comprised of natural landscapes and small villages. Bring plenty of money with you, because cash machines really are scarce.

It’s Growing Fast, So Get There Now

There’s no time like the present, and the area is quickly becoming more popular, as well as seeing some industrial development. If you want to travel to Ninh Binh province, Vietnam, get there as soon as you can before it moves onto the beaten path.

Getting Around:

As many of the sites and accommodations are quite spread out, we highly recommend renting your own motorbike if you can drive. It’s the most convenient way to see all the attractions, as well as the most affordable. Gas is much cheaper than paying for tour packages and private cars, not to mention it’s the best way to soak up the pristine scenery.

• Terms & Privacy

• Northern Vietnam

Table of Contents

Recently updated on August 11th, 2022 at 10:56 pm

Located about 90 km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is home to many world heritage sites, biosphere reserves recognized world-wide by UNESCO.

Like Ninh Thuan, Ninh Binh is famous for its numerous caves, lagoons, and waterfalls, which are worthy of tourism development such as Trang An, Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourist sites, Van Long Nature Reserve.

Not only that, Ninh Binh is a film studio of many famous Hollywood movies such as “Pan and Neverland,” “Quiet American,” “Kong: Skull Island” …

Best time to travel to Ninh Binh

You can travel to Ninh Binh in all seasons of the year, but the best time to go is from February to April.

At this time, this place is not too cold or too hot, especially you can combine traveling and go visiting temples, and pagodas as the period are also the festive time.

In addition, late May and early June are the time of rice season in Tam Coc, which is very suitable for tourists who like to take pictures.

And also at this time when you come to Ninh Binh Cuc Phuong National Park, you will be watching butterflies fly over the roads in the forest.

How to get to Ninh Binh?

Come to ninh binh.

Since its location is only about 90km south of Hanoi , there is plenty of transportation for you to travel to Ninh Binh, such as trains, buses, private cars, or motorbikes.

Ninh Binh has a railway station located on the North-South railway line so visitors can easily use the train to Ninh Binh whether you travel from the North or the South of Vietnam via Thong Nhat train.

From Hanoi, there are SE3 trains (19h25) to Ninh Binh at 21h35, SE19 trains (20h10) to Ninh Binh at 22h20, SE5 trains (9:00 am) to Ninh Binh at 11:21 am, SE7 trains (6:00 am) to Ninh Binh at 8:22 am.

If departing from Ho Chi Minh City , the only suitable train that you should take is SE8 departing from Saigon Station at 6 am and arriving in Ninh Binh at 1:34 pm the next day.

Public transportations

Most of the passenger cars from Hanoi to Ninh Binh come from Giap Bat Bus Station, so if you want to use public transport, you need to go to Giap Bat bus station with address 897, Giai Phong, Giap Bat Ward, Hoang Mai District, City. Hanoi to buy tickets.

If using motorbike, from Hanoi, you follow the old National Highway 1A to Ha Nam and then follow Ninh Binh Thanh Hoa.

Limousine bus

Currently, due to the increasing demands of tourists, there are many travel and service companies that have provided limousine bus services along the Hanoi – Ninh Binh route .

You can refer to this article to know the limousine brands with the best quality.

• Limousine bus Vietnam booking experience

Moving around

This is a common and easy way to book a car. Some taxi companies have good service quality in Ninh Binh:

• Taxi Ninh Bình 0229 3633788
• Taxi Mai Linh 0229 6252525 – 0229 6251888
• Taxi Minh Long 0229 3881122
• Taxi Xuân Thành 0229 3686868
• Taxi Thùy Dương 0229 3727272
• Taxi Hoa Lư 0229 2211444

Motobike or Bicycle

Ninh Binh currently has a number of motorbike/bicycle rental locations that you can choose, with this type of vehicle you will easier to schedule and travel to tourist destinations in the provincial.

You can easily find motorbike/bicycle rental shops at tourist spots.

Where to stay? Nice and good Homestay & Hotels in Ninh Binh

In Ninh Binh from the homestay to the high-end hotel, there are many options for you. If you go on holiday, you are recommended to book accommodation 2-3 weeks before to avoid room unavailability or high prices.

Right in the center of Ninh Binh, there are many homestay and hotels with very reasonable prices and you can book directly or through the travel company so you get better prices a lot more than you book directly with that hotel.

This is an experience when traveling to Ninh Binh that you should pay attention to.

In addition, Booking.com is a very reasonable choice we would like to advise you with information and photos, very detailed service, as well as reviews of the people who have booked here.

Places to visit in Ninh Binh

The scenery here is made up of rivers flowing through the limestone mountains, forming numerous natural fanciful mysterious caves.

Van Long Natural Reserve

The site is where tourists can come to find peace in a tranquil atmosphere. Although it was opened for tourism in 1998, Van Long is still as primitive as ever. It remains an attractive destination for local and foreign visitors.

Along with Trang An Complex and Tam Coc-Bich Dong k in the province, Van Long Nature Reserve is considered an overland equivalent of Halong Bay with imposing cliffs and mountains and vast lakes which form a stunning scene.

Thung Nham Bird Sanctuary

Thung Nham (Nham Valley) eco-tourism zone is located in Hoa Lu District, 12km south of Ninh Binh City (100km from Hanoi), deep in the mountains and far from residential area.

The 350ha park has been developed for tourism but still retains its natural beauty.

This area is surrounded by tropical forest strips on Limestone Mountains, with valleys and caves.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda is located in the north of the world heritage site Trang An.

The population of Bai Dinh pagoda currently covers an area of 1700 ha including 27 ha of the old Bai Dinh pagoda, 80 ha of the new Bai Dinh pagoda, and areas such as cultural parks and Buddhist institutes, reception areas, and parks. The landscape, roads and parking lots, Dam Thi lake area… are still being built and expanded.

Tam Coc – Bich Dong

Ranked as a special national relic site, the best time to visit Tam Coc is from late May to late June when the immense rice fields along the Ngo Dong River start to change color from green to yellow.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

With a time of more than 1000 years, ancient capital Hoa Lu is a place to store historical relics through the ages.

Cuc Phuong National Park

Nestled between the provinces of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa, Cuc Phuong boasts engaging cultural and wildlife heritage and enchanting scenery.

Covering over 22,000 hectares at a height of 300-600 meters above sea level, the forest has magnificent limestone mountains rising majestically from the green rice terraces and traditional stilt houses of the Muong hill tribe and is a rich habitat for some of Asia’s rarest species.

That is why it is no wonder that researchers, naturalists, enthusiasts, and conservationists alike are drawn to this corner of the world.

Mua Cave (Dancing Cave)

Phat Diem Stone Church

Phat Diem stone church is 28km from Ninh Binh city to the southeast, in Phat Diem town, Kim Son district.

Phat Diem Stone Church is one of the most beautiful churches in Vietnam, with unique architecture, built of wood and stone for 24 years (1875-1899) on an area of 22ha.

Although it is a Catholic church, it is modeled on Vietnamese traditional temples and temple architecture.

Thien Ha Cave

Thien Ha cave is located in the heart of the Tuong Mountain (General Mountain) in the territory of Son Ha commune, Nho Quan district, 25 km from Ninh Binh city.

With an area of 1,200m2, Thien Ha cave has a length of 700m including a 200m long dry cave and 500m long water cave.

Visitors can walk in the dry cave and take a boat in the water cave to explore the shimmering beauty of this cave.

Thien Ha Cave is also a place to store many important archaeological sites, which demonstrate the tradition of residence of prehistoric people in the caves of Trang An Scenic Area.

Kenh Ga hot spring

Kenh Ga hot spring is located in Kenh Ga village, Gia Thinh commune, Gia Vien district, 25 km from Ninh Binh city to the Northwest.

This is a source of mineral water containing many salts of Natriclorua, Calcium, Magnesium Chloride, and Bicarbonate…stable temperature of 53 Celcius degrees; water has the effect of healing, restoring health, stimulating digestion by soaking bath in combination with physical therapy. Kenh Ga hot spring is an ideal weekend resort for tourists.

“Kong: Skull Island” studio

Update: Kong: Skull Island film studio was dismantled on September 20, 2019, with the aim of preserving the sustainable development of the Trang An tourist resort and population complex.

Therefore, the tourist route to Trang An tourist area is no longer an attraction: Kong: Skull Island film studio.

As you know, Kong: Skull Island is an American blockbuster film that was shot in 2016 with many scenes in Vietnam’s landscapes such as Trang An World Heritage Site, Nature Reserve. Van Long, Tam Coc – Bich Dong (Ninh Binh); Halong Bay (Quang Ninh) and Phong Nha (Quang Binh) .

After finishing the scenes in Vietnam, the Trang An scenic management board restored the studio in several locations that were filmed for tourism purposes.

Van Trinh Cave

Van Trinh Cave is one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Ninh Binh. The cave is located in Mo mountain in Thuong Hoa commune, Nho Quan district.

The cave is located in a mountain higher than a hundred meters. The cave entrance is halfway up the mountain, about 40 m above the ground.

Non-Nuoc Pagoda

Non-Nuoc Pagoda is an ancient pagoda built during the reign of King Ly Nhan Tong, bringing a lot of history and culture.

This temple is located at the foot of Non-Nuoc Mountain, when you visit this temple you can also pass 72 stone steps to the top of Non-Nuoc Mountain to admire the scenery.

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)

Privacy Overview

• Best 13 Hotels in Bac Ninh That Exceed All Expectations
• 20 Beautiful Hotels in Phu Tho
• 11 Delightful Hotels in Thai Nguyen You Won’t Want to Miss
• 8 Affordable Hotels in Tuyen Quang to Elevate Your Stay
• 7 Hotels in Lang Son for a Luxurious Escape

Top 20 Tourist Attractions In Ninh Binh

• by Chau Nguyen
• December 29, 2022
• 12 minutes read

Ninh Binh is a city in Vietnam that is always listed as one of the best places to visit. This region offers a magnificent natural beauty, a significant historical legacy, and a thriving cultural life, all in perfect balance with each other. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular tourist attractions in Ninh Binh that you absolutely cannot miss.

