Buzz
Ninh Binh's tourist attractions always captivate both domestic and international visitors with their majestic and poetic beauty. Its pristine nature and picturesque landscapes, rich in both scenery and historical significance, have made Ninh Binh a renowned destination for travelers.
Introduction to Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh province is often referred to as a miniature Vietnam, boasting diverse landscapes from towering mountains to coastal plains. Despite its compact size, Ninh Binh encapsulates the enchanting and magnificent beauty of nature. Covering three-quarters of the area, its mountainous terrain features a variety of limestone formations formed over millions of years. This geographical advantage has led to the establishment of numerous tourist sites and nature reserves, including the famous Trang An, Thung Nham, and Cuc Phuong National Park.
►Don't Miss: Hang Mua Tour - Trang An - Hoa Lu 1 day all-inclusive
The majestic nature of Ninh Binh is further glorified by its rich historical tapestry, once serving as the ancient capital during the Đinh, Early Lê, and Lý dynasties. The traces of our ancient past, spanning thousands of years, are still preserved in the land of Ninh Binh, becoming invaluable assets of the Vietnamese nation. Ninh Binh's unique heritage was internationally recognized with the title of 'World Cultural and Natural Heritage' in 2014 by UNESCO, making Vietnam the first country in Southeast Asia to possess this mixed heritage title.
But Ninh Binh doesn't stop there; it also entices travelers from all corners with its vibrant, tradition-rich festivals deeply imbued with Vietnamese spirit. This is also the birthplace of Xam and Cheo folk songs, rich in musical melodies within the realm of arts. Ninh Binh is also home to hundreds of talented artisans with unique traditional craft villages. In summary, Ninh Binh stands out as one of Vietnam's most prominent destinations that every traveler should experience at least once in their lifetime.
When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?
Ninh Binh is blessed with favorable weather and beautiful scenery year-round, each season boasting its own unique charm, so you can visit Ninh Binh at any time. According to Ninh Binh travel experience, the best times to fully admire the beauty of Ninh Binh are:
-
Spring: During spring, the weather here is pleasantly mild, and it coincides with the beginning of the year, so there are many festivals held at temples. You can combine sightseeing with temple visits to pray for peace and blessings for the new year.
-
Summer, Autumn: From late May, early June, and September to October are the best times to visit Ninh Binh as the already stunning scenery is further enhanced by the blooming of purple lilies mingling with golden rice fields, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a painting.
►Book now: Top 121 hotels in Ninh Binh with beautiful views at great prices starting from 237k VND
Must-visit Famous Destinations in Ninh Binh
1. Trang An Ecotourism Area:
Trang An Ecotourism Area is part of the renowned Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex and is also one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Ninh Binh. It brings together the most prominent features with mysterious caves, lush green valleys, and winding rivers embracing the foothills. It can be said that Trang An Ecotourism Area encompasses the most unique points, contributing significantly to earning the title of World Cultural and Natural Heritage for Ninh Binh province.
As you drift along the emerald river exploring Trang An, you will be able to admire the vibrant green rice fields along with a series of ancient relics, resembling a land forgotten by time. The most famous tourist destinations in Trang An include the following:
Trinh Temple:
This splendid temple is closely associated with the four National Founding Fathers of the Đinh Dynasty during the suppression of the Twelve Warlords, establishing the golden history of Đại Cồ Việt at that time. With its 'Leaned on mountains, facing water' position, Trinh Temple stands as a historical witness to the Trang An land through the various changes of history over more than a thousand years. Today, visitors to Trinh Temple can admire its exquisite architecture harmonizing with the beautiful natural surroundings of rivers and lakes.
Địa Linh Cave:
Địa Linh Cave stretches nearly 300m and is one of the most beautiful limestone caves in Vietnam. It was once favored with the name Treasure Cavern, because of the sparkling beauty of the stalactites inside the cave, resembling a treasure trove that humans have always yearned for. This is one of the favorite check-in spots in Ninh Binh as visitors can take a boat ride on the emerald river and explore the mysterious caves.
Dark Cave:
True to its name, Dark Cave remains devoid of sunlight year-round, exuding a mysterious allure that beckons travelers to explore. Thanks to modern lighting systems, you can now easily marvel at the unique rock formations inside the cave. The narrow and ever-changing passages within Dark Cave mean that only by sitting on the boats of local villagers can you fully explore the cave without fear of getting lost.
