The Must-See Sightseeing Attractions in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Are you planning to visit Ninh Binh and want to know the top sightseeing destinations? Look no further! Ninh Binh is an idyllic province located in northern Vietnam that offers a plethora of natural and cultural attractions for visitors from all over the world. From towering limestone karsts to historical temples, Ninh Binh has something for everyone. In this blog post, I will guide you on the top must-see attractions in Ninh Binh that you should definitely add to your itinerary.

1. Tam Coc

Tam Coc, also known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” is a stunning landscape of rice paddies, winding rivers, and towering limestone karsts. Taking a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River is arguably the best way to experience the beauty of Tam Coc. The boat ride will take you through three natural caves that run through the limestone mountains, giving you a sense of peace and tranquility.Apart from the boat ride, there are plenty of other activities you can do in Tam Coc, including cycling around the surrounding countryside, exploring the local markets, and trying out the traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

2. Trang An Landscape Complex

Trang An Landscape Complex is an outstanding work of art that showcases the interaction between humans and the environment. It boasts towering mountains, sparkling rivers, limestone caves, and ancient pagodas. The site is also home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.There are several boat tours available at Trang An that take visitors through the waterways and caves, passing through spectacular scenery. The tour is also an opportunity to learn about the local history and culture of Vietnam.

3. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital was the first capital of Vietnam, and today it is an important historical relic that dates back over a thousand years ago. The site is home to two temples, one dedicated to the Dinh dynasty, and the other to the Le dynasty. The temples feature intricate architectural designs and intricate details that tell the story of the Vietnamese dynasties.Hoa Lu temple is also considered a pilgrimage site, attracting many devout Buddhists and locals who come to offer incense and pray for blessings.

4. Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia, comprising of several temples, statues, and stupas. The temple is an oasis of peace and serenity, with a peaceful atmosphere that invites introspection and reflection.Bai Dinh Pagoda is also home to many historical relics, including a standing Buddha statue that is 10 meters tall and weighs 100 tons. The temple complex is breathtaking, with beautiful gardens, ponds, and of course, the towering Buddha statue.

5. Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is a biodiverse conservation area located in Ninh Binh Province. The park is home to several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna and is therefore a popular destination for eco-tourists.The park has several hiking trails that will take you through the jungle, waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints. The Endangered Primate Rescue Center is also located in the national park and is home to several species of primates that are critically endangered and being bred for reintroduction into the wild.

Conclusion

Ninh Binh is a destination that is a must-visit if you’re planning on exploring northern Vietnam. With its stunning landscapes, important historical sites, and thriving biodiversity, Ninh Binh is a place that will leave you in awe. The above mentioned are just some of the many attractions that you can explore in Ninh Binh, but they’re a great place to start if you’re looking for things to add to your itinerary.

The Must-See Sightseeing Attractions in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Ninh Binh is a beautiful city located in northern Vietnam that boasts picturesque landscapes of limestone mountains, rice paddies, and winding rivers. It is a popular tourist destination and is often referred to as the “Halong Bay on land” due to its similar scenery. If you’re planning to visit Ninh Binh, here’s an insider’s guide on the must-see sightseeing attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

1. Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex: This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most popular attractions in Ninh Binh. It features a network of caves, pagodas, and limestone mountains that can be explored by boat. The complex also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

2. Bai Dinh Pagoda: This vast Buddhist complex is the largest in Vietnam and is home to over 500 intricately crafted statues. Bai Dinh Pagoda is located within a beautiful, serene setting amidst lush greenery and spectacular limestone mountains.

3. Tam Coc: Tam Coc is often referred to as the “Inland Halong Bay” due to its resemblance to the iconic bay area. A boat tour here takes you through a river flanked by towering cliffs and passes through several caves.

4. Cuc Phuong National Park: This park is located 22 miles from Ninh Binh City and features a wide range of flora and fauna species. It is home to several endangered animals, including the Delacour’s langur, a species of monkey only found in Vietnam.

Dining Spots

1. Bia Chai Que: This popular beer garden serves up cold beers and Vietnamese street food. It’s a great spot to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.

2. Hoa Lu Stadium Food Court: This food court is a bustling spot that offers visitors a variety of local Vietnamese dishes. Here, you can sample authentic Vietnamese dishes and dine amongst locals.

3. Chez Loan Restaurant: Chez Loan is one of the best restaurants in Ninh Binh. It’s famous for its French-Vietnamese fusion dishes and Vietnam-inspired cocktails. The restaurant has a lovely ambiance and is an ideal spot for a romantic dinner.

Cultural Experiences

1. Vietnamese-Spanish cultural exchange center: This center showcases the cultural ties and exchanges between Vietnam and Spain. Visitors can learn about the similarities between the cultures and participate in workshops and events that promote cultural exchange.

2. Van Long Nature Reserve: This reserve is a great way to experience the culture and way of living of the local people. Here, visitors can watch farmers in rice paddies, witness water buffalo grazing fish farms, and explore the local villages.

Local History

1. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: This historical site was the capital of Vietnam in the tenth century. It features a series of temples and shrines dedicated to ancient emperors and significant figures in Vietnamese history.

2. Phat Diem Cathedral: This Roman Catholic cathedral is a beautiful example of Vietnamese and European architecture fusion. The cathedral was constructed in the late 19th century and features a unique roof structure, stained glass windows, and stone carvings.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Hang Mua Peak: This mountain offers incredible views of Tam Coc and the surrounding countryside. Visitors need to climb 500 stone steps to reach the summit of the mountain, but the breathtaking panoramic views are definitely worth the effort.

2. Thung Nham Bird Garden: This bird sanctuary is only a short distance from Tam Coc. It is a peaceful haven to relax and witness a variety of exotic birds. .

In conclusion, Ninh Binh is a stunning destination with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of opportunities to explore its natural beauty. The must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions presented here will help you make the most of your visit to Ninh Binh.