Table of Contents

Trang an complex, tam coc – bich dong, van long nature reserve – van long lagoon, gia hung sheep field, an tiem cave – tuyet tinh coc, thung nham bird park, cuc phuong national park, non nuoc mountain, tam diep pineapple hill – new photo spot in ninh binh, thung nang – unspoiled tourist attraction in ninh binh, kenh ga hot springs, dong chuong lake, emeralda ninh binh resort, hoa lu ancient capital, bai dinh pagoda – must-see spiritual tourist attraction in ninh binh, ninh binh dinosaur amusement park, phat diem stone church, bich dong pagoda, ancient vietnamese village – co vien lau, natural scenic tourist attractions in ninh binh.

View on map

The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex definitely must be the first of popular tourist attractions in Ninh Binh. UNESCO has named it both a natural heritage and a world cultural heritage site . Trang An is popular with tourists because of its beautiful scenery and mysterious caves with names like “Bright cave,” “Dark cave,” “Nau Ruou cave,” “Dia Linh cave”…

The best time to visit Trang An is in the fall, when the water lilies will be in full bloom and make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale.

You will need about 3–4 hours to see all of Trang An’s caves and landscapes, and you will use a boat to get there. The price of a ticket is 200,000 VND per person, which includes a ticket to see the sights and a boat ticket. There is one boat for every four people.

Tam Coc-Bich Dong is about 7 km from the center of Ninh Binh. It is the second most popular tourist attraction in Ninh Binh, after Trang An. Tam Coc-Bich Dong, also known as “Ha Long on land” or “the second best southern cave,” is popular with tourists from all over the world. It is made up of three caves, Ca cave, Hai cave, and Ba cave, which were formed by the flow of the Ngo Dong River. The caves are surrounded by mountain ranges.

The best time to go to this Ninh Binh tourist spot is between the last two weeks of May and the first week of June. Because at this time of year, the rice fields on both sides of the Ngo Dong River are at their most beautiful. You can ride a boat and see how heaven, river, mountain, and rice fields all work together.

Tam Coc Bich Dong is only accessible by boat, just like Trang An. A ticket to get in costs 120,000 VND, and a ticket for the boat costs 150,000 VND. The distance to visit is 6 km, and it should take about 2 hours to get there and back. The first time you go, it will be a little dark because there is no electricity, but once you get used to it, you will find the landscape here to be magical and beautiful.

Mua Cave is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Ninh Binh. Everyone who goes here must stop by it at least once. You have to climb more than 500 stone steps to get to the top of Hang Mua. If you go to Mua Cave in May or June, when Tam Coc’s rice field is ready, you can see a picture of “golden season on the river” from above. This is a beautiful natural scene.

The Van Long lagoon, which is in the northern part of the Gia Vien district, is known as the largest wetland nature reserve in the Northern Midland Delta. Since it is a river area, you still have to go by boat. The boat fare for two people is 60,000 VND, and each person has to pay 20,000 VND to get in.

Tourists nickname Van Long lagoon “a bay without waves” because the quiet, transparent water is see-through. The boat will transport you through ravines and unique limestone formations, where you’ll see rare creatures and birds.

Gia Hung sheep field is a stunning photo site in Ninh Binh, 25 kilometres from the city center. This sheep field is beside the lagoon dyke. The sheep aren’t always there, but if you walk along the dike, you’ll find them. The charge to take pictures is 100k / person, which is high, but you’ll get great shots. After photographing the sheep in the afternoon, try kiting.

An Tiem cave, also called Tuyet Tinh Coc (Love Cave), is a popular Ninh Binh attraction. It’s small yet has lyrical beauty, excellent for photos.

A clear blue lake surrounded by mountains is the most striking thing here. You have to go up more than 200 stone steps through the cliff to get here. The price of a ticket is 20,000 VND per person, and parking is 10,000 VND per bike. A visit should take about 3 hours.

Thung Nham Bird Park is one of the very unique  tourist attractions in Ninh Binh.  This is the residence of more than 40 types of birds such as stork, bittern, heron, lesser whistling duck, teal, white-rumped shama… In which, it is impossible not to mention two rare bird species recorded in the Red Book – flamingo and hornbill.

At sunset, the Thung Nham Bird Park is at its most beautiful. You can watch a flock of white storks spread their wings and fly to their nests, which is a rare and interesting sight.

If you want to see a lot of Ninh Binh’s nature, Cuc Phuong National Forest is a great place to go. This is Vietnam’s first national forest. It is also a well-known old-growth forest with a complicated terrain and a lot of different plants and animals. There are still a lot of rare species and langur species here.

When you visit this Ninh Binh tourist attraction, you can see the wild and mysterious features of an old forest with trees that are thousands of years old. You can also see historical caves like Moon Dew cave, Chua cave, Thuy Tien cave, Nguoi Xua cave,… Furthermore, there are many services for tourists here, such as hot springs with services for sightseeing, ecology, trekking, and so on.

This mountain is right in Ninh Binh city, in the Thanh Binh ward. You can find it between the Non Nuoc bridge and the Ninh Binh bridge, where the Day and Van rivers meet. Non Nuoc mountain is not only called a “fairytale landscape,” but it is also called a “poetry museum” because more than 40 poems by famous people are carved into the cliff.

The Tam Diep pineapple hill at the Dong Dao farm in Tam Diep city, Ninh Binh, is a very popular place to take photos. This pineapple hill is about 5500 hectares wide. Inside it are thousands of green pineapple bushes that stretch out in all directions.

To get here, start in the middle of the city and head east until you reach Quang Trung Street. From there, take National Highway 1A towards Quang Son. At the end of the Ho Xuan Huong-Dang Tien Dong road, turn left onto Dong Giao and ask a local where the pineapple fields are.

What is the one unspoiled tourist attraction in Ninh Binh that you have to see? To find out, let’s go to Thung Nang in Dam Khe village, Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district. Tourism hasn’t grown much in Thung Nang, which is why the wild natural beauty is still there. It’s a great place for people who want to experience as much of an idyllic and poetic natural space as they can.

You will have to take a boat to get to Thung Nang. You can buy a ticket at the gate for 60,000 VND per person, which includes the fare to Thach Bich wharf. Then, the boat will take you slowly to see the beautiful sights of Thung Nang as the sun shines.

The Ninh Binh Kenh Ga hot mineral spring is about 15 km northwest of the city center. It is known as one of the 5 most beautiful open-air hot springs in Vietnam.

From the city center, you take National Highway 1A to Gian Khau junction, Gia Tran commune, then road 477 through Me town to Dong Chua wharf. Then you take a boat down the Hoang Long River until you get to the Kenh Ga floating village.

Dong Chuong Lake is a new tourist destination in Ninh Binh that has been getting a lot of attention because of its beautiful natural state. The beauty of the lake’s mountains and rivers will make you feel like you’re in a “miniature Da Lat” when you come to visit.

The lake is in two communes, Phu Loc and Phu Long, in the Nho Quan district. To get there, take Trang An street to Pho Ria, turn left, and visit about 3 km.

Book a tour to Ninh Binh with good price today

Architecture and historical tourist attractions in ninh binh.

In Ninh Binh, there are many historic buildings, but there is also a unique concrete structure called Emeralda Ninh Binh that draws a lot of tourists. Even though Emeralda is a resort, it looks and feels very cultural and traditional. Emeralda gives you a different space, which is very different from the high-rise houses in Ninh Binh. It will take you back to a peaceful village, which is what the northern countryside is all about, but it will still have everything you need for a vacation.

Did you know that when filming in Vietnam, the crew of Kong: Skull Island used this place as their base? If you want to stay here for a vacation, check out the room prices and availability HERE .

The ancient capital of Hoa Lu is also one of Ninh Binh’s UNESCO-recognized famous attractions . This is a one-of-a-kind architectural complex with many ancient Vietnamese cultural elements. From the main gate, you could see a tall, majestic stone gate that was marked by time. Then, as you go deeper inside, you will be surprised to find a huge campus of palaces and royal gardens from ancient kings.

Everyone who comes to Ninh Binh loves this place to visit. The price of a ticket is 20,000 VND, parking is 10,000 VND. When you go in, you should wear clothes that are simple and not too revealing.

If you are interested in religious tourism, you should not miss Bai Dinh Pagoda when you are in Ninh Binh. This pagoda holds a long list of records, such as the largest gilded bronze Buddha in Asia, the longest Arhat corridor in Asia, and the largest bronze Maitreya statue in Southeast Asia. Because of this, it has become one of the most popular places to visit in Ninh Binh, bringing in a lot of tourists every day.

This pagoda is 500ha wide and is split into two sections called Tan Tu (New Pagoda) and Co Tu (Old Pagoda). It could take up to a day to fully look around the site. The price of a tram ticket is 30,000 VND, the price of a ticket to see the stupa is 50,000 VND, and the price to park a bike is 15,000 VND.

There is a new dinosaur park in Ninh Binh that has become a very popular place for kids to have fun. Based on the idea of Disneyland parks around the world, this park has more than 200 different kinds of dinosaurs figures. Visitors will feel like they have been transported to the Triassic, Jurassic, or Cretaceous periods.

• Address: Square 3, Ninh Khanh Ward, Ninh Binh City
• Ticket price: Adults 100.000 VND, children 50.000 VND

If you have time, you should go to Phat Diem stone church, which is about 28 km from the city center. It is also called Ninh Binh stone church. The design of this Catholic church is admired by architects around the world, and it is now the most beautiful Catholic church complex in Vietnam.

• Address: Phat Diem town, Kim Son district, Ninh Binh province.

Bich Dong Pagoda is located in Tam Coc Bich Dong tourist complex. This is one of the most recommended  free tourist attractions in Ninh Binh  . After exploring Tam Coc, do not miss the opportunity to visit this mysterious spiritual temple.

The Bich Dong Pagoda is only about 2 km from the dock, no ticket required. The most interesting thing about this place is that there are two beautiful lotus ponds outside the temple. If you stand outside and take pictures with the temple gate in the background, it will be great. Inside the temple is Dark Cave, which has a very nice view if you climb to the top.

