Ninh Binh Province is often nicknamed the Halong Bay on land due to its spectacular landscapes of karst mountains, winding rivers, and ancient temples. It is a destination not to be missed during your trip to Vietnam, especially for foreign travelers wishing to discover the natural and cultural beauty of Vietnam. In this article, we offer a detailed exploration of Ninh Binh, a guide to better understand this fascinating region, its tourist sites, and the best ways to explore them.

Where Is Ninh Binh?

Located about 95 kilometers south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh lies in Vietnam’s Red River Delta region. The province is full of natural and historical treasures and known for its lush rice fields, limestone karsts, winding rivers, and ancient temples. It serves as a gateway to both cultural treasures and some of the most iconic natural beauty in northern Vietnam. The region is crossed by several rivers, including the romantic Ngo Dong River, which winds through magnificent landscapes of karst mountains, caves, and rice paddies. It is an area both rich in biodiversity and steeped in history. Ninh Binh is easily accessible from the capital city and makes for a fantastic weekend getaway or a key stop on a Vietnam itinerary. 

Main attractions of Ninh Binh

Tam Coc

One of the most famous sites in Ninh Binh is Tam Coc, a group of spectacular karst caves and mountains crossed by the Ngo Dong River. By consulting the map of Ninh Binh, you can easily locate Tam Coc, located near the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Exploring Tam Coc is usually done by boat, where travelers are guided through the natural caves, admiring impressive scenery while cruising peacefully along the river.

This site is particularly known for its unique natural geological formations, lush green mountains, and picturesque landscapes. The karst mountains of Tam Coc form a unique landscape, often compared to that of Halong Bay, but on land.

Cuc Phuong National Park

Located south of Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park is one of Vietnam's premier nature reserves, renowned for its biodiversity and tropical forests. It is also easily accessible via the province's main roads, such as Expressway 01.

This reserve offers hikes through the lush jungle, allowing visitors to explore its rich and unique flora and fauna. Endemic plant species, rare birds, and wildlife such as gibbons, deer, and turtles can be found here. Another point of interest in Cuc Phuong is the Primate Protection Center, which works to protect endangered species.

Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam

Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties and remains an important historical site. On the map of Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu is located a few kilometers north of Tam Coc. This site houses temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le kings, as well as a series of pagodas and historical relics dating back to the 10th century.

Foreign visitors can explore the ancient stone structures, whose temples are adorned with carvings depicting mythological and religious figures. Hoa Lu teaches you the fascinating history of Vietnam and the importance of this region in the country's development.

Trang An Complex

Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another must-see in Ninh Binh. This site, often compared to Ha Long Bay, is known for its caves, rivers, and spectacular karst mountains. On the map of Ninh Binh, Trang An is accessible by boat, allowing visitors to discover landscapes of exceptional beauty.

Exploring Trang An is a magical experience, as boats guide you through narrow caves, beneath impressive rock formations, and amidst lush vegetation. Aside from its natural landscapes, Trang An also boasts significant cultural value, with several temples and pagodas located in the area.

Van Long Nature Reserve

Van Long Nature Reserve is a peaceful place, ideal for nature and wildlife lovers. It is located about 30 km north of Ninh Binh. This site is a vast wetland surrounded by karst mountains, providing a splendid setting for boat trips. Visitors can observe birds, wildlife, and impressive scenery while leisurely paddling on the river. It is also home to the endangered Asian otter.

Kenh Ga

Kenh Ga is another magnificent natural site located about 35 km south of Ninh Binh. This place is famous for its tranquil river and hot springs of the same name, surrounded by mountains and picturesque villages. Visitors can take boat trips on this river, admire the scenery along its banks, discover the natural hot springs, and enjoy the serenity of this secluded location. It is a perfect place to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of Vietnam.

Phat Diem Cathedral

Phat Diem is a small historic town renowned for its unique cathedral. Phat Diem Cathedral is an architectural marvel, blending traditional Vietnamese and Catholic styles, using local materials such as wood and stone. It is surrounded by magnificent landscapes of rice paddies and mountains, creating a striking contrast between culture and nature. This place is an important center for Catholics in Vietnam.

Bai Dinh

The Bai Dinh complex is one of the largest Buddhist temples in Vietnam. Located on Bai Dinh Mountain, this temple is an important pilgrimage site and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The site is notable for its gigantic statues, multi-story pagoda, and picturesque mountains. It is a place of serenity and contemplation, with spectacular views of the surrounding area.

Thung Nham

Thung Nham is a verdant valley, often called the "Garden of Ninh Binh." This site is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, karst mountains, and diverse wildlife. In addition to hiking, visitors can explore the Thung Nham Caves, take boat rides through canals, and discover protected wildlife areas. It is a place where nature is preserved in its purest form.

Thung Nang

Thung Nang is another beautiful valley, less frequented than Thung Nham, but just as splendid. It's an ideal place for sampan rides surrounded by nature, with peaceful rivers, lush mountains, and countryside. Foreign visitors can explore the site by traditional boat and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings, far from the hustle and bustle of tourism.

Bich Dong Pagoda

Bich Dong Pagoda is a historic pagoda located on a hill, about 10 km from Ninh Binh. It is an important cultural site where curious visitors can admire not only the pagoda itself but also the magnificent mountain scenery that surrounds it. The pagoda is a place of prayer and meditation and is known for its stone carvings and inscriptions.

