Nestled in the northern region of Vietnam, Ninh Binh is often referred to as the “Halong Bay on land.” This enchanting destination boasts a breathtaking landscape of towering limestone karsts, lush greenery, and tranquil waterways that rival the famed seascape of Halong Bay. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, Ninh Binh offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that captivates every traveler. In this article Geagru.com will Ninh Binh Travel Guide from Things to do, Best Food, to Where to Stay
The Best Time to Visit Ninh Bình
Ninh Bình has a tropical monsoon climate. Summers are hot and humid. Winters are cool and dry. The most favorable time to visit is during the dry season, which spans from November to April. During these months, the weather is pleasantly mild. This makes it’s great for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Ninh Bình hosts many vibrant festivals. They happen throughout the year and add to its cultural allure. The most notable event is the Hoa Lư Festival, held in late April to honour the ancient capital of Hoa Lư. This festival has traditional music, dance, and rituals. They offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich culture.
For the best experience, plan your trip between late February and early May. This period has nice weather. It also lines up with the blooming of bright flowers and green landscapes. This enhances the beauty of Ninh Bình. Also, the lack of heavy rain ensures that exploring caves, pagodas, and rice fields is fun and easy.
Getting to Ninh Bình
Travel Options
By Air: Travelers can fly into one of Vietnam’s major international airports. These include Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. They also include Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. From there, you can choose various modes of transportation to reach Ninh Binh.
By Train: The most convenient rail option is the Ninh Bình Railway Station, located in Ninh Bình city. It’s close to major cities like Hanoi. It offers a scenic and comfortable journey. Once you arrive, popular destinations like Tam Cốc, Tràng An, and Hoa Lư are over 10 kilometers away. You can easily reach them by local transport.
By Bus: Many bus services operate routes to Ninh Bình from various parts of Vietnam. For a more luxurious experience, consider a limousine bus service. It provides faster travel and door-to-door pickup and drop-off.
By Taxi: For a direct and private option, taxis are readily available. The trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is 95 kilometers long. It typically takes about 90 minutes. Fares range from 700,000 to 1,000,000 VND, depending on the vehicle type (4 to 7 seats).
Getting Around Ninh Bình
By Taxi: Ninh Bình boasts several reliable taxi companies, such as Hoa Lư Taxi, Xuan Thanh Taxi, and Xanh SM. With many vehicles, hailing a taxi is easy. It ensures you can explore the region with ease.
By Motorbike: For those who prefer more independence, renting a motorbike is a popular choice. Most hotels and guesthouses offer rentals or can arrange them for you. This lets you discover Ninh Bình at your own pace.
By Bicycle: Exploring Ninh Bình by bicycle is a delightful way to soak in the scenery and experience local life. Many accommodations offer bike rentals. Guides offer cycling tours for those who prefer an informative and structured journey.
By Boat: To truly appreciate the charm of Tam Cốc, Bích Động, and Tràng An, a boat ride is essential. Guides lead boat rides on the tours. They go through calm rivers, passing by beautiful limestone formations and hidden caves. They offer a unique view of Ninh Bình’s natural beauty.
Ninh Bình has stunning landscapes. It has rich cultural heritage and is easy to get to. It promises an unforgettable travel experience. You could navigate its waterways by boat. Or, you could cycle through its green countryside. Or, you could explore its historical sites. Every moment in Ninh Bình is bound to be a memorable adventure.
Must-Visit Places in Ninh Bình
Trang An
Tràng An is a harmonious blend of spiritual sites and natural wonders. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has a network of rivers flowing through limestone mountains. It also has ancient caves and historical temples. The boat ride through Tràng An takes about three hours. This lets you marvel at the calm landscape. You can explore the rich culture in the temples along the way. It’s a tranquil journey that immerses you in the natural beauty and history of Ninh Bình.
Tam Coc – Bich Dong
It’s stunning natural scenery makes Tam Cốc – Bích Động well-known. It is often called “Halong Bay on land” due to its picturesque karst formations and lush fields. The boat trip here is shorter than in Tràng An, but it’s as enchanting. It takes you through three caves (Tam Cốc) carved by the Ngo Dong River. The boat journey lasts about two hours. It offers breathtaking views of the landscape. And, it’s a chance to explore the serene Bích Động Pagoda, nestled in the cliffs.
Tuyet Tinh Coc
Tuyet Tinh Coc (Am Tien Cave) is near Tràng An. It is an idyllic spot with a clear lake and lush greenery. The path to Tuyệt Tình Cốc ( Am Tien Cave) is relatively easy, making it a convenient stop during your exploration of Ninh Bình. This calm spot is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. It offers a stunning backdrop for photography lovers.
