Ninh Thuan

Ninh Thuan - the land of golden sunshine and dry wind, remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, preserving a stunning wild beauty to this day.

Located approximately 350 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, Ninh Thuan has excellent potential as a sought-after destination: picturesque blue seas, enchanting white sand dunes, majestic mountains, expansive steppes, and a rich ecosystem.

Ninh Thuan beach, a hidden gem of southern Vietnam

Ninh Thuan is undeniably the perfect getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Visitors can enjoy the finest coastal routes in Vietnam, bask in the beauty of its breathtaking beaches, and capture stunning photographs of sun, sea, and sand.

Best time to visit

Ninh Thuan has a tropical monsoon climate with an average annual temperature of 26-27 Celsius. Its climate is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season, from September to November, and the dry season, from December to August. While Ninh Thuan can be visited at any time of the year, the most suitable periods are:

May to August

This period showcases Ninh Thuan's ideal natural landscape, featuring a blue sky, turquoise sea, white sands, and lush greenery. This time frame does not coincide with the peak tourist season, so visitors can enjoy their experiences without worrying about crowded locations or inflated service prices. Embrace the opportunity to fully enjoy the gifts of nature in this sunny and windy land.

 Beautiful beach in Ninh Thuan

August to October

If you enjoy dynamic cultural experiences, this is the perfect time to explore various festivals celebrating the Cham culture. Don’t forget to explore the fruit orchards, particularly vineyards, as this season coincides with ripe fruit picking in Ninh Thuan.

Ba Moi vineyard in Ninh Thuan

Major attractions

Po Klong Garai Tower

A notable tourist landmark in Phan Rang City, Po Klong Garai Tower serves as a historical site of the Cham people from the southern central coast. This complex of monuments is located on a large hill, adorned with pathways, greenery, and red brick structures that evoke nostalgic beauty. During operating hours, visitors can rent traditional Cham costumes for memorable photos reflecting their rich heritage.

Po Klong Garai Tower in Ninh Thuan

Rai Cave

Located about 35 kilometers from Phan Rang City, Rai Cave is a remarkable "paradise" with its awe-inspiring natural scenery that leaves visitors breathless. The spectacular display of uniquely shaped rocks and magnificent caves, alongside expansive coral reefs that greet the waves, provides an unforgettable experience. Observing the captivating vistas of Rai Cave while standing above offers a sense of tranquility after a busy day.

Rai cave in Ninh Thuan

Vinh Hy Bay

Vinh Hy Bay presents breathtaking and pristine beauty, where the blue sea meets white sandy shores amidst forested landscapes. Close to Nui Chua National Park and roughly 40 kilometers from the center of Phan Rang City, visitors can easily reach it by car, motorbike, or bicycle. A visit to Ninh Thuan would be incomplete without experiencing Vinh Hy Bay, one of Vietnam's most enchanting destinations.

Ninh Chu Beach

As one of the most pristine and beautiful beaches on the Ninh Thuan landscape, Ninh Chu Beach lures visitors with its azure waters, charming crescent coastline, smooth golden sands, and tranquil atmosphere. Located just 5 kilometers east of Phan Rang City, this beach has immense tourism potential, attracting numerous domestic and international visitors every year.

Binh Tien Beach

Known for its clear blue waters and sweeping white sands alongside Nui Chua National Park, Binh Tien Beach offers a sense of serene relaxation amidst life’s rush. Only 30 kilometers away from Phan Rang City, this hidden "gem" in Ninh Thuan is bordered by lush pine forests and limestone mountains, making its inherent beauty captivating upon first glance.

Binh Tien beach in Ninh Thuan

Dinh Cape

Visitors will be amazed by the unspoiled, idyllic beauty of Dinh Cape, marked by a prominent lighthouse, clear waters, unique rock formations, and picturesque coastal roads. Located about 40 kilometers from Phan Rang City, Dinh Cape retains a serene atmosphere, making it a hidden treasure worth pausing for, where majestic natural beauty thrums amid white sands and azure waters.

Lighthouse at Mui Dinh, Ninh Thuan

Nui Chua National Park

Situated along the coastal route and 30 kilometers from Phan Rang City, Nui Chua National Park offers not only scenic beaches but also great opportunities for hiking enthusiasts and nature explorers. The park boasts a diverse ecosystem that captivates visitors interested in photography, adventure, and unique experiences.

Calm Rock at Nui Chua National Park

An Hoa Sheep Field

Contrasting with the stunning beaches, An Hoa Sheep Field features vast steppes and a serene pastoral lifestyle, offering visitors unique experiences in tranquility. Away from noisy city life, this picturesque setting showcases a peaceful existence amid playful sheep, beautiful mountains, and scenic lakes, inviting travelers to appreciate rural beauty.

Bau Truc Pottery Village

Regarded as the oldest pottery village in Southeast Asia, Bau Truc Pottery Village features exquisite handicrafts and superior firing techniques infused with Cham cultural elements. Visitors can admire intricate pottery while observing skilled artisans at work. Additionally, there's an opportunity to create your own pots, patterns, and fire them as true artists.

Bau Truc pottery village in Ninh Thuan

What to eat

Ninh Thuan cuisine is distinctive, representing a delightful blend of Central Vietnam culinary traditions and Cham culture. While exploring the stunning sights, avid food lovers should not miss out on the culinary delights Ninh Thuan has to offer.

