Top 12 Most Attractive Destinations in Ninh Binh Province

Tam Coc - Bich Dong covers an area of 350.3 hectares, located 2 km from National Highway 1A and 7 km from Ninh Binh City, primarily in Ninh Hai Commune (Hoa Lu). Similar to Tràng An, visitors to Tam Coc must take a boat ride along the serene Ngo Dong River, which offers crystal-clear water as you pass through three caves. The landscape of Tam Coc is renowned for the harmonious blend of limestone mountains and water. The peaks here are uniquely shaped, connecting one after another in a breathtaking display.

Tam Coc, meaning 'three caves', includes the Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave. These caves were formed by the Ngo Dong River flowing through the mountains. Tam Coc was the first boat tour route developed in the Tam Coc - Bich Dong area.

You can also visit the Bich Dong Pagoda, an ancient temple nestled in the mountains with a distinct Asian architectural style. The pagoda, dating back to the early Le Dynasty, houses a large bell cast during the reign of King Le Thai To and a memorial for the monks who helped build the pagoda. During the reign of King Le Hien Tong, the pagoda underwent extensive renovations, with additional buildings including the Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagodas, spread across three levels of the mountain.

Thung Nham Eco-Tourism Complex is located within the core area of the Trang An World Heritage Complex. Managed by Doanh Sinh Tourism and Service Joint Stock Company, this area is nestled within the Hai Nham hills, with the highlight being its natural bird park and several notable caves such as Vái Giời Cave, Tiên Cá Cave, Thủy Cung Cave, and Bụt Cave.

Visitors are first struck by the picturesque scenery of Thung Nham, where mountains, rivers, and clouds merge in harmony. The area is surrounded by limestone mountains covered with lush tropical forests, and during the autumn months, the mist creates an ethereal atmosphere that feels like a fairyland.

At the Thung Nham Eco-Tourism Complex, visitors can enjoy activities such as traditional boat rides, swan boat rides, sailing, and scenic lake-side stays. There are also opportunities for mountain climbing, exploring the ecological forest, visiting caves, orchards, and pristine forests.

One of the defining features of tourism in Ninh Binh is the serene image of boats gliding across the water, and Thung Nham is no exception. On the tranquil waters surrounding limestone mountains, a small boat will take you through a bird sanctuary, creating an unforgettable experience.

Phat Diem Cathedral (often referred to as Phat Diem Stone Cathedral) is a vast Catholic church complex covering around 22 hectares, located in Phat Diem Town, Kim Son District, Ninh Binh Province, approximately 120 km south of Hanoi.

Currently, Ninh Binh Province and Japanese researchers are working to complete the documentation for Phat Diem Cathedral's architecture to nominate it as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful churches in Vietnam and is often called the 'Catholic capital' of the country.

This monumental structure serves as the main cathedral of the Phat Diem Diocese in northern Vietnam. Built entirely from stone and wood, construction of Phat Diem Cathedral began in 1875 and was mostly completed by 1898. What makes this building unique is that, despite being a Catholic church, its design is heavily influenced by traditional Vietnamese temple architecture. The cathedral complex was gradually constructed over 30 years by Father Phêrô Trần Lục (also known as Cụ Sáu), who served as the priest in the Phat Diem Diocese from 1865.

Having endured over 100 years of natural disasters and war, the cathedral remains remarkably well-preserved and largely intact to this day. The Phat Diem Cathedral complex was designated a National Cultural and Historical Site in 1988. Ninh Binh Province and relevant authorities are continuing their efforts to have the cathedral recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cuc Phuong National Park spans an impressive 25,000 hectares and is the first national park in Vietnam. This tropical rainforest park is lush year-round and is home to a vast diversity of flora and fauna. Many endangered species have been discovered and preserved here, with the black and white langur being one of the park's most famous symbols.

The best time to visit Cuc Phuong is during the dry season (from December to May) when the weather is cool and pleasant. May is particularly spectacular as the park's butterflies emerge in large numbers, creating a breathtaking 'butterfly forest' that seems like a scene from a fairy tale.

With its diverse ecosystems, Cuc Phuong is home to many species at risk of extinction. As the first national park in Vietnam, it is a popular destination for eco-tourism, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Tourists come here to explore the rich biodiversity, admire the stunning landscapes, and engage in eco-tours, leisure activities, camping, adventure, and cultural or historical research.

Due to its scenic beauty, rich ecosystems, and historical value, Cuc Phuong has long been a renowned and captivating eco-tourism destination.

Mua Cave is located at the foot of Mua Mountain, within the tourism area of Khe Dau Ha Village, Ninh Xuan Commune. While it may not be as famous as some other landmarks in Ninh Binh, Mua Cave has won the hearts of many visitors due to its breathtaking natural scenery and tranquil atmosphere, free from the hustle and bustle.

Unlike other caves that are known for their mystery, Mua Cave stands out for its stunning views. From the top of Mua Mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the vast rice fields of Tam Coc, with golden fields stretching out in all directions. From the base of the mountain, the stone steps leading to the summit resemble a miniature Great Wall.

