Top 15 Must-Visit Landmarks in Ninh Bình

Phat Diem Cathedral is a large Catholic complex spanning about 22 hectares, located in Phat Diem Town, Kim Son District, Ninh Bình Province, approximately 120 km south of Hanoi. The cathedral was built between 1875 and 1898. The name Phat Diem, meaning 'the birth of beauty,' was given by Nguyen Công Trứ.

It took 24 continuous years to build the cathedral, and considering the technical skills and transport conditions of the late 19th century, transporting thousands of tons of stone, some weighing up to 20 tons, and hundreds of lim wood trees to Phat Diem was an extraordinary feat.

Kim Son, once a newly reclaimed land with swampy terrain, required significant preparation before construction. To solve the sinking problem of the land, a small mountain 40 km away was moved to Phat Diem. Visitors to the church can still see Soc Mountain, a remnant of the mountain that was transported here.

This is an Eastern architectural complex consisting of: a pond, Phuong Dinh, a large cathedral surrounded by four smaller churches, three artificial caves, and the stone church.

Entrance Fee: Free

Cuc Phuong National Park (also known as Cuc Phuong Forest) is a nature reserve and a special-use forest located at the border of three regions: the Northwest, the Red River Delta, and the North Central region, covering three provinces: Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa. This is the first national park established in Vietnam. Cuc Phuong is about 120 km south of Hanoi, nestled deep in the Tam Diep mountain range, with a small but well-known land area that has become a familiar and curious place for many domestic and international visitors.

The park was established on July 7, 1962, and spans an area of 22,200 hectares. With its rich natural landscape, biodiversity, and historical and cultural values, Cuc Phuong has long been a popular and attractive ecotourism destination.

Cuc Phuong is characterized by its tropical rainforest, which remains lush and green year-round. The park is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem. According to recent surveys, Cuc Phuong hosts 1,983 plant species, including 433 medicinal plants and 229 edible plants, many of which are listed in Vietnam’s Red Book. As for wildlife, it is home to 110 species of reptiles and amphibians, 65 species of fish, nearly 2,000 insect species, and 117 species of mammals (including the rare and beautiful white-cheeked gibbon, which is the symbol of the park). Over 300 species of birds reside here, many of which are endemic to Vietnam and Indochina, making it a prime destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Cuc Phuong, with its Karst terrain, is also home to beautiful caves with intriguing names such as Son Cung Cave and Phò Ma Giáng Cave. Some caves even contain prehistoric human traces dating back 7,500 to 12,000 years, like the Đắng Cave (Cave of Ancient Humans) and the Moong Cave. In 2000, Cuc Phuong discovered the fossil of a vertebrate species, which, according to initial findings by the Vietnam Institute of Paleontology, is a fossil of a toothless reptile that lived about 200 to 230 million years ago.

Cuc Phuong is also home to the Muong ethnic community, whose unique culture can be experienced through traditional stilt houses, terraced fields, rice-pounding tools, and weaving looms. Visitors can also witness local festivals, customs, and lifestyles during their stay in the village. If you have the chance, don't miss a trip to Cuc Phuong National Park to breathe in the fresh mountain air, immerse yourself in the pristine nature, and marvel at the stunning landscapes bestowed upon this land.

Entrance Fee:

• 60,000 VND/person
• Students: 20,000 VND/person

Thung Nham Bird Sanctuary (also known as Thung Chim) is located in Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province. Nestled within the UNESCO-listed Trang An Complex, it is close to the iconic Tam Coc - Bich Dong area. This location offers a harmonious blend of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. While in Ninh Binh, take a boat ride through the wetlands and observe over 40 species of birds in their natural habitat. The sight of flocks of white storks soaring above the vast wetlands at sunset is an experience beyond words, a scene few places can offer.

Your visit to Thung Nham Bird Sanctuary should start with a trip to Vái Giời Cave, perched on a mountain. Spanning 5,000 square meters, the cave consists of three sections representing “Earth, Hell, and Heaven.” Local legends suggest this was once a sacred site where people held ceremonies to pray for good weather and a prosperous harvest. Many visitors stop by to wish for a safe and enjoyable visit. To reach the cave, walk 500 meters from the ticket gate, turn right, and ascend 439 stone steps to the cave’s entrance.

