Ninh Binh

Humbly located in the North of Vietnam, Ninh Binh is still shining its way by
the Vietnamese nature’s magnificent beauty all in its place. With the
combination of river, mountain, and land, this place became heaven in the land,
one of the most beautiful sceneries in Vietnam.

Ninh Binh – one of the famous attractions in Vietnam

Ninh Binh and its history

About 90 km away from Hanoi to the south, Ninh Binh is humbly located near
Central Vietnam, which separates the North and Central of Vietnam by the Tam
Diep Mountain Range. Ninh Binh is still an attractive destination with the
UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An Landscape Complex.

Ninh Binh has its own story of when it was an ancient Vietnamese capital in the
10th and 11th centuries. Hoa Lu Citadel, located in Ninh Binh was the second
capital and the political, economic, and cultural center of Dai Co Viet (the
Vietnamese old country’s name), before relocated to Thang Long (Hanoi
nowadays). Its topography is high mountains and hills surrounded and narrow
land with wetlands, which is more convenient for defending and defeating
invaders.
 Hoa Lu Citadel

Ninh Binh is the living place for approximately 1.3 million people and also the
place of many ethnic minorities such as Dao, Hoa, Hmong, Muong, Nung, Tay,
and Thai. Therefore, Ninh Binh involves numerous kinds of songs like Cheo
(traditional opera) and Xam singing (ancient folk), handicrafts such as Hoa Lu’s
high-class embroidery, Gia Vien’s rattan and bamboo knitting products, and
architecture.

Ninh Binh and its weather

Ninh Binh lies in a humid subtropical climate area with four distinct seasons
The average temperature is around 24oC. Late Spring, early Summer, and
Autumn are the best times to visit Ninh Binh.
From April to June, Ninh Binh is in mild and warm temperatures with 25-30oC.
The landscape is fresh and green. The river undulates through the mountains,
creating beautiful scenes. Taking the trip along the rivers, visitors will admire
the magnificent karst mountains, limestone formations, and picturesque caves.

Ninh Binh is in Autumn with milder weather. Around 25- 29oC, the river trip
will be very full with the clear blue sky, the cool water, and the vibrant
landscape. From September to October, visitors can see the rice fields are full of
growth, bringing more color to this peaceful countryside. Outdoor activities
such as hiking, and cycling will be a great choice during this period.

If visitors are festival lovers, Spring are period of local festivals in Ninh Binh
such as the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Festival, Trang An traditional festival, Thai
Vi Temple Festival Ninh Binh, and Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival Ninh Binh.

Ninh Binh and its Cuisine

Influenced by both northern and central Vietnamese culinary traditions, Ninh

Binh has a wide range of special cuisine. Some popular dishes that can be
highlighted are burned rice (com chay), grilled cinnamon pork stocks (cha que),
pyramid-shaped rice dumplings (banh gio) and mountain snail salad (nom oc).

burned rice (com chay)

Ninh Binh and its transportation

Ninh Binh is well-connected by various means of transportation. The province

has a railway station that provides train services to major cities in Vietnam. The
Reunification Express Train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City will stop at Ninh
Binh Town. The road network is well-developed, allowing easy access to Ninh
Binh by buses, private cars, and motorcycles. National Highway No. 10 and No.
12B are the roads to Ninh Binh.

There is no public transportation in Ninh Binh. Visitors arriving in Ninh Binh

should rent motorbikes or transportation service companies to move within
Ninh Binh.

Ninh Binh and its attractions

Ninh Binh is a province in northern Vietnam, known for its stunning natural
landscapes, historical sites, and cultural attractions.

Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is a beautiful nature reserve located in the Ninh Binh
Province of Vietnam. It is the country's first national park and is known for its
rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. It is home to an impressive array of
plant species and animal species.
This place plays a crucial role in conservation efforts in Vietnam. The park
protects habitat for many endangered species, including the critically
endangered Delacour's langur and the Asian black bear. It also houses a
dedicated Endangered Primate Rescue Center, where rescued primates are
rehabilitated and protected.

Additionally, Cuc Phuong National Park offers several trails and hiking routes.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty, giant wild
plants, ancient caves, and unique vegetation.

Trang An Ninh Binh

Trang An Ninh Binh

Trang An is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An Landscape and a

popular tourist destination in Ninh Binh. It is characterized by a network of
karst mountains, caves, and rivers, combined with a beautiful shade of green
landscapes.

If you are an explorer and want to discover the magnificent nature of Trang An,
a boat tour will be a great choice. The river trip will take you through several
caves, along the meandering rivers, and immerse yourself in the charming
natural splendor of this place. During the boat tour, you can visit the temples at
the stops.

In addition, visitors can choose to hike in one of the mountains to enjoy a

panoramic vista of the surroundings. The hiking trail is properly maintained and
relatively effortless, ensuring accessibility for many visitors.