The best time to visit Mua Cave is during the rice harvest season, particularly between May and June. This is when Ninh Binh enjoys beautiful weather with warm sunshine and a pleasant breeze, perfect for hiking and taking in the scenery.

Van Long Wetland is a picturesque ecological tourist destination, often compared to the famous Tam Coc – Bich Dong. Covering an area of 3,000 hectares, it is the largest natural wetland reserve in the Red River Delta. The wetland is renowned for its serene landscape, with rolling mountains and dreamy skies.

As you take a boat ride through the wetland, you will be mesmerized by the perfectly still waters, often called the 'bay of no waves.' As you float through, you will be surrounded by vast marshlands, limestone mountains with curious shapes such as the 'Cat's Teeth Mountain,' 'Raspberry Mountain,' and 'Fairy Mountain,' as well as hidden caves adorned with unique stalactites. These limestone peaks and caves are home to a variety of wildlife, including birds and monkeys.

With its rich ecosystem and diverse plant life, Van Long Wetland is an ideal destination at any time of year. However, if you wish to see the lotus flowers in full bloom, the best time to visit is between May and June, when the area is covered in a beautiful pink hue, perfect for capturing breathtaking photos.

Am Tien Cave, a national heritage site within the Hoa Lu historical complex, is an unmissable destination for those seeking a peaceful, picturesque natural setting. Known for its untouched beauty, it has earned the nickname 'The Love Valley' among the younger generation due to its serene, secluded atmosphere, far from the bustle of the outside world.

Located more than 500 meters above sea level, the climate at Am Tien Cave remains cool year-round. The path leading to the site is lined with towering, ancient trees, adding to its majestic and wild charm. The cave's remote location and rugged terrain lend it an air of mystery, with dramatic scenery that evokes a sense of melancholy and timelessness, as though the area still bears the marks of its past, including the haunting remnants of an ancient execution ground. Much of the cave’s interior consists of a water-filled valley, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

For visitors to Ninh Binh seeking a quiet retreat amidst stunning natural beauty, Am Tien Cave offers an otherworldly experience. Its wild, isolated beauty, combined with the hauntingly peaceful atmosphere, creates a stark contrast to other tourist sites in the region. A ticket to visit Am Tien Cave costs 20,000 VND per person. The cave’s somber, ethereal ambiance, akin to a mythical paradise, provides a unique and unforgettable experience for those who venture here.

The Kenh Ga Hot Spring is located in the Kênh Gà village, Gia Thịnh commune, Gia Viễn district, Ninh Bình, Vietnam. The spring flows from the heart of Kênh Gà mountain, near the floating village of Kênh Gà, and pours into a branch of the Hoàng Long River. Renowned for its healing properties, it has been recognized by the Vietnam Record Book Center as one of the top 5 most popular hot spring destinations in Vietnam. The confluence of the Bôi and Lạng rivers, where they merge into the Hoàng Long River, is known as Vọng Ấm, a place where the waters are always warm, creating a rich environment for various species of fish and aquatic life.

The crystal-clear, bubbling waters of Kênh Gà have long been used by locals for medicinal purposes. The spring contains a variety of minerals such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium, magnesium chloride, and bicarbonate salts, all known for their health benefits. The water temperature reaches approximately 53°C. If you visit in the morning, you'll be greeted by thick mist, a fresh atmosphere, and the sweet sounds of birdsong, creating a perfect start to a rejuvenating day.

Visitors to the hot spring can enjoy several therapeutic baths, including hot pools with temperatures around 40°C, cold pools at 26°C, and herbal baths. Additional services include massages, karaoke, bonfires, gala dinners, and dancing. The resort also offers comfortable accommodations, so all you need to do is pack your bag and come experience it all!

Van Trinh Cave is one of the largest and most stunning caves in Ninh Bình, alongside other famous ones like Thiên Hà, Tiên Cá, and Vái Giời. Located in the Mõ Mountain range, within the Thượng Hòa commune in Nho Quan district, Van Trinh Cave, together with the Kenh Ga Hot Spring, is part of a planned tourist area known as the Kênh Gà – Vân Trình Complex.

The cave sits within a mountain that rises over 100 meters high. Its entrance, about 40 meters above the ground, is accessible by boat from the Hoàng Long River. Visitors traveling from Ninh Bình city can follow the Tràng An Avenue, passing by the Tràng An Ecotourism Area, Bai Dinh Pagoda, all the way to the cave.

Covering an area of over 4000 m², the cave's highest arch reaches over 100 meters. Beneath the arch, layers of sparkling stalactites form a dazzling, multicolored curtain of stone. The cave floor features intricate patterns, adding to its beauty. Deeper inside, visitors will find the Dragon Well, where water rises from below. The cave is filled with stalactites in a variety of shapes and colors.

