Ninh Binh

Overview about Ninh Binh Vietnam

Ninh Binh, located in northern Vietnam, is a traveller’s destination that may be called with a mesmerizing area known locally as ‘Ha Long Bay on Land’ thanks to its magical riverine landscape. The province is blessed with landscapes of towering limestone karsts, winding rivers, and lush greenery. Ninh Binh offers visitors an opportunity to reveal themselves in the scene of countryside and escape the hustle of Hanoi Capital.

Ninh Binh is also rich in cultural heritage, with numerous historical sites and temples throughout the region historical of Vietnam, including the ancient capital city of Hoa Lu and the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda, which holds the record for the largest Buddhist pagoda in Southeast Asia. Visitors can witness the everyday life of locals in Ninh Binh, learn about Vietnam’s history and enjoy the beauty of “Halong Bay on Land” of Vietnam.

Natural Wonders of Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, a natural wonders, particularly its stunning limestone karsts and winding rivers. These mesmerizing landscapes create a picturesque backdrop that attracts visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the popular attractions and activities that allow travelers to fully experience the beauty of Ninh Binh Vietnam:

Trang An: Trang An is a popular vacation spot in Ninh Binh, known for its stunning karst formations that include limestone mountains, caves, and rivers. Its exceptional beauty has made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a filming location for the movie Kong: Skull Island.

To explore Trang An, you can take a boat tour along the winding riverways, passing through several caves to marvel at the stunning natural beauty here. Alternatively, you can hike up one of the mountains for a panoramic view of the area. The hiking trail is well-maintained and easy, making it accessible to most visitors.

Tam Coc: Known as the “Halong Bay on land,” Tam Coc offers a similar landscape of limestone karsts and rivers. Traveling by boat along the Ngo Dong River, visitors can marvel at the breathtaking scenery while passing through three natural caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. The boat ride allows for an up-close encounter with the towering karsts and the surrounding countryside.

Boat Rides and Kayaking: Exploring the rivers of Ninh Binh by boat is a popular activity. These boat rides take you through narrow waterways, under limestone archways, and into hidden caves, offering a unique perspective of the stunning landscapes. For those seeking a bit more adventure, kayaking is also available, allowing you to navigate the rivers at your own pace.

Trekking and Hiking: Ninh Binh offers fantastic opportunities for trekking and hiking amidst its natural beauty. Whether it’s climbing to the top of Mua Cave for panoramic views of the region or exploring the trails of Cuc Phuong National Park, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of options to enjoy the lush landscapes, diverse flora, and fauna of the region.

Historical and Cultural Sites

In addition to its natural wonders and scenic beauty, Ninh Binh is also home to numerous historical and cultural sites that showcase the rich heritage of Vietnam. Here are some of the must-visit destinations for history and culture enthusiasts:

Hoa Lu: Ancient Capital is an unmissable attraction in Ninh Binh for history enthusiasts and nature seekers. It was the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and early Le dynasties, spanning from the 10th to 11th centuries., Hoa Lu was the political and economic center of the country during the Dinh and early Le dynasties in the 10th and 11th centuries. Today, visitors can explore the ancient citadel ruins, walk through the royal gates, and visit the temples dedicated to the kings of this era. Hoa Lu offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s feudal era and its significant historical importance.

Historical Relics: Throughout Ninh Binh, there are various historical relics that tell the stories of the province’s past. The ancient capital has an extensive collection of well-preserved relics and monuments, including the temples of Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, two former kings of Vietnam. Coming here, you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the ancient capital through the various exhibits and artifacts on display, gaining insight into the culture and traditions of the feudal Vietnamese dynasties.

Bai Dinh Pagoda: The Bai Dinh Pagoda complex is a significant religious site and one of Ninh Binh’s major attractions. It holds the record for being the largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia and features grand temples, intricate statues, and stunning pagodas spread across a vast area. Bai Dinh Pagoda is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Vietnamese spiritual and cultural heritage.

Exciting Adventures in Ninh Binh

Nestled in the heart of Northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh is a destination rich in natural beauty and a hub for thrilling outdoor adventures. Visitors can choose from a wide array of activities that combine adrenaline, exploration, and cultural immersion.