Co Vien Lau, also called Ancient Vietnamese Village, is a place with many old houses that look like a miniature version of a Northern village from hundreds of years ago. This place is free to visit, and it takes about an hour to see everything. It is also close to Tam Coc, so it will be easy to stop by.

Read more: Ninh Binh – First time visitor information

The 20 best places to visit in Ninh Binh are listed above. Have a fantastic time in this breathtaking location; you deserve it. Feel free to post below if you have any questions or need any help!

Share This Post:

Chau Nguyen

Hue street food – what you should not miss, ninh binh – first time visitor information.

[…] Top 20 Tourist Attractions In Ninh Binh […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Related Post

Indulge in 16 Best Ninh Binh Restaurants That’ll Satisfy Every Craving

Best Ca Mau Travel Guide: A Must-Read Handbook for First-Time Explorers

Best Bac Lieu Travel Guide to Unraveling the Charms of Southern Vietnam

Soc Trang Travel Guide: Top Experiences and Local Recommendations for Your First Time

The Perfect Kien Giang Travel Guide for First-Time Adventurers

Hau Giang Travel Guide: Unlocking the Secrets of this Enchanting Destination

Ninh Binh, Vietnam: All You Need to Know For Your Next Trip!

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the top countries to visit in Southeast Asia. With its lush landscapes, rich history, and lovely local culture it pleases both nature lovers as well as conscious travelers who like to immerse themselves in all things Vietnamese.

Stretching over 1600 kilometers (1000 miles) from north to south, the landscapes vary from lush rice terraces and forested mountains in the north to fertile deltas and beautiful beaches in the south. Vietnam’s history is influenced by the Chinese, French, and Americans and you can witness this in its colonial architecture and delicious cuisine (Banh Mi!).

Hanoi , the capital, is famous for its chaotic Old Quarter, where narrow streets are arranged by trade, and the lovely Hoan Kiem Lake where locals do aerobics in the early morning. A key historical site is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a monument dedicated to the nation’s beloved founding father.

Hoi An, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in the south is the country’s economic hub, known for its dynamic energy and skyscrapers alongside French colonial landmarks. The nearby Cu Chi Tunnels , a vast network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War, and the War Remnant Museum are activities you can’t miss out on.

Central Vietnam is home to natural wonders and historic sites, including the ancient town of Hoi An, with its well-preserved Southeast Asian trading port dating back to the 15th century, and the Imperial City of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ninh Binh is located in the north of Vietnam, just about two hours south of Hanoi . Here is everything you need to know to prepare yourself for your visit to this wonderful region!

First of all, this post is about the Province of Ninh Binh and not the city. Although the city is the main economic and administrative center of this region, it’s not a great place to base yourself. I found the city rather dusty and unpleasant and there are far more beautiful locations to kickstart your adventures! I’ll get into the best places to stay in Ninh Binh later in this post.

The Ninh Binh Province is located in the northern part of Vietnam and is about a two-hour drive south of Hanoi. It is characterized by a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and historical places, offering an escape into a landscape that feels almost untouched by time.

It is often referred to as “Halong Bay on Land,” and it lures visitors in with its stunning limestone karst formations that rise majestically out of emerald rice paddies and winding rivers. Although Ninh Binh has become a tourist hotspot in recent years, it has been able to retain its charm and you won’t be disappointed adding this region to your Vietnam itinerary!

Is Ninh Binh worth visiting

Yes, Ninh Binh is worth visiting! The landscapes you find in this region seem to be out of this world and the activities you can undertake are plenty! I stayed in this region for two weeks and this still wasn’t enough to cover everything there was to see. 

Aside from the main attractions, there are hundreds of hidden corners to discover where you can find an off-the-beaten-path restaurant or a secluded homestay in a wonderful location. 

16 Best thing to do in Ninh Binh

Here are 16 things to do in Ninh Binh in the north of Vietnam. It’s a mix of the absolute highlights, combined with personal insider tips and more remote places that definitely deserve more attention. Here we go!

1. Go on a Boat Tour

Trang An scenic landscape complex, Vietnam

Scrolling through the web, you have probably marveled already at the gorgeous photos of the Tam Coc River in Ninh Binh which is surrounded by rice fields and limestone mountains. While they are indeed very beautiful, be sure to pick the right boat tour when you travel to Ninh Ninh.

What to do in Tam Coc: Trang An scenic landscape complex

In Ninh Binh, there are boat tours on offer in three locations: Tam Coc, Trang An, and Van Long. Most people who make a quick stop in Ninh Binh opt for the Tam Coc boat tour because it is conveniently located in the center of Tam Coc, a popular place to base yourself.

Unfortunately, the boat tours in Tam Coc are actually a tourist trap in which you’ll be asked for a ridiculous amount of tips for the boatmen and be tricked into paying completely outrageous prices for snacks and drinks during your boat ride.

The best boat trips into the most beautiful parts of the landscape are the Trang An boat tours . These tours are operated by a private company and are the gateway to the UNESCO-world Heritage Site of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. Trang An is another rural area in Ninh Binh province and from there you can easily reach the boat wharf on foot, however, it’s also just a 10-kilometer taxi or bike ride from Tam Coc.

Compared to Tam Coc, which only takes you back and forth to three caves, at Trang An, you can choose from three different routes that take you to various caves, temples, and pagodas located in the scenic landscape. 

Van Long is another boat ride in the area but I’ll get into that one later in this post!

Location: Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

Opening hours: 7 A.M. – 4 P.M.

2. Visit the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex

Ninh Binh things to do: Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex

Often referred to as the Bai Dinh Pagoda, this location is not just one pagoda but a huge complex of Buddhist pagodas covering a total area of 539 hectares. 

It is considered the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam and it is a pilgrimage destination for many Vietnamese residents. The complex consists of a temple area that dates back to the 12th century and a new temple that was built in 2003. 

The entrance to the Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex is free of charge but, because of its large size, you will need to rent a golf cart to take you around. 

Location: Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex

Opening Hours: can vary due to seasonality but it will surely be open between 7 A.M. and 6 P.M. every day of the week.

3. Discover Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park holds the title of being Vietnam’s oldest national park. Located just an hour’s drive from Ninh Binh, it offers an excellent opportunity for a day trip, providing a break from the more crowded spots in the area.

This ancient forest is home to an impressive array of wildlife, featuring 336 bird species, 122 reptile and amphibian species, and 135 mammal species. Among the mammals found here are Asiatic black bears, civet cats, clouded leopards, and the critically endangered Delacour’s langur.

As a visitor to the park, you can make a pick from several well-marked trails that lead to age-old trees, prehistoric caves, and breathtaking viewpoints. The park is also the site of a primate rescue center focused on endangered species and a center dedicated to turtle conservation (further details below).

Exploring the park will require you to rent a car or engage a private driver for the day, as it’s not accessible by public transportation from Ninh Binh.

Walking from the main entrance to explore the park also isn’t feasible. Given its vast size, the attractions and trails are spread out, requiring a car to access the various sites and paths within the park.

Website: Cuc Phuong National Park

Location: Directions

Opening Hours: 7 A.M. – 8 P.M.

4. Visit the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary

Ninh Binh what to do: Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary

The Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary is an extraordinary destination in the Ninh Binh region. It’s a brief journey from Cuc Phuong National Park, making it a perfect addition for a day excursion.

At this sanctuary, you have the opportunity to observe and learn about Asiatic Black bears and sun bears in a responsible manner. The bears housed here have been rescued from the cruel practice of bear bile farming, which unfortunately continues in Vietnam.

Most of these bears have spent their entire lives in confined spaces and because of that require rehabilitation. The persistent demand for bear bile and rampant wildlife poaching means that releasing them back into the wild is currently unsafe, though there is hope for such possibilities in the future.

For more insights about the Bear Sanctuary in Ninh Binh and the importance of ending bear bile farming, consider reading my detailed article on the subject.

Opening Hours: 9 A.M. – 5 P.M.

5. Reach the top of Hang Mua Viewpoint

Things to do Ninh Binh: Mua Viewpoint

Among all the attractions in Ninh Binh, the Mua Caves and Hang Mua Viewpoints certainly hold a top spot!

The caves themselves are not the main highlight here, the true gems are the viewpoints. From these spots, you’re treated to stunning vistas of the area’s rice paddies, rivers, and limestone mountains. As a traveler, you can choose between two main vantage points, the Dragon viewpoint and the Pagoda viewpoint, both accessible by a challenging ascent of 500 steps up the mountain.

The Hang Mua caves and viewpoint area has turned into a highly sought-after spot for Instagram photos, making it one of the pricier places to visit by Vietnamese standards. Admission is set at 100,000 VND per person.

Opening hours: 8 A.M. – 5 P.M.

→ Also read: A complete travel guide to Cat Ba National Park

6. Meander through the Rice Fields

The rice paddies surrounding Ninh Binh may not rival the stunning beauty found in Pu Luong or Mai Chau , yet they contribute significantly to Ninh Binh’s picturesque scenery in their own unique way.

Observing the rice fields’ beauty in Ninh Binh is most spectacular from the Hang Mua viewpoint towards the end of May. During this period, the paddies transform into a rich, yellow-gold hue, just before harvest time.

7. Dive deep into Vietnam’s Ancient History at Hoa Lu

Ninh Binh things to see: Hoa Lu Ancient Capital near Tam Coc

Hoa Lu holds significant historical value for the Vietnamese, serving as the nation’s capital during the 10th and 11th centuries.

Most of the ancient structures and city of Hoa Lu are now in ruins. Nevertheless, within the complex, several temples remain, dedicated to commemorating the emperors and princes from the Dinh and Le dynasties.

Another notable feature near Hoa Lu is the ascent of the 300-step stairway leading to the summit of Ma Yen Hill. At the peak, visitors are rewarded with a splendid panorama of Hoa Lu and its magnificent landscape.

Opening Hours: 7 A.M. – 5 P.M.

8. Wander the Streets of Tam Coc Village

The most scenic place to stay in the Ninh Binh region is without a doubt Tam Coc . Both the center and the countryside surrounding Tam Coc is beautiful. It is full of small streets and back alleys that lend themselves well for great walks and bicycle rides in the region. 

