Ninh Binh is not just a hidden fairyland nestled among emerald mountains and waters but also a vibrant symphony of mesmerizing attractions. Like a living painting, every scene here is imbued with the breath of nature and the echoes of countless wandering journeys. Curious about what to do in Ninh Binh? Let’s dive into the highlights in the article below!

Geography & Administrative Divisions

Located at the southern gateway of the Red River Delta, about 100 km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh holds a strategic geographical position as it borders both the capital and the North Central region. This unique location makes Ninh Binh a cultural crossroads and a natural transition zone between lowland plains and mountainous terrain. The province is distinguished by its majestic limestone mountains, interwoven with rivers, rice fields, and mysterious caves—earning it the nickname “Inland Halong Bay.”

Here are some key geographical and administrative facts about Ninh Binh:

Total area: 1,412 km²

Population: 1.1 million people 

Topography: a mix of limestone mountains, river systems, caves, and coastal plains

Borders: adjacent to Ha Nam, Nam Dinh, Thanh Hoa, and Hoa Binh provinces

Region: Red River Delta

Administratively, Ninh Binh includes:

1 provincial city: Ninh Binh City (provincial capital)

1 town: Tam Điệp

6 rural districts: Gia Viễn, Hoa Lư, Yên Khánh, Yên Mô, Nho Quan, Kim Sơn

Note: Some districts have merged recently due to administrative reforms. Always check the latest official map for the most accurate district boundaries

Climate & Best Time To Visit

Blessed with wild, majestic landscapes, Ninh Binh offers beauty year-round. However, many travelers highlight two standout seasons:

Spring (January–March): Mildly cool weather makes it ideal for mountain excursions and temple visits during the Lunar New Year period.

Butterfly Season (April–June): Witness the enchanting sight of butterflies dancing through Cuc Phuong National Park—a truly unforgettable natural spectacle.

Golden Fields & Lotus Blossoms (July and beyond): As butterflies fade, Ninh Binh transforms into its harvest season—fields of golden rice and vast lotus ponds amid the mountains draw crowds for vibrant, scenic views.

Top Attractions & Natural Wonders

Ninh Binh is not only a hidden fairytale land nestled among emerald mountains and winding rivers but also a vibrant symphony of breathtaking attractions that captivate the soul. Like a living painting, every corner here is infused with the spirit of nature and echoes of countless dreamy journeys. Wondering where to go in Ninh Binh? Let’s explore its most captivating spots below!

Scenic And Natural Treasures

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

Recognized by UNESCO as a rare dual heritage site for both its cultural significance and natural beauty, the Trang An Landscape Complex offers a stunning tapestry of history, spirituality, and landscape. Located in the southern part of the Red River Delta and spanning over 6,226 hectares, Trang An is often hailed as the “Ha Long Bay on land” for its enchanting scenery.

Visitors are captivated by majestic limestone karsts rising sharply from lush valleys, an intricate system of natural caves carved by water over millennia, and emerald-green rivers weaving through the land like silk ribbons. A boat journey here is more than sightseeing—it’s a serene voyage through sacred temples, ancient shrines, and geological wonders that echo Vietnam’s rich spiritual and historical legacy. With every paddle stroke through the tranquil waterways, Trang An invites travelers to discover the harmony between nature and culture in one breathtaking experience.

Tam Coc-Bich Dong

Tam Coc-Bich Dong, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, is a natural wonder featuring three large caves stretching across lush rice fields and towering limestone mountains. This destination captivates visitors not only with the enchanting beauty of its cave system but also with its historical significance tied to the Tran Dynasty. You can explore this scenic area by boat, gently gliding through limestone caves while soaking in the fresh air and the pristine charm of the surrounding nature.

Thung Nang

When it comes to the Trang An Landscape Complex, one name you simply cannot miss is Thung Nang (Sunny Valley). Unlike many well-known tourist sites that have been shaped by human hands, Thung Nắng retains a raw, untouched charm.