Biking through the countryside and rice fields is a must-do activity in Ninh Binh. Rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in town, and embark on a scenic route that takes you through charming rural villages and past iconic landmarks such as Mua Cave and the Tam Coc – Bich Dong Pagoda complex.

Trekking in Cuc Phuong National Park: Exploring the natural beauty of Cuc Phuong is one of the best things to do in Ninh Binh. As Vietnam’s first national park, it boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species that are sure to captivate nature enthusiasts.

One of the park’s most spectacular attractions is the butterfly season that occurs from April to June, when thousands of colorful butterflies can be seen fluttering around. If you happen to be here during this time, you can take guided tours through the park to witness this beautiful spectacle and learn about the park’s ecology.

Besides the butterfly season, visitors can also explore the park’s many hiking trails, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, and discover the ancient caves and limestone formations scattered throughout the park.

For those who enjoy bird watching, Van Long Nature Reserve Located in Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh, Van Long Lagoon is a serene and picturesque natural wonder. Spanning over 3,500 hectares, it is the largest wetland reserve in Northern Vietnam. This place is the perfect spot to experience the exotic birdlife of Vietnam. The extensive wetlands provide a natural habitat for a variety of bird species, including the endangered Delacour’s Langur. Tours Guide and boats are available to ensure visitors get the best possible sighting experiences.

The lagoon is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare and endangered species such as the Bonelli eagle, langur monkey, and black-faced spoonbill, making it an enticing destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors need not worry about safety as local adventure operators ensure stringent safety measures in place. It is essential to follow instructions, wear appropriate safety gear, and respect the environment and local culture.

MUA CAVE

Mua viewpoint is located at the top of a steep mountain and the 500 steps up. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of Tam Coc valley. The viewpoint is sometimes covered in mist but wait for it to clear, and you’ll marvel at the patchwork quilt of green rice fields below and snaking rivers weaving in, out, and around the ancient karsts.

Mua Caves, also known as Hang Mua, is an outstanding attraction among the many caves, offering breathtaking views from the top of Mua Mountain. Legend has it that Emperor Tran Thai Tong used to watch dance performances at this site, which led to the name “Hang Mua,” or “dancing cave”

Ngo Dong River – Sông Ngô Đồng

Ngo Dong River is a magical river that takes you through Tam Coc – a popular tourist destination in Ninh Binh, 100km from Hanoi. Ngo Dong River passes through the limestone mountains, through 3 caves including Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave, making visitors feel like they are walking in another Ha Long Bay.

At the river, you buy tickets and then, you are arranged to the tole boat, staggered like the leaves close together along the Vung Tram boat landing. And so, each boat leaves the wharf when there are enough guests, most of the boat scullers are women, gently use the two paddles that control the small boat on the river as a fairy.

The two paddles were tied to the boat, the sculler leans back, using their legs to control the boat as their habit of doing so many years. The reason for using paddles is because the motorboat will cause noises and pollution for the river. And the slow boat coming to the fairy tale is enough for tourists to savor the special taste on the strange waterway.

Ngo Dong River has the strange name that makes us curious to find out. The answer is that the Ngo Dong River originates from the limestone range upstream, pouring water into the river system of Vac river near the Vung Tram bridge. Maybe, each year in the season of the rice harvest, the rice dyes the river into the golden color as the color of maize, so the name Ngo Dong (Cornfield) is used to call this poetic river.

On the river, in the season of harvesting rice, yellow of the rice fields flooded in the water along the river bank, the farmers harvesting on the golden has attracted people. Take advantage when the water of the river is dry when the river banks are full of alluvial soil, the farmer sowed seeds, and then the rice grows upon the water until ripen, dying the whole field.

Ninh Binh Transport

Regular buses depart to Ninh Binh from Hanoi every day. You can book a luxury van which includes transfer to Tam Coc, where plenty of charming accommodation options await. Private cars make the journey even quicker. For those with more time, several trains leave for Ninh Binh from Hanoi daily. The best way to get around Ninh Binh is by motorcycle tour or taxi. Cycling is a great option for visitors staying in Tam Coc.

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