The air inside the cave is cool and refreshing, and the surrounding walls are adorned with artistic reliefs of humans, mythical creatures, animals, and natural forms. Some formations resemble guardians, others mimic actors in mid-performance, and even royal court scenes, making the cave feel like a magical, living gallery.

Trang An Ecotourism Complex is a scenic landscape often referred to as a "Halong Bay on land," featuring a remarkable blend of caves, mountains, valleys, forests, and historical relics. In June 2014, the Trang An Ecotourism Complex was proudly recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its cultural and natural significance.

Located in the Ninh Bình Province, Trang An covers over 2000 hectares across the city of Ninh Bình and the districts of Hoa Lư, Nho Quan, and Gia Viễn. The area is known for its limestone mountain ranges, mystical caves, and peaceful waterways, which are interspersed with dozens of cultural and historical landmarks such as temples, pagodas, and shrines. This fusion of nature and history creates a truly magical and poetic atmosphere.

Unlike the Tam Cốc area, Trang An offers a unique waterway journey where visitors can navigate through caves without retracing their steps. The caves here are vast, long, and continuously shaped by natural forces, creating a surreal, ever-changing landscape. The cave system has been likened to a "Bát Quái" formation, with a complex arrangement of mountains, valleys, and caves that make it almost impossible to exit without local knowledge.

Trang An features a diverse array of limestone mountains and natural caves. At the foot of many limestone mountains, there are remnants of ancient marine life, such as fossilized sea urchins, a testament to the region's past as a sea bed. The unique karst landscape of Hoa Lư – Ninh Bình is often compared to Halong Bay, with its endless rows of limestone peaks surrounding serene valleys and interconnected lakes, creating a majestic yet tranquil scene.

The ancient capital of Hoa Lu once spanned an area of around 300 hectares, consisting of the Outer Citadel, Inner Citadel, and Southern Citadel, all encircled by a range of mountains forming a natural fortress. The majestic landscape was complemented by a series of stone walls and high earthen ramparts, some up to 8-10 meters tall. The Outer Citadel, covering approximately 140 hectares, is located in the Yên Thành village of Trường Yên commune. This area was the main royal palace, with the temples dedicated to Kings Đinh and Lê at its core. According to legend, the site of Mã Yên Mountain served as the royal seat of King Đinh Tiên Hoàng, where he placed his flag to mark the foundation of the nation.

The ancient Hoa Lu Citadel consisted of two concentric walls and was closely surrounded by mountains. Today, although the original structures no longer exist, the area is home to the temples of King Đinh and King Lê, which are now built on the former grounds of the ancient capital. These two temples are located about 500 meters apart, and visitors often refer to the area as the "Ancient Capital Hoa Lu" or the "Temples of Kings Đinh and Lê."

At this site, archaeologists have uncovered remnants of the old palace foundation and several pieces of ancient pottery. These precious artifacts are preserved in a museum located on the left side of the temple complex. The Hoa Lu historic site is also home to several beautiful pagodas, such as Ngân Xuyên Pagoda (near Mã Yên Mountain) and Nhất Trụ Pagoda (about 200 meters from King Lê's temple), which attract many visitors for worship and sightseeing.

Bai Dinh Pagoda is a renowned spiritual landmark located within the Bai Dinh – Trang An ecotourism complex, with a history spanning over 1,000 years, linked to various dynasties including the Dinh, Early Le, and Ly Dynasties.

The pagoda complex is situated on Bai Dinh Mountain in Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Viễn District, just 5 kilometers northwest of the ancient capital Hoa Lu and 12 kilometers from Ninh Binh City. Spanning 539 hectares, the complex includes the historic Bai Dinh Pagoda, covering 27 hectares, and the newly constructed Bai Dinh Pagoda, covering 80 hectares. Each year, the site hosts tens of thousands of pilgrims and visitors.

Architecturally, Bai Dinh is considered a model of traditional Vietnamese pagoda design, particularly with the newly built structures, which are grand and impressive. The main pagoda roof features 12 curved, dragon-shaped tiles, with a traditional curved eaves design. The entrance is beautifully decorated with stone dragons in the style of the Ly Dynasty, and the large stone courtyard offers a view of the sacred Jade Well.

Surrounding the pagoda is a corridor lined with statues of Arhats, encircling the entire temple grounds. The temple also features small gardens with green trees, particularly the bodhi tree, which is symbolic of those planted at Indian temples. The tranquil atmosphere and cool environment make Bai Dinh an ideal destination for Buddhists to meditate and pay respects.

Due to its unique architecture and long history, Bai Dinh Pagoda has become a famous spiritual and ecotourism destination in northern Vietnam, and Ninh Binh in particular. It holds eight Vietnam and Asia-wide records, including the largest bronze bell in Vietnam, the tallest and heaviest statue of the Buddha in Asia, the largest set of gilded bronze statues of the Three Buddhas in Vietnam, the largest statue of the Laughing Buddha in Southeast Asia, the longest Arhat corridor in Vietnam, and the largest number of bodhi trees in Vietnam.