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When you think of Ninh Binh, iconic tourist spots like Trang An, Hoa Lu, and Tam Coc Bich Dong immediately come to mind. Now, let Vntrip.vn guide you through a comprehensive list of the most captivating attractions in this ancient land.
1. The Marvelous Landscape of Trang An
Trang An is undoubtedly the most renowned tourist destination in present-day Ninh Binh. Recognized by Unesco as both a natural and cultural world heritage site, Ninh Binh's Trang An boasts pristine and breathtaking natural scenery.
A breathtaking view of Trang An from above. Photo by @notanothermica
The landscape here is formed by meandering rivers flowing through limestone mountains, creating countless enchanting and mysterious natural caves that captivate travelers. To explore Trang An, visitors embark on boat rides to admire the surrounding mountainous natural scenery.
For accommodation in the Trang An area, travelers can consider:
2. Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Located in Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district, Tam Coc – Bich Dong is a familiar destination that no traveler should miss when visiting Ninh Binh. Exploring Tam Coc, you'll glide on a boat along the picturesque Ngo Dong River, admiring the majestic limestone mountains and the golden, shimmering rice fields. The poetic scenery here is sure to enchant any visitor. Boat ticket prices are 150,000 VND for a maximum of 4 people.
In addition, visitors can explore Bich Dong, consisting of a dry cave on the mountain's back and a water cave. On the mountain, there is Bich Dong Pagoda, an ancient pagoda spanning three levels on the mountain, serving as a place for pilgrims to light incense and pray. Admission prices are 120,000 VND for adults and 60,000 VND for children.
Some hotels in Tam Coc Bich Dong with favorable room rates include:
3. Ancient Capital Hoa Lu
The ancient capital Hoa Lu, situated in Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lu district, is a nationally significant historical site in Vietnam. This site comprises the temples of Kings Dinh and Le, along with numerous other monumental structures. Today, Hoa Lu is a favored destination for many travelers, especially those eager to explore the country's history and partake in spiritual rituals.
4. Mua Cave
Mua Cave, nestled at the base of Mua Mountain, is a tourist spot in the travel complex of Khe Dau Ha hamlet, Ninh Xuan commune. While not as famous as other landmarks in Ninh Binh, Mua Cave captures the hearts of visitors with its breathtaking natural scenery and serene atmosphere, free from the hustle and bustle found in more renowned locations.
(Source: viewtravel360.com)
From the base of the mountain, the cascading terraced steps resemble a miniature Great Wall. At the summit of Mua Mountain, you'll marvel at the panoramic view of ripe rice fields seemingly condensed into your line of sight, and boats gently paddling along the water.
5. Bai Dinh Pagoda
Located 15km from Ninh Binh city, Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest temple complex in Vietnam, boasting numerous records such as the largest bronze bell in Vietnam, the tallest and heaviest bronze Buddha statue, the largest set of three statues, the largest well, and the most stone Arhat statues in Vietnam.
This pilgrimage site offers a sense of tranquility and serenity akin to a celestial realm. The ethereal beauty of Bai Dinh Pagoda is a haven for spiritual travelers. Some convenient hotels for visitors near the pagoda include:
6. Am Tien Cave – ” Enchanting Oasis in Ninh Binh”
As a national relic within the Hoa Lu national relic complex, Am Tien Cave is an unmissable destination for those seeking to indulge in the serene and picturesque natural scenery. Its pristine beauty, completely distinct from the outside world, has earned it the nickname “Enchanting Oasis” among the younger crowd.
Everything here exudes a slightly melancholic ambiance, painted by the hands of time. The otherworldly beauty reminiscent of a fairyland imparts a unique sense of wonder compared to other attractions in Ninh Binh. Admission to Am Tien Cave is 20,000 VND per person.
7. Thung Nham Bird Garden
Thung Nham Bird Garden stands out as one of the most captivating destinations in Ninh Binh, a place where cultural, spiritual, and diverse biological factors converge. Surrounded by tropical forests on limestone mountains, adorned with numerous caves and valleys blending seamlessly with the natural flora and fauna.
Especially, you will explore the lives of nearly 40 bird species with a total population of up to 50,000. At sunset, flocks of white storks gracefully soar, covering the waterlogged land, creating a wild and fascinating beauty rarely found elsewhere.
8. Van Long Nature Reserve
An enchanting eco-tourism area, equally renowned as the famous Tam Coc – Bich Dong, is Van Long Nature Reserve. With an area of 3000ha, it is the largest natural wetland conservation area in the North Delta.
While boating on the lake, travelers will witness the water surface as smooth as a giant mirror, earning it the nickname 'the waveless bay.' Drifting in a small leaf boat, you'll be surrounded by vast wetlands, diverse bird species, langurs, and limestone formations like Cat Scratching Mountain, Tray of Sticky Rice Mountain, Saddlebag Mountain, and Fairy Peak. The enchanting natural scenery here captivates every visitor's heart.
Hotels near Van Long Nature Reserve:
9. Cuc Phuong National Park
Cuc Phuong National Park covers an area of 25,000ha and is a renowned ecological and environmental tourism destination attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Visitors can explore a rich biodiversity, admire beautiful natural landscapes, and participate in eco-tourism, resorts, camping, adventure activities, research, and cultural-historical experiences.
You can explore Cuc Phuong in a day, or for a more immersive experience, a 2 to 3-day trip is ideal. According to Ninh Binh travel experiences, visiting Cuc Phuong in the early rainy season around June - July each year provides the opportunity to witness swarms of butterflies fluttering throughout the forest. To conveniently visit Cuc Phuong National Park, it's recommended for visitors to book hotels nearby.
10. Phat Diem Cathedral
Phat Diem Cathedral, also known as Phat Diem Stone Cathedral, is a Catholic church complex covering approximately 22 hectares, located in Phat Diem town, Kim Son district, Ninh Binh province. Considered one of the most beautiful churches, it's often referred to as the 'Catholic capital' of Vietnam.
Constructed entirely of stone and wood, Phat Diem Cathedral was initiated in 1875 and completed in 1898. Despite being a Catholic church, it mimics the traditional architectural style of Vietnamese temples, creating a distinctive charm that sets it apart from any other church.
Top-rated Hotels in Ninh Binh
When traveling to Ninh Binh, choosing where to stay is crucial. There are numerous options, and here are some suggestions from Vntrip:
Hoping that these exceptional and renowned tourist destinations in Ninh Binh will provide you with more choices and enjoyable experiences in this beautiful land.