The best way to explore these narrow streets and paths is to switch off your phone and allow yourself to wander aimlessly. This approach led me to stumble upon an incredible restaurant in Ninh Binh, tucked away amidst limestone mountains and lush rice fields.

I’ll share more details about this restaurant in the restaurant section!

9. Visit the Bich Dong Pagoda

Tam Coc-Bich Dong Pagoda

The Bich Dong Pagoda is a magnificent three-tiered pagoda complex constructed in the Ngu Nhac mountains near Ninh Binh. It’s a mere half-hour walk from the town center of Tam Coc to reach the pagoda.

This pagoda is split into three levels. The first level was established around 600 years ago, while the middle and top levels were added in the 18th century. The three levels are known as Ha Pagoda (Lower Pagoda), Trung Pagoda (Middle Pagoda), and Thuong Pagoda (Upper Pagoda).

From the Middle Pagoda, you are treated to a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. A unique aspect of this pagoda is that half of it is constructed inside a cave.

Entry to the Bich Dong Pagoda is free of charge. However, be aware that there may be individuals attempting to sell fraudulent tickets or charge for parking. It’s important to avoid these scams.

Opening hours: There are no official opening hours but visiting between 9 A.M. and 6 P.M. seems to be a safe bet.

10. Visit the Thai Vi temple

Thai Vi Temple, Tam Coc, Vietnam

The Thai Vi temple is a relatively hidden ancient temple nestled among the limestone mountains and rice fields in Tam Coc in Ninh Binh. Constructed by King Tran Thai Tong in 1258, it continues to serve as a site of worship for many Buddhists to this day.

One of the best aspects of the Thai Vi temple is its tranquility, away from the throngs of tourists at other nearby attractions. During my visit in December, I found myself to be the only visitor there. A few monks were present, crafting decorative items for an upcoming celebration.

The temple’s peaceful and serene ambiance provided a perfect setting for some quiet reflection. Sitting there, you can appreciate the beauty of the surroundings and observe the monks as they go about their daily tasks. There is also no admission fee! 

Opening hours: There are no official opening hours but you will be able to enter between 9 A.M. and 5 P.M.

11. Rent a bycycle

There is no better way to explore Ninh Binh and its surroundings than by bicycle! A great feature about Ninh Binh is that, in between the mountains, the terrain is completely flat which makes it very easy to cycle around, even if your fitness level is not that good.

Cycling is not only positive for your health but also better for the environment. Using a bicycle instead of a motorbike will result in less air pollution. A lot of travelers hire a motorbike in Ninh Binh but this only adds to the surroundings of Ninh Binh becoming noisier and kind of destroys the peaceful atmosphere.

A lot of guesthouses in Ninh Binh offer bicycles that you can use free of charge or for a small fee!

12. Go off the beaten path to the Van Long wetland reserve

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and pristine nature reserves. It’s a great place to experience local landscapes and Vietnamese culture in Ninh Binh without the crowds you’ll find in Trang An.

Ninh Binh activities: Van Long Wetland Reserve

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve is the largest wetland in northern Vietnam, stretching out over 3000 hectares. It features a breathtaking landscape that includes towering limestone cliffs, winding waterways, and extensive marshlands.

The scenery will remind you of Ninh Binh and Trang An, but Van Long stands out because it offers an opportunity to observe wild animals, such as storks and herons, as well as the critically endangered Delacour’s langur.

Exploring Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve by boat is the most effective way to see its beauty. For more details, check out my guide on everything you need to know about Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve .

13. Learn about endangered monkey species at the primate rescue center

If you’re keen on discovering more about endangered monkey species in Vietnam, you definitely shouldn’t skip the primate rescue center situated within Cuc Phuong National Park.

Initially, the sight of monkeys in relatively small enclosures at the primate rescue center might be startling. However, it soon becomes clear that these enclosures are scientifically designed to meet the monkeys’ needs effectively.

Endangered primate rescue center, Vietnam

Many of the monkeys housed here cannot be released back into the wild due to injuries that would compromise their survival. When you look closely you can see round marks on the monkeys’ fur, which are actually scars from bullet wounds inflicted by poachers seeking their skin, bones, and organs for use in traditional medicine.

The primate rescue center is home to a diverse group of gibbons, langurs, and slow lorises. Tickets are available at the entrance of Cuc Phuong National Park for 50,000 VND per person.

It’s important to note that tours of the facility are limited to 20 minutes and must be conducted with a guide. This short visit duration ensures that the monkeys do not become overly accustomed to human presence.

Opening Hours: 8:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. – 1:30 P.M. to 4:30 P.M.

14. The Path Diem Cathedral

Around 25 kilometers from Ninh Binh City lies the Phat Diem Cathedral. This cathedral is a remarkable architectural marvel that mixes European Catholic and Vietnamese architectural elements. It was constructed between 1875 and 1899 under the direction of Father Six, a Vietnamese priest, 

The cathedral complex includes the main church, several chapels, a bell tower, and living quarters for the clergy, all spread over a large area of more than 22 hectares. One of the most striking features of the Phat Diem Cathedral is the use of stone and wood. The interior is supported by massive ironwood columns, and the altar is beautifully carved from marble.

The cathedral was damaged significantly during the Vietnam War but has since been restored and continues to serve as a place of worship and pilgrimage for Catholics in Vietnam. The entrance to the cathedral is free.

Opening hours: 9 A.M. – 5 P.M.

15. Have a pitstop at Tuyet Tinh Coc

Ao Giai Lake

Tuyet Tinh Coc is a captivating mountain canyon featuring a lake and a Buddhist temple, situated near the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. The only access to this hidden gem is through a tunnel carved directly through a karst mountain. Historically, this secluded spot served as both a prison and a location for the punishment of criminals.

Upon entering, you have the opportunity to cycle around the lake, explore the Am Thien cave, and visit the Pagoda. Additionally, there’s a scenic viewpoint that offers fantastic photo opportunities. The admission fee is 50,000 VND and bicycle rentals are available if you wish to take a leisurely ride around the lake.

Opening Hours: 8 A.M. – 6 P.M.

16. Try the local delicacy "Com Chay"

In the area surrounding Ninh Binh, one of the local specialties is a vegan dish known as “Com Chay”. This dish features crispy yet flavorful rice. It is made from leftover rice that is fried until it becomes slightly charred.

Following the frying process, the rice must be dried in the sun or with a special drying machine to enhance its preservation. The final result is a crispy rice cracker, which can be garnished with a variety of sauces and additional toppings for extra flavor.

Where to stay in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, as a province, covers a large area of Vietnam. As mentioned before, I wouldn’t recommend staying in Ninh Binh City. Although it comes in handy, with supermarkets, telecom shops, and everything you might need, the city lacks charm.

There are however two rural areas nearby that deserve your attention when it comes down to finding a place to base yourself for your explorations in Ninh Binh. They are called Tam Coc and Trang An. 

While Tam Coc is equipped with all modern amenities and even has Western-style restaurants, The area around Trang An offers a more peaceful escape with only a few restaurants and a traditional Vietnamese market in town. 

After spending two weeks in Trang An and Tam Coc, here is a selection of what are, in my opinion, the best places to stay!

Tam Coc is a haven of cozy homestays, and guesthouses offering a variety of budget-friendly accommodations. Here are three places I personally stayed at and can recommend for those looking to explore the area:

• Tam Coc Memories Homestay : Ideal for young backpackers who enjoy socializing over pool games and beers next to a creatively designed pool merging out of a limestone cliff backdrop. The cleanliness of the rooms and the comfort of the beds are outstanding. After a few nights, however, I sought a quieter atmosphere further from the center, but it’s perfect for those looking for a lively stay.
• Mom’s Homestay : Mom’s House is also known online as Tuan Ngoc Hotel, which might cause some confusion. This is my top pick in Tam Coc. Operated by a warm and incredibly helpful family, this hotel/homestay boasts a lovely pool. The a la carte breakfast is included, and they offer motorbike and bicycle rentals. The genuine kindness of the hosts makes this accommodation a place to never forget!
• Tam Coc Ngo Dong Homestay and Vegan Restaurant : This establishment is known for hosting the best vegan restaurant in Tam Coc. While the area has several plant-based options, the meals here were unparalleled. Be mindful that some dish portions may be on the smaller side. The cleanliness of the rooms was great and the fact that the windows looked out onto a wall was not bothering me at all!

For those willing to splurge a bit more, Tam Coc Garden Resort offers stunning bungalows and villas. This resort is known for its commitment to sustainability, providing a luxurious yet environmentally-conscious option for travelers.

The center of Trang An mainly consists of budget accommodation options. You will have trouble here finding an option that costs more than 20$ but they are out there, especially out of center. Here are some great options in Trang An.

• Trang An Moon Garden Homestay : this is the location where I stayed in Trang An. It’s an adorable, compact homestay with a small pool that takes up most of the backyard garden. The room was very comfortable, with one of the nicest bathrooms I’ve seen in Vietnam in this price range. There’s a kettle in the room to make tea and coffee which is always a nice bonus if you travel long-term. Breakfast is included but I found the pancakes to have a weird color and dry taste. 
• Ninh Binh Valley Montana Homestay : This is another homestay located in Trang An. I didn’t stay here but it was my favorite location to eat in Trang An. The outdoor terrace by the water is a great place to have dinner and the staff at Montana Valle is incredibly kind. They even gave us candy and chocolate on Christmas day! The rooms look perfect too and they get some awesome reviews on Booking . 
• Ninh Binh Valley Homestay : If you want to spend the night at a breathtaking location in between the limestone cliffs then the bungalows of this homestay are a perfect choice! Your stay comes with free bicycles and there is an onsite restaurant so you don’t have to worry about going out at night if you don’t feel like it.

If you fancy staying at an ecoresort in Trang An, consider staying at Trang An Ecolodge . It’s out of the center of Trang An in a more remote location but it is the ideal escape if you are looking for tranquillity!

Where to eat in Ninh Binh

Best restaurant Tam Coc: “Thung Sen”

While Ninh Binh is large in size, I wouldn’t bother too much going of the areas of Tam Coc and Trang An to find good food.