After exploring the cave, head to the bird sanctuary where you’ll encounter a variety of bird species such as storks, herons, and kingfishers. The sanctuary is also home to two endangered species, the red-crowned crane and the phoenix. The towering limestone mountains reflect on the tranquil waters, while birds flit between branches, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting that is truly unique.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults over 1.3m: 150,000 VND/person (including boat ride)
• Children between 1m – 1.3m: 100,000 VND/person
• Children under 1m: Free

Ninh Binh is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and historical landmarks. From the picturesque Trang An, the tranquil beauty of Tam Coc, to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the dense Cuc Phuong Forest, and the famous Bai Dinh Pagoda, there is much to see. Yet, in recent years, whenever Ninh Binh is mentioned, one place that immediately comes to mind is Múa Cave, often called the ‘Great Wall of Ninh Binh.’ Upon reaching the top of Múa Cave, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the untouched, stunning natural scenery.

Múa Cave is located at the base of Múa Mountain in Ninh Binh. From above, the cave resembles an inverted bell. From the foot of the mountain, you can follow the stone steps leading up to the peak. On both sides of the steps, there are intricate carvings that reflect the region’s cultural heritage. It is believed that in the past, Emperor Trần used to visit this location to listen to the performances of royal musicians, which is how the cave got its name: Múa Cave.

This famous cave is also one of the largest caverns in the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Despite the many caves in Ninh Binh, the sheer grandeur of Múa Cave makes it an ideal spot for those seeking adventure and beauty. The charm of Múa Cave has captivated not only domestic tourists but also international visitors eager to experience it firsthand!

Ticket Prices:

• Adults over 1.3m: 100,000 VND/person/entry
• Children under 1m: Free

Hoa Lu was the first capital of Đại Cồ Việt, a centralized feudal state, and served as the royal seat for the Đinh, Tiền Lê, and Lý dynasties. After the capital moved to Thăng Long (Hà Nội), it became the historical site it is today. Though the royal families no longer resided in Ninh Binh, they continued to restore and construct various architectural monuments such as temples, pagodas, and tombs.

The Imperial Site of Hoa Lu is a special national heritage of Vietnam, featuring the Temple of King Đinh, the Temple of King Lê, and numerous other historical structures. If you are passionate about history and wish to explore and learn more about the country’s past, or if you want to participate in traditional festivals, Hoa Lu is a must-visit destination.

When you visit Hoa Lu, it feels as if you are transported to ancient times, as you admire structures that have stood the test of time. In addition to the famous Temples of King Đinh and King Lê, Hoa Lu is home to ancient pagodas such as Ngân Xuyên and Nhất Trụ. A visit to these sites is like stepping into a historical film, with the ancient surroundings blending seamlessly with modern life.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults: 20,000 VND per person
• Children (6-15 years): 10,000 VND per person
• Seniors (60+ years) and people with disabilities: 10,000 VND per person

Operating Hours: 07:00 - 17:00

With its picturesque and pristine scenery, reminiscent of the epic martial arts films we often watch, Am Tiem Cave has earned the enchanting nickname "Tuyet Tinh Coc" among young adventurers. Leave behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life and step into a peaceful, tranquil landscape that feels worlds apart from the outside world.

Am Tiem Cave is a historical site within the ancient capital complex of Hoa Lu, located in Trường Yên, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình. During the Đinh dynasty, the cave was used to imprison tigers for punishing criminals. Just below Đìa Mountain is Ao Giải, a pond where the king kept crocodiles to dispose of wrongdoers by casting them into the waters to be devoured. This area was essentially the king’s courtroom for dispensing justice.

This is also the location where King Lê Đại Hành held Song Dynasty prisoners, including Quách Quân Biện and Triệu Phụng Huân, until they were handed over to Lý Giác in 986. Additionally, there are caves like Muối Cave and Tiền Cave, where the king stored treasure and provisions during the Đinh and Lê dynasties. When visiting Am Tiem Cave, don’t miss the chance to check in at the ancient city gate — the sole entrance to this secluded area. Built from stone, though not large in scale, the gate has withstood the test of time. This location is a popular travel spot in Ninh Bình, favored by young people and couples, especially for wedding photoshoots.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults above 1.3m: 50,000 VND per person
• Children between 1m and 1.3m: 20,000 VND per person
• Children under 1m: Free

Van Long Ecotourism Area is located in Ninh Bình, about 80 kilometers from Hanoi, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing one-day trip where you can explore at your own pace. This nature reserve is also an ecotourism site, rivaling the beauty of the Tam Cốc - Tràng An - Bích Động complex. Spanning over 3,000 hectares, it is considered the largest wetland reserve in northern Vietnam. While cruising on a boat around the Van Long Lagoon, visitors will experience serene and peaceful moments as the clear water mirrors the sky, creating a calming atmosphere.

