20 Beautiful Destinations in Ninh Binh - Klook Blog

Unique with pristine natural landscapes and a charming river system, Ninh Binh is currently a popular tourist destination in the northern part of Vietnam. It attracts a large number of visitors, becoming one of the top tourist destinations.

Situated approximately 100km south of the capital Hanoi, Ninh Binh is located in the Red River Delta. The tourist attractions in Ninh Binh not only showcase breathtaking scenery but also hold significant historical value, making it a preferred destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is an exceptionally important historical site for Vietnam. It is one of the four core zones of the Trang An World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO. The historical sites in Hoa Lu are associated with the glory of many heroic figures from the Dinh, Tien Le, and early Ly dynasties, dating from Dinh Tien Hoang to Ly Thai Tong. If you want to explore Hoa Lu and Tam Coc in a day, you can depart from Hanoi.

In historical records, Hoa Lu was the first capital of the centralized feudal dynasty in our country, leaving historical marks: Unifying the country, defeating the Song - pacifying the Cham, and advancing the construction of the capital Hanoi. In 1010, King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long - Hanoi, turning Hoa Lu into the Ancient Capital.

Van Long Lagoon - a pure ecological paradise, is currently captivating travel enthusiasts with its pristine and tranquil beauty in Ninh Binh. Van Long is a haven for migratory birds to stop, search for food, and take shelter. Surrounded by isolated rock islands and vast water valleys, it has become a hiding place for many species. With its breathtaking natural landscape, Van Long is like a giant mirror reflecting the beautiful scenery of nature. In summer, around May and June each year, you can witness the lagoon adorned in the vibrant pink of lotus flowers, filling the air with the fragrance of elegant lotus, undoubtedly becoming a 'hot' spot for young people to capture timeless photos.

Co Vien Lau is a Ninh Binh tourist destination that brings a sense of tranquility, like a breath of fresh air, sweeping away worries and concerns in its ancient space. Stepping into Co Vien Lau, you will feel like entering another world, where time seems to have stopped. The beauty of this ancient village dates back to the previous century, bearing the distinctive characteristics of the Northern region. Every house, communal house, and ancient items here create a space of ancient times with a strong imprint of the homeland.

Phat Diem Stone Cathedral - a wonder of Vietnamese Catholicism, situated in the spiritual capital of the country. With over 120 years of history and a construction process lasting 30 years, this cathedral has become a cultural and religious symbol in Phat Diem town, Kim Son district, just 28 km from Ninh Binh city.

Phat Diem Stone Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece, entirely constructed with stone and ironwood. With its unique and distinctive beauty, it presents a fresh appearance compared to other churches across the country.

Venturing into the vast primeval forest of Cuc Phuong, one cannot help but marvel and feel small amidst the majestic and pristine nature with its myriad beautiful shades of green. Hundreds of ancient trees surround, seemingly unbelievable that they have endured thousands of years of storms and changing weather. They silently witness the ups and downs of time, harboring the marvelous stories of nature.

Visiting Cuc Phuong National Park in May - butterfly season, where time seems to stand still with thousands of brightly colored butterflies, the ancient forest rejuvenates with a dazzling and surreal landscape. There is nothing more wonderful than witnessing this scene and capturing this unique moment with stunning 'instagrammable' photos.

Dua Hill in Tam Diep can be considered a miniature version of Da Lat city in the heart of Ninh Binh. Covered by layers of mist combined with the lush greenery, it creates a fresh and serene atmosphere.

No pollution, no traffic noise, or a string of eateries; only a clean, cool, and peaceful space, harmonizing with the ancient charm of Ninh Binh's old capital. This is where you'll feel relaxed and satisfied, like dewdrops moistening the earth and sky.

Moreover, if you visit Tam Diep Pineapple Hill during this season, you'll have the chance to experience a delightful day as a farmer. Immerse yourself in the scent of the fields, blend into the simple life, engage in farming activities, care for fruit trees, and enjoy the joy derived from life's simplicity.

Thung Nang is a captivating Ninh Binh tourist destination where you immerse yourself in soft ripe rice fields and emerald green rivers. Located in Dam Khe village, Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district, Thung Nang Ninh Binh offers a serene, pure, and close-to-nature space. Here, you can enjoy moments of relaxation, stroll through vast fields, watch boats glide on the river, and lose yourself in the tranquil environment.