Perhaps because it hasn’t been heavily promoted for tourism, Thung Nang still offers visitors a sense of pristine beauty and majestic natural scenery—an unspoiled gift from nature to this land. The serenity and authenticity of the landscape make it a refreshing escape for those seeking peace and natural wonder.

Thien Ha Cave

Nestled within the Tuong Mountain range at nearly 200 meters above sea level, Thien Ha cave (galaxy cave) is often likened to a natural fortress guarding the southwest of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu in the 10th century.

Its name, meaning “galaxy,” stems from the cave’s magical atmosphere—sunlight streaming into the dry cave creates shimmering patterns, while multicolored lights in the dark cave evoke the feeling of a starry galaxy hidden deep within the mountain. Thanks to its surreal beauty, it is often hailed as the most stunning cave within the Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh.

Mua Cave

Mua Cave is located about 10 km from Ninh Binh city center, nestled at the foot of Mua Mountain. Often referred to as the “Great Wall of Vietnam,” this natural complex spans over 4 hectares, featuring impressive limestone formations, caves, and breathtaking landscapes.

Climbing the 500 stone steps to the summit of Mua Mountain rewards visitors with a panoramic view of the Tam Coc region—majestic limestone peaks, winding rivers, and endless golden rice fields unfold like a poetic painting. The stunning scenery leaves travelers in awe, making Mua Cave a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Religious And Historical Heritage

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital in Ninh Binh once served as Vietnam’s capital from 968 to 1010, spanning three dynasties: the Dinh, Early Le, and Early Ly. This historic site preserves significant legacies from these periods, offering visitors a chance to admire ancient temples and delve into legendary tales and heroic feats of national heroes.

Every step taken in the tranquil atmosphere of Hoa Lu feels like a journey back through time, where you can sense the enduring spirit and grandeur of Vietnam’s early dynasties.

Dinh And Le King Temple

​​This important historical complex within the ancient capital of Hoa Lu is closely associated with the formation of Vietnam’s first independent feudal state. The temples here were built with traditional architecture and a solemn spatial layout that clearly reflects the political and cultural imprints of the Dai Co Viet era.

Phat Diem Cathedral

Located about 28 kilometers from Ninh Binh city, Phat Diem Cathedral stands out with its unique architecture. Though a Catholic structure, it is modeled after traditional Vietnamese pagodas, featuring curved roofs shaped like boat prows. The Phat Diem Cathedral complex includes a grand cathedral and five smaller chapels—one of which is built entirely from natural stone and is known as the Stone Church.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda is built with grand and distinctive architecture, featuring a majestic main hall with three tiers and twelve curved roofs shaped like dragon tails, traditional shoe-shaped tiles, and staircases carved with stone dragons from the Ly Dynasty. This sacred site is renowned for holding numerous records in Vietnam and Asia, such as the largest gilded bronze Buddha statue in Asia, the tallest stupa in Southeast Asia, the longest Arhat corridor in Asia with over a thousand Arhat statues, and the largest temple well in Vietnam.

If you’re a devoted Buddhist or someone passionate about history, culture, and ancient architecture, a visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda—this sacred sanctuary nestled among majestic mountains—is an absolute must.

National Parks And Nature Reserves

Cuc Phuong National Park

As the first and largest primeval forest in Vietnam, a journey through Cuc Phuong National Park immerses you in wild nature and offers a chance to encounter rare animals such as the Delacour’s langur and Asiatic black bear, as well as ancient trees like the thousand-year-old Parashorea.

Winding trails lead visitors to mysterious spots like the Cave of Prehistoric Man and Son Cung Cave—each step an adventure deeper into the heart of the untouched forest. Especially from April to May, the park becomes even more magical as thousands of butterflies flutter through the air, creating a truly unforgettable spectacle.

Van Long Nature Reserve

This nature reserve captivates visitors with its mirror-like calm waters, surrounded by limestone mountains and reed forests. It is also home to the Delacour’s langur—a rare primate species listed in the Red Book of endangered animals.

