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Ninh Binh, located in northern Vietnam, is a renowned destination celebrated for its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich historical sites. This province is famous for its towering limestone karst mountains, verdant valleys, and mysterious caves. Visitors can explore famous attractions such as the Trang An Landscape Complex, Tam Coc – Bich Dong, Mua Cave, and the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, Bai Dinh Pagoda...
With its stunning scenery and historical depth, Ninh Binh is an ideal destination for those who love to explore and immerse themselves in culture. In this Ninh Binh travel blog, Incredible Asia Journeys will describe in more detail the best time to visit Ninh Binh, places never to miss, things to do in Ninh Binh, and how to go to Ninh Binh easily which will be helpful a lot before deciding on Ninh Binh Tours & Excursions.
Reflecting the climate characteristics of Northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh enjoys four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season has its own charm.
From February to April, has mild weather with temperatures between 18°C and 25°C and moderate humidity. This season is ideal for exploring spiritual sites like Hoa Lu & Bai Dinh Pagoda.
Spanning from May to August, brings hot and humid conditions, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C and frequent rainfall, particularly in June and July. Despite the climate, this season offers an ideal opportunity to see the lush greenery and vibrant landscapes of Tam Coc during the ripe rice season and to admire blooming lotuses at Mua Cave. Moreover, it's the perfect time to witness the butterfly season at Cuc Phuong National Park.
September to November is considered the best time to visit Trang An area. The weather is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C and lower humidity, making it perfect for boat trips and sightseeing.
Spanning from December to January brings relatively cool temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. It can be chilly, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings, creating ideal conditions for conquering over 500 steps at Ngoa Long Mountain, Mua Cave.
When considering the best time to visit Ninh Binh, it varies based on your preferences. According to the analysis above, tourists can explore Ninh Binh year-round; however, it is advisable to avoid the rainy and stormy seasons in August and September.
If you have a plan for traveling to Ninh Binh, here is a list of TOP attractions in Ninh Binh never miss:
Known for its scenic boat rides through limestone karsts and caves, Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering stunning natural beauty. The area features a network of rivers and tunnels, allowing visitors to glide through serene waterways surrounded by lush greenery and towering rock formations. The boat journey often includes stops at various temples and pagodas such as Vu Lam Palace, Suoi Tien Temple, Thanh Truot Cave,...
Famous for its panoramic views of Ninh Binh from the top, Mua Caves requires a climb up 500 steps, rewarding visitors with breathtaking scenery. The hike, though challenging, is well worth the effort as it offers an unparalleled view of Tam Coc’s rice fields and the surrounding karst landscape. The summit also features a large stone dragon statue, providing a picturesque backdrop for photos.
Featuring three caves and stunning karst landscapes, Tam Coc is best explored by boat, offering a peaceful journey through lush rice fields and limestone mountains. Often known as “Halong Bay on land”, Tam Coc is characterized by its serene beauty. Bich Dong Pagoda, a series of temples nestled in a mountain, adds a spiritual touch to the visit. The boat ride is typically rowed by local women using their feet, a unique and skillful technique.
As Vietnam's oldest national park, Cuc Phuong is famous as a haven for biodiversity and offers trekking paths through ancient forests. The park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including endangered species. Visitors can explore the botanical gardens, prehistoric caves, and the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. The park also offers eco-tourism activities like bird watching, butterfly spotting, and night tours to see nocturnal wildlife.
This vast complex is known for its enormous bronze Buddha statues and numerous temples, making it a significant Buddhist site. Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the largest temple complexes in Southeast Asia, featuring a 10-meter-tall Buddha statue, a bell tower, and 500 stone statues of Arhats. The site also includes a new pagoda built in a grand style and an ancient pagoda with historical significance. The area is particularly beautiful during festivals and special ceremonies.
In the 10th and 11th centuries, Hoa Lu as the capital of Vietnam, offers historical ruins and temples set amidst stunning landscapes. The site includes the temples dedicated to Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, the first emperors of Vietnam after 1000 years of Northern domination. The ancient capital's scenic setting, is surrounded by limestone mountains. Visitors can explore the royal palaces, defensive walls, and ancient tombs.
Known as the "natural reserve without waves," this lagoon is a peaceful spot for boat tours and wildlife spotting. Van Long Lagoon is a wetland nature reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Delacour's langur. The calm, mirror-like waters reflect the surrounding karst peaks, creating a surreal and tranquil environment. Bird watchers will find Van Long a haven, as it hosts numerous bird species, especially during migration seasons.
A paradise for bird watchers, Thung Nham Bird Garden is home to various bird species. The garden features lush forests, caves, and a large lake where visitors can take boat trips to observe birds in their natural habitat. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon when birds return to their nests. The area also includes attractions like the But Cave, Tien Ca Cave, and the ancient Banyan tree, offering a mix of natural beauty and biodiversity.
