Renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Ninh Binh is a must-visit destination in Vietnam. From ancient temples and hidden caves to expansive green rice fields, this region offers a glimpse into the natural beauty and history of Vietnam. Often called the "Halong Bay on land," Ninh Binh promises an unforgettable adventure. Join Frontier Travel Vietnam as we uncover the top attractions in Ninh Binh, Vietnam.
1. Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: 250,000 VND per adult, 120,000 VND per child
- Address: Trang An, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking natural beauty and cultural significance. This area is often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land" due to its stunning limestone karsts, which rise majestically from the surrounding waterways.
Visitors to Trang An can enjoy picturesque boat tours that navigate through a network of rivers, caves, and valleys. These tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the intricate cave systems and admire the serene landscapes. Each boat tour typically lasts around 2-3 hours, taking you through a series of grottoes with names like Sang Cave, Toi Cave, Ba Giot Cave, and Nau Ruou Cave, each offering its own unique features and historical significance.
In addition to the natural wonders, Trang An is home to several ancient temples and pagodas, which add a cultural dimension to the experience. The harmonious blend of nature and history makes Trang An a must-visit destination.
2. Tam Coc - Bich Dong
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: 120,000 VND per adult, 60,000 VND per child
- Address: Ninh Hải, Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình, Vietnam
Tam Coc, often referred to as the "Halong Bay on Land," is a picturesque area known for its stunning natural beauty. The name Tam Coc means "Three Caves," which are Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. These caves are explored via a serene boat ride that takes visitors through lush rice paddies and dramatic limestone cliffs, creating an unforgettable landscape.
The boat ride through Tam Coc typically lasts about 2 hours, offering visitors a tranquil journey along the Ngo Dong River. As you glide along the water, you’ll pass through the three natural caves, each with its unique stalactites and stalagmites. The surrounding scenery is particularly captivating during the rice harvest season when the fields turn a vibrant golden hue.
Bich Dong Pagoda, often paired with a visit to Tam Coc, is another highlight. This ancient pagoda complex, dating back to the 15th century, is set against a limestone mountain and consists of three tiers: Ha Pagoda (lower pagoda), Trung Pagoda (middle pagoda), and Thuong Pagoda (upper pagoda). Visitors can climb the stone steps to explore each tier and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the upper pagoda.
3. Bai Dinh Pagoda
- Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: 60,000 VND per adult for the electric car service; entrance to the pagoda is free.
- Address: Gia Sinh, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Bai Dinh Pagoda is Vietnam’s largest Buddhist complex, renowned for its grandeur and spiritual significance. Spanning over 700 hectares, this vast complex features both ancient and newly constructed structures, blending traditional Vietnamese architecture with modern elements.
One of the most striking features of Bai Dinh Pagoda is the giant Buddha statue, which stands 10 meters tall and weighs 100 tons. This impressive bronze statue is one of the largest in Southeast Asia and serves as a focal point for worshippers and tourists alike.
Another highlight of the complex is the bell tower, which houses a massive bronze bell weighing 36 tons. The bell tower offers a tranquil space for reflection and prayer, with the resonant sound of the bell adding to the serene atmosphere.
Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from various vantage points within the complex. The lush landscapes and rolling hills provide a stunning backdrop to the pagoda's majestic structures, making it a perfect spot for photography and contemplation.
In addition to these key features, Bai Dinh Pagoda is home to numerous temples, shrines, and statues, including the 500 Arhat statues lining the corridors. The complex is a testament to the rich Buddhist heritage of Vietnam and offers a unique cultural and spiritual experience for all who visit.
4. Mua Cave (Hang Mua)
- Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: 100,000 VND per person
- Address: Khe Dau Hạ, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Mua Cave, also known as Hang Mua, is a popular destination in Ninh Binh, renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views. The main attraction at Mua Cave is the challenging yet rewarding climb to the top of the mountain, where visitors are greeted with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.
