Is it Worth to Visit Ninh Binh?

If you are a traveler who is planning a trip to Vietnam and wonders if it’s worth visiting Ninh Binh, this post will help you make a decision. Ninh Binh is a province located in the Northern region of Vietnam, and it’s known for its natural landscape, cultural heritage, and scenic countryside. In this blog post, we will explore the different aspects of Ninh Binh that make it a unique and worthwhile destination.

The Natural Landscape

One of the primary reasons why tourists flock to Ninh Binh is because of its spectacular natural landscape. The province is home to stunning limestone karsts, lush green rice paddies, and winding rivers. The most famous attraction is Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts an intricate network of caves, grottoes, and valleys. Visitors can take a boat ride through the complex and marvel at the towering limestone formations that dominate the landscape.Another popular attraction is Tam Coc, often referred to as the “Halong Bay on Land.” Here you can take a leisurely sampan boat ride that will take you through a series of caves and along the Ngo Dong River, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

The Cultural Heritage

Apart from its natural beauty, Ninh Binh is also steeped in cultural heritage. The province has been inhabited since ancient times, and there are many reminders of its rich history scattered throughout the region. One of the most significant historical sites is Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. The site contains the temples of King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh, two important figures in Vietnamese history.Another cultural attraction is Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest pagoda complex in Southeast Asia. The sprawling complex covers over 700 acres, and visitors can explore the various temples, shrines, and statues that are scattered throughout the grounds.

The Scenic Countryside

In addition to its natural landscape and cultural heritage, Ninh Binh is also known for its scenic countryside. The province is home to some of the most picturesque rural areas in Vietnam, and visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the countryside. Cycling through the rice paddies is a popular activity, as is exploring the small villages that dot the landscape.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ninh Binh is definitely worth a visit. Its natural landscape, cultural heritage, and scenic countryside make it a unique and worthwhile destination. Trang An Landscape Complex, Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, and Bai Dinh Pagoda are just a few of the attractions that make Ninh Binh a must-visit destination in Vietnam. So, if you are planning a trip to Vietnam, be sure to add Ninh Binh to your itinerary.

Insider’s Guide: Visiting Ninh Binh

If you’re looking to explore Northern Vietnam beyond the popular Ha Long Bay and Sapa, visiting Ninh Binh is definitely worth it. Located around 100 kilometers south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh is home to stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and delicious cuisine. Here’s your ultimate guide to visiting Ninh Binh.

Top Local Attractions

Ninh Binh is known for its picturesque landscapes, which can be discovered through a series of day trips or bike rides from the city center. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Ninh Binh:

– Trang An Landscape Complex: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An is a stunning landscape of limestone mountains, caves, and rivers that can be explored via boat tours.

– Tam Coc: Known as the “Halong Bay on Land,” Tam Coc is a series of three limestone caves that can be visited by boat. The paddle through Tam Coc is truly an unforgettable experience.

– Bai Dinh Pagoda: Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest pagoda in Vietnam and includes a complex of both old and new temple structures.

– Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries and includes significant historical sites such as the Binh Dinh Temple and the Dinh and Le Dynasty Temples.

Local Dining Spots

When in Ninh Binh, don’t miss out on trying the local cuisine. Here are some of the top spots to try:

– Chookie’s Beer Garden: This establishment is popular with both locals and tourists. They serve a great selection of beers and delicious Western and Asian food such as pizza, pasta, and spring rolls.

– Thao Nguyen Restaurant: For authentic Vietnamese cuisine, head to Thao Nguyen where you can try delicious local dishes such as Nem Ninh Hoa (Ninh Hoa Spring Rolls), La Vong Fish, and Com Chay (Burned Rice).

– Bich Duyen Restaurant: This great-value establishment serves some of the tastiest vegetarian food in Ninh Binh. Try the Che (sweet soup) for dessert, it’s heavenly.

Cultural Experiences

The culture and history of Ninh Binh is fascinating and can be explored through these experiences:

– Van Long Nature Reserve: This wetland reserve is a protected area that is home to 470 species of flora and fauna, including the Delacour’s Langur (a rare species of monkey).

– Phat Diem Cathedral: The Phat Diem Cathedral is a magnificent cathedral with distinct Eastern and Western architectural influences.

– Local Markets: Explore the vibrant and bustling markets in Ninh Binh to get an insight into the daily life of the locals. The Cho Hom market is a great place to purchase souvenirs.

Local History

Ninh Binh has a rich history that can be traced back to ancient times. Here are some places to learn more about Ninh Binh’s fascinating past:

– Dinh and Le Dynasties Temples: These temples were built during the Dinh and Le dynasties and are a must-visit for history buffs.

– Hoa Lu Ancient City: Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries and has many historical sites to explore.

– Bich Dong Pagoda: Located five kilometers from Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda is a temple complex built into a limestone cave dating back to the 18th century.

Off the Beaten Path

If you’re looking for something different to the tourist hotspots, try these off the beaten path suggestions:

– Hang Mua Peak: For spectacular views of Ninh Binh, hike up to the Hang Mua Peak. The hike takes around 40 minutes and is definitely worth it.

– Cuc Phuong National Park: Located around 50 kilometers from Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong National Park is a naturalist’s paradise, home to over 300 species of birds and many other indigenous animals.

– Non Nuoc Mountain: Non Nuoc Mountain is a little known gem with stunning views and a serene atmosphere that is perfect for a day of relaxation.

In conclusion, Ninh Binh is definitely worth visiting and it’s off-the-beaten-path attractions and rich cultural heritage makes it a must-visit for any tourist visiting Vietnam. The stunning natural beauty will leave you in awe, and the delicious food will make your mouth water.