Dark Valley:
Venturing through Dark Cave, you'll encounter the Dark Valley, a watery area where four cave entrances converge: Seo Cave, Ba Giọt Cave, Sáng Cave, Dark Cave. The panoramic view of surrounding mountains and water is often likened to experiencing all four seasons and directions simultaneously. This spot is considered a place to fully appreciate the beauty of the land and gather the essence of the entire country.
►►Check out now: Budget-friendly 1-day Hanoi tour package
Sun Cave:
Sun Cave boasts a length of up to 112m and a spacious entrance, ideal for boats carrying visitors to explore and admire the hidden natural wonders within. Upon entering Sun Cave, you'll witness stalactites hanging from the ceiling like gigantic, astonishing curtains. Each stalactite in the cave is given folkloric names by ancient people, intertwined with mystical stories and legends.
Wine Brewing Cave:
It is named so because Wine Brewing Cave is believed to be the place where ancient people used to collect water for brewing wine to offer to the king. Archaeologists have found numerous jars, vessels, and brewing tools in this cave area. With a length of nearly 250m, nowadays you can explore Wine Brewing Cave and admire the ancient jars displayed by the tourist management board inside the cave.
►Deep discount: 4-day 4-night budget tour from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi - Ninh Binh
Tran Temple:
As a prominent historical relic in Trang An, Tran Temple is closely associated with the history of the Dinh and Tran dynasties. The temple was built during the Dinh dynasty and was initially called Noi Lam Temple due to its location amidst the evergreen forest. During the Tran dynasty, the temple was renovated to become a place of worship favored by King Tran Thai Tong. Visiting Tran Temple, you will admire its unique architecture and don't forget to pray for peace as this is a famous and sacred temple in Ninh Binh.
Sính Cave, Si Cave, Ba Giọt Cave:
These three caves are famous for the legend of a tragic love story between a young man and a princess from ancient times. It is said that because of this sad love story, the stalactites in these three caves do not dry but shed tears year-round for their lost love. Legend has it that when visiting Ba Giọt Cave and catching three drops of water, all your wishes for love and life will come true.
►►Tet Promotion: Budget-friendly 4-day 3-night tour from Hà Giang to Cao Bằng
Khống Palace:
Khống Palace is built in the architectural style of traditional temples and pagodas in Vietnam but is an unmissable tourist destination in Ninh Binh because of the story behind it. The palace is a place of worship for the seven royal martyrs of the Dinh dynasty, with mysteries still hiding the location of the tomb of King Dinh Tien Hoang to this day. It's also a place to admire the stunning scenery that every tourist loves when visiting Trang An Ecotourism Complex.
2. Tam Coc - Bich Dong Tourist Area:
Tam Coc:
Flowing along the picturesque Ngo Dong River, you'll arrive at Tam Coc and admire the harmonious beauty of rock and water along with variously shaped mountains overlapping one another. Exploring Tam Coc, every tourist can enjoy the gentle yet mysterious beauty, feeling as peaceful as being cradled in the arms of Mother Nature.
Tam Coc comprises three water caves, formed over millions of years by the relentless flow of the Ngo Dong River through the mountains. The caves in the Tam Coc cluster are respectively Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. The best time to visit Tam Coc is from mid-May to June each year, during which you can marvel at the enchanting landscapes of mountains and be awestruck by the beauty of Tam Coc in its mesmerizing 'golden season'.
Each cave in the Tam Coc cluster possesses its own unique charm. Hang Ca is the longest cave among the three, renowned for its beautiful stalactites of various colors. Hang Hai features stalactites in countless shapes, sparkling and shining when illuminated. As for Hang Ba, although it is the shortest cave, its spacious interior and breezy atmosphere make visitors feel the gentle wind brushing through their hair, providing a refreshing and pleasant experience akin to standing on a high plateau.
►Don't miss out: 1-day Hanoi - Yen Tu tour package
Bich Dong:
Bich Dong Pagoda is a temple built on the limestone cliffs of Truong Yen and is one of the must-visit attractions in Ninh Binh. For history or architecture enthusiasts, visiting Bich Dong will be awe-inspiring due to its delicate and meticulous construction dating back hundreds of years. Bich Dong Pagoda consists of 3 small pagodas built consecutively on the mountainside: Lower Pagoda, Middle Pagoda, Upper Pagoda.