“Banh canh cha ca” - Rice noodle soup with fried fish

This warm rice noodle soup, served with fried fish, fresh herbs, scallions, and a sprinkle of black pepper, will surely delight you just with its aroma. A renowned specialty of Ninh Thuan, visitors can find delicious bowls of this dish throughout Phan Rang City.

Banh Canh Cha Ca

Notable places to enjoy "Banh canh cha ca" in Ninh Thuan include:

• Banh Canh Nhuong: 284 Ngo Gia Tu Street, Phan Rang City
• Banh Canh Be: 424A Ngo Gia Tu Street, Phan Rang City
• Banh Canh Mai Ly: Nguyen Thi Dinh Street, Phan Rang City

“Banh can” - Small pancakes cooked in small clay pans

A local favorite, "banh can" is similar in shape to southern "banh khot" and primarily made from rice flour. The pancake’s filling varies by personal preference, and a side of roasted peanut sauce with tamarind, sugar, fried garlic, and onion elevates the dish's flavor.

Banh Can- Photo: dia.diem.an.uong

"Banh can" can be found at various street corners in Phan Rang City, particularly at a small sidewalk shop at the intersection of Doan Thi Diem Street and 16 Thang 4 Street, opposite the Cultural Center of Ninh Thuan Province. This shop is famous for its "banh can," priced affordably at approximately 1,000 - 2,000 VND per pair.

“Goi ca mai” - Deep herring salad

This dish is a must-try when visiting Ninh Thuan. Made from small deep herring, herbs, young banana flowers, and pineapple, this salad captivates food enthusiasts. Deep herring is particularly abundant towards the year's end, making it the best time to savor this delicious salad.

 Photo: ngoisao.net

Deep herring salad is widely available along the coasts of Ninh Chu Beach and Vinh Hy Beach, ideal spots for savoring this distinctive dish while enjoying peaceful sea views.

Chicken rice

Don't overlook Phan Rang chicken rice during your visit. Made with locally raised chicken, renowned for its firm, tasty meat, and rice cooked in chicken broth, this dish comes with a unique dipping sauce made from lemon, garlic, chili, and grain. The delicious flavor of Phan Rang chicken rice will surely linger in your memory.

Rice chicken - Photo: @tienvinhtravel

Suggested locations to enjoy Phan Rang chicken rice:

• Com Ga Phuoc Thanh: 3 Tran Quang Dieu Street, Phan Rang City
• Com Ga Ngoc: 10 Tran Binh Trong Street, Phan Rang City
• Com Ga Khanh Ky: 61 Tran Quang Dieu Street, Phan Rang City

Where to stay

Resorts in Ninh Thuan

For a fulfilling vacation in Ninh Thuan, consider choosing resorts that offer luxurious, modern accommodations and impressive amenities such as swimming pools, spas, gym centers, and shuttle services. Some notable resorts include Hon Co Ca Na Resort, Ninh Chu Resort, Aniise Villa Resort, and Ninh Thuan Retreat Resort.

Aniise Villa in Ninh Thuan

Hotels in Ninh Thuan

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider 2-3 star hotels in Ninh Thuan. Despite their lower prices, these hotels offer essential amenities and ideal locations, ensuring a comfortable stay. Some options include Dong Nam Hotel, Seaside Hotel, Hong Duc Hotel, and Son Huong Hotel.

Dong Nam hotel

Homestay in Ninh Thuan

If you seek a creative and culturally enriching experience, consider staying at one of the homestays in Ninh Thuan. Offering affordable lodging, these accommodations are designed to provide memorable travel experiences. Some popular homestays include Bigdog Homestay, Peace Home Homestay, Sea Urchin Homestay, Eco-Chi Homestay, and Liti Homestay.

Bigdog Homestay

How to get there

By plane

While Ninh Thuan does not have its own airport, it is conveniently located near two major airports: Cam Ranh Airport (Khanh Hoa) and Lien Khuong Airport (Da Lat), which facilitate hassle-free access for travelers seeking efficient vacations.

Flying into Cam Ranh Airport, which is about 60 kilometers from Ninh Thuan, allows for an option to explore Nha Trang and Ninh Thuan together over a 4-5 day trip.

Cam Ranh airport

If you choose to land at Lien Khuong Airport, expect a 2-hour taxi ride to Ninh Thuan. If time permits, one can take the opportunity to visit the charming city of Da Lat before soaking up the splendid beaches of Ninh Thuan.

All three major carriers - Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways - offer daily flights to these airports. Fares can increase during weekends and holidays, so it is advisable to book tickets in advance, or plan for weekday travel to avoid crowds.

By motorbike

Many young travelers prefer motorbikes as they provide freedom to explore at their own pace, allowing spontaneous stops to enjoy the beautiful scenery. However, motorbiking can lead to fatigue over longer distances, making it more suitable for shorter trips from nearby areas like Binh Thuan or Da Lat.

By train

For a budget-friendly travel option, trains save costs but not necessarily time. Typically, train journeys from Da Nang take around 13-14 hours, while those from Ho Chi Minh City last 6-8 hours. Tickets can be purchased at any station, and upon arrival at Thap Cham Station, travelers can continue to their accommodations via taxi or motorcycle taxi.

Train and railway at Ca Na area town in Ninh Thuan

By bus

For those traveling from Ho Chi Minh City or other nearby areas, buses are an economical choice, with fares around 150,000 VND per person when departing from the Eastern Bus Station.

Although the journey may take longer, bus travel allows passengers to enjoy the beautiful scenery and Vietnamese life along the way, creating memorable experiences. It is advisable to contact bus operators in advance to arrange schedules accordingly.