Ninh Binh

Situated at the southern edge of the Red River Delta, Ninh Binh has become a vibrant hub of stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences. Each spring welcomes the festival season, where the blooming red silk cotton flowers brighten up the picturesque villages. As the autumn rice season approaches, the expansive fields transform into a golden sea of ripe rice. No matter the time of year, visitors will find Ninh Binh adorned with breathtaking natural beauty.

Ninh Binh is renowned for its striking limestone karsts, glistening rivers, vast rice fields, and impressive Buddhist pagodas. As the ancient capital of Vietnam, it is steeped in unique historical and cultural significance that spans centuries.

Best Time to Visit

Ninh Binh experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by hot and humid summers from May to August and a cooler, dry winter from November to January. Thanks to its geographical location, Ninh Binh enjoys milder temperatures compared to many other regions in Northern Vietnam, making it a year-round destination for travelers. However, the optimal time to explore this beautiful area is during spring (February to April), when the region is alive with numerous cultural events and recreational activities.

Between late May and early June, Ninh Binh showcases picturesque golden rice paddies, attracting photographers and nature lovers alike, all eager to capture the stunning landscapes that resemble a living painting.

How to Get to Ninh Binh

As a prominent tourist destination in Northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh is easily accessible with various transportation options. Located approximately 90 km south of Hanoi, visitors can reach Ninh Binh by shuttle bus, motorbike, or train.

By Shuttle Bus

Taking a shuttle bus is a popular choice for both locals and international travelers. The journey typically lasts about 2 to 3 hours, depending on your drop-off point. Several bus companies operate daily routes from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. You can either head to one of the main bus stations in Hanoi—such as Gia Lam, Giap Bat, or My Dinh—or reserve a seat online through local booking platforms.

By Train

Traveling by train is another comfortable option, especially from major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue. From Hanoi, it takes about 2.5 hours to reach Ninh Binh train station, which is conveniently located in the city center. Vietnam Railways offers several daily trains on the Hanoi-Ninh Binh route, including SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, and SE19. For travelers coming from Hue, trains SE5, SE7, and SE19 are available, while Ho Chi Minh City travelers can opt for SE2, SE6, and SE8, with a journey time exceeding 20 hours from that city.

By Motorbike

For an adventurous experience, many young travelers and locals choose to ride a motorbike from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. This option can save around 30-60 minutes in travel time compared to the shuttle bus, and it provides greater flexibility to explore local attractions along the way.

Getting Around Ninh Binh

The road conditions in Ninh Binh are smooth and flat, making motorbike travel a great way to explore the area. Most hotels and homestays offer motorbike rentals, and taxis are available for trips to popular destinations like Tam Coc. Visitors who enjoy walking will find it easy to reach nearby attractions such as Bich Dong Cave and Mua Cave.

For sights further afield, like Trang An, Hoa Lu, and Bai Dinh Pagoda, the best options are either to use a motorbike or take a taxi. Alternatively, guided tours and car rental services offered by hotels provide convenient transportation between sites.

Things to See

Trang An Complex

Home to one of the world's most breathtaking karst landscapes, the Trang An Complex features stunning views, captivating caves, and valuable historical artifacts. With its picturesque scenery and rich cultural heritage, Trang An is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can take scenic boat rides through tranquil rivers, soaking in the beauty of lush rice fields, dense forests, and unique limestone formations.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Regarded as the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia, Bai Dinh offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. The spiritual site is home to multiple sacred temples and over 500 intricately carved Buddha statues. Surrounded by majestic karst peaks, Bai Dinh is known for its serene atmosphere, attracting countless pilgrims during the spring festival season, as people come to pray for peace and prosperity.

Tam Coc – Bich Dong

Often described as "a terrestrial Ha Long Bay," this enchanting destination features the Bich Dong Pagoda and Tam Coc Grotto. With its scenic rice fields and karst mountains, the area provides a stunning natural canvas that captivates all who visit. The sparkling Tam Coc Grotto is adorned with unique stalactites and stalagmites, while Bich Dong is enveloped in the emerald mist of the Ngu Nhac Mountain, showcasing striking views of the surrounding landscape.

Mua Cave

Located at the base of a karst mountain, Mua Cave has garnered popularity as a must-visit spot in Ninh Binh’s travel itineraries. According to legend, the Emperors of the Tran Dynasty frequented this cave for performances of dance and music, giving it the name "Mua," which translates to "dance." The ascent to the mountain's summit involves climbing nearly 500 stone steps, rewarding visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of sprawling fields and rugged mountains.

Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park distinguishes itself with its unique butterfly season from April to late May. During this time, the park is alive with thousands of white butterflies, creating a magical atmosphere that enchants visitors as they flutter around.

Tuyet Tinh Coc, located east of Hoa Lu, is a hidden gem boasting serene jade-colored lakes, breathtaking mountains, and beautiful Buddhist pagodas. Once challenging to reach, it has now become a more accessible sanctuary for those longing to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life, seeking clarity and peace in nature.

Where to Stay in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, a highly sought-after destination in Vietnam, offers a diverse range of accommodations, from hostels and homestays to hotels and luxurious resorts, catering to the varying needs of tourists.

In addition to budget-friendly hostels for backpackers, Ninh Binh features charming, nature-inspired homestays, as well as high-end hotels and resorts. Whether you're traveling on a budget or can indulge in luxury, there’s no shortage of accommodations to suit your preferences in Ninh Binh.

Tam Coc Bungalow

Set amidst lush, overgrown gardens, Tam Coc Bungalow is surrounded by majestic mountains and the tranquil Tam Coc river. This delightful spot offers rustic bungalows with comfy lodging, where guests can awaken to the soothing sounds of chirping birds and the beauty of their fairytale-like surroundings.

Camellia Hotel

As a newcomer to the vibrant tourism scene, Camellia Hotel sits in the heart of the Trang An Ecotourism area. Its prime location serves as an excellent base for exploring local attractions, complemented by exceptional service and amenities.

Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort & Spa

Located slightly away from downtown, Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort & Spa boasts luxurious 5-star villas adjacent to a national reserve. With elegant traditional architecture, the resort features luxury accommodations and modern facilities, including a private pool, spa, and fitness center. Guests can savor Ninh Binh’s culinary specialties in intimate restaurants and enjoy leisurely strolls along beautifully lit garden pathways during the evenings.