Top 10 Things to Do in Ninh Binh Vietnam Guide by Local Experts

Ninh Binh, often called "Ha Long Bay on land," is a hidden gem in Northern Vietnam. This stunning destination offers a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and peaceful landscapes. Located just 90 kilometers south of Hanoi, it is gaining popularity among both domestic and international tourists. From lush rice paddies to ancient temples and scenic boat rides, Ninh Binh promises an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top things to do in Ninh Binh Vietnam to make the most of your visit there.

1. Visit the UNESCO-listed Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

What’s Special:
Trang An is Ninh Binh’s most famous tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trang An is famous for its stunning limestone karst landscapes, peaceful rivers, and lush vegetation. Often compared to Halong Bay, it offers breathtaking natural beauty. The area features caves, temples, and grottoes, which can be explored by boat. This creates an immersive experience in the heart of Vietnam's wilderness.

What to Do:

• Boat Tour: One of the best ways to explore Trang An is by taking a boat tour. The boats are rowed by local guides and take visitors through winding rivers, limestone caves, and past beautiful temples. The journey is peaceful and allows you to take in the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Photography: With its dramatic limestone peaks rising from the water and lush greenery, Trang An is a photographer’s paradise. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning views along the way.
• Explore the Caves: The boat ride will take you through several caves, each with its own story and history. Some of these caves have been used as Buddhist shrines for centuries.

Tips & Recommendations:

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Trang An is from October to April, as the weather is cooler and drier.
• What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a camera are essential. You may also want to bring a light jacket if you plan to explore the caves, as it can get cool inside.

2. Explore the Bich Dong Pagoda - Top Things to Do in Ninh Binh Vietnam

What’s Special:
The Bich Dong Pagoda is located just 2 kilometers from Ninh Binh's center. It is a peaceful complex nestled among limestone cliffs. Built in the 15th century, the pagoda has three levels. Each level offers a unique view of the surrounding landscape. The pagoda is not only a spiritual site but also a great spot for hiking and nature lovers.

What to Do:

• Hike to the Pagoda: The climb up to the pagoda is scenic and relatively easy. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the valleys below and the surrounding mountains.
• Visit the Three Pagodas: Explore the lower, middle, and upper pagodas, each with unique architecture and religious significance.
• Take in the Peaceful Surroundings: Spend time in the tranquil environment of the pagoda, surrounded by nature and ancient trees.

Tips & Recommendations:

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for walking and sunscreen, especially if you plan to hike to the upper pagoda.

3. Take a Boat Ride at Tam Coc - Top Things to Do in Ninh Binh Vietnam

What’s Special:
Tam Coc, often called the "Halong Bay on land," is a must-visit in Ninh Binh. The area is known for its dramatic limestone mountains, lush green rice fields, and winding rivers. A boat ride through the Tam Coc caves is one of the most memorable experiences in Vietnam. It offers a peaceful and scenic escape where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

What to Do:

• Boat Tour through the Caves: The main highlight of Tam Coc is the boat tour, which takes visitors through three caves, each with its own unique charm. As you glide through the water, you’ll see towering limestone peaks and the countryside unfolding in front of you.
• Photography and Scenic Views: Don’t forget to bring a camera, as the limestone cliffs and peaceful water provide endless opportunities for stunning photos.
• Cycle Around the Fields: After the boat ride, you can rent a bike and cycle around the rice fields, which are particularly beautiful during the harvest season (around May to June).

Tips & Recommendations:

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tam Coc is from March to May, when the rice fields are green and lush. However, the area is beautiful year-round.
• What to Bring: A hat, sunscreen, and water for the boat trip. It can get hot, so dress in light, breathable clothing.

4. Visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

What’s Special:
Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries, and it is home to the ancient temples dedicated to the kings who ruled during that time. The area offers an interesting insight into Vietnam's history and architecture, surrounded by stunning landscapes of limestone mountains.

What to Do in This Top Things to Do in Ninh Binh Vietnam:

• Visit the Temples: The main attractions here are the two temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le. These ancient structures are surrounded by beautiful gardens and limestone peaks, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and nature lovers.
• Learn About Vietnam’s Early History: Explore the ancient structures and learn about the significance of the Dinh and Le dynasties in Vietnamese history.

Tips & Recommendations:

• Best Time to Visit: The weather is cooler and drier from October to April, which is the best time for outdoor exploration.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the beauty of the ancient temples and surrounding landscapes.

5. Hike Up Mua Cave for Stunning Views

What’s Special:
Mua Cave, located about 7 kilometers from Ninh Binh city center, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike. The cave sits at the foot of a mountain. It is famous for its panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The hike to the top is steep, but the view from the top is worth the effort.

What to Do:

• Hike to the Top: The hike up to Mua Cave takes about 30-45 minutes, and while it is a bit strenuous, the stunning views from the top are breathtaking. You’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the Tam Coc landscape, rice fields, and limestone mountains.
• Explore the Cave: At the base of the mountain, you’ll find Mua Cave, which is a popular spot for local worship. The cave is small but worth visiting after the hike.
• Photography: This is one of the best places in Ninh Binh for panoramic shots of the entire region, so be sure to bring your camera.