Standing at Bich Dong Pagoda, you will understand why the temple is called 'green', as green hues cover the entire space of the temple. Casting your gaze into the distance, you see endless mountains, the deep green Ngô Đồng river, and vast rice fields. The three pagodas blend harmoniously with nature, bringing peace and tranquility to every visitor.
Thung Nang:
Just a 5-minute motorcycle ride from Bich Dong Pagoda, you can explore a new popular Ninh Binh tourist destination - Thung Nang. As it has been recently developed for tourism, Thung Nang offers a pristine space with minimal human intervention. Thung Nang is a fantastic 'check-in' spot with its backdrop of mountains and vast water bodies with rippling waves.
Ancient people named the landmarks in Ninh Binh in a very rustic way. As for Thung Nang, it's simply because this is where the sunbeams dance everywhere, from between the leaves to the bottom of the crystal-clear water. Thanks to the sunlight, Thung Nang seems to shine brighter, glowing like a sparkling blue gem amidst the Ninh Binh landscape.
When you visit Thung Nang, you'll have plenty of check-in spots such as Ba Doi Mountain, Coc Mountain, Mang Mountain, Gold Mountain, Thung Nang Temple,... The stunning scenery at Thung Nang will undoubtedly provide you with beautiful photos and moments of tranquility, escaping the hustle and bustle of urban life.
►►Check out: 1-day Hanoi - Tam Chuc Pagoda tour for only 650k VND
4. Mua Cave:
Are you someone who enjoys conquering challenges, but finds the above destinations too gentle and romantic? Then challenge yourself with Mua Cave - dubbed as the “Great Wall of Vietnam' with 486 steps that will surely leave you breathless as you climb, yet will also leave you in awe when you reach the top, witnessing the breathtaking beauty of Ninh Binh.
From the cave's summit, you'll overlook the path to Tam Coc - Bich Dong, shimmering with golden ripe rice fields and lush greenery at the end of the year, blending into the stunning natural landscape of towering mountains. All of this creates an irresistible romantic scene. In recent years, Mua Cave has also become a favorite 'Instagrammable' spot for many young travelers, thanks to the 'cool' photos taken by tourists both domestic and international during their visits to Ninh Binh.
5. Thung Nham Eco-tourism Area:
Thung Nham Bird Garden:
One of the renowned tourist spots in Ninh Binh is Thung Nham Bird Garden, home to approximately 40 species of birds with a population of up to 50,000 individuals. Dusk is when the bird garden is at its most beautiful, with flocks of storks gracefully soaring, covering the entire area with a sense of pristine beauty rarely found elsewhere.
At Thung Nham Bird Garden, you can also enjoy camping activities, lodging in fascinating bungalows or tents. Thung Nham Bird Garden is also an ideal location for group outings or large gatherings to organize team-building activities, fostering teamwork and camaraderie.
►►Check out: Halong Bay Ninh Binh all-inclusive tour
Mermaid Cave:
As one of the most beautiful water caves in Ninh Binh, Mermaid Cave also entices tourists with ancient stalactites and the story of the mermaid turning into stone. Unlike other caves in Trang An, when exploring Mermaid Cave, you won't be sitting in a boat but walking on a nearly 700m long floating bridge to traverse the cave and discover the surreal stalactites.
Heaven's Gate Cave:
Heaven's Gate Cave is believed to be where ancestors worshipped the heavens and earth since ancient times, imbued with spiritual significance with three levels: earthly realm, underworld, and heaven. Each level of the cave features stalactites associated with names and stories reflecting the Vietnamese people's existential values. This is undoubtedly a beautiful tourist spot in Ninh Binh where nature intricately intertwines with culture and folklore beliefs.
Limestone Garden:
It can be said that Lush Garden is one of the most unique destinations in Ninh Binh within the Thung Nham Ecotourism Area and the Northern Delta region. Lush Garden is a large fruit garden usually found in tours of the Mekong Delta provinces. Visiting the Lush Garden at Thung Nham, you can freely pick and taste a variety of delicious fruits right in the garden.
Wandering Banyan Tree:
The Wandering Banyan Tree is an ancient tree over a thousand years old located in the Thung Nham area. 'Wandering' here refers to the extraordinary vitality of the banyan tree. Whenever there's an empty root cavity, the tree grows another main root to anchor itself in the soil, replacing the living tissue. According to scientists, the wandering banyan tree has replaced its roots three times, with every 300 years the tree's root relocates to a different position while still enveloping the temple of the spirit medium of King Dinh Tien Hoang.