Surrounding you are vast wetlands home to wildlife, including birds and langurs, as well as unique limestone mountains, each with distinct names such as Mâm Xôi Mountain, Mèo Cào Mountain, and Cô Tiên Mountain. These names reflect the shapes of the mountains themselves. The idyllic nature of Van Long Ecotourism Area has the power to captivate even the most indifferent travelers. For photography enthusiasts, this is certainly a must-visit spot.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults above 1.3m: 80,000 VND per person
• Children from 1m to 1.3m and seniors over 60: 40,000 VND per person
• Children under 1m: Free

King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple is a historically significant site located within the protected area of the ancient capital Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình. The temple is situated in Trường Yên, Hoa Lư, and occupies the eastern section of the former Hoa Lư citadel. This unique site is the only one in Vietnam where King Dinh Tien Hoang, his parents, his sons, and the military generals of the Dinh dynasty are worshipped together. Like other sites in the Hoa Lư historical complex, the King Dinh Temple is part of the Trang An World Heritage Site, which was recognized by UNESCO in 2014.

The temple is designed in a combination of traditional Vietnamese and foreign architectural styles, with its main axis aligned to the east. In front of the temple stands the Mã Yên Mountain, resembling the saddle of a war horse. The temple itself was constructed atop the foundations of the ancient royal palace of Hoa Lư. Archaeological digs in the area have uncovered a brick courtyard decorated with ancient lotus motifs and phoenixes in flight. The inscriptions on the bricks, “Đại Việt Quốc quân thành chuyên” and “Giang tây quân,” date back to the Dinh-Lê era, confirming the authenticity of these relics.

Ticket Price: 20,000 VND per person

Ba Giọt Water Cave is home to numerous stalactites in a variety of colors and unusual shapes. Some of these formations resemble trees, growing upside down from the ceiling of the cave. What makes this cave truly unique is that its stalactites are not dry like those in other caves; instead, they continue to be shaped and eroded by water, constantly evolving into new forms, creating an enchanting, mysterious beauty.

The caves of Sính, Si, and Ba Giọt are said to be linked to a tragic love story. Long ago, a young man deeply in love with a beautiful girl journeyed to the Sính cave to ask for her hand in marriage. However, by the time he arrived, it was too late—she had already been given away to a neighboring kingdom. Heartbroken, the young man visited Ba Giọt cave to cleanse himself, before ultimately drowning his sorrow in the Si cave.

It is believed that anyone who visits Ba Giọt Water Cave and catches three drops of water falling from the stalactites into their palm will be blessed with prosperity, good luck, and happiness in love.

Wine Brewing Cave stretches 250 meters from the entrance, with a ceiling higher and wider than most caves, allowing two boats to pass each other. This cave is home to an underground water system more than 10 meters deep, extending all the way to the ancient capital of Hoa Lư. Legend has it that in ancient times, people would come to this cave to collect water used for brewing wine to offer to the king. Archaeological excavations have uncovered artifacts such as pottery, jars, and wine-making tools, which is how the cave got its name. The cave's entrance also displays antique wine jars.

Visitors can explore the Wine Brewing Cave by boat, which holds up to six people, departing from the Tràng An center. Inside the cave, there is a well about 15 meters deep with crystal-clear, fresh water. Tourists can see and learn about the ancient wine-making tools once used by locals, gaining insights into this fascinating and rewarding process.

Sailing through the cave on a small boat, visitors will pass through stalactite formations while the boatman shares the story behind the cave's name. Everywhere you look, there are countless wine jars. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes of water and mountains, one particular cave fills the air with the intoxicating aroma of wine, creating a lasting memory of your trip to Ninh Bình.

True to its name, Dark Cave is permanently shrouded in darkness, offering an air of mystery that beckons travelers to explore its depths. With the installation of modern lighting, visitors can now easily admire the unique rock formations within the cave. The cave's interior varies in width, creating unexpected narrow and wide spaces. To fully navigate and experience the cave, it's essential to ride in local boats, ensuring you won't get lost during your exploration.

