Ninh Binh Vietnam is rich in traditional cultural beauty with thousand-year-old architectural works, mysterious spiritual sites, and countless delicious specialties. If you’re planning a self-guided trip to Ninh Binh, be sure not to miss this article
1. A Brief Look at Ninh Binh Vietnam
Ninh Binh is a province located in the southern part of the Red River Delta, about 100km from Hanoi.
Historically, this area has been famous as a land of wonders and cultural heritage, blessed with beautiful, romantic landscapes and famous landmarks such as: the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, the former capital of Hoa Lu with its rich and heroic history, the immense beauty of Mua Cave, the Tam Coc – Bich Dong complex, and the breathtakingly beautiful Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve. Additionally, Ninh Binh holds a treasure trove of traditional and spiritual cultural values, preserving many historical imprints from the Dinh, Ly, and early Le dynasties.
Ninh Binh Vietnam enchants tourists with its beautiful natural scenery, famous landmarks, and many delicious and attractive dishes.
When you visit Ninh Binh, you will have the opportunity to admire the majestic beauty of nature and immerse yourself in a unique cultural space. A trip to Ninh Binh will also take you to explore a diverse ecosystem hidden amidst a pristine landscape and enjoy unique and unforgettable specialties.
2. When is the Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh Vietnam?
January – March (Lunar Calendar), which is the start of spring, is an ideal time to visit Ninh Binh. The weather is cool and slightly cold, not as chilly as winter, and there is little rain. The scenery is fresh and full of vitality. Best of all, because it is close to the Lunar New Year, there are many festivals taking place, such as the Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival, the La Temple Festival, and the traditional Hoa Lu ancient capital festival.
April – June (early summer) is also a time chosen by many tourists to visit Ninh Binh. The weather is quite cool and pleasant, not too hot, and the air is fresh and peaceful. This is a great opportunity to admire the beautiful, endless golden rice fields in Tam Coc, and watch thousands of white butterflies fluttering or swarming the road to Cuc Phuong National Park.
3. Getting to Ninh Binh Vietnam
Below is a guide on how to get to Ninh Binh and suggestions for suitable transportation options from Viet Travel Guide to make your trip more convenient and save time and money.
3.1. Getting to Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is not far from Hanoi (about 100km to the South) and is an important transportation hub with 9 highways and expressways. Therefore, you have many options to get here.
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By Plane
For tourists from far away, such as Ho Chi Minh City, other southern provinces, and central provinces, the fastest and most convenient way to get to Ninh Binh is to book a flight to Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi). After arriving, you can choose a coach bus, motorbike, or car to get to Ninh Binh.
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By Coach Bus
Coach buses are also a popular mode of transportation to Ninh Binh for many tourists from the Hanoi area. There are many bus companies from Hanoi to Ninh Binh daily with different schedules on highways and expressways. Tourists can find and choose a reputable bus company, seat class, ticket price, and time that suits their needs. If you are starting from Hanoi, you can go from My Dinh, Giap Bat, or Nuoc Ngam bus stations to Ninh Binh bus station. It takes just over an hour to get there.
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By Train
The third option you can consider for a self-guided trip to Ninh Binh is traveling by train. Because the train runs along the North-South railway line, it is quite convenient, but it can be inconvenient in terms of departure and travel time as it passes through many stations to get to Ninh Binh. However, if you want to save money and have a new experience, you can choose this option.
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By Motorbike
If you are someone who loves to explore and enjoys backpacking, a motorbike will definitely be the perfect choice. Traveling by motorbike will help you be proactive with your time (departure, meals, rest, etc.), save money, and give you the freedom to enjoy the beautiful scenery on your self-guided Ninh Binh trip.
After leaving the center of Hanoi, you can follow the direction of Van Dien, Thuong Tin, and then continue along old National Highway 1A towards Phu Ly city. It takes about 2-3 hours to reach and visit the famous destinations in Ninh Binh.
3.2. Getting Around in Ninh Binh
Once you arrive in Ninh Binh, depending on your itinerary and personal preferences, you can choose a suitable mode of transportation such as: car, taxi, motorbike, motorbike taxi, or ride-sharing services.
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Motorbike Rental:
If you are traveling to Ninh Binh alone or with friends or your partner, you can rent a motorbike by the day to freely explore the beauty of nature, culture, cuisine, and people here. You can easily rent a motorbike at a hotel, homestay, rental shop, or through a reputable online rental service. The rental price ranges from 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day, depending on whether you choose a scooter or a manual bike.
Renting a motorbike in Ninh Binh will help you have an exciting, free, and cost-effective exploration trip.
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Bus:
To save money, tourists can travel around Ninh Binh by bus. Currently, Ninh Binh has many public bus routes serving travel within the city and to surrounding areas. However, if this is your first time traveling to Ninh Binh, you may not know the exact bus stops or travel times. So, you should download the Bus Map app to use and easily get to the tourist destinations you want.
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Taxi:
Taxis are a popular mode of transportation in Ninh Binh. If you are traveling with family or a large group, especially a family with children and the elderly, you should rent a car or a taxi to ensure safety, save money, and easily visit tourist attractions in Ninh Binh. Taxi services in Ninh Binh have different prices depending on the regulations of each company, the type of car, the number of seats, and the distance.
4. Exploring the Scenery and Cuisine of Ninh Binh
If you are wondering where to go and what to eat in Ninh Binh, let’s list the famous tourist destinations in Ninh Binh and the delicious dishes you should not miss!