► You may also be interested in: Budget-friendly 1-day Hanoi - Perfume Pagoda tour
6. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Relic Area:
When it comes to cultural and spiritual tourism, let's explore the land of Hoa Lu together. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is a particularly important national heritage site of Vietnam, including: King Dinh Temple and King Le Temple and many other historical relics. If you love history, want to explore and learn more about the country's history as well as participate in lucky festivals, then you definitely cannot miss the land of Hoa Lu.
Visiting the ancient capital, you will feel like stepping back in time to ancient times while admiring ancient architectural works that have stood the test of time until today. Besides the two prominent works of King Dinh Temple and King Le Temple, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital also possesses special ancient temples: Ngan Xuyen Pagoda, Nhat Tru Pagoda. Exploring and taking photos at these locations will be like scenes from historical dramas amidst modern life.
7. Sublime Valley - Am Tiem Cave:
With its pristine and romantic scenery reminiscent of the martial arts films we often watch, Am Tiem Cave is affectionately referred to by young people as the enchanting “Sublime Valley”. Leave behind the hustle and bustle of life, come to this picturesque and peaceful natural setting, completely separate from the outside world.
When visiting Am Tiem Cave, don't miss checking in at the ancient city gate - once the only entrance to this secluded area. The ancient city gate, though not large in scale, has stood firm through the ups and downs of time. This is a favorite tourist spot in Ninh Binh for many young people and couples who come here for wedding photoshoots.
8. Bai Dinh Pagoda:
Bai Dinh Pagoda is renowned as a sacred place for blessings and is also one of the famous tourist destinations in Ninh Binh visited by all travelers. It holds numerous records such as: the largest pagoda in Vietnam, known for many records like the largest bronze Buddha statue in Southeast Asia, the largest bronze bell in Southeast Asia, the corridor with the most Buddha statues...
With its grand and magnificent architecture, Bai Dinh Pagoda stands out even more thanks to its majestic landscape: nestled against the mountains, winding along the river. The statues at Bai Dinh Pagoda are also remarkable for their exquisite craftsmanship, contributing to the serene spiritual space that makes every step of visitors feel like a journey in search of Goodness - Virtue - Beauty.
Not only significant in spiritual meaning, the scenery at Bai Dinh Pagoda is also a very 'hot' spot for photography enthusiasts both domestically and internationally. Photos taken at Bai Dinh Pagoda also create waves on social media thanks to its beautiful backdrop.
9. Cuc Phuong National Park:
A new favorite destination in Ninh Binh, especially for adventurous young travelers or nature lovers, is Cuc Phuong National Park. This national park is located across three provinces: Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, and Hoa Binh. The majority of the park's area belongs to Ninh Binh province, covering over 22,000 hectares with diverse ecosystems, preserving the pristine natural beauty along with the cultural identity of the Muong ethnic group.
Here you'll explore vast forests with free-roaming wildlife. A special feature of Cuc Phuong National Park that enthralls young adventurers is the butterfly trekking trips towards the end of spring and early summer. During the butterfly breeding season, thousands of butterflies flutter through the forests, drawing excited visitors to Cuc Phuong National Park to experience being surrounded by a shimmering butterfly spectacle.
10.Van Long Nature Reserve:
This is a nature reserve and ecotourism area as beautiful as the Tam Coc - Trang An - Bich Dong complex. With an area of 3000 hectares, it's considered the largest wetland conservation area in the North. Drifting along Van Long Nature Reserve, visitors will feel incredibly peaceful and relaxed with the clear, tranquil water, as silent as a giant mirror.
Surrounded by vast waterlogged areas with diverse wildlife like birds, langurs, and limestone mountains with various shapes like Mam Xoi Mountain, Meo Cao Mountain, Fairy Mountain, each name corresponding to the shape of the mountain. The romantic nature here can enchant even the most stoic, and for young photography enthusiasts, this is an unmissable destination.
11. Kenh Ga - Van Trinh Tourist Area:
Kenh Ga Hot Spring:
Kenh Ga Hot Spring is a famous mineral hot spring stream that holds a Vietnamese record as one of the top 5 hot springs attracting tourists in Vietnam. Relaxing in the clear mineral-rich hot spring water with a temperature of up to 53°C at Kenh Ga Spring will surely bring you moments of extreme relaxation and refreshment.