As part of Ninh Bình's vast natural cave system, Dark Cave spans 320 meters from entrance to exit. The cave's arch-shaped ceiling is low, and its interior is lit with golden lights, allowing visitors to clearly observe the unusual rock structures and strange stalactites shaped by water erosion. The cave remains pristine, with thousands of diverse and intricate stalactites. It is also home to many animal species, including bats and swallows, and even serves as a sanctuary for the endangered Hà Tĩnh langur, a primate listed in Vietnam's Red Book. Due to its proximity to the river and high humidity, the stalactites are covered in a thick layer of moss, giving the cave a distinct green hue.

The name Bright Cave is the opposite of Dark Cave, symbolizing the ancient desire to rise from "darkness" to "light." These intriguing names carry a deep meaning, reflecting the aspiration for change and progress. Although the cave is called 'bright,' it is similar to the Dark Cave in that it becomes darker the further you go inside. Stretching 112 meters, the cave winds in a zigzag pattern, not straight, and as you venture deeper, natural light diminishes. Despite its relatively short length, the beauty within this cave is undeniable. Illuminated by artificial lighting, the layers of stalactites glow, creating a shimmering, magical atmosphere, with some areas of the cave reaching heights of up to 12 meters, resembling a radiant palace.

Locals gave this cave the name 'Bright Cave' as a symbol of hope, embodying the journey from darkness to light, from hardships to happiness, and the aspiration for a better future. The mesmerizing beauty hidden within the darkness of the cave likely inspired this meaningful name.

Bright Cave is relatively long, with a wide entrance that makes it easy for boats to carry visitors into the heart of the cave, allowing them to admire the natural wonders hidden within. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by magnificent stalactites hanging from the ceiling like enormous curtains. Each formation has its own name, often linked to folk tales and mythical stories.

Tam Coc - Bich Dong Tourist Area covers an area of 350.3 hectares, located about 2km from National Highway 1A and 7km from Ninh Binh city, mainly in the Ninh Hai commune (Hoa Lu). Similar to Trang An, visiting Tam Coc requires a boat ride along the poetic Ngo Dong River with its crystal-clear waters, passing through three caves. The landscape of Tam Coc is defined by a harmonious blend of water and stone, with mountains taking on diverse forms, one after another.

"Tam Coc," meaning "three caves," consists of Cave One, Cave Two, and Cave Three, each formed by the Ngo Dong River carving through the mountains. Tam Coc is the first river cruise route developed in the Tam Coc - Bich Dong tourism area.

To visit Tam Coc, tourists embark from the central dock. The boat takes visitors along the winding Ngo Dong River, passing rocky cliffs, water caves, and rice paddies. The round trip lasts about two hours, and the scenery, especially along the riverbanks, changes with the rice seasons, from the lush green fields to the golden harvest or the shimmering water on the fields.

Bich Dong – Water Cave, located 2 kilometers from Tam Coc dock, means "green cave." Bich Dong consists of a dry cave located halfway up a mountain (housing the Bich Dong Pagoda) and a water cave that cuts through the mountain (called Water Cave). In front of the cave, the Ngo Dong River winds around the mountain's base, with rice fields on the opposite bank. Water Cave is a dark, water-filled passage running along the length of the Bich Dong mountain. It forms a semi-circular stone tunnel approximately 350 meters long, curving from east to west.

The average width of Water Cave is 6 meters, with the widest section measuring 15 meters. The ceiling and walls are smooth, with nature seemingly arranging large stone slabs to form vaulted arches with various intricate shapes. Also located here is the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda, built during the early Le Dynasty, featuring a large bell cast during the reign of King Le Thai To and tombs of monks who helped build the pagoda. During the reign of King Le Hien Tong, the pagoda was restored and expanded, with the Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagodas situated across three levels of the mountain.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults (over 1m3): 250,000 VND/person
• Children and seniors (1m - 1m3): 120,000 VND/person
• Children under 1m: Free

Opening Hours: 07:30 - 17:00

Trang An Ecotourism Complex is a stunning landscape, often compared to a "Ha Long Bay on land," featuring a beautiful mix of caves, mountains, valleys, rivers, forests, and historical sites. In June 2014, it was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Located in Ninh Binh province, the complex spans over 2000 hectares, covering parts of Ninh Binh city and the districts of Hoa Lu, Nho Quan, and Gia Viễn. The area is shaped by towering limestone mountains, mystical caves, lush valleys, and interconnected rivers, combined with dozens of cultural and historical landmarks like temples and pagodas, creating an enchanting and rare atmosphere.