The Temple of King Dinh Tien Hoang is a crucial historical site within the special conservation zone of the heritage complex Cố Đô Hoa Lư. Located in Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lư, Ninh Binh, the current site of the temple is to the east of the ancient capital Hoa Lư. It stands as the unique place in Vietnam simultaneously worshiping King Dinh, his parents, and his sons, along with honoring the dynasty's generals. Similar to other relics in Cố Đô Hoa Lư, the Temple of King Dinh is part of the Trang An World Heritage Complex recognized by UNESCO in 2014.

Built in a combination of domestic and foreign architectural styles with an eastward main axis, the Temple of King Dinh faces the Mã Yên mountain, resembling a warhorse's saddle. The king's temple was constructed above the former palace of the Hoa Lư ancient capital. In this area, archaeologists unearthed a brick courtyard adorned with ancient lotus patterns and intertwined phoenixes. The inscriptions on the bricks read 'Đại Việt Quốc quân thành chuyên' and 'Giang tây quân,' proving their dating back to the Dinh – Le period.

The Temple of King Le Dai Hanh is a historical relic bearing the mark of the country's traditional glorious history. It is part of the highly significant historical site in the Hoa Lư ancient capital of Ninh Binh province. Besides worshiping King Le Dai Hanh, Queen Duong Van Nga, and Le Long Dinh, there are also altars dedicated to Princess Le Thi Phat Ngan and General Pham Cu Luong. Located about 300m from the area of the Temple of King Dinh Tien Hoang, it is situated in the central east of the ancient capital Hoa Lư, known today as Yen Thanh village, Truong Yen commune, Ninh Binh province. The Le King Temple, though not as large as the Dinh King Temple, has a warm and simple atmosphere within its premises.

Apart from its renowned natural caves, Ninh Binh also boasts the pristine Kim Son beach - an unmissable attraction. When you visit Kim Son beach, you'll explore mangrove forests with a pristine ecosystem. Kim Son Beach is one of the six biosphere reserves in Southeast Asia recognized by UNESCO. This area provides ideal conditions for developing ecological tourism, resorts, and scientific research.

Explore the wonders of Kim Son Ninh Binh by strolling along the lengthy coastal dyke, visiting heron fields, shrimp ponds, and protective forests. The natural beauty, vastness of the land, and the openness of the locals will undoubtedly leave you with a profound impression.

In addition to its stunning beach, Kim Son is renowned for natural landscapes and cultural relics such as:

Thung Nham Eco-tourism Area is among the renowned tourist attractions in the core region of the Trang An heritage site. Situated within the Hải Nham hill valley, the main highlight is the natural bird garden, accompanied by famous cave exploration points like Vai Gioi Cave, Tien Ca Cave, Thuy Cung Cave, and But Cave.

Tam Coc – Bich Dong, also famously known as the 'Halong Bay on land' or the 'Second Cave of the Southern Sky,' stands as a prominent national scenic spot. This area, characterized by a network of caves and limestone mountains, holds corresponding historical relics such as the Vu Lam Palace of the Tran dynasty located in Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province. Among them, the Trang An – Tam Coc scenic complex is ranked as a particularly significant national heritage site, acknowledged and classified as a world natural heritage by UNESCO.

Bai Dinh Cultural Complex is a congregation of major temples renowned for numerous records in Vietnam and the Asian region. Bai Dinh Pagoda is situated at the western gateway of the Hoa Lu ancient capital site, on Highway 38B, Gia Sinh commune, Gia Vien district, Ninh Binh province. The Bai Dinh Pagoda complex currently spans an expansive planned area of 1700 hectares, including 27 hectares for the ancient Bai Dinh temple, 80 hectares for the newly constructed Bai Dinh temple, and the remaining area includes sections like the Cultural Park and Buddhist Institute, welcoming and entertainment areas, traffic routes and parking lots, Dam Thi Lake, and the fish sanctuary. These construction items are still in the process of design, construction, and expansion.