Múa Cave
Múa Cave is a popular check-in spot. It’s especially popular among young travelers and photographers. Climbing the 500 steps to the peak of Múa Cave is a bit challenging but well worth the effort. The view from the top is panoramic. It overlooks the winding river and surrounding rice fields. It is simply breathtaking. It’s an excellent place to capture stunning photos and soak in the beauty of Ninh Bình from above.
Bai Dinh Pagoda
Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the largest temple complexes in Southeast Asia. It is famous for its impressive architecture and spiritual importance. The complex is vast. It includes about 20 structures. Highlights include the ancient Bái Đính Pagoda, the Three World Palace (Điện Tam Thế), and the towering Stupa (Bảo Tháp). To make the most of your visit, consider hiring a guide for around 500,000 VND. It will help you navigate the expansive grounds efficiently. A guide can give insight. They will ensure you visit all key sites in the complex.
Thung Nham and Thung Nắng
These two scenic areas are famous for their natural beauty and diverse birdlife. Thung Nham is best visited around 4 p.m. It offers a spectacular sight of flocks of birds returning to their nests. Thung Nắng is ideal for early morning or late afternoon visits. It has serene landscapes bathed in soft sunlight. Both are perfect for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts. They offer tranquil boat rides through peaceful waterways surrounded by lush vegetation.
Cuc Phuong National Park
Vietnam’s oldest national park, Cuc Phuong, is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Explore the ancient forest. You will find many types of plants and animals. Endangered species are at risk. The park is also home to a primate rescue center. Visitors can learn about efforts to protect and heal it’s endangered primates. Hiking trails through the park lead to prehistoric caves, gardens, and viewpoints. This makes it perfect for eco-tourists and nature lovers.
Hoa Lư Ancient Capital and Hoa Lư Ancient Town
Rich in historical significance, Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. The ancient capital site has temples. They dedicate themselves to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and Emperor Le Dai Hanh. They offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past. Nearby, Hoa Lu Ancient Town has a charming setting. It has traditional architecture and historical ambiance. It’s a fascinating destination for those interested in Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
Ninh Bình has diverse attractions. Every visitor can find something they like. They can explore historical sites, immerse themselves in nature, or capture beautiful landscapes. Each place offers a unique experience. This makes Ninh Bình a must-visit location in Vietnam.
Where to Stay in Ninh Bình
When visiting Ninh Bình, you’ll find many places to stay. They fit every preference and budget. You can find cheap guesthouses and cozy homestays. You can also find luxury hotels and resorts. Here are some recommendations to help you choose the perfect place to stay during your trip.
Reliable Hotels
For those who want comfort and convenience, Ninh Bình offers many good hotels. Travelers know the hotels for their great service and amenities.
The Reed Hotel: The Reed Hotel in Ninh Bình is a highly regarded accommodation option located in the heart of Ninh Bình city. It’s well-situated for exploring the ancient capital of Vietnam. It offers modern amenities and services to its guests.
Hoang Son Peace Hotel: Located in the heart of Ninh Bình city, this hotel offers modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere.
Tràng An Ninh Bình Premier Hotel: A contemporary hotel providing stylish rooms and easy access to major attractions.
Nam Hoa Hotel Ninh Bình: Known for its friendly service and comfortable accommodations, perfect for both solo travelers and families.
Lotus Hotel Ninh Bình: Offers a blend of traditional Vietnamese decor and modern comforts.
Lalita Boutique Hotel & Spa Ninh Bình: A boutique hotel that combines luxury with personalized service, complete with a spa.
Le Clos Du Fil Hotel: Features elegantly designed rooms and a peaceful ambiance.
Golden Season Hotel Ninh Bình: Provides spacious rooms and excellent customer service.
Tam Cốc Holiday Hotel & Villa Ninh Bình: Offers both hotel rooms and private villas, ideal for a relaxing getaway.
These hotels are a few of the many options available in Ninh Bình. New, beautiful, and reputable accommodations are always emerging. So, there’s always something fresh to discover.
Beautiful and Reputable Resorts
For a more luxurious experience, consider staying at one of Ninh Bình’s famous resorts. They offer stunning settings and great facilities.
Emeralda Hotel & Resort Ninh Bình: A high-end resort set amidst lush gardens, offering a tranquil retreat.
Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort: Combines modern luxury with traditional Vietnamese architecture, providing a charming and serene environment.
Resort Hang Múa Ecolodge: Nestled at the foot of Múa Mountain, offering breathtaking views and eco-friendly accommodations.
Aravinda Resort Ninh Bình: A boutique resort focused on wellness and relaxation, with beautifully designed rooms and serene surroundings.
Tam Coc Garden Resort: Known for its picturesque setting and luxurious amenities, perfect for nature lovers.