Tam Coc is home to some great restaurants and a lot of them cater to vegans. If you’re a vegan, you won’t have trouble finding tasty vegan food in Vietnam . Here is a list of my favorite restaurants in Tam Coc and Trang An!

• Thung Sen Tam Coc restaurant & café : Thung Sen is my top suggestion in the area around the Mua caves and Tam Coc. It is located off the beaten track on a side road close to the Thai Vi temple. The location of this restaurant is completely mindblowing and the whole enterprise is run by a sweet family. In between the limestone mountains, you can find a wide array of cozy places to sit and eat lunch or dinner or just enjoy a Vietnamese coffee. Most of the food you’ll get on your plate is organically grown in their private garden.
• Tam Coc Ngo Dong homestay and vegan restaurant : The best vegan food in Tam Coc can be found at the restaurant of this guesthouse. Be sure to try the pumpkin soup, pho, and mushroom fritters. 
• Minh Khoi restaurant : this place has the most delicious Banh Mis in town. As a vegan, you can order the one with tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables. Do ask them though if all the sauces they want to put on it are vegan. They used mayonnaise at the time of my visit. 
• An Tam Coc Restaurant : I had one of the most yummy dishes here during my one-month trip through Vietnam, eggplant with tofu in a clay pot. 
• Valley Montana restaurant : This is the restaurant of the Ninh Binh Valley Montana Homestay . The outside area by the river here is very scenic to spend the evening and they make wonderful spring rolls and tasty tofu spaghetti. 
• Ha Lan homestay coffee and restaurant : Here, they make a great (vegan) coconut coffee, and the portions of most of the dishes are gigantic! The girl working there is also very friendly and speaks English well!

THE BEST TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VIETNAM

Here are the websites I personally use whenever I travel to Vietnam:

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com : For the best cheap guesthouses, homestays or small hotels

Hostelworld : To find the best hostels located in the cities

Homestay : For unique immersive homestays in the cities as well as in the Vietnamese countryside

12GO and Bookaway : The best transport websites for long-distance buses and train travel in Vietnam

GRAB : for taxi rides in cities and nearby attractions

Skyscanner : For affordable flights to Vietnam

Eatwith : Dine with locals inside their home for an immersive foodie experience

Withlocals : Experience cities in Vietnam with local people that show you around. This is a good idea if you want to stray off the beaten path!

Viator and Get Your Guide : For (vegan) food tours, street food tours, and tours in general

Get your Visa for Vietnam online through the Evisa website

If you’re looking for travel insurance, the one with the best benefits online is without a doubt Heymondo ! It’s very easy to ask for a quote on the website and if you book with this link you’ll get 5% off!

Get access to mobile data straight away when entering the country with a Vietnam E-sim or an Asialink E-sim when traveling through multiple countries.

How to get to Ninh Binh

Rice fields around Hang Mua

Reaching Ninh Binh is quite straightforward, regardless of your starting point. Given its proximity to Hanoi, it’s conveniently situated on the tourist route. Moreover, numerous day-long excursions are available from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and its nearby attractions.

How to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is accessible via daily bus services running from Hanoi directly to Ninh Binh. Booking these buses is straightforward with platforms like 12GoAsia . It’s important to verify your bus’s final stop, as some may leave you at various locations within Ninh Binh, requiring a taxi for further travel to your exact destination in the area.

For those pressed for time, numerous Ninh Binh excursions head out from Hanoi as well.

How to get from Pu Luong to Ninh Binh

As of last year, a new bus service has started operating between Pu Luong and the beautiful area of Ninh Binh. I utilized this bus service from Pu Luong to Ninh Binh, and it conveniently stopped right at my accommodation. The price for a bus ticket is €14, and bookings can be made through your accommodation.

Alternatively, booking a private vehicle via Bookaway is a viable option, particularly for those traveling in a group and looking to share expenses. This method not only speeds up the travel time to but also offers the flexibility to pause at Cuc Phuong National Park en route to Ninh Binh.

How to get from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh

Daily buses leave from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh in the early morning and just after lunch and they take three hours. You can book your seats in advance on the website of 12GoAsia . 

Alternatively, a private car costs around 70$.

How to get from Halong bay to Ninh binh

Traveling by bus is the most recommended option to travel from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh. Tickets can be bought on 12GoAsia and prices can range from 7$ to 20$ depending on whether you opt for a regular bus or a luxury minivan. 

Alternatively, you can hire a taxi to ply the route which will cost around 70$.

If you get carsick easily, there is also an option to travel to Ninh Binh by train. This will however require you to take a train to Hanoi first and change to a train there to Ninh Binh. This route takes much longer than traveling by bus or taxi.

→ Also read:  How to Get from Ninh Binh to Halong Bay

How to get from Cat Ba to Ninh binh

Daily bus+boat+bus combinations are possible between Cat Ba and Ninh Binh between 7.30 A.M. and 4 P.M. You can book your tickets online at 12GoAsia . Remember to check the drop-off location carefully since some buses only drive to Ninh Binh City while others continue on to Tam Coc.

How to get from Phong Nha to Ninh binh

Overnight buses depart from Phong Nha in the evening and reach Ninh Binh at the crack of dawn. For those seeking a bit more comfort, you have the option to catch a bus to Dong Hoi, and then transfer to a sleeper train heading to Ninh Binh.

While the train offers cozier sleeping arrangements, it’s worth mentioning that the train station is located in Ninh Binh City, and you will need to take a taxi if you are staying in Tam Coc or Trang An. Both train and bus tickets can be bought through 12GoAsia . 

How to get around Ninh Binh

There are various options to get round ninh binh, one slightly more expensive than the other.  

Many tourists choose bicycles to explore Ninh Binh, especially for shorter distances within areas like Tam Coc. It’s an eco-friendly way to enjoy the scenic beauty at your own pace. Bicycles can be rented from many hotels and guesthouses and are often free. 

I solely relied on bicycle hire during my stay in Ninh Binh and it was a wonderful way to explore the region, both the attractions concentrated around Tam Coc as well as location further afield like Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve.

Alternatively, you can hire a motorbike or a driver for the day to take you around. Multiple tour agencies in Tam Coc also offer day tours with minibusses.

Best time to visit Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is a destination that can be visited year-round. It has two distinct seasons and tends to be hot and humid during the summer months, while the winter months are dry and can be a bit chilly with temperatures ranging between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius during the day.

Tam Coc, Vietnam

To snap some pretty photos, the best time to visit Ninh Binh is just before the harvesting season. At the end of May and in early June, the rice paddies in the area will change color, from lush green to golden yellow.

Do note that this will also be the busiest time to visit Tam Coc. And, even though this is probably very beautiful, Ninh Binh is amazing year-round!

Costs of traveling in Ninh Binh

Traveling in Ninh Binh can be quite affordable, with costs varying depending on your travel style, preferences, and the type of experiences you seek. 

Budget accommodations such as hostels and guesthouses can range from $5 to $15 per night for a dorm bed or a private room while mid-range hotels and homestays cost between $20 and $50 per night for a private room. Luxury accommodations can go upwards to  $100 per night for more upscale options.

Street food and local eateries offer meals from as low as $1 to $5. A Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich) for instance will only cost 1 to 1,5$. Dining in more touristy or mid-range restaurants , like Chookie’s Beer Garden , you can expect to pay between $5 and $20 per meal. High-end dining experiences will cost a lot more.

Renting a bicycle for a day can cost around $1 to $3 and is the cheapest mode of transportation aside from walking, while motorbike rentals are approximately $5 to $10 per day. Taxi fares and private car hires will vary depending on distance but expect to pay a lot more for these conveniences. We paid 850.000 VND (around $35) for a day trip to the ninth Binh Bear Sanctuary and Cuc Phuong National Park.

Entrance fees to attractions like Trang An and other natural and historical sites can range from $1 to $10. Some activities and guided tours may cost more if they are part of a tour package.

The Best TRavel Tips For Ninh Binh

Traveling in Vietnam, or Ninh Binh in particular can raise a lot of questions concerning safety, travel time, transportation, and more. Here are the answers to some questions you might still have after reading this guide to Ninh Binh.

How many days should you spend in ninh Binh

The duration of your stay in Ninh Binh entirely depends on your travel preferences, but for those who favor slow travel , like me, a minimum of one week is advisable. The region is rich with sites to discover, and a longer stay means you can take in the sights at your own pace, without feeling hurried to move from one spot to the next.

Opting for more relaxed transportation methods such as walking or cycling rather than going for a motorbike rental or hiring a car will only add to the overall experience.

For those with only a limited amount of time in Ninh Binh, it’s essential not to miss out on the Trang An Boat Tour, the panoramic views at the Mua Caves, the serene Van Long Wetlands, and the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary. These spots were my favorite experiences during my stay in Ninh Binh.

Is ninh Binh Safe?

Ninh Binh is generally considered safe for travelers. It is relatively free of violent crime, but you should always be aware that petty theft such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded places can occur. 

Furthermore, local people in Ninh Binh are known to be friendly and welcoming to tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to be respectful of the local customs.

Is Ninh Binh cold?

Ninh Binh has a warm climate for much of the year, but it gets much cooler during the winter months, especially in January and February. Temperatures can drop to around 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit) during this time of the year and it can be cloudy during the day. 

If you’re visiting Ninh Binh during the winter, you will definitely need a warm sweater for the cooler mornings and evenings.

Is Ninh Binh touristy?

Ninh Binh has become a popular tourist destination in Vietnam in recent years. But, fortunately, despite its growing popularity, you can still find areas in Ninh Binh that offer tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty.

Compared to more famous tourist destinations in Vietnam like Halong Bay or Hoi An, Ninh Binh offers a somewhat quieter, more serene experience. The rural countryside, with its beautiful rice fields and limestone karsts mountains, offer plenty of opportunities for exploration away from the crowds.

Is Ninh Binh similar to Halong Bay?

While you can see limestone karst landscapes at both destinations, Ninh Binh offers a more diverse range of activities compared to Halong Bay. These experiences on land and the karst mountains, interspersed with rice paddies and rivers, make it distinct from the marine setting of Halong Bay.

Both are extraordinary in their own right though and absolutely worth visiting for anyone traveling through Vietnam.

