Travel to Ninh Binh - Explore Stunning Nature and Unique Cultural Heritage

Travel to Ninh Binh - Explore Stunning Nature and Unique Cultural Heritage

1. Overview of Ninh Binh

Located about 90 km south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh is a destination that captivates with its picturesque natural landscapes and profound cultural and historical values. With its river systems, limestone mountains, and diverse ecosystems, Ninh Binh is often called "Halong Bay on land."

2. Highlights of Ninh Binh Tourism

a. Trang An - World Natural and Cultural Heritage Site

  • Address: Trang An, Ninh Binh.
  • Entrance Fee: 250,000 VND/adult, 120,000 VND/child.
    Trang An is one of the most famous landmarks in Ninh Binh, recognized by UNESCO as a dual world heritage site for its unique landscape and cultural-historical significance. Here, visitors can take a boat ride along green rivers, admire the majestic limestone mountains, and explore mysterious caves.

du-lich-trang-an-1.jpg.webp World Natural Heritage Site Trang An

b. Tam Coc - Bich Dong

  • Address: Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District.
  • Entrance Fee: 120,000 VND/adult, 60,000 VND/child.
    Tam Coc is known as the "Halong Bay on land," with three large caves on the Ngo Dong River. Visiting Tam Coc during the rice harvest season allows travelers to witness golden rice fields along the river, creating a breathtaking scene. Additionally, Bich Dong, an ancient temple on the mountain, is a must-see stop.

du-lich-tam-coc-bich-dong-1-1023.jpg Tam Coc - "Halong Bay on land"

c. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

  • Address: Hoa Lu District
  • Entrance Fee: Free
    Hoa Lu was the first capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Early Le dynasties, preserving many significant historical relics. At Hoa Lu, visitors can tour the temples of King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh, and learn about this prosperous period in Vietnam's history.

co-do-hoa-lu-hanh-trinh-ve-nguon-coi-lich-20240829200453883.jpg Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – The First Capital of Vietnam

d. Mua Cave

  • Address: Ninh Xuan Commune, Hoa Lu District.
  • Entrance Fee: 100,000 VND/person.
    Mua Cave is renowned for its spectacular view from Mua Mountain's summit, where visitors can overlook the entire Tam Coc region and the vast fields. To reach the peak, you’ll need to climb about 500 steps, but the beautiful scenery from the top is well worth the effort.

hang-mua-6.jpg.webp Mua Cave – A Panoramic Viewpoint of Tam Coc

e. Cuc Phuong National Park

  • Address: Nho Quan District.
  • Entrance Fee: 60,000 VND/adult, 20,000 VND/child
    Cuc Phuong National Park is the oldest nature reserve in Vietnam, famous for its biodiversity and home to many rare species of flora and fauna. During butterfly season (around April-May), thousands of butterflies create a stunning scene across the park.

vuon-quoc-gia-cuc-phuong-9-1024x683-1-1200x800.webp Cuc Phuong - The First National Park in Vietnam

3. Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh

Depending on your preferences and trip goals, consider the following times:

  • January - March (Festival Season): This season is known for festivals, notably the Bai Dinh Pagoda and Trang An festivals. The cool weather is ideal for pilgrimages and exploring nature. This period is perfect if you want to immerse in the lively local atmosphere and spiritual beliefs.
  • April - June (Harvest Season): During this time, rice fields in Tam Coc and Trang An turn golden. The picturesque natural scenery, combined with warm weather, is ideal for picnics and photography.
  • September - November (Autumn): Cool weather and less rain make this season perfect for a peaceful and relaxing visit to Ninh Binh. Autumn is also a great time for outdoor activities like climbing Mua Cave or trekking in Cuc Phuong Forest.

4. Must-Try Local Dishes in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is not only attractive for its landscapes but also for its unique specialties:

  • Crispy Rice: A crunchy, delicious dish often served with rich sauces.
  • Mountain Goat Meat: Made from naturally raised goats, Ninh Binh goat meat is flavorful and aromatic.
  • Nhệch Fish Salad: A unique dish made from Nhệch fish, combined with fresh herbs and special spices.

10-mon-dac-san-ninh-binh-noi-tieng-thich-hop-mua-ve-lam-qua-7bf1e.jpg

5. Tips for Traveling in Ninh Binh

  • Transportation: You can take a bus or drive from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Attractions in Ninh Binh are relatively close to each other, so renting a motorbike or bicycle is convenient for getting around.
  • Clothing: Bring comfortable shoes and clothes for hiking and exploring.
  • Environmental Protection: To preserve Ninh Binh’s natural beauty, minimize plastic use and avoid littering.

6. Conclusion

Ninh Binh is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those interested in exploring cultural history. With mesmerizing landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Ninh Binh will undoubtedly provide unforgettable experiences for visitors. Don’t hesitate – start planning your Ninh Binh trip today to enjoy wonderful moments with family and friends!