Ninh Binh, a picturesque province in northern Vietnam, is a treasure trove of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From towering limestone mountains to serene rivers, this region offers a blend of breathtaking landscapes and fascinating history.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Ninh Binh has something for everyone. This guide will provide you with all the essential information to plan your visit, including ticket prices, opening hours, transportation options, and helpful travel tips.
How to Get to Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is easily accessible from Hanoi, located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) to the north. Here’s how you can get there:
- By Train: A train ride from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. The train station in Ninh Binh is centrally located, making it easy to get around from there.
- By Bus: Direct buses from Hanoi to Ninh Binh take approximately 2 hours and cost around $5-7 USD.
- By Car: Renting a car or taking a taxi is another convenient option, and the drive takes about 2 hours, costing around $40-50 USD, depending on the vehicle and distance.
Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh
The ideal time to visit Ninh Binh is between October and April, when the weather is cooler and drier. This is perfect for outdoor activities like boat tours and hiking. If you visit during this period, you’ll experience pleasant weather with less humidity. The May to September months bring the wet season, with occasional rain and higher temperatures, but the landscapes are lush and green, especially the rice paddies in Tam Coc.
Top Attractions in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is home to several must-visit attractions that showcase its natural beauty and historical significance:
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (UNESCO World Heritage Site):
- Ticket Price: Around $10 USD for adults
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Activities: Take a serene boat ride through caves and past temples, surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains. The landscape here is simply stunning.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Trang An is famous for its tranquil boat tours, which allow you to explore the area’s waterways and caves while soaking in its scenic beauty.
Bai Dinh Pagoda:
- Ticket Price: Around $2-5 USD (depending on whether you visit just the main pagoda or the entire complex)
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Activities: Explore the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia, featuring impressive statues and peaceful gardens.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends.
Bai Dinh is one of the largest pagoda complexes in Vietnam, offering a chance to experience both architectural grandeur and spiritual serenity.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital:
- Ticket Price: Around $1 USD
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Activities: Visit the ancient temples dedicated to Vietnam's first kings and immerse yourself in the historical significance of the area.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are ideal, especially to avoid the afternoon heat.
Hoa Lu was once the capital of Vietnam and is home to well-preserved historical sites that date back over a thousand years.
Tam Coc:
- Ticket Price: Around $5-7 USD for a boat ride
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Activities: Take a boat ride through the lush rice fields and caves, offering beautiful views of limestone peaks.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning to catch the mist and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Tam Coc is often referred to as "Halong Bay on land" because of its striking karst formations and tranquil atmosphere. It's a must-see for any nature lover.
Useful Travel Tips for Visiting Ninh Binh
1. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Ninh Binh involves a lot of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and boat rides, so comfortable shoes and light clothing are essential.
2. Bring Cash: While larger establishments may accept credit cards, many smaller attractions and shops in rural areas operate on a cash-only basis.
3. Respect Local Customs: When visiting temples and pagodas, be sure to dress modestly and be mindful of local traditions.
4. Stay Hydrated: Vietnam’s hot and humid climate can be draining, so be sure to carry a bottle of water as you explore the region.
5. Plan for Boat Rides: Boat tours in places like Tam Coc and Trang An can last up to 2 hours, so it’s important to be prepared, especially during the hotter months.
Where to Stay in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts:
- Luxury: The Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh offers a high-end stay with scenic views, starting at around $100 USD per night.
- Mid-range: Tam Coc Garden Resort is a great option with comfortable rooms and beautiful surroundings, with prices ranging from $50-80 USD per night.
- Budget: There are plenty of guesthouses and hostels in Ninh Binh City, where you can find rooms for as little as $10-20 USD per night.
Ready to Explore Ninh Binh?
Ninh Binh welcomes us with dramatic limestone peaks, peaceful rivers, and centuries of cultural treasures. From gliding through hidden caves at Trang An to walking among ancient temples in Hoa Lu and soaking in the lush beauty of Tam Coc, every corner of this region tells a story worth experiencing. With this guide in hand, we’re ready to start the journey. Let’s pack our bags, embrace the adventure, and make unforgettable memories in Ninh Binh together!
Ninh Binh Vietnam Travel Guide: 11 BEST Things To Do In Ninh Binh
Video by Before You Go
