11 Must-Visit Attractions in Ninh Binh

Nestled in the Red River Delta, Ninh Binh is often referred to as Vietnam's hidden gem. A trip to this province is an adventure into the extraordinary, taking you far from the beaten path and into a world of breathtaking natural beauty.

Thanks to nature's generosity, Ninh Binh, also known as the "Ha Long Bay on land," is blessed with towering limestone mountains, lush landscapes, and serene waterways that captivate travelers in search of both wild adventure and peaceful escapes. Upon arrival, visitors are enchanted by the province's national parks, meandering rivers, and crystal-clear streams that flow across the region.

What makes Ninh Binh special? From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to ancient capitals and stunning natural reserves, here are the best attractions in Ninh Binh that you simply cannot miss.

1. Explore the Fascinating History of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Step back in time and relive the glorious history of Hoa Lu, the first capital of Vietnam, which dates back more than a thousand years. This was where Dinh Bo Linh led a popular uprising that shaped the nation's destiny, founding the Dinh Dynasty in 968.

As you walk through the remains of this once-thriving imperial city, imagine standing beside the rulers of Vietnam's early history, feeling the weight of their decisions as they navigated through an era of political turmoil. The city remained the nation's heart until Ly Thai To relocated the capital to Thang Long (modern-day Hanoi) in 1009.

Hoa Lu's magnificent landscape is framed by the towering Yen Ngua limestone karsts, creating a natural fortress around the ancient citadel. Upon arrival, you will be mesmerized by these breathtaking rock formations, while the sacred temples Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Hoan evoke the grandeur of a bygone era.

Every year, on the third lunar month, Hoa Lu comes alive during the Truong Yen Festival, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of cultural celebrations. Here, ancient traditions are brought back to life, offering visitors an authentic insight into Vietnam's rich heritage.

2. Take a Scenic Boat Tour Through the Trang An Caves

Trang An, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is an absolute must-visit attraction in Ninh Binh. A boat tour in Trang An promises to take you through a mesmerizing landscape of towering limestone karsts, lush valleys, and hidden caves.

For an affordable price of just $15–$20, the Trang An row boat tour offers three different routes, each taking you through a unique combination of caves, temples, and scenic landscapes. Whether you are a nature, history, or thrill lover, there is something for everyone.

Navigating through crystal blue streams and cascading vines adorning the rocks, you explore a veritable museum of topography. The long, dark caves create a magical experience, illuminated only by the natural light filtering through their openings.

Pro tip: While you can find shade in an old bamboo hut, don't forget to bring a hat or umbrella for sun protection during your visit to Trang An.

3. Dance Cave (Hang Mua)

The Dance Cave, also known as Hang Mua, offers spectacular panoramic views of Ninh Binh's limestone mountains and rice fields. Though reaching the top requires climbing nearly 500 steps, the reward is beyond worth it.

From the summit, visitors can take in breathtaking vistas of Tam Coc, Trang An, and even Ninh Binh city itself. Hang Mua is a top attraction in Ninh Binh, especially for those who love photography and adventure.

Dance Cave is also a great place to watch the sunset, as the golden hues illuminate the valley below. After the climb, reward yourself with a delicious meal of Ninh Binh specialties —grilled goat meat and fresh mountain herbs—at a nearby restaurant.

4. Explore Thung Nham Bird Park

For bird lovers, the Thung Nham Bird Park is a true paradise on earth. As soon as you arrive, you will be greeted by a multitude of our feathered friends, who inhabit these vast expanses of unspoiled nature.

Flocks of birds, including a variety of species such as cranes, squawk ducks, and with luck, the pink flamingo, bask and feed on the surrounding limestone karst hills. But the park is not just about its winged inhabitants, it is also home to underground wonders and unspoiled sites to discover.

Fascinating caves such as the Fairy Cave (But), the Three Ladies (Ba Co), and the Water Palace (Thuy Cung) invite visitors to explore their mysteries, with stalactites and stalagmites that tell ancient stories and legends.

Bird Watching Tip: The best times to visit are at dawn or dusk when the birds are most active. The park houses over 40 species of birds among 150 varieties of wildlife.

5. Bai Dinh Pagoda

The Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia. This spiritual and architectural masterpiece boasts over 500 intricately carved Buddha statues, massive golden shrines, and an atmosphere of profound tranquility.

Built across 540 hectares, Bai Dinh is not only a religious site but also an architectural wonder, blending traditional Vietnamese design with sacred Buddhist symbolism. The architecture is astounding, whether it is the majestic bell tower or the temple dedicated to Bodhisattva.

Highlights include the Gieng Ngoc Wall, built in the shape of a moon over 1,000 years ago and housing Vietnam's largest spiritual well, as well as the ancient pagoda perched on Bai Dinh Mountain, a place of worship imbued with the blessing of ancient saints and kings.

Visitor Note: During Lunar New Year, Bai Dinh Pagoda experiences exceptional crowds. For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting on weekdays or outside festival periods.

6. Bich Dong Pagoda

Tucked away in the heart of Ninh Binh's stunning karst landscape, Bich Dong Pagoda offers both spiritual tranquility and breathtaking scenery. As you enter the complex, a serene stone bridge leads you through a charming bonsai garden, where miniature temples stand majestically against the backdrop of towering limestone mountains.

Built in the 15th century, this ancient pagoda complex is carved into the side of a limestone mountain, surrounded by misty hills and peaceful lotus ponds. The pagoda consists of three main temples—Ha Pagoda (Lower), Trung Pagoda (Middle), and Thuong Pagoda (Upper)—each offering a unique perspective of the stunning natural landscape.