Kenh Ga Floating Village:
Located at the confluence of three rivers, Kenh Ga Floating Village is a simple fishing village amidst the river but still exudes extraordinary charm. Drifting on the river to the floating village, you will witness the idyllic scenery of the fishing village where fishermen diligently catch fish, savoring the taste of the Northern countryside.
► Super Offer 5 Days 4 Nights Ha Giang - Cao Bang Tour to explore Northeast Vietnam
Van Trinh Cave:
Van Trinh Cave is one of the most beautiful caves in Ninh Binh, yet not many tourists have visited it compared to the caves in the Trang An area. This means you will have the opportunity to witness the most pristine wonders of nature firsthand. To reach the cave, you have to overcome a journey up a mountain peak over a hundred meters high. Though challenging, the reward is enjoying the cool, refreshing mountain air that will surely dispel all fatigue.
Nham Hao Cave:
Nham Hao Cave is a recently discovered cave with the longest length in Ninh Binh. Inside the cave, there are many large and small chambers that local residents have not fully explored yet. Many tourists are eagerly awaiting to explore this mysterious cave as the Ninh Binh authorities open it for tourism.
12. Phat Diem Cathedral:
Phat Diem Cathedral was constructed from 1875 to 1898 with architecture built from stone and wood. It is also known as Phat Diem Main Cathedral, a Catholic cathedral complex covering about 22 hectares, located in Phat Diem town, Kim Son district, Ninh Binh.
Although it's a Catholic cathedral, its architecture resembles traditional Vietnamese temple architecture, creating a unique charm that no other church can compare to. Thanks to this, Phat Diem Cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful Catholic cathedrals in Vietnam.
► Book now Mai Chau - Moc Chau 2 Days 1 Night tour with incredible discounts
13. Dong Chuong Lake:
Explore the 'Northern Dalat' right at Dong Chuong Lake with its tranquil blue waters and whispering pine forests. Dong Chuong Lake has become a popular tourist destination in Ninh Binh recently due to its poetic scenery and cool climate, perfect for camping or capturing outdoor scenes. You can also stay in stilt houses, visit natural wonders near the lake like King Pond - a mountain-top lake, or the majestic Ba Tua Waterfall amidst the lush greenery.
14. Non Nuoc Mountain:
As a prominent landmark of Ninh Binh province, Non Nuoc Mountain is a must-visit destination. Climbing over 100 stone steps, you'll witness both the 'Mountain' and 'Water' of Ninh Binh. The beauty of this place is so remarkable that historical figures like Truong Han Sieu, Le Thanh Tong described it in poems and left precious stone carvings for the mountain and the temple on top.
► Deep discounts Ba Vi 1-Day Tour from Hanoi | Huge discounts for wild sunflower season
15. Traditional Craft Villages:
Not only exploring nature, but you can also seek a new perspective on the simple life in the traditional craft villages of Ninh Binh. These unique craft villages, from carpentry and pottery to weaving, are like colorful dots on the lush green canvas of Ninh Binh. Visiting these villages, meeting talented artisans, and purchasing unique products in the ancient capital is definitely an experience you shouldn't miss.
16. Ninh Binh Museum:
If you've fallen in love with the emerald land of Ninh Binh, why not visit the Ninh Binh Museum once? At the Ninh Binh Museum, artifacts are displayed according to themes such as prehistoric Ninh Binh, Ninh Binh through feudal dynasties, and outdoor exhibits. In each area, you'll feel like you're 'time-traveling' through Ninh Binh's history, sometimes accompanying wild birds, sometimes immersed in the smoke of war during the colonial period.
17. Kim Son Beach - Floating Island:
One surprising aspect for many tourists is that Ninh Binh boasts long coastlines and pristine islands. The Ninh Binh coastal area is recognized by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve due to its diverse and vibrant ecosystem. For those seeking to experience rural life or explore the natural world, the Kim Son Beach - Floating Island area is the perfect check-in spot in Ninh Binh.
With the Ninh Binh tourist destinations mentioned above, you've likely got some inspiration for planning an exciting itinerary. The beauty of Ninh Binh must be experienced firsthand to truly appreciate its essence, so why wait any longer to visit Ninh Binh with friends and family? If you need further advice on other affordable domestic tours, don't hesitate to contact the Mytour hotline at Mytour for assistance with cheap flight tickets, tours, and hotels. We're always ready to help.
