How to make the most of a visit to Ninh Binh, the Land of Ancient Temples?

Located in North Vietnam and just a two-hour drive away from the capital city Hanoi, Ninh Binh is one of the country’s most amazing spots. Known as the “Land of Ancient Temples”, it is home to stunning historical sites, breathtaking natural beauty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Trang An. To make the most out of this mini-escape, here are some tips and recommendations to ensure an unforgettable visit to Ninh Binh.

Transportation
The easiest way to reach Ninh Binh is by car or minibus. Tour companies such as Happy Holidays Vietnam offer private transfers from Hanoi, but there are also shuttle buses available at My Dinh station for around $4 per person.

Accommodation
Ninh Binh accommodates a variety of budgets and preferences, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays. A popular option is to base yourself in the Hoa Lu area, where you can stay at one of the many guesthouses with views of the mountains. Prices typically range from $10 to $50 per night depending on the type of accommodation.

Things to do

• Trang An Grottoes – A beloved natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site, this complex of river caves is definitely a must-see when travelling in Ninh Binh. Visitors normally start their tour in the Mua Caves, followed by Tam Coc and Bich Dong.
• Van Long Nature Reserve – An area of wetland, lakes and underground caves, Van Long is one of few areas in Vietnam where you can spot the highly endangered Delacour’s langur.
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – The former capital of Vietnam during the 10th century, Hoa Lu is known for its pagodas and temples that pay homage to the region’s history.
• Tam Coc – This spot is known for its gentle river cruises by boat through rice paddies and limestone caves.
• Motorbike Tours – For the more adventurous travellers, nothing beats a motorbike tour in Ninh Binh’s beautiful countryside.

Food & Drinks
A big part of any travel experience is trying the local specialities, so don’t miss out on trying dishes like goat meat hotpot, our local favorite ‘banh cuon’, sugarcane juice or a fresh fruit platter. And when you want a break from traditional Vietnamese food, cuisines like Italian and Japanese can also be found in Ninh Binh.

Conclusion:
Ninh Binh is an incredible destination that offers something for everyone. With its amazing historical sites, stunning natural beauty, rich culture and delicious local delicacies, it is one of the must-visit destinations in the north of Vietnam. A personal recommendation for first time visitors would be to combine a visit to Trang An grottoes with a hut in the Hoa Lu area so you can get that perfect mix of culture and nature – no doubt an unforgettable experience!

An Insider’s Guide to Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Ninh Binh is a beautiful city in Vietnam, located between the hills. It’s known as “The Land of Ancient Temples” and is a popular tourist spot because of its stunning natural scenery, Buddhist temples, and rich history. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Ninh Binh, where to eat, cultural experiences, and hidden gems to make the most of your visit.

Local Attractions in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is home to stunning natural wonders like limestone cliffs, caves, serene rivers, and verdant rice paddies. One of the must-visit places is Trang An Landscape Complex, which boasts untouched limestone karsts and a complex network of new and ancient limestone caves. Another popular spot is Tam Coc, yet another area of ancient limestone cliffs and with water caves to be rowed through on local small boats.

For those who love history, don’t miss a visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, The citadel served as the capital of Vietnam from 968 until 1010 AD during the Dinh and Early Le dynasties. The Hoa Lu Complex today is composed of Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh Temples.

Cultural Experiences in Ninh Binh

Taking part in cultural activities is always a great way to immerse yourself in a new place. In Ninh Binh, visitors can participate in pottery-making workshops and try their hand at creating beautiful pottery items that showcase the local ceramic production industry.

Bai Dinh Pagoda is a cultural center in Ninh Binh, representing the finest aspects of Vietnamese architecture and spirituality. It’s a complex of Buddhist temples, overlooking the stunning natural beauty of limestone mountains and forests. The site holds special ceremonies to welcome in the new year according to the lunar calendar, in February, which makes for a truly unforgettable experience.

Local Dining in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is famous for its delicious regional cuisine, featuring unique flavors and cooking techniques. Try some of the must-try local dishes like Com Chay (dry rice cracker), Yen Mac fermented pork rolls, or sticky rice, a northern Vietnamese specialty that comes in a variety of flavors sold in the busy markets.

If you’re looking for an all in one place dining options with a calming atmosphere, the Tam Coc Garden Restaurant is a must-visit. It specializes in home-cooked Vietnamese meals using locally farmed products sourced from the surrounding fields.

Local History and Heritage of Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh was once the capital of Vietnam, spanning two dynasties: Dinh and Le. As such, it’s rich in cultural and historical heritage. Explore the ancient Vietnamese religious practices, history, and architecture by visiting Phat Diem Cathedral, a beautiful Catholic Church built-in 1891. Its impressive design reflects both the Catholic and Vietnamese cultures, and its stained glass windows were constructed from broken bottles.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Ninh Binh

If you want to explore off-the-beaten-path, take a day trip to Cuc Phuong National Park, where you can see the local flora and fauna, including indigenous wildlife species like macaques, lorises, and civets. Another unique and lesser-known spot is Bich Dong pagoda built into a limestone mountain, it’s dubbed the “second best cave in Vietnam” and is worth the trek to see the impressive rock formations and architecture.

Ninh Binh is an enchanting location that offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, Vietnamese culture, and rich history. Plan your trip with this insider’s guide and be open to discovering the lesser-known yet charming hidden gems scattered around this incredibly diverse and fascinating region.