Thung Nham Bird Park

Not only the Mekong Delta, but also the majestic land of Ninh Binh is home to a remarkable bird park—Thung Nham Bird Garden. This natural haven shelters over 40 species of birds and more than 50,000 wild animals. At Thung Nham, visitors can witness flocks of birds in flight and immerse themselves in the peaceful, untouched beauty of nature. Besides birdwatching, you can also explore unique sites such as the Moving Banyan Tree, the Thousand-Year-Old Duoi Tree, Vai Gioi Cave, Buddha Cave, Mermaid Cave, Thuy Cung Cave, and Ba Co Cave.

Dong Chuong Lake

Like a “miniature Da Lat” nestled in the heart of Ninh Binh, Dong Chuong Lake is a natural freshwater lake surrounded by lush pine forests and rolling hills. Visitors can leisurely cycle or walk along the scenic trails around the lake or hop on an electric car ride to explore the tranquil landscape in full.

Cuisine & Local Specialties

Ninh Binh’s cuisine not only captivates visitors with its distinctive flavors but also embodies the cultural essence of the ancient capital. Each dish tells a unique story, offering new insights into the region’s heritage and people, leaving a lasting impression on every diner.

Crispy Rice

One of the most popular specialties from Ninh Binh to bring home as a gift is crispy rice. Ninh Binh’s version stands out for its extra crunch and delicious flavor, often topped with shredded pork floss and fried shallots, making it a favorite among visitors. You can enjoy this tasty treat during your trip and take some home as a meaningful gift for family and friends.

Mountain Goat Meat

Ninh Binh goats are raised naturally on rocky mountain slopes, which gives the meat a firm texture, moderate tenderness, and a distinct yet non-gamey aroma. When visiting Ninh Binh, you’ll have the chance to indulge in a variety of delicious goat dishes such as: rare goat with lime, stir-fried goat with lemongrass, grilled goat, grilled goat chunks, crispy rice with goat sauce, goat stewed with wine and plums, steamed goat, braised goat, goat hotpot, and more.

Yen Mac Fermented Pork Rolls

A trip to Ninh Binh wouldn’t be complete without tasting Yen Mac fermented pork rolls. This local delicacy offers a delightful balance of tangy and savory flavors, often enjoyed with guava or fig leaves—creating a uniquely refreshing and flavorful experience that’s sure to awaken your taste buds.

Gia Vien Fermented Shrimp Paste

Unlike the version found in the Mekong Delta, Gia Vien shrimp paste is made using a distinct recipe that’s equally delicious. It has a milder saltiness that enhances the flavors of your meal, offering a uniquely tasty and appetizing dining experience.

Nhech Fish Salad

Nhech Fish Salad is considered one of the finest local specialties in Ninh Binh. This freshwater fish dish requires meticulous preparation. The crispy, sweet fish combines harmoniously with the tanginess of vinegar, the warm spice of ginger, the nuttiness of roasted glutinous rice powder, and the slight bitterness of wild herbs—creating a uniquely flavorful experience that leaves an enduring mark on anyone who tries it.

Nho Quan Sticky Rice With Ant Eggs

Ant egg sticky rice is a famous specialty of Nho Quan, Ninh Binh, closely tied to the unique cultural identity of the local people. Made from simple, locally sourced ingredients from the mountains and forests, this dish offers a memorable culinary experience. When served hot, you can fully enjoy the sticky rice’s softness and fragrance, the rich and nutty sweetness of the ant eggs, and the satisfying crackling sound they make as you eat. This dish is both familiar and exotic—one bite is enough to make an impact that lasts.

Kim Son Glutinous Rice Wine

Kim Son Rice Wine is the perfect fermentation result of a special glutinous rice variety called nep cai hoa vang, grown in the low-lying fields of Kim Son. After being mixed with a traditional herbal yeast containing 36 medicinal herbs, the rice is distilled using water from manually dug wellsprings. This process creates an exceptionally fragrant wine with a crystal-clear color and a rich, smooth taste.