The higher you climb, the more breathtaking the view becomes, revealing a panoramic vista of Ninh Binh's iconic karst formations. The pagoda's name, which translates to "Green Grotto," comes from the green moss covering the rocks surrounding the cave entrance.

7. Boat Tour Through Tam Coc's Stunning Rice Fields

The rowing boat ride in Tam Coc offers a total immersion in the natural beauty and peaceful life of this charming town. Visitors board traditional wooden boats operated by local rowers who skillfully paddle with their feet—a unique technique you'll only find in this region.

As you drift along the Ngo Dong River, you'll pass through three breathtaking caves—Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba—each offering a unique and mysterious atmosphere. During May and June, the rice fields turn a brilliant golden hue, creating one of the most picturesque scenes in all of Vietnam.

Best Time to Visit: For the most spectacular views, plan your visit during harvest season (late May to early June) when the rice fields turn golden yellow, or in February-March when farmers plant new crops and the fields are filled with water, creating mirror-like reflections.

Beyond the boat ride, cycling through the surrounding countryside offers an equally peaceful and immersive experience. With hidden caves, quiet temples, and scenic rice paddies scattered across the landscape, Tam Coc is ideal for those looking to experience the beauty of Vietnam's rural charm.

8. Van Long Nature Reserve

Located a little further from Ninh Binh, the Van Long Nature Reserve offers an enchanted getaway for those seeking adventure and tranquility. It is an ideal place for a rowing boat tour, allowing visitors to observe a variety of rare birds such as crakes, geese, and spoonbills sailing gracefully through the pristine waters.

While locals go about their fishing and farming activities, visitors can savor the authenticity of local life. Van Long is truly off the beaten track, preserving its natural charm and tranquility. The reserve is distinguished by its unique landscape characterized by an abundance of majestic limestone cliffs reflected perfectly in the still waters.

Wildlife Spotting: Van Long is home to the critically endangered Delacour's langur. With luck and patience, you might spot these rare primates in their natural habitat.

Compared to other attractions such as Trang An and Tam Coc, Van Long Nature Reserve remains rugged and untouched, offering a peaceful and unspoiled atmosphere. Visitors can watch birds flocking at sunrise and sunset, creating magical moments of connection with nature.

9. Dich Long Cave and Pagoda

Dich Long Cave, whose evocative name translates to "Flute of the Mountain," offers a remarkable experience in the Gia Vien district of Ninh Binh. Founded in 1739, this impressive cave is much more than just a geological location: it is steeped in history and spirituality, with a temple erected in its honor.

The cave is configured into three main areas: the Light Cave, the Dark Cave, and the Pagoda in the Cave. Each offers a different sensory experience, with breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites in astonishing shapes and colors that conjure up images of majestic tigers and mythical dragons hidden deep within the earth.

Celebrated by past emperors and dignitaries of Vietnam, today it stands as a testament to the beauty and grandeur of nature, as well as the spiritual devotion that surrounds it. A visit here is a moment of contemplation and connection with the history and nature of Ninh Binh.

10. Cuc Phuong National Park

Located 40-45 km from Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam's oldest national park and a natural wonder worth discovering. Nestled in lush rainforest, the park is home to ancient trees and fascinating caves that bear witness to the region's millennia-old history.

The park is dedicated to animal conservation, with a rescue center for endangered primates. Visitors can support this noble cause by contributing to preservation efforts. The best time to visit is in May during butterfly season when thousands of colorful butterflies fill the air.

Park Features:

• Ancient trees dating back 1,000 years
• Prehistoric caves with evidence of early human habitation
• Endangered Primate Rescue Center
• Spectacular butterfly displays in May
• Scenic hiking trails through primary forest

To get to Cuc Phuong from Ninh Binh, an organized tour or motorbike is recommended. The drive offers scenic landscapes, though road conditions can vary. Once inside, a small fee grants access to the park's main attractions and conservation areas.

11. Phat Diem Cathedral

One of Ninh Binh's most unique attractions, Phat Diem Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece that beautifully fuses Vietnamese and Western styles. At first glance, one might mistake it for a traditional Vietnamese pagoda, but closer inspection reveals the hallmarks of Christianity that characterize it.

Built in 1891, this religious landmark is unlike any other church in Vietnam, featuring traditional wooden pagoda-style roofs combined with European Gothic elements. The Western-looking stone walls surround a vast 15-acre estate, housing 52 towering wooden pillars, each measuring 11 meters high.

A visit to Phat Diem Cathedral is a must-do during a trip to Ninh Binh, offering a unique perspective on the history and culture of the region. Soak up the inspiring atmosphere of this iconic place, where ancient traditions and spiritual beliefs meet in fascinating harmony.

Final Thoughts: Ninh Binh offers an incredible diversity of experiences - from natural wonders to cultural landmarks and historical sites. Whether you're an adventure seeker, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, this Vietnamese gem has something special for every traveler.

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We hope this guide to Ninh Binh's top 11 attractions - from the UNESCO-listed Trang An landscape to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the breathtaking Hang Mua viewpoint, serene Bai Dinh Pagoda, picturesque Tam Coc rice fields, wild Van Long Nature Reserve, mystical Dich Long Cave, lush Cuc Phuong National Park, charming Bich Dong Pagoda, unique Phat Diem Stone Cathedral, and the avian paradise of Thung Nham Bird Park - helps you create unforgettable memories during your authentic Vietnamese experience.

For an unforgettable journey through Vietnam's "Ha Long Bay on Land", contact World Mate Travel, your trusted Vietnam travel agency!

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