The climb consists of approximately 500 stone steps that wind their way up the mountainside. These steps are modeled after the Great Wall of China, adding an element of historical intrigue to the journey. As you ascend, you'll encounter dragon sculptures and other intricate carvings that enhance the cultural atmosphere of the site.
The effort to reach the summit is well worth it, as the views from the top are truly spectacular. From this vantage point, you can see the Ngo Dong River meandering through lush rice paddies and dramatic limestone karsts. The sight is especially enchanting at sunrise or sunset when the landscape is bathed in golden light.
In addition to the panoramic views, the area around Mua Cave offers other attractions, including the cave itself, which is a small but interesting natural formation. Visitors can also explore the surrounding gardens and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the site.
5. Van Long Nature Reserve
- Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: 60,000 VND per adult, 30,000 VND per child
- Address: Gia Van, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Van Long Nature Reserve is a serene wetland area renowned for its rich biodiversity and tranquil landscapes. Covering an area of approximately 3,000 hectares, this nature reserve is a haven for a wide variety of wildlife and a crucial habitat for many rare and endangered species.
The reserve is particularly famous for its birdwatching opportunities. It is home to over 50 bird species, including the endangered Delacour’s langur, one of the rarest primates in the world. Visitors often spot various species of waterfowl and migratory birds, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
One of the highlights of Van Long is the serene boat trips that offer an immersive experience in the reserve's natural beauty. These boat rides take visitors through the tranquil waterways, surrounded by lush wetlands and towering limestone formations. The peaceful journey allows for close-up views of the diverse flora and fauna, including lotus flowers and water lilies that bloom in the shallow waters.
Beside its birdwatching and boating experiences, Van Long Nature Reserve provides picturesque scenery that is ideal for photography and relaxation. The reserve’s calm waters, dramatic cliffs, and verdant landscapes create a perfect backdrop for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
6. Cuc Phuong National Park
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Entrance Fee: 60,000 VND per adult, 30,000 VND per child
- Address: Cuc Phuong, Nho Quan, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam’s first national park, established in 1962, and is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. Covering an area of approximately 22,200 hectares, the park is located in the northern part of Vietnam and serves as a critical conservation area for many endangered species.
The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 100 species of mammals, more than 300 species of birds, and numerous reptiles and amphibians. Notable residents include the critically endangered Delacour’s langur, as well as various species of gibbons and deer. The park also features an impressive variety of butterflies and insects.
Cuc Phuong is also famous for its ancient trees, some of which are over a thousand years old. One of the most notable is the “Thousand-Year-Old Tree,” a giant tree with a trunk circumference of over 10 meters. The park's lush forests are a haven for these ancient giants and provide a glimpse into the region's natural history.
For hiking enthusiasts, Cuc Phuong offers a range of trails that cater to various fitness levels. Popular trails include the trek to the park’s "Endangered Primate Rescue Center," where visitors can learn about the park’s conservation efforts, and the hike to the "Cave of the Ancient People," which provides insights into the prehistoric human settlements in the area. The trails offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, including limestone hills, dense forests, and serene rivers.
7. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: 20,000 VND per person
- Address: Truong Yen, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital holds great historical significance as it served as the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries during the Dinh and Le dynasties. This ancient site is located in a picturesque area surrounded by limestone mountains and offers a glimpse into the early history and culture of Vietnam.
One of the main attractions in Hoa Lu is the temple dedicated to Dinh Tien Hoang, the first emperor of the Dinh dynasty. This temple is built on the foundation of the original palace and features intricate stone carvings, statues, and altars. It is a serene place where visitors can learn about the life and achievements of Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang, who is credited with unifying Vietnam.
Another key attraction is the temple of Le Dai Hanh, the second emperor of the Le dynasty. This temple is similar in style to the Dinh Tien Hoang Temple but has its own unique features and historical artifacts. The Le Dai Hanh Temple is dedicated to honoring Emperor Le Dai Hanh's contributions to the development and protection of the country.