Tips & Recommendations:

• What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes for the hike and bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Best Time to Visit: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and to capture the best photos.

6. Explore the Stunning Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex

What’s Special:
The Bai Dinh Pagoda is a massive Buddhist temple complex located about 15 kilometers from Ninh Binh city. It’s one of the largest pagodas in Southeast Asia and features stunning architecture, peaceful surroundings, and an awe-inspiring landscape. The complex includes several temples, a giant statue of Buddha, and thousands of stone statues lining the path to the pagoda.

What to Do:

• Explore the Temples: Visit the numerous temples inside the Bai Dinh complex, which house statues and religious artifacts. The most notable is the statue of the Buddha, which stands at 10 meters tall.
• Take the Cable Car: For a more relaxed visit, take the cable car to the top of the mountain where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• Meditate or Reflect: The peaceful atmosphere of the pagoda is ideal for meditation or simply reflecting on the serenity of the surroundings.

Tips & Recommendations:

• Best Time to Visit: Morning is the best time to visit to avoid crowds and enjoy the peace of the area.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the large complex, sunscreen, and a camera for the stunning views.

7. Experience Local Life at Van Long Nature Reserve

What’s Special:
Van Long Nature Reserve is an untouched ecological gem located about 25 kilometers north of Ninh Binh. Known as the "Wetland of Northern Vietnam," this area offers a serene environment filled with lush greenery, picturesque mountains, and wetlands. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare Delacour’s langur, making it a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

What to Do:

• Boat Tour: Take a traditional wooden boat tour through the nature reserve to explore the tranquil waters, towering limestone mountains, and rich flora and fauna. This is a great way to experience the area’s beauty in a calm and peaceful setting.
• Bird Watching: The reserve is home to a variety of bird species, so it’s a great spot for birdwatching, particularly during the migratory season.
• Photography: Capture the picturesque views of the wetlands and limestone mountains, making for fantastic nature photography.

Tips & Recommendations:

• Best Time to Visit: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and the chance to see wildlife.
• What to Bring: A pair of binoculars for birdwatching, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera.

8. Visit the Thung Nham Bird Park

What’s Special:
Thung Nham Bird Park is a natural reserve and sanctuary for birds, located about 10 kilometers from Ninh Binh. It is home to a variety of species, including storks, herons, and other migratory birds. The park is set against a backdrop of dramatic limestone mountains and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.

What to Do:

• Explore the Bird Sanctuary: Walk through the park to spot various bird species. You can also take a boat ride through the wetlands to get a closer view of the birds.
• Visit the Cave: The park also has a small cave that can be explored, adding a bit of adventure to your visit.
• Photography: The park’s natural beauty, combined with the birds and wildlife, makes it an excellent location for photography.

Tips & Recommendations:

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning is the best time for birdwatching when the birds are most active.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera with a zoom lens to capture the birds in action.

9. Discover the Peaceful Hoa Lu Temples and Citadel

What’s Special:
Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s history. The site is home to the temples dedicated to two of Vietnam’s most famous kings, King Dinh and King Le. The surrounding area is rich in history, with remnants of the old citadel and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

What to Do:

• Visit the Temples: Explore the temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le. The architecture here reflects the traditional style of the 10th and 11th centuries, offering a window into Vietnam’s ancient royal history.
• Wander the Citadel Ruins: Discover the remnants of the ancient citadel, which once served as the heart of the Dinh and Le dynasties.
• Take Photos: The temples and surrounding mountains create a beautiful backdrop for photography, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft.

Tips & Recommendations:

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera.

10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine and Street Food in Ninh Binh

What’s Special:
Ninh Binh is famous for its unique and delicious local cuisine, which combines fresh ingredients from both land and sea. The region is known for its specialties such as goat meat, rice crust (cơm cháy), and fish from the rivers surrounding the area. Exploring local food markets and street vendors is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

What to Do:

• Try Goat Meat (Dê): One of Ninh Binh’s most famous dishes is goat meat, which is typically grilled, fried, or cooked in a hot pot. Many local restaurants serve this dish, and it’s a must-try for visitors.
• Taste Cơm Cháy: Ninh Binh is known for its crispy rice crust. This is a delightful dish made from rice that has been fried to a crispy golden texture, served with meats and vegetables.
• Visit Local Markets: To get a true taste of Ninh Binh, visit the local markets like Ninh My market, main Ninh Binh market where you can try various street foods and local delicacies.

Tips & Recommendations:

• Best Time to Visit: Lunchtime or early evening, when the street food vendors are out in full force.
• What to Bring: A hungry stomach and an adventurous spirit to try the delicious local dishes.

Explore All Things to Do in Ninh Binh Vietnam with us

For an unforgettable journey through Ninh Binh, we, as local experts, offer daily tours that take you to top destinations to go in Ninh Binh that showcase the city's rich history and charm. Whether you choose a group tour or a private experience, our well-crafted itineraries ensure you make the most of your visit.

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