Can you swim in ninh binh?

While there are rivers and lakes in the area, they are not generally used for swimming due to safety concerns, the nature of the waterways, and the lack of designated swimming areas. The main point of traveling to Ninh Binh is to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage by foot or bicycle rather than water activities like swimming.

However, a huge amount of the accommodation options in Ninh Binh have a swimming pool, so yes, in that regard, you can swim in Ninh Binh.

Does Ninh Binh have grab?

Grab exists in Ninh Binh but I would venture too much out of Ninh Binh City relying on one to take you home. In my experience, they are easy to find in the city but, once you get into the countryside, finding a Grab Car becomes much harder. 

More Ninh Binh Travel Advice

As mentioned earlier, the boat rides in Tam Coc are rather scams and do not visit the UNESCO-protected World Heritage Site of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.

Furthermore, my experience at Thung Nham Bird Park was equally disappointing. Marketed as an ecotourism spot and touted as one of Vietnam’s prime locations for bird watching, the entry fee is quite steep by Vietnamese standards, costing 150,000 VND per person.

I was prepared to pay this amount, believing it supported an eco-friendly initiative. However, upon entering the park, I was shocked to discover that it wasn’t the conservation-focused sanctuary I expected. Instead, I found an entertainment complex complete with a hotel and restaurants, along with noisy tourist boats disturbing the lakes.

Note that this park has little to do with bird conservation efforts.

Ninh Binh Vietnam: final thoughts

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

I hope this Ninh Binh guide was helpful. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments below or drop me a message through my contact page !

Also, don’t forget to check out my resources page with my favorite booking platforms and tips to start planning your trip. Additionally, have a look at my favorite travel gear if you want to pack more consciously!

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on them, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Fancy more Vietnam travel advice?

• Bus From Hanoi to Sapa: All You Need to Know
• 12 Excellent Vegan Restaurants in Hanoi
• Can You Drink Tap Water in Vietnam? Things to Know!
• February 24, 2024

post a comment cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and  yourself!

On this website, I cover different topics like slow travel, plant-based food guides, responsible travel, sustainable packing, eco-travel, and more !

Latest Posts

20 Cool and Conscious Things to Do in Salento, Colombia

Juan Curi Waterfall: The Best Day Trip From San Gil

Sunski Sunglasses Review: Why They Should Be on Your Packing List!

15 Best Things to Do in Nong Khiaw, Laos (2024)

Santa Rita, Salento: All You Need to Know

Do you want to receive my latest finds on conscious and sustainable travel directly to your inbox? Subscribe here!

© COPYRIGHT TRAVELERS&DREAMERS, 2023.

• Best of Ninh Binh tour
• Ninh Binh Custom Tour
• Ninh Binh Photographic Expedition
• Ninh Binh Motorbike Tour
• Cuc Phuong National Park
• Ha Giang Loop tour
• Airport Transfer
• City to city transfers
• Multiple days
• Ninh Binh day tour
• Cooking class
• Authentic Street food BBQ Experience
• BBQ at Thung Sen Tam Coc
• Authentic Vietnamese massage
• Spiritual Vietnam
• Handcraft Workshop

What to do in Ninh Binh

• Experiences
• Restaurants in Ninh Binh
• Ninh Binh day trips
• Most popular tours
• All tours and experiences
• Tourist assistance
• Weather in Ninh Binh
• Ninh Binh Photo Gallery
• Basic Vietnamese
• Tourist Map Ninh Binh
• Diner with local family
• Stay in Vietnam long time
• General information

Ninh Binh Tourist Center  

Ninh Binh, Tam Coc & Trang An

How can we help you? 

Unbeatable ninh binh tours: quality adventures at guaranteed best prices.

Started as a nonprofit to help tourists and local busineses. Ninh Binh Tourist Center is rooted in a passion for service, not profit. Our mission? To ensure you have an exceptional time in Ninh Binh. We partner with locals who are as enthusiastic about our beautiful region as we are and who take pride in showcasing the best of Ninh Binh to our guests.

Best price guarantee 

Ninh Binh Tourist Center offers a Best Price Guarantee for all our tours. Find a lower price for an identical tour elsewhere, and we’ll match it. Quality adventures at unbeatable prices—that’s our commitment to you.

We’ve got you covered

Are you concerned about safety, food, or weather? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Our team carefully selects safe and clean accommodations and restaurants, and we’ll provide you with a packing list to prepare for the weather. Are you seeking adventure, activities or relaxation? No matter what your motives are, our tours have something for everyone. From hiking through the mountains and exploring caves to relaxing, attending language classes, we offer a wide range of activities to suit your interests. Plus, our tours promote social responsibility and ethical tourism. By booking with us, you’ll have the opportunity to support local communities and contribute to sustainable development. So, what are you waiting for? Book a tour in Noord Vietnam with us and make your travel dreams a reality. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on making unforgettable memories.

Best of Ninh Binh in One Day – Private Tour

Ninh Binh Private Day Tour (your way)

Ninh Binh Motorbike Tour with driver

Private Cooking Class Tam Coc

We believe in fairness and transparency. When you book with us, you can trust that you’re paying a fair price – never too much. We also ensure that local people and companies are paid fairly for their work, so you can feel good about supporting the community.

RELIABLE DRIVERS

Your safety is our top priority. We make sure our drivers are well-rested and alert before driving you around. In addition to their driving skills, our drivers are familiar with Western driving styles. You can rest assured that you’re in good hands when you travel with us.

To ensure the best experience possible, we carefully select transportation, accommodations, and restaurants that meet Western standards. You can trust that you’ll have a safe and comfortable journey when you travel with us.

TRANSPARANT

We believe in transparency and honesty. The price you see is the price you pay – there are no hidden costs or surprises. We also never bring you to places where we receive commission. Our only goal is to provide you with an authentic and enjoyable experience in Noord Vietnam.

private tours

More affordable and valuable  than group tours..

Instead of opting for a packaged group tour, consider choosing a private tour with us. Not only is it a more cost-effective choice for groups of two or more, but it also provides a richer experience. On a group tour, you may end up spending more time in a bus than actually exploring attractions and sites. If you’re eager to witness and learn about the authentic Vietnam, booking with us is the way to go. We’ve got you covered.

How can we help you?

Ninh Binh is a beautiful destination in Vietnam that is often overshadowed by other popular destinations such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Halong Bay. However, Ninh Binh has a lot to offer to travelers, including stunning landscapes, historical sites, and authentic Vietnamese culture. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best things to do in Ninh Binh during your travels.

Visit Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers breathtaking scenery, limestone mountains, rice paddies, and clear waterways. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the area and admire the natural beauty of the place. The tour takes around three hours and includes stops at different temples, caves, and pagodas. BOOK A TOUR  

Explore Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam’s first national park and is home to an abundance of wildlife, including macaques, langurs, and pangolins. Visitors can take a guided tour through the park and observe the flora and fauna in their natural habitat. The park also has several trails for hiking and trekking, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. BOOK A TOUR TO CUC PHUONG.

Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties, and the ancient capital is now a historical site with beautiful temples and pagodas. Visitors can take a tour of the ancient capital and explore the rich history of the area. The temple of King Dinh is a must-visit destination in Hoa Lu, and visitors can admire the beautiful architecture and intricate designs of the temple. BOOK A TOUR

Take a Bike Tour to Tam Coc

Tam Coc is another beautiful destination in Ninh Binh that is known for its limestone caves and stunning natural scenery. Visitors can take a bike tour to explore the area and enjoy the scenic beauty of the place. The bike tour takes visitors through lush rice fields, past small villages, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Bich Dong Pagoda is a beautiful pagoda located in a limestone cave and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can climb the stairs to reach the pagoda and admire the beautiful architecture and intricate designs of the pagoda. The pagoda also offers a tranquil and peaceful environment, making it a perfect destination for meditation and relaxation.

Experience Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine

No trip to Ninh Binh is complete without experiencing the authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Ninh Binh is known for its delicious cuisine, including local specialties such as goat meat, rice, and fish. Visitors can explore the local food markets, try street food, and dine at local restaurants to experience the rich and diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. BOOK A COOKING CLASS

Visit Ninh Binh

In conclusion, Ninh Binh is a beautiful destination in Vietnam that offers stunning landscapes, historical sites, and authentic Vietnamese culture. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the area, observe the flora and fauna in their natural habitat, and enjoy the rich history and culture of the region. With so many things to do and see, Ninh Binh is a must-visit destination in Vietnam.

What would you like to do?

Behind the scenes, about ninh binh tourist center.

Our journey began with a simple goal: to support the local people of Ninh Binh with their businesses and at the same time, to guide tourists through the wonders of our region. We’ve always seen ourselves as more than just a business. Our purpose has never been about maximizing profit. Instead, it is about ensuring people have enriching and joyful experiences when they visit Ninh Binh. We’re immensely proud to say that our dedicated team, a group of kind, fun-loving, and caring individuals, are not just employees but ambassadors of Vietnam’s rich heritage and beauty. Along our journey, we’ve been privileged to witness the growth of local businesses we’ve supported and the joy we’ve brought to countless tourists. These experiences have only fueled our determination to continue and expand our mission. At Ninh Binh Tourist Center, we promise more than just a service, we offer a heartfelt connection to the soul of Vietnam. We invite you to become a part of our story.

Ninh Binh Tourist Center

WebChat WhatsApp us Stay in Vietnam long time We do our best to keep prices correct, but circumstances such as fuel prices and other external factors may cause price changes. We will inform you of this as soon as possible.

• Most popular
• Airport transfers
• Private car with driver
• Transfers North Vietnam
• Full day motorbike taxi
• Private car North Vietnam

11 Places to Visit in Ninh Binh + Things To Do

For people who are not very keen on the noise in Hanoi, Ninh Binh, a city in a state of the same name, makes a good alternative. It is a place of unspoiled beauty; and of peace and quiet.

Ninh Binh is a haven for nature lovers. Its prized attractions are splendid sceneries of limestone formations, mossy pagodas, and untainted landscapes. What’s the best way to experience all those natural wonders? It is through a paddleboat. Traversing Trang An in a paddleboat allows you to appreciate the jungle-covered karsts all over the place. Paddleboats also stop by temples, so you do not miss the city’s captivating culture and history.