Besides these temples, visitors can explore other historical sites in the area, including the remains of ancient fortifications and other architectural remnants from the dynastic periods. The scenic surroundings, with lush greenery and dramatic karst landscapes, add to the historical ambiance of Hoa Lu.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is not only a place of historical importance but also a cultural treasure that provides insight into Vietnam's early dynastic history. Visitors to this ancient capital will find themselves transported back in time, surrounded by the rich heritage and beautiful natural scenery.
8. Phat Diem Stone Church
- Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Address: Phat Diem Town, Kim Son District, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Phat Diem Stone Church, also known as Phat Diem Cathedral, is an architectural marvel and a unique blend of Vietnamese and European design. Built in the late 19th century, this impressive complex is located in the town of Phat Diem and serves as a significant religious and cultural landmark.
The church complex spans several hectares and consists of a cathedral and several smaller chapels, all constructed from stone and wood. The main cathedral, known as the "Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception," features a grand façade with intricate carvings and traditional Vietnamese architectural elements, such as curved roofs and wooden beams. This blend of styles makes Phat Diem Stone Church stand out as a unique example of East-meets-West architecture.
One of the highlights of the church is the grand bell tower, which houses a large bell cast in 1891. Visitors can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Inside the cathedral, you'll find beautiful wooden altars, detailed bas-reliefs, and an impressive collection of religious statues.
The church is also surrounded by a peaceful garden and several ponds, adding to the serene atmosphere of the site. The smaller chapels within the complex, each dedicated to different saints, are equally impressive with their own unique architectural features and artistic decorations.
Phat Diem Stone Church is not only a place of worship but also a cultural heritage site that attracts visitors from all over the world. Its unique architecture, historical significance, and tranquil surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Ninh Binh.
9. Tam Diep Pineapple Hill
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Address: Tam Diep City, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Tam Diep Pineapple Hill is a picturesque agricultural area located in Tam Diep City, known for its vast fields of pineapples stretching as far as the eye can see. This unique and vibrant landscape offers visitors a chance to experience the rural beauty and agricultural richness of Ninh Binh.
The pineapple fields at Tam Diep cover an extensive area and are a key part of the local economy, producing some of the finest pineapples in Vietnam. The best time to visit is during the pineapple harvest season, which typically occurs from April to June, when the fields are lush with ripe, golden pineapples ready for picking.
Visitors to Tam Diep Pineapple Hill can enjoy leisurely walks through the fields, taking in the fresh air and stunning views of the endless rows of pineapple plants set against the backdrop of rolling hills. It's a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the beauty of Vietnam's countryside.
Moreover exploring the fields, visitors can learn about the cultivation process and even participate in pineapple harvesting activities. Local farmers are often willing to share their knowledge and offer insights into the traditional farming methods used in the region.
10. Kim Son Beach
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Address: Kim Son District, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Kim Son Beach, located in the Kim Son District of Ninh Bình, is a coastal area known for its expansive mudflats, serene environment, and unique natural beauty. Unlike the typical sandy beaches, Kim Son Beach offers a distinct landscape that is characterized by its tidal flats and mangrove forests.
The beach is part of the larger Kim Son coastal ecosystem, which includes the Con Noi and Con Lu islands. These areas are rich in biodiversity and are important habitats for various species of birds, fish, and other marine life. Birdwatchers, in particular, will find Kim Son Beach a fascinating destination, as it is home to numerous migratory and resident bird species.
One of the highlights of Kim Son Beach is the opportunity to explore its extensive mudflats during low tide. Visitors can walk out onto the flats, observing the intricate patterns created by the retreating water and discovering the diverse marine life that inhabits this unique environment. The mudflats are also a great place for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light casts a golden hue over the landscape.
The beach area is also known for its traditional fishing practices. Local fishermen can often be seen working along the shore, using age-old techniques to harvest seafood. Visitors can learn about these methods and even participate in some of the activities, gaining insight into the local way of life.
Ninh Binh's stunning landscapes and rich history make it a standout destination in Vietnam. With Frontier Travel Vietnam, you can experience these incredible sights up close and immerse yourself in the region's unique charm. Experience the wonder of Ninh Binh with us and make your journey truly memorable.
