Why visit Ninh Binh?

Discovering Ninh Binh in Vietnam often comes as a pleasant surprise for many visitors who find out about its scenic landscapes, spectacular limestone karsts, and the myriad outdoor activities available. As one of the least explored regions of the country, there are plenty of reasons to visit Ninh Binh and make it part of your Vietnam itinerary.

Awe-Inspiring Natural Beauty

Among the main reasons to travel to Ninh Binh are its preserved natural sights. The region consists of a mix of stunning rice fields, dramatic valleys and towering limestone mountains known as “karsts”. Rivers and streams meander through the area, making it a great place to go on low-key hikes and bike rides. A great way to take in the unique landscapes is to take a leisurely boat ride along the winding river. Some of Vietnam’s most treasured sites can be found here, such as Tam Coc and Trang An, both of which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Outdoor Adventure Activities

Ninh Binh is an adventurer’s paradise, from rock-climbing to mountain-biking, especially for those looking for something slightly off the beaten track. Other popular activities include spear-fishing, kayaking and camping by one of the region’s many rivers or nearby beaches. For those who want something a bit more daring, Ninh Binh has some of the best cave exploration, including Hang Luom and Hang Kheang. Hang Kheang Cave is particularly special as it can only be entered via a floating boat ride!

Rich Cultural History

Ninh Binh is regarded as a cradle of culture, with countless locations full of local culture and folklore. Not to be missed is Cuc Phuong National Park, which contains numerous ancient artefacts in caves near the park entrance. Additionally, there are numerous pagodas and temples hidden in various corners around the region, including the iconic Bai Dinh Pagoda. Each temple carries a unique design and story, making exploration of each site an unforgettable experience.

Delicious Local Cuisines

The local food in Ninh Binh does not disappoint either, with unique dishes made from rice and locally-sourced ingredients. Some dishes that you must try include goi bae (a traditional seaweed salad), banh rang (rice crepes), and can chua (sour cabbage soup).

An Affordable Holiday Destination

For budget travelers, Ninh Binh can also be an affordable option in Vietnam with food and accommodation starting at just a few USD. Sure, it doesn’t have the urban vibes that other cities like Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi are known for – but that’s exactly why it has attracted so many young backpackers in recent years for its peaceful atmosphere, simpler pleasures and undiscovered beauty.

Conclusion: Ninh Binh Is An Unforgettable Destination

From jaw-dropping natural landscapes to cultural delights and delicious local food to adventures in rivers and caves – Ninh Binh has something for everyone in Vietnam. Affordable and relatively unexplored by tourists, there is certainly no shortage of good reasons to visit this spectacular destination.

If you are interested in learning more about what Ninh Binh has to offer, then Ninh Bihn Travel Guide provides an extensive selection of different activities and places to visit around the province so you can find out more about this stunning region before you visit.

Why visit Ninh Binh? Your Ultimate Guide

Ninh Binh, situated in the north of Vietnam, is a stunning destination and a coveted spot for those who love nature, history, and culture. Known as the “Inland Halong Bay,” it boasts picturesque landscapes, cultural heritage sites, and an abundance of natural beauty.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Ninh Binh to help you plan your trip.

What is Ninh Binh famous for?

Ninh Binh is famous for its beautiful and diverse natural scenery, including limestone mountains, caves, rivers, and wetlands. It is also home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Trang An Landscape Complex and the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. Additionally, it is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional cuisine, and friendly locals.

How do I get to Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh is located about 95 km south of Hanoi, and there are various ways to get there. You can travel by train, bus, or private car/taxi. If you’re traveling from Hanoi, taking a train is a popular and budget-friendly option. You can take a train from Hanoi Railway Station to Ninh Binh Railway Station, which takes around 2-2.5 hours. Private cars and taxis are also commonly used, with a journey time of typically 1.5-2 hours.

When is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?

The best time to visit Ninh Binh is from February to May or September to November when the weather is mild and dry. The scenery is most stunning during the harvest season in May and June, when the rice fields turn golden. The weather can get hot and humid from June to August, and from December to January, it can get cold and foggy.

What are the must-visit attractions in Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh is home to various famous attractions, including:

Trang An Landscape Complex

Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular attractions in Ninh Binh. It’s a vast network of limestone caves and canals, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. You can take a boat ride through the caves and enjoy breathtaking views of soaring mountains and lush green forests.

Tam Coc-Bich Dong

Tam Coc-Bich Dong is another popular attraction in Ninh Binh, also known as the “Halong Bay on land.” You can take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River through a series of caves, rice fields, and towering limestone karsts.

Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is the largest national park in Vietnam, located about 45 km south of Ninh Binh. It’s home to an array of wildlife, including rare primates, birds, and reptiles, and various hiking trails.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda is a spiritual and cultural center for Buddhists, also the largest pagoda complex in Southeast Asia. It’s famous for its massive bronze Buddha statue and stunning architecture, surrounded by beautiful gardens and lakes.

What activities can I do in Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh offers various activities for tourists, depending on their interests. Some popular activities include:

Biking

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the scenic countryside of Ninh Binh. You can rent a bike or join a guided cycling tour to explore the picturesque surroundings at a leisurely pace.

Trekking and Hiking

Trekking and hiking enthusiasts can enjoy the beautiful landscapes and vast natural areas in Ninh Binh, such as Cuc Phuong National Park, Hang Mua Peak, and Tam Coc-Bich Dong.

Cooking classes

Foodies can join a cooking class to learn the secrets behind traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Some cooking classes are held by local chefs in their homes, allowing visitors to experience home-cooked meals with a local family.

What should I eat in Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh is known for its delicious and authentic cuisine, especially dishes made with mountain goat meat, eel, and rice. Some of the must-try dishes in Ninh Binh include:

Goat meat dishes (De nui)

Ninh Binh is famous for its specialty in goat meat dishes, including grilled goat meat (De nuong), goat hotpot (Lau de), and goat curry (De xao).

Eel dishes (Luon)

Eel is a popular ingredient in Ninh Binh’s cuisine, and the most famous eel dish is crispy fried eel (Luon rang muoi). You can also try steamed eel (Luon hap), grilled eel (Luon nuong), and eel noodle soup (Bun luon).

Mountain snail dishes (oc nui)

Mountain snail dishes are a common street food in Ninh Binh, such as fried snails with lemongrass (Oc mo xao sa), snail congee (Chao oc), and snail noodle soup (Bun oc).

In conclusion, Ninh Binh is a magical place, offering a wealth of natural beauty, culture, and history. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’ll find something to suit your interests. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Ninh Binh!