There are not so many attractions within Ninh Binh city itself. But it is a fantastic starting point for exploring Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, and Van Long, which keep even more of Vietnam’s natural wonders. Plus, it is accessible from Hanoi, a two-hour ride by bus or train, where international flights come in.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Ninh Binh travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Ninh Binh Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

View all travel tips on: Ninh Binh .

1. Hang Mua Peak (Mua Caves Viewpoint )

Location : thôn Khê Đầu Hạ, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

See rates & book online

Mua Cave and Trang An Tour from Hanoi

For more travel inspiration,  follow Detourista on :

Instagram Facebook tiktok Pinterest

2. Tam Coc River

Location : Tam Coc Ninh Binh Đội 2 văn lâm, Ninh Hải, Hoa Lư, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Day Tour from Hanoi

3. Trang An

Location : Tràng An, Trường Yên, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

4. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Location : Trường Yên, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Hanoi-Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh Private Day Tour

5. Bai Dinh Pagoda

Location : Xã, Gia Sinh, Gia Viễn, Ninh Bình, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

6. Bich Dong Pagoda, Tam Coc

Location : Ninh Hải, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình Province 430000, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

7. Thung Nham Bird Park

Location : Thôn Hải Nham, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

8. Thai Vi Temple, Tam Coc

Location : Ninh Hải, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

9. Explore Ninh Binh by Bicycle

10. Mua Caves Ecolodge

Rooms & rates at Mua Caves Ecolodge

Check rates online here

Location : Khê Hạ, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình Province 430000, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

11. Phat Diem Cathedral

Location : TT. Phát Diệm, Kim Sơn District, Ninh Bình Province 430000, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go near Ninh Binh & beyond

Location : Northern Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Hanoi Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Private City Transfers for Hanoi City and Surrounding Areas

Top discounts

Private Noi Bai Airport Transfers (HAN) for Hanoi City or Halong Bay

Hanoi Private Car Charter

Hanoi Old Quarter Food Tour

See more : Hanoi travel tips

Location : Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Halong Bay Travel Essentials

Hanoi-Halong Bay Deluxe Cruise

Phong Nha Caves

Location : Bố Trạch District, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam . Save on Google Maps .

Phong Nha Travel Essentials

2D1N Hue and Phong Nha Cave Private Tour from Da Nang

Phong Nha Cave Exploration from Hue

Phong Nha Sunset Cruise Experience in Quang Binh

See more : Phong Nha Caves travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Ninh Binh that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh tourist spots, things to do in Ninh Binh, where to go in Ninh Binh & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Ninh Binh

Click below & search recommended Ninh Binh hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

Discover more blogs and travel tips in:

• Southeast Asia

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Ninh Binh Tourism
• Ninh Binh Hotels
• Ninh Binh Bed and Breakfast
• Ninh Binh Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Ninh Binh
• Ninh Binh Restaurants
• Things to Do in Ninh Binh
• Ninh Binh Travel Forum
• Ninh Binh Photos
• Ninh Binh Map
• All Ninh Binh Hotels
• Ninh Binh Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Ninh Binh
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Tam Coc Sunshine Homestay - Ninh Binh Forum

• Asia    
• Vietnam    
• Ninh Binh Province    
• Ninh Binh    

Tam Coc Sunshine Homestay

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Ninh Binh Province forums
• Ninh Binh forum

Hi kimmer9396,

Their website does not work, here is their page, you can also find their email here:

https://www.facebook.com/Tamcoc01

• Tam Coc Sunshine Homestay 7:53 pm
• Tam coc May 07, 2024
• Ninh Binh for the claustrophobic May 07, 2024
• going directly to Ninh Binh from Halong Bay Apr 30, 2024
• Is this place legit or fake reviews? Apr 24, 2024
• Ngoa Long Mountain Apr 22, 2024
• Recommendations for Ninh Binh day tour please Apr 18, 2024
• Ninh Bihn day trip return tour from Hanoi or do myself Apr 15, 2024
• Electric bicycles to rent in Tam Coc Apr 09, 2024
• How does boat charge and tips work for Tam Coc boat tours? Apr 03, 2024
• Lalita boutique hotel or Tam Coc Catalina hotel? Mar 30, 2024
• How long in Tam Coc Mar 27, 2024
• Ninh Binh day tour Mar 26, 2024
• Motorcycle rental Mar 21, 2024
• Transportation from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh 8 replies
• Ngoc Anh hotel vs. Emeralda Resort 4 replies
• co vien lau hotel at tam coc 4 replies
• Hotel Chez Loan - how to book?! 3 replies
• Ninh Binh to Hanoi by train 12 replies
• Getting to Ninh Binh from Vinh 5 replies
• Trang An Grotto Boat Ride 8 replies
• Ninh Bin - How long & highlights 6 replies
• Cat Ba to Ninh Binh 6 replies
• Ninh Binh itinerary help request 5 replies

Ninh Binh Hotels and Places to Stay

• Corrections

A Guide to 6 Natural Wonders of Vietnam

From Ha Long Bay to the Mekong Delta, Vietnam is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders.

A long, thin country situated at the eastern edge of mainland Southeast Asia, Vietnam’s topography is spectacular, to say the least. A medley of karst mountains, artisanally crafted rice terraces, and diverse ecosystems, few countries in the world can boast the same variety of pure natural wonderment as Vietnam. Though impossible to fit it all into one article, for those with a love for the artistry of the natural world and its unique relationship with human beings, here is a guide to 6 natural wonders in Vietnam.

1. Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, Ha Long Bay is a sublime collection of 1,600 mostly uninhabited karst islands that extend 120 kilometers into the Gulf of Tonkin from the mainland. Protruding from the sea to a height of up to 100 meters, these forest-covered islands collectively form a dramatic and mesmeric seascape unrivaled elsewhere on the planet. In Vietnamese, Ha Long translates to “where the dragon descends into the sea,” where, according to local legend, the unique rock formations were shaped by a noble mountain dragon dropping from the heavens to defend the Viet people from invaders.

A combination of the dragon’s fire and tail subsequently carved out the valleys and crevasses enjoyed by millions of visitors every year. While a more prosaic explanation can be attributed to millions of years of tectonic activity and erosion, it takes nothing away from the sheer magnificence of the scenery.

How to Get There

Get the latest articles delivered to your inbox, please check your inbox to activate your subscription.

Ha Long Bay is located 103 miles from the capital Hanoi and is accessed best by two or four wheels. Trains run but not directly, which means an exhausting 8-hour journey. Overnight boat trips are best organized from Hanoi to avoid the excessively commercialized Ha Long City. Be warned, with Ha Long Bay now a major global tourist destination, ditching the crowds is difficult. However, the few moments you will get alone make it worthwhile, especially for the otherworldly sunsets and sunrises.

When to Visit

The best time to visit is March to May and September to November when temperatures are hospitable, and the rains are absent.

2. The Mekong Delta

Known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is one of the world’s largest and most significant. Comprising a vast area of approximately 55,000 square kilometers, the delta is one of the most productive and intensively cultivated areas in Asia and is home to some 20 million Vietnamese. As a result, its biological and cultural significance cannot be understated. A mix of acid green vegetation intersected with innumerable canals and waterways that crisscross the landscape, the delta is home to a truly unique way of life.

Houses either float or are built on stilts, and world-famous markets buoy in the middle of the river and its tributaries. These markets, an example of the way the waters of the Mekong govern all ways of life here, are the product of the tapestry of rice paddies, fruit orchards, and shrimp farms that the river sustains. There is also an enormous range of natural biodiversity here, which makes the delta home to a stunning array of birdlife, aquatic animals, and unique flora and fauna.

While the region is vast, a great place to start is the market town of My Tho, situated one and a half hours south of Ho Chi Minh. Great for a day trip to experience river life, it can also serve as a springboard to delve deeper into the delta or to kick on to the region’s cultural and economic heartland Can Tho (also home to the famous floating markets). Buses and taxis can easily be arranged from Ho Chi Minh City. Again, by far the best way to see the delta is by motorcycle, which will let you experience the essence of local life.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. However, despite the rain and humidity, a visit in the wet season (May-November) means the delta will be a lush green water world teaming with life.

3. Trang An Complex, Ninh Binh

Found in the serene Van Long Nature Reserve, seven kilometers west of the regional capital Ninh Binh is the spectacular Trang An Complex . Known as “Ha Long Bay on Land,” this 250-million-year-old geological collection of limestone karsts, grottos, and tropical forests is another UNESCO Heritage Site known for its 200-meter-high rock towers and subterranean cave passages.

The complex also holds important cultural significance as the site of Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital under the Dinh Dynasty. Under Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang, the geological landscape of Trang An provided a practical natural barrier to protect the Emperor’s Imperial Citadel. With archaeological evidence of human civilization dating back 30,000 years, Trang An is a fine example of human interaction with the natural environment over the millennia.

One of the best ways to experience Trang An is by taking a boat along the Sao Khe River, where jungle-covered limestone peaks rise on either side amidst verdant green and yellow rice fields. It is no surprise the Park is a favored destination for filmmakers.

Trang An is located 20 kilometers west of the provincial capital Ninh Binh, and 90 kilometers south of Hanoi. Ninh Binh is easily accessed by train or bus from most major Vietnamese cities. The Van Long Nature Reserve is then just a short distance away. There is a host of accommodations both in Van Long and Ninh Binh.

The best time to visit is spring when the temperatures are mild, and the sky is clear. However, for those happy to brace the summer heat, a visit in late May or early June will reward you with fewer crowds and beaming golden rice paddies.

4. Phong Nha National Park, Quang Binh

Located in the middle of the dramatic Annamite Mountain Range, Phong Nha National Park comprises an area of 324 square miles. Protecting over 104 kilometers of caves and underground rivers, it is also one of the oldest and most spectacular limestone karst ecosystems in the world. Phong Nha is also home to a diverse range of aquatic and land-based ecosystems, dense tropical forests, and the largest cave on the planet.

