What to do in Ninh Binh, the Must-Visit Destination of Vietnam

Do you know of Ninh Binh? It is a city in Northern Vietnam that has managed to become a major tourist destination over the years. After all, it offers some of the most impressive and majestic natural beauty in the country, with its vast limestone outcrops, sweeping rivers and lush green countryside. There are a number of activities to do and sights to see, ranging from exciting boat trips to strolling in the rice paddies and exploring historic temples. With so much to do, you might be wondering what to really do in Ninh Binh. So, here are some must-do activities when you visit this spectacular destination in Vietnam.

Visit Tam Coc or Halong Bay on Land

One of the most breathtaking sights in Ninh Binh is Halong Bay- and you don’t have to venture out to sea to experience it. The area around Ninh Binh called Trang An is quite similar to Halong Bay, with its dramatic limestone karsts rising dramatically from the surface of the water. Tam Coc is slightly different, with lush, verdant greenery in the area. The views provided by both sites are truly breath-taking and can be experienced on a boat ride with a river guide. You’ll go through three caves and pass by many limestone peaks jutting out from the surface of the river.

Explore the Many Historical Sites

In addition to its stunning landscapes, Ninh Binh is also home to several historical sites. One of the most impressive is Hoa Lu, known as the Ancient Capital of Vietnam. This city was the imperial capital for two dynasties during bustling periods of historical activity and culture between 980-1009CE and 1010-1802CE. Exploring this site will give you some insight into ancient Vietnamese structures and local customs practiced during its peak years. You may also choose to visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a pilgrimage site and picturesque temple located on Muong Mountain.

Go Trekking or Bike Through Rice Terraces

Amidst all its other attractions, Ninh Binh also offers spectacular natural sights in the form of its terraced rice fields. Stop by at any time of the day and admire the beauty of the emerald-green paddies. Far away from the city and its noise, this would be a great place for early morning runs for fitness lovers or trekking for leisure hikers. For those who would like to explore more of the area on two wheels, there are local bike tours that lead to more hidden trails in the region.

Shop at Local Markets

You won’t just find historical sites, amazing landscapes and rural towns in Ninh Binh – it has amazing markets to explore too. Marvel in all its scents, sights and vibrant colours when you visit Dong Chuong market or Hoa Lu Caves Floating Markets, which can easily be accessed by boat. Both of these markets are great reflections of local life and they also serve as bustling trading centres run by local people. If you’d like to bring home local specialties such as freshly picked fruits or Vietnamese gadgets, this is the place to get it!

Enjoy Sumptuous Local Cuisine

And last but not least, your trip to Ninh Binh isn’t complete until you savour the delicious local cuisine. Be sure to try out dishes such as “Banh Cuon’, rice rolls filled with minced pork stuffing; “Ban Xeo’ – fried pancakes with pork and shrimp; or “Thit Ngou’ – fried shark fin with onions and cucumbers. These are just a few of the specialty dishes around Ninh Binh that you just cannot miss out on! Plus, with lunch boat trips in Trang An that include an array of delicious dishes delicately prepared and presented, your gastronomic journey around Ninh Binh is sure to be exciting! To sum things up, Ninh Binh is a great destination in Vietnam filled with many exciting activities and attractions. From visiting Tam Coc or Halong Bay on land, exploring historic sites such as Hoa Lu, trekking or biking through rice terraces, shopping at local markets and finally enjoying sumptuous local cuisine – there are so much for you to experience here. So what are you waiting for? Embark on your exploratory journey around Ninh Binh and uncover its unique charms! Check out this website from Travelfish if you need more information about Ninh Binh!

An Insider’s Guide to Ninh Binh, Vietnam

As one of the most beautiful and diverse areas in northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh shouldn’t be missed on your next visit to Vietnam. From stunning natural landscapes to rich cultural experiences, Ninh Binh offers everything a traveler could ask for and more. To help you make the most of your trip, we have put together an insider’s guide, complete with off-the-beaten-path suggestions, culinary experiences, hidden gems, cultural experiences, and local history.

Hidden Gems in Ninh Binh

While many tourists flock to well-known spots such as Tam Coc and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, there are plenty of beautiful places to discover in Ninh Binh. One of our favorite hidden gems is Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a maze of karst mountains, rivers, and grottoes. Another must-visit spot is the Skyline Pagoda, which offers stunning views of Ninh Binh and its surrounding countryside.

Discovering Ninh Binh’s Culinary Delights

Ninh Binh’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its geography and proximity to the coast. The region is famous for its freshwater fish dishes such as fish soup, grilled fish, and crispy fried fish. For a unique experience, try the local specialty called “com chay” (burned rice), which is crunchy yet flavorful, paired with local dipping sauce. For a more adventurous eater, “đỗ đen” (black bean soy sauce) mixed with steamed sticky rice and grilled pork belly is a must-try dish.

Experiencing Ninh Binh’s Culture

One of the best ways to experience Ninh Binh’s rich and unique culture is to visit during one of its many festivals. The Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival is held annually and is the biggest Buddhist festival in Vietnam. During the festival, thousands of locals flock to the Bai Dinh Pagoda complex to pray, celebrate, and enjoy traditional Vietnamese performances and food.

For those who enjoy more low-key cultural activities, taking a bicycle tour to the local villages is a perfect way to experience daily life in Ninh Binh. Participating in local handicraft workshops, such as making traditional conical hats or pottery, is also a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Uncovering Ninh Binh’s Fascinating History

Ninh Binh has a long and fascinating history dating back to the Dinh and Le dynasties. One of the most interesting historical sites is the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, a complex of citadels, temples, and palaces that date back to the 10th and 11th centuries. Another interesting destination is the Bich Dong Pagoda, which was built during the early Le Dynasty and boasts a beautiful combination of natural landscapes and human-made structures.

Going Beyond the Conventional

For a truly unique experience, consider visiting Thung Nham Bird Garden, home to thousands of different bird species, including storks, herons, and egrets. Another unforgettable experience is to take a boat tour through Van Long Nature Reserve, which is known for its stunning scenery and unique fauna and flora.

In conclusion, Ninh Binh, Vietnam, offers a diverse range of experiences, from natural wonders and cultural treasures to unique cuisine and fascinating history. To make the most of your trip, venture beyond the conventional tourist spots and discover the hidden gems, local cuisines, and rich cultural experiences that this region has to offer.