Mua Cave is a cave located at the base of Mua Mountain within the ecological tourism area of Khe Dau Ha village, Ninh Xuan commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province. Apart from its breathtaking scenery, this tourist destination also features a pathway leading to the mountain peak, modeled after the architecture of the Great Wall of China with nearly 500 stone steps. From the top of Mua Mountain, visitors can admire and appreciate the pristine, mysterious beauty of the Tam Coc area – a renowned attraction in Ninh Binh. According to historical records, King Tran often visited this place upon returning to the Hoa Lu region to enjoy the performances of beautiful women and the court dance. Hence, the cave is named Mua Cave.

The name contrasting with Dark Cave is none other than Bright Cave. These intriguing names actually carry a distinct meaning, symbolizing the aspiration to rise from 'darkness' to 'light' as perceived by ancient people. The cave spans a total length of 100m, with a width of 12m and a ceiling height of 12m, all illuminated by strategically placed lights.

Dark Cave is part of the natural cave system in Ninh Binh. With a total length from start to finish of 320m, it features an arched structure with a low ceiling. The interior is fitted with warm yellow lights, allowing visitors to observe the peculiar formation of the cave and the unique limestone blocks shaped by water.

Three Drops Cave boasts a plethora of colorful and uniquely shaped stalactites, including formations resembling upside-down trees hanging from the ceiling. Notably, the stalactites here do not dry like those in other caves; they continue to be shaped by water, creating new, mysterious appearances.

Sinh Cave, Si Cave, and Three Drops Cave are said to be related to a sad love story. In ancient times, a young man deeply loved a beautiful girl. However, by the time he carried offerings to Sinh Cave to propose, it was too late, and the girl had been chosen for a neighboring water procession. The young man came to Three Drops Cave to bathe, then embraced his melancholic love story in Si Cave.

Legend has it that whoever comes to Three Drops Cave and catches three small drops of water falling from the stalactites into the palm of their hand will encounter abundant fortune and joyous happiness in their life and love.

Wine Brewing Cave, with a length of 250m from the entrances, features a high and wide ceiling, allowing two boats to pass each other. The cave possesses an underground water system extending more than 10m deep, connecting to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Folktales recount that in ancient times, people often came here to fetch water for brewing wine offered to the king. Archaeological investigations have revealed artifacts such as pottery, jars, scoops, and some wine-making tools, leading to the cave being named Wine Brewing Cave. The cave entrance area also displays historical objects, including ancient wine jars.

What to explore in Trang An Ninh Binh? Trang An is probably the first mentioned scenic spot. The Trang An ecological area is a destination that attracts millions of visitors each year to admire the breathtaking landscape created by limestone mountain ranges, interspersed with natural caves and a vast complex of temples and pagodas. You may not know, but this is the filming location for the majestic and mysterious scenes in the world-famous movie - Kong Skull Island. Visitors will drift on boats along the water to explore a landscape resembling prehistoric nature. There are a total of 3 different routes here depending on the preferences of visitors, starting and ending at the Trang An boat dock.

As you step into the An Tiem Pagoda area, you'll feel the serene beauty surrounding you. From above, you'll witness a pristine natural beauty, both tranquil and dreamlike. Gazing into the distance, the magnificent Bai Dinh Pagoda comes into view. The water at Tuyet Tinh Coc boasts a year-round emerald green color, encircled by majestic rocky mountains. Small boats are arranged along the lake's shore, providing perfect photo opportunities for social media enthusiasts.

#teamKlook, currently, there's a fantastic deal on vouchers for Limousine rides between Hanoi and Ninh Binh, as well as guided tours of Bai Dinh - Trang An - Tam Coc waiting for you to explore.

'What to do in Ninh Binh?' These renowned attractions have answered the question for many planning to travel to Ninh Binh. After viewing these impressive and captivating natural landscapes, are you feeling excited yet? Still not quite satisfied with the suggestions? No worries, wander around the Klook Blog for more insights on exploring Ninh Binh independently, experiencing Hang Mua, Tuyet Tinh Coc, and countless other useful tips for travel enthusiasts. Get ready to embark on your journey right away!

Don't linger on the question 'What to do in Ninh Binh?' and immediately make plans to explore the famous tourist destinations here!