Culture & Festivals

Ninh Binh is not only blessed with breathtaking landscapes but also known for its rich cultural heritage and proud people. The locals are deeply rooted in patriotism and have a long tradition of producing talented individuals who have contributed greatly to the country throughout history. From ancient times to the present day, Ninh Binh has been home to scholars, military heroes, and artisans whose legacy still lives on.

Festivals In Ninh Binh 

Ninh Binh is vibrant with festivals that reflect both its historical significance and spiritual traditions. Two of the most notable include

Hoa Lu Festival 

The Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Festival is the largest annual event held at the central square of the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Cultural and Historical Site in Ninh Binh. The festival reflects the patriotic spirit and the Vietnamese tradition of “when drinking water, remember its source.” It also serves as a meaningful way to educate younger generations about gratitude toward national heroes who defended the country, such as King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh. The festival is usually celebrated on the birth anniversary of King Dinh Tien Hoang (the 15th day of the 2nd lunar month) or from the 6th to the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month.

Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival

With the advantage of a vast temple complex, the Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival is a major event that attracts a large number of visitors. The festival is held to honor the contributions of national heroes who served the homeland. It is also an occasion for pilgrims from all over the country to enjoy spring outings, admire the temple’s scenic beauty, offer incense to Buddha, and pray for peace, prosperity, and well-being for the nation and their families.

Traditional Craft Villages In Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh also preserves the essence of Vietnamese craftsmanship through its traditional craft villages, each with its own legacy

Ninh Van Stone Carving Village: Famous for its exquisite stone artworks such as statues, tombstones, incense burners, and architectural stone structures.

Kim Son Sedge Weaving Village: A centuries-old craft village known for producing sedge-based products like mats, handbags, and decorative items.

Van Lam Embroidery and Lace Village: Renowned for its delicate and diverse embroidery and lace products, including embroidered paintings, clothing, and tablecloths.

Gia Thuy Pottery Village: Specializes in a wide range of ceramic products, from household items to decorative pieces.

How To Get To Ninh Binh From Hanoi

From Hanoi, you can take a coach at Giap Bat Bus Station or book a Limousine service to Ninh Binh. Ticket prices range from 100,000 to 150,000 VND, and the journey takes about 2 hours.

If traveling by private vehicle from Hanoi, follow Giai Phong Street, pass Giap Bat Bus Station, then take the Phap Van–Cau Gie Expressway and head toward Phu Ly to reach Ninh Binh.

For getting around the city, it is recommended to rent a motorbike for 100,000 to 150,000 VND per day for greater flexibility, as tourist attractions in Ninh Binh are quite far apart. If traveling in a group, taking a taxi is a more cost-effective option.

Where To Stay In Ninh Binh

Whether traveling as a couple, with friends, or solo, visitors to Ninh Binh can choose to stay at homestays near tourist attractions. These places offer a peaceful, green atmosphere and friendly service. Some popular and conveniently located options include Ninh Binh Friendly Homestay, Hang Mua Ecolodge, Diep’s House, Ninh Binh Palm Homestay, and ChezBeo Homestay. Prices range from around 200,000 VND per person per night.

For those seeking a more luxurious stay with facilities like swimming pools, spas, gyms, and bars, there are several 4- to 5-star resorts to choose from, such as Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh, Tam Coc Garden Resort, Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel and Resort, An’s Eco Garden Resort, and Aravinda Resort Ninh Binh. Room rates range from 1.7 to 6 million VND per night.

Map Of Ninh Binh—Your Invitation To Discover Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is a land of exceptional natural and cultural heritage, boasting majestic and unspoiled landscapes, famous scenic spots, and historical-cultural relics that bear the golden marks of a heroic past. With its rich local cuisine and unique regional specialties, Ninh Binh offers an unforgettable experience. We hope that the comprehensive travel guide to Ninh Binh shared by Vietnam Original Travel in this article will help you enjoy a complete and memorable journey through this ancient capital land.

>>> Cuc Phuong National Park in Ninh Binh

>>> Bai Dinh And Trang An in Ninh Binh