At a length of 5.6 miles and measuring over 200 meters at its widest point, the world’s largest cave, the Son Doong, is vast enough for a jumbo jet to comfortably pass through it. While visitor numbers to the Son Doong are tightly regulated (and prohibitively expensive at $3,000 per person), other caves are more easily accessible and almost as spectacular. With the Phong Nha cave system measuring an astonishing 44.5 kilometers (one of the longest in the world), it houses the Tu Lan, Hang Va, and Hang En caves, which can be explored by overnight tour. The large number of faunae, flora, and animal species found in the park also means Phong Nha is a trekker’s paradise.

With Phong Nha’s popularity soaring both domestically and internationally, there are now plenty of ways the park can easily be reached. The nearest train station and airport are found 45 kilometers east, in Dong Hoi city, which services connections with the rest of Vietnam. The park can also be reached directly from Hanoi by bus.

While the park can be visited all year round, the best time, of course, is in the dry season between April and August. It also makes many of the treks safer. Note that the caves close in the wet season between mid-September and late-November.

5. Ha Giang 

Widely regarded as the final frontier of Vietnam’s spectacular natural landscape, Ha Giang is as breathtaking as it is endless. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in the far north of the country, Ha Giang is a mindboggling collection of 1,200-meter karst mountains linked by death-defying mountain passes and dotted with the villages of the H’Mong, Nung, Giay, and Lo Lo, among others.

The region is also another fine example of human’s relationship with the natural world. The Dong Van Karst Plateau is the main draw with its juxtaposition of dramatic karst peaks set amid rice terraces that tumble down the valley walls, while exploration of the surrounding area and the magnificent Vuong Palace will reveal a largely untold history of colonial resistance and opium trading. In a country where mass tourism has begun to firmly take hold, Ha Giang is one final destination in Vietnam, if not the world, where one can embrace and be immersed in a truly unique natural world with little intrusion.

The only way to get to Ha Giang is by road, which means either booking a trip from Hanoi or hiring your own transport. If you pursue the latter, for most, a car is probably the most comfortable way to travel. However, to truly appreciate Ha Giang, it is all about two wheels. Motorcycle hire and tour providers can easily be found in Hanoi or Ha Giang.

The best time to visit is between October and November, as temperatures are cool. May to September is also dry, but it can be hot. Take care in the rainy season between June and August, as the rains make the roads slippery and muddy.

6. Mu Cang Chai, Yen Bai

A symbol of national pride and the country’s agricultural heritage, there is arguably no better portrayal of Vietnam’s natural beauty than Mu Cang Chai. Recently designated by the government as a site of national importance, Mu Cang Chai is layer upon layer of finely tailored rice terraces that snake the landscape with flawless proficiency. Not only a spectacular sight, these collections of terraces are also an integral part of the local culture, some of which have been cultivated for generations.

Timed right, this can be experienced by visitors during the Rice Fields Festival in late September, where one will be exposed to an array of colors, music, and dance. For many, however, the primary reason to visit is “Photographers Road” (National Road 32), which stretches between Tu Le and Mu Cang Chai and is home to some of the most picturesque rice terraces in Southeast Asia.

Again, much like the rest of Vietnam, there is no better way to explore this geological and anthropological marvel than by motorcycle, but it can also be done by car. There are also numerous treks and homestays scattered throughout to allow one to enjoy Mu Cang Chai for as long as one wishes.

Roughly a six-to-eight-hour journey by road, Mu Cang Chai is located 300km (186 miles) northeast of Hanoi. Buses and private transport can easily be arranged through your accommodation, as can motorcycle hire. If traveling by public transport (train is also an option), head to Yen Bai and then grab onward transit to Mu Cang Chai.

Mu Chang Chai can be visited all year round, with each season endowing a unique set of characteristics on the landscape. Summer is characterized by verdant acid-green surroundings, while in Autumn, arguably the most spectacular time to visit, the hills turn bright yellow as the rice approaches harvest. In winter, as the terraces fill with water and wait for the spring, it can be a photographer’s dream as sunrises and sunsets create endless reflections that stagger the hills like a hall of glowing mirrors.

What Are the Seven Wonders of the Natural World?

By Cameron Mason MA Social Anthropology, MSc Comparative Public Policy Cameron is a freelance writer currently based in Vietnam. He has an MA in Social Anthropology and an MSc in Comparative Public Policy, both from the University of Edinburgh.

Frequently Read Together

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 10 for Archaeology Enthusiasts

Paris of the East: 5 Cities That Remind Us of the French Capital

How Did Hydro-Engineering Help Build The Khmer Empire?

Việt Nam News

Businesses face difficulties over silicon determination methods.

HÀ NỘI — Many fertiliser production enterprises face difficulties in production and business due to the results of two silicon determination methods for products on the market.

Phùng Hà, standing vice chairman cum general secretary of the Vietnam Fertiliser Association, said that Việt Nam now has two methods for analysing the element silicon in fertilisers, and each method gives a different result for the same sample.

They are the method under TCVN 11407:2019, one national standard, for all kinds of fertiliser, including alkaline silica fertiliser, and other method under TCCS 772:2020/BVTV, the Plant Protection Department's standard, for only alkaline silica fertiliser.

According to complaints mainly from businesses producing fused phosphate and super phosphate fertilisers, sent to the association, these different results have caused many fertiliser production enterprises to be sanctioned for administrative violations in the fertiliser production and business, Hà said.

Nguyễn Hồng Phong, general director of Tiến Nông Industry and Agriculture JSC, said there is an overlap in testing methods.

Tiến Nông has had to explain to State management agencies many times about the different results, because the silicon content is 26-28 per cent under the Plant Protection Department's test method of TCCS 772:2020/BVTV, much higher than the content of only 1 per cent tested by the method of the national standard - TCVN 11407:2019, Phong said.

He said, it is necessary to soon standardise the methods and synchronise with international standards. That will create favourable conditions for international cooperation in silicon fertiliser research and trading this kind of fertiliser.

Phong also proposed promoting research and application of silicon-based nanomaterials in fertiliser production to take the effects of silicon on plants and soil.

Hà Huy San, head of the Technical Department, Ninh Bình Phosphate Fertiliser JSC, also said that the company's phosphate fertiliser products have been produced since 1985 with 25 per cent -30 per cent silicon ingredients.

Before the Government's Decree No 108/2017/NĐ-CP on fertiliser management issued in September 2017, businesses self-proclaimed quality and standards on packages and were responsible for the declared information.

However, after Decree 108, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is only regulated to have information about three ingredients in fused phosphate fertiliser on the package, excluding silicon.

So, from 2017 until now, Ninh Bình Fertiliser Company has not announced the silicon content on the package even though the fertiliser products contain high silicon content.

At present, Ninh Binh's fused phosphate fertiliser products are exported to Australia, New Zealand, and Malaysia and are determined by international inspection agencies to have a silicon content of 26-28 per cent.

Therefore, having only one method of analysing silicon in fertiliser is very important, helping fertiliser producers to avoid being fined for administrative violations in the fertiliser production and business relating to the silicon content, San said.

He added that the State should consider supplementing the silicon component in the list of fused phosphate fertiliser ingredients, and permit the silicon analysis method of the Plant Protection Department's TCCS 772:2020/BVTV standard as a national standard, to protect the interests of consumers and manufacturers.

Hà said the association will synthesise the opinions of scientists and fertiliser manufacturing businesses to submit to the State management agency and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to unify the silicon determination methods for fertilizers, solving the problems of businesses. — VNS

HCM City to host 4th international electronics, smart appliances expo

Work starts on trillion-VND biodegradable materials factory in Hải Phòng

Vietnamese entrepreneur first to receive Cartier Women’s Initiative Award

HDBank sets ambitious 2024 targets, promotes ESG

Key economic pillars show positive growth

VN develops a contingent of competent entrepreneurs

More on this story.

India as main market for Vietnamese star anise exports

The rise of EVs driving Việt Nam towards net zero

Australian-funded GREAT 2 programme launched in Sơn La

Vietnam, Australia work toward sustainable development of trade

PM orders review of regulations hampering medicinal herb exports

Strong recovery seen in industrial production in four months

Việt Nam's durian exports to China boom in Q1

Outstanding bonds of real estate enterprises amount VNĐ350.88 trillion

Việt Nam coffee exports to Singapore scant, room to grow enormous

• Print Advertisement
• Online Advertisement

Try a Central Highlands style chicken feast

A traditional martial art for modern minds

Vĩnh Long promotes 'hát bội'

Ethnic Thái people preserve bamboo and rattan weaving craft

Việt Nam wishes for Cambodia's cooperation in impact assessment of Funan Techo canal on Mekong River: Spokeswoman

French, VN defence ministers agree to promote cooperation to level commensurate with Strategic Partnership

Markets eye major producers as coffee prices soar

Giang sets sail from stormy seas to calmer waters

Textile and garment businesses face difficulties due to lack of domestic supply

• Điện Biên's historical relic sites flooded with tourists
• Uruguayan, Cuban media spotlight Điện Biên Phủ Victory
• Điện Biên Phủ Victory observed in Russia
• Hà Nội on way to 'Creative City'
• Enlightening Hà Nội’s night economy
• Hà Nội gains positive economic growth and recovery
• Capital city strengthens trade, investment promotion
• Capital City commits to bold 2024 agenda prioritising economic revival, infrastructure advancement
• Hà Nội promotion activities in 2023 showcased trade, innovation, and economic growth
• New routes help tourists discover Hà Nội's destinations
• Ancient village preserves mother-of-pearl craft
• Hoàn Kiếm pedestrian space in Hà Nội to open throughout New Year 2024 holiday

• Ba Na Hills to host unprecedented world-class magic and circus shows with renowned artists
• How does Fatzbaby always lead e-commerce market in highly competitive mother & baby products market?
• Cheap mother, baby products give way to no. 1 e-commerce brand on quality concerns

• Journalists work to spread love for Trường Sa
• Six streets in Hà Nội to be named after Trường Sa Archipelago’s islands
• Việt Nam concerned about recent developments in East Sea: Diplomat

• Let's get spicey
• Jelly mooncake
• How virtual learning prepares students for the future that does not yet exist