Van Lam Village

Van Lam is a small commune in Ninh Binh, renowned for its rural landscapes and rice paddies. It is a place where one can experience authentic Vietnamese rural life and occupations, far from the busy tourist areas. Visitors can enjoy cycling or hiking here, enjoying the serenity of the countryside.

Hang Mua

Hang Mua is a spectacular site known for its mountain, which is reached by a 500-step staircase. At the top of the mountain, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Tam Coc area and the surrounding mountains. It's an ideal spot for travelers who enjoy hiking and photography, offering an incredible natural setting.

Galaxy Cave

Galaxy Cave is a spectacular underground cave located in Ninh Binh. This site is still relatively unknown and offers a unique visitor experience. The cave is formed by fascinating stalactites and stalagmites, and the interior is lit to create a mystical atmosphere. It's an ideal place for adventurers and those seeking uncrowded natural sites.

Yen Mac

Yen Mac is a small town located west of Ninh Binh, with a rich history and authentic local culture. It's a perfect place to visit for those who want to experience traditional Vietnamese life. Travelers can explore the nearby villages, stroll through the rice fields, and discover ancient temples and pagodas. This site offers a profound cultural experience and insight into rural life.

These places offer a wide variety of experiences, from discovering the wilderness to exploring Vietnamese culture and history. Each of these sites has its own unique charm and is a valuable addition to the Ninh Binh experience.

How to move to Ninh Binh

To fully explore Ninh Binh, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the available means of transportation. There are several methods:

First, we have the train, since both cities lie along the North-South railway line. There are six daily trains running from 6 AM to 8 PM, which means you can choose the one that best suits your itinerary. A train journey takes approximately 2 hours, allowing you to enjoy the picturesque scenery en route. To ensure success, it is advisable to book your tickets early and be aware of potential fraudulent ticket sellers. 

Second, you can use the bus. Several bus companies offer daily buses between these two destinations, with various types of buses, from standard to luxury ones. A bus journey is quite cheap, but the journey can be tiring and not suitable for old people.

Next, we come to one of the most convenient options, the limousine, as you can relish a luxurious and relaxing journey with many amenities like phone charging ports, air conditioning, comfortable seats and more.

Finally, if you want freedom and flexibility, there's always the option of cars and motorbikes. Car and motorbike rental services are always readily available, and the trip itself isn't long either, only about 1-2 hours. Nevertheless, you should check your vehicle thoroughly, wear safety equipment like seat belts or helmets, and always pay attention on the road to ensure a safe journey. 

Accommodation in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to guesthouses and homestays. Travelers can choose to stay near famous sites such as Tam Coc or Trang An for a complete immersion in nature.

Another option is local guesthouses, often located in the countryside, which offer a glimpse into the daily lives of locals and the opportunity to sample local products. This can be a great opportunity to taste local cuisine, such as "cơm cháy" (scorched rice) or nem chua (fermented pork spring rolls).

What to eat in Ninh Binh?

The ancient capital of Ninh Binh is not only famous for its enchanting ancient beauty and majestic landscapes but also for its unique cuisine. Here are some dishes that you must try when you come to Ninh Binh.

Ninh Binh scorched rice

Ninh Binh scorched rice is one of the outstanding delicious dishes of Ninh Binh; just mentioning it makes people immediately think of this unique flavor. The dish is made from quality sticky rice, prepared and cooked following traditional recipes, creating an attractive crispy taste.

Ninh Binh mountain snails

Ninh Binh mountain snails are one of the famous delicious dishes in Ninh Binh that you should not miss. This special type of snail lives in the crevices of the mountains, so it has a delicious, natural flavor.

Mountain snails are processed in many different ways, such as boiled, steamed, and stir-fried, and are often eaten with rich dipping sauce, creating an attractive, unforgettable flavor. This dish not only brings a unique culinary experience but is also a meaningful Ninh Binh specialty as a gift to enjoy with friends on chilly evenings.

Yen Mac fermented spring rolls

Yen Mac fermented spring rolls are one of the famous dishes in Ninh Binh, with a unique flavor created from pork, fragrant rice powder ("thính") and pork skin. This nem chua dish is often enjoyed with fresh fig leaves, herbs and specially mixed fish sauce, bringing a perfect blend of natural flavors.

Gia Vien shrimp paste

Gia Vien shrimp paste is one of the delicious dishes with a rich flavor, both salty and sweet, typical of the ancient capital. This dish is made from fresh shrimp, combined with spices such as dried onions and fried garlic, creating a familiar dish in the daily meals of the people.

Eel vermicelli

Eel vermicelli is also a great dish that you cannot miss when exploring Ninh Binh cuisine. The eel here must be a young eel with a pinkish-brown back and a deep yellow belly. This type of eel is smaller than a normal eel but the meat is firm and extremely sweet. When served with shredded banana flowers, the dish will create an irresistible sweet, fatty, and fragrant taste.

All in all, this guide is a true key to exploring this exceptional region of Vietnam. By planning your trip with the help of this guide, you can discover a variety of natural, cultural, and historical sites that make Ninh Binh a unique destination. Whether you're looking for breathtaking landscapes, tranquil moments in nature, or an immersion in Vietnamese history, Ninh Binh has it all. Once there, you'll understand why this region is considered one of Vietnam's gems.

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