Mua Caves

Mua Caves

Mua Caves is a popular attraction that offers a unique scene among many
Vietnamese caves. Mua Caves requires climbing a series of 500 steps to reach
the top. With a little bit of challenge, you will be rewarded with breathtaking
panoramic views of the surrounding countryside in the enchanting sunrise and
sunset - the changing colors of the sky.

The climb will be difficult because of the hot weather. visitors should wear
comfortable shoes and bring water along. Visitors can also discover the caves in
the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Mua Caves also offers the opportunity to explore the cave system. The entrance
to the caves is adorned with intricate dragon sculptures. Inside the caves,
visitors will find various stalactites and stalagmites, forming interesting shapes.
However, it's important to note that the cave system is relatively small
compared to other cave complexes in the region.

Tam Coc Bich Dong

Tam Coc Bich Dong

Tam Coc referred to the “Ha Long Bay on land” is a scenic area characterized
by limestone karsts, rice fields, and winding rivers. Tam Coc is “three caves” in
Vietnamese and represents the three natural caves within this attraction. Taking
a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River is the best way to explore Tam Coc.

Bich Dong Pagoda, located nearby, is another highlight of the area. It is a

complex of three pagodas built into a mountainside, creating a picturesque and
spiritual atmosphere. The pagodas are accessed via a steep stone staircase and
enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

To those who love both nature and history, Tam Coc Bich Dong has been an
important cultural and trading hub fie centuries. This place is also surrounded
by breathtaking fields that turn golden yellow and a stunning backdrop against
the limestone karsts.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex

Bai Dinh Pagoda is a significant religious and cultural site that is renowned as
one of the largest Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam. The vast area of approximately
700 hectares and is divided into two main structures: the ancient Bai Dinh
Pagoda and the New Bai Dinh Pagoda.

The Ancient Bai Dinh Pagoda consists of several small temples and shrines
nestled amidst beautiful natural surroundings. This is traditional Vietnamese
pagoda architecture, with complicated woodwork and delicate stone carvings.
This ancient place exudes a serene and peaceful atmosphere, inviting visitors to
explore and appreciate its historical and cultural significance.

The New Bai Dinh Pagoda was constructed from 2003 to 2010 and is known for
its grandeur and scale. This pagoda is characterized by large and impressive
structures, including the bronze Great Buddha Statue, which stands at a
towering height. The architecture here blends traditional Vietnamese design
with contemporary elements, creating a unique and visually striking ambiance.

The pagoda complex is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, with scenic views

of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The serenity and natural beauty
of the area make Bai Dinh Pagoda an ideal place for contemplation and
meditation.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

During the Dinh and early Le Dynasties in the 10th and 11th centuries, located
in Ninh Binh was Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which is the most special attraction
here.

Nestled among limestone karsts and scenic landscapes, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
is one of the four core areas of Trang An World Heritage site. The historical
importance of Hoa Lu lies in its role as a political, economic, and cultural
center during that time.
Visitors to exhibits of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital can explore the remnants of the
royal palaces, temples, and citadels that once stood there. The highlights of Hoa
Lu are the Dinh and Le Temples, dedicated to the Dinh and Le emperors
respectively

Surrounding the attraction are the lush greenery scenic rice fields, and the
majestic Tam Coc karst landscape, which color to the overall chảm and beauty
of the area.

Visitors should have a local guide come with them to maximize the experience
by providing historical context and sharing amazing stories about the site.

Van Long Lagoon

Van Long Lagoon

Van Long Lagoon, or Van Long Nature Reserve, is a captivating natural

attraction with a serene and picturesque environment for nature lovers and
outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the magnificent views in Van Long Lagoon is the tranquil waters reflect
the surrounding karst formations, creating a mesmerizing and peaceful
atmosphere. Furthermore, it's rich in biodiversity. The reserve is home to a
variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered ones

If you navigate the lagoon, a trip in a small rowboat will help you immerse
yourself in the beauty of nature, the diverse birdlife with the calm and gentle
sounds of birds, and the rustling of leaves, creating a tranquil and meditative
experience.

Thung Nham Bird Garden

Thang Nham Bird Garden

Thung Nham Bird Garden is a captivating eco-tourism destination that will

impress you with its landscapes and diverse bird population.

The bird garden is characterized by its picturesque landscapes, including

limestone karsts, tranquil lakes, and dense vegetation. It provides a serene and
peaceful environment that attracts numerous migratory birds, making it a haven
for birdwatching.

Taking a boat ride through narrow waterways, under limestone caves, and past
lush vegetation, you will have the opportunity to witness thousands of nesting
birds during the breeding season. The sight and sound of the birds in their
natural habitat is a remarkable experience that showcases the beauty and
diversity of Vietnam's avian population.

As a signature when visiting Ninh Binh, you can explore pristine caves within
the area, such as the But Cave and the Vai Gioi Cave, which are adorned with
impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Summary

A beautiful panoramic view of Ninh Binh

Above is an overview of Ninh Binh including basic information like history,

cuisine, and transportation; and some highlight attractions. There will be many
attractions waiting for you to discover. Hope this destination review is useful to
you.