This unique church combines traditional Vietnamese and Gothic architectural styles, making it a distinctive landmark. Built entirely of stone and wood, the church complex includes a cathedral, a bell tower, and several chapels. The intricate stone carvings and the blend of cultural architectural elements make Phat Diem a fascinating place to explore. It is an active place of worship and an important site for the local Catholic community.
Also known as "Tuyet Tinh Coc," Am Tien Cave is a secluded, scenic spot with historical significance and tranquil surroundings. The cave area is associated with the legendary Queen Duong Van Nga and the Dinh dynasty. A picturesque lake surrounded by limestone cliffs enhances the serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the cave, which houses a temple dedicated to Queen Duong Van Nga, and enjoy the peaceful, reflective environment.
Ninh Binh, a gem in northern Vietnam, offers a myriad of captivating experiences for first-timers. Here's a list of must-do activities:
A paddleboat tour in Trang An or Tam Coc is definitely one of the best things to do in Ninh Binh. You'll be guided by your own boatman, floating on calm water beneath tall cliffs covered in thick jungle. Along the way, the boats stop at old temples and go through natural caves, making it a peaceful and memorable trip.
What to eat in Ninh Binh? Ninh Binh is famous for its local specialties like: Com Chay and De Tai Chanh. Besides, a lot of people know about a local breakfast in Ninh Binh with Banh Cuon, fresh rice paper rolls filled with pork and mushrooms, served with mint and mild fish sauce.
If you are interested in trekking tours in Ninh Binh, Bich Dong Pagoda is a great suggestion. Crossing a stone bridge over a large lotus pond full of bright pink flowers in summer, you find a peaceful yard and an old Buddhist temple.
If walls could talk, you'd want to hear the stories of Hoa Lu’s old brick and vine-covered buildings. Just 20 minutes by car from Trang An, this was Vietnam’s first capital city. The leaning archways, big banyan trees, and brick courtyards in Hoa Lu will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.
To reach the top of Mua Cave, you have to pass through 500 steps. At the summit, you'll be greeted with a stunning 360-degree view of Tam Coc Valley. Though the viewpoint can be misty, patience will reveal a breathtaking scene of green rice fields and winding rivers weaving around the ancient karsts below.
Ninh Binh city is perfect for immersing yourself in local hospitality by staying at a homestay. You have a chance to experience traditional Vietnamese culture firsthand, from home-cooked meals to cultural exchanges with friendly hosts.
Bai Dinh Pagoda - the biggest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia, is a popular pilgrimage spot for Vietnamese Buddhists and gets very crowded during Buddhist holidays. You’ll need plenty of time to see thousands of Buddha statues, beautifully carved bells, and a 13-story tower with amazing views of the countryside.
A Ninh Binh motorbike tour is a fantastic way to discover hidden back roads in Ninh Binh. Moreover, it's an awesome way to explore local life, zooming past limestone karsts, paddy fields, and wildlife like goats, water buffalo, and ducks.
If you're looking for a hiking tour in Ninh Binh, hiking in Cuc Phuong is the best choice. Just an hour from Ninh Binh City, Cuc Phuong is one of Vietnam's oldest national parks. There, you can visit centers for reptiles and primates and walk trails to see ancient trees, some over 1,000 years old.
Each of these activities promises a unique perspective on Ninh Binh’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. That makes Ninh Binh Tours among the top tours loved by foreign tourists.
Ninh Binh province is famous for being a stunning tourist destination that draws large numbers of visitors. If you're in Hanoi and need to plan a trip to Ninh Binh, there are several transportation options available to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. You can take a train (2 hours and 16 minutes), a bus (1.5 hours), a motorbike, or a private car. Let’s take a closer look to find out how to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh!
Now, Vietnam Railways operates 7 trains daily from Hanoi to Ninh Binh train. So, if you choose to go by train, you will not be bound by a fixed schedule. The first train departs at 5:50 AM, and the last one leaves Hanoi at 10:15 PM. Trains depart from Hanoi station (120 Le Duan Street, Hanoi) and arrive at Ninh Binh station (01 Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Thanh Binh Ward, Ninh Binh province).
For a quick journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, tourists can choose a bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and a limo bus is an excellent choice. Most limousine companies offer free hotel pick-up in Hanoi Old Quarter and drop-off in Trang An or Tam Coc…
Exploring Ninh Binh by motorbike or private car is also popular among tourists, as it provides the freedom to stop and enjoy the scenery. The quickest route by motorbike is National Road 1A (QL1A), which takes about 2 hours and 17 minutes. For cars, the Hanoi-Ninh Binh Expressway is the fastest, taking approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Affordable motorbike and car rentals make a day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh a feasible option for many travelers.
Besides, if you’re in Halong, Ha Giang, or Sapa and want to visit Ninh Binh, you also can refer to a bus to head there.
Conclusion
With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Ninh Binh offers a unique and memorable travel experience. Whether you're exploring ancient temples or enjoying serene boat rides, this captivating province has something for everyone. In this blog, we've shared Ninh Binh tips for planning your Ninh Binh Tours & Excursions. Hope these help you enjoy your trip with Incredible Asia Journeys!