Tam Coc Rice Fields Resort: Offers a unique experience with rooms overlooking expansive rice fields.
Trang An Secret Garden Resort: A hidden gem offering peace and seclusion, surrounded by nature.
These are a few examples. There are many other new, beautiful, and reputable resorts in Ninh Binh. They provide a luxurious and memorable stay.
Charming and Reputable Homestays
For a more real and close experience, stay at one of Ninh Binh’s many charming homestays. These offer a chance to connect with the local culture and community.
Ninh Bình Valley Homestay: Provides a peaceful stay with stunning valley views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Hali Home Ninh Bình: Known for its cozy accommodations and friendly hosts.
Tam Cốc Mountain View Homestay: Offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and a tranquil setting.
Tràng An Valley Bungalow: Provides comfortable bungalows nestled in a scenic valley.
Hương Sen Homestay: Known for its warm hospitality and comfortable rooms.
Anh Huong Tam Coc Homestay: Offers a cozy and friendly environment, perfect for experiencing local life.
Quoc Khanh Bamboo Homestay: Features rustic bamboo huts and a serene atmosphere.
These homestays are a few of the many available. New, beautiful, and reputable options are always emerging. You can always find the perfect place to stay.
You can choose a hotel, resort, or homestay. Ninh Bình offers a diverse range of accommodations. They’ll enhance your travel experience. Each type of lodging has its own benefits. They ensure that your stay in Ninh Bình is comfy, fun, and memorable.
Learn more: Ha Long Bay Travel Guide: Things You Need To Know Before You Go
What to Eat in Ninh Binh
Ninh Bình is famous for its stunning landscapes. It is also famous for its unique and delicious cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes when you visit this charming region:
Mountain Goat Meat Dishes
Ninh Bình’s signature dish, mountain goat meat, is a culinary highlight. Farmers raise goats on limestone mountains. This gives the meat a unique flavor and tenderness. Popular dishes include:
Grilled Goat Meat (Dê nướng): Tender goat meat marinated with spices and grilled to perfection.
Goat Meat Salad (Dê tái chanh): Lightly cooked goat meat mixed with lime juice, herbs, and spices.
Stir-fried Goat Meat (Dê xào lăn): Goat meat stir-fried with lemongrass, chili, and other spices.
Crispy Rice (Cơm Cháy)
Another specialty of Ninh Bình is cơm cháy, or crispy rice. Rice makes this dish. Cook the rice until it is crispy. Then, a tasty sauce made from pork, shrimp, and vegetables tops it. It’s crunchy, savory, and incredibly addictive.
Mountain Snails (Ốc Núi)
Mountain snails are a unique delicacy in Ninh Bình. They are usually found in the limestone mountains. They are usually steamed or stir-fried. They cook them with ginger, lemongrass, and chili. They offer a chewy texture and a burst of flavor.
Other Local Dishes
Eel Vermicelli (Miến lươn): A hearty noodle soup with tender eel, served with herbs and bean sprouts
Fermented Pork Roll (Nem Yên Mạc): A traditional fermented pork roll that’s savory and slightly tangy, often served with garlic and chili.
Where to Eat
For the best culinary experience in Ninh Bình, visit these well-known restaurants:
Chinh Thu Restaurant: Famous for its goat meat dishes and traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Thach Ban Restaurant: Offers a variety of local specialties, including crispy rice and mountain snails.
Truong An Restaurant: Known for its extensive menu of Ninh Bình’s delicacies, providing an authentic dining experience.
Travel Tips for Visiting Ninh Bình
To ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip to Ninh Bình, here are some useful tips:
Ask for Prices: Always ask for prices before making any purchases to avoid overcharging.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Ninh Bình involves lots of walking and climbing. So, wear comfy shoes like sneakers, flats, or sandals.
Dress Appropriately: Wear light-colored clothes. These can include traditional Vietnamese áo dài and bohemian styles. They can make your photos better. So can a conical hat (nón lá) and fan. They’ve also kept you comfortable.
Carry a Power Bank: Ninh Bình is full of picturesque spots, so bring a power bank to keep your phone charged for all the photos you’ll be taking.
Bright clothing, like white, yellow, or sky blue, will make you stand out. The green and black backgrounds are naturally in your photos.
Conclusion
Ninh Bình is full of natural beauty. It has rich culture and tasty food. It’s landscapes are stunning. They have limestone karsts, serene waterways, ancient temples, and lush national parks. You can do countless activities there. For example, boating, cycling tours, and hiking.
It’s the perfect destination for an unforgettable travel experience. It’s filled with adventure, relaxation, and delicious food. Start planning your trip to Ninh Bình today. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty and culture of this special region.
Learn more: Exploring Hanoi: A Journey Through The Heart Of Vietnam’s Capital