Trang An is home to about 50 water-filled caves out of a total of around 100 caves, connected by nearly 30 valleys. These valleys are linked by water caves, creating a unique, interconnected system of water caves, resembling an otherworldly maze that keeps changing as you journey through it. The entire Trang An region is a vast expanse of picturesque landscapes. The natural beauty here is serene, refreshing, and breathtaking, with its clear skies and vivid scenery that evokes both peace and an irresistible allure.

Trang An has 31 valleys and 48 discovered water caves, some of which, like the Di Linh Cave, Sinh Duoc Cave, and Cloud Cave, stretch over 2,000 meters. Each cave is unique in its formation.

Unlike Tam Coc, the water route through Trang An forms a closed-loop journey, allowing tourists to travel through the system without retracing their steps. The caves here are large and elongated, shaped by continuous natural forces that create magical formations. The complex of caves and valleys in Trang An is often likened to a mystical arrangement, where the mountains, rivers, and caves work in perfect harmony, making it a wonder of natural architecture. The limestone mountains of Hoa Lu - Ninh Binh are often called "Ha Long Bay on land" for their majestic and poetic scenery. The area is defined by low, undulating limestone mountains surrounding interconnected valleys and lakes, creating a stunningly beautiful landscape.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults (>1.3m): 250,000 VND/person
• Children (1m - 1.3m) and seniors over 60: 120,000 VND/person
• Children under 1m: Free
  Tour guide: 300,000 VND/tour (includes boat and attraction fees)
• Khê Cốc Island visit: 100,000 VND/person
• Trang An - Khê Cốc Combo: 300,000 VND/person

Bai Dinh Pagoda is a renowned spiritual destination, located within the Bai Dinh – Trang An Ecotourism Complex. With a history spanning nearly 1,000 years, this sacred land has witnessed the reigns of several dynasties, including the Dinh, Early Le, and Ly dynasties. Today, Bai Dinh Pagoda holds the title of the largest and most record-breaking pagoda in Vietnam. Its unique beauty attracts millions of visitors each year, making it one of the top tourist spots in Ninh Binh.

The pagoda is located 100 km from Hanoi and 18 km from Ninh Binh city, in the serene area of Sinh Duoc village, Gia Sinh, Gia Viễn. It spans a vast 539 hectares, which includes 27 hectares of the ancient Bai Dinh Pagoda and 80 hectares for the newly constructed temple. Every year, it welcomes thousands of Buddhist pilgrims from across the country and beyond.

The architecture of Bai Dinh is a perfect embodiment of traditional Vietnamese pagoda design. The newly constructed main hall is magnificent, with a three-tiered roof adorned with twelve curved eaves shaped like traditional dragon heads, while the walls are beautifully decorated with carved stone dragons in the style of the Ly dynasty. The temple courtyard, paved with stone, leads directly to the sacred Jade Well.

The pagoda complex is surrounded by long corridors with statues of arhats, and the grounds feature small gardens filled with trees, especially the Bodhi tree, which was brought from temples in India. The peaceful, open environment of Bai Dinh Pagoda offers a serene space for monks, nuns, and devotees to meditate and pray.

Due to its unique architecture and long history, Bai Dinh Pagoda has become one of the most famous spiritual and ecotourism destinations in northern Vietnam, especially in Ninh Binh. Bai Dinh has earned eight Vietnamese and Asian records, including the largest bronze bell in Vietnam, the tallest and heaviest statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in Asia, the largest golden-coated bronze statue of the Three Worlds in Vietnam, the largest statue of Buddha Maitreya in Southeast Asia, the longest Arhat corridor in Vietnam, and the pagoda with the most Bodhi trees in Vietnam.

Ticket Prices:

• Electric car: 60,000 VND/person (round trip from the parking lot to the pagoda entrance)
• Visit to the Stupa: 50,000 VND/person
• Electric car + Stupa combo: 250,000 VND/person (includes transport to each hall, reducing walking distance)
• Tour guide fee: 300,000 VND/tour