4.1. What to Do in Ninh Binh?
Here is a summary of the famous Ninh Binh tourist attractions that you definitely should not miss:
Trang An
Located in the south of the Red River Delta with an area of 6,226 hectares, Trang An is known as “Ha Long Bay on land” thanks to its poetic and charming scenery. Here, you will be overwhelmed by the majestic natural masterpieces with a complex of natural caves connected to submerged valleys, a unique system of undulating limestone mountains, all surrounded by beautiful, clear, cool, and winding green water. The feeling of sitting in a boat, floating on the clear water, and passing through beautiful caves and mysterious spiritual sites will surely bring you an unforgettable experience.
- Address: Trang An Street, Dong Thanh, Ninh Binh (About 7km from Ninh Binh bus station, about 8km from Ninh Binh train station).
- Ticket price: 250,000 VND/person.
The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is famous as a “dual World Heritage Site” with both natural and cultural heritage titles recognized by UNESCO.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu was the first capital of the centralized feudal state of Vietnam, marking the ups and downs of three dynasties: Dinh, Early Le, and the early Ly dynasty. In the past, Hoa Lu was a vast area of 300 hectares, surrounded by overlapping mountain ranges and a dense network of rivers. After more than 1000 years of history, Hoa Lu still retains its relic complex with architectural works built in the 17th century, such as King Dinh’s Temple and King Le’s Temple, recognized by UNESCO as one of the 4 core areas of the Trang An World Heritage Complex.
When you come to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – Ninh Binh, you not only get to admire the unique relic and architectural complex, but this trip is also a journey to return to your roots and learn about the heroic history of the Vietnamese people.
- Address: Truong Yen, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh (Located in the north of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex).
- Ticket price: Adults: 20,000 VND; children aged 6-15: 10,000 VND; and seniors (60 years and older) and people with disabilities: 10,000 VND/person.
Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Travelers liken Tam Coc – Bich Dong to “Ha Long Bay on land” or “the second most beautiful cave in the South.” A river flowing through the mountains created its system of three caves: the First Cave, the Second Cave, and the Third Cave. Sitting on a boat and drifting along the Ngo Dong River, you will feel the cool, fresh air and admire the beautiful natural scenery, unique limestone stalactites in all shapes and forms, ancient pagodas hidden behind green old trees, all surrounded by majestic mountains.
- Address: Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh
- Ticket price:
- Tam Coc ticket: Adults: 120,000 VND/person/turn. Children under 1.4m: 60,000 VND/person/turn (children under 3 are free).
- Boat ticket: 150,000 VND/boat/trip (children under 3 are free).
- Bich Dong sightseeing ticket: 20,000 VND/ticket/turn.
Experiencing the beautiful space of the Tam Coc – Bich Dong tourist area gives you a feeling of peace and serenity amidst the vast land and sky.
Mua Cave
Mua Cave is about 10km from the center of Ninh Binh city, located right at the foot of Mua Mountain, and is likened to the “Great Wall of Vietnam.” Mua Cave is a natural complex of over 4 hectares, including many majestic caves, rock mountains, and beautiful landscapes. After conquering the 500 stone steps, you will reach the top of Mua Mountain and admire the entire beauty of the Tam Coc area with its majestic mountains, winding rivers, and vast ripe rice fields. The poetic natural picture that unfolds before your eyes will captivate and amaze tourists from near and far.
- Address: At the foot of Mua Mountain, in Ninh Xuan commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh.
- Ticket price: 100,000 VND/person.
Bai Dinh Pagoda
Bai Dinh Pagoda was built with a magnificent and unique architectural style, with a solemn main hall consisting of 3 floors and 12 curved roofs in the shape of a sword blade, traditional tiled roofs designed in the shape of a shoe tip, and steps carved with dragon motifs from the Ly dynasty. This pagoda is famous for holding the most records in Vietnam and Asia, such as the largest gold-plated bronze Buddha statue in Asia, the tallest stupa in Southeast Asia, the pagoda with the longest Arhat corridor in Asia with over 1,000 Arhat statues, and the pagoda with the largest well in Vietnam.
If you are a Buddhist or a person with a deep passion for history, culture, and ancient architecture, you must visit Bai Dinh Pagoda – a sacred place of worship amidst the overlapping mountains.
- Address: Gia Sinh commune, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh
- Ticket price:
- Stupa visit ticket: 50,000 VND/person
- Electric car ticket: 30,000 VND/person/ride.
Bai Dinh Pagoda is a spiritual site that has existed for over 1,000 years, associated with three feudal dynasties: Dinh, Ly, and Early Le.
4.2. What to Eat in Ninh Binh?
Ninh Binh is not only famous for its beautiful landscapes but also for its attractive and rich cuisine. If you are wondering what to eat and where to eat in Ninh Binh, be sure not to miss the following specialties!
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Ant Egg Sticky Rice (Xoi Trung Kien)
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Ant egg sticky rice is a famous specialty of Nho Quan, Ninh Binh, associated with the unique culture of the local people. The dish is made from simple, readily available ingredients from the mountains and forests. The secret to a delicious ant egg sticky rice dish is that the sticky rice is cooked with ants from the limestone mountains – brown ants. The ant eggs are washed with warm water, seasoned with spices, fried with dried onions and chicken fat for a fragrant aroma, and then steamed with sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves.
When you enjoy the ant egg sticky rice while it’s still hot, you will clearly feel the softness and stickiness, the special aroma of the fragrant glutinous rice, the sweet and nutty flavor, the richness, and the interesting popping sound of the ant eggs. Ant egg sticky rice is a dish that is both familiar and exotic, and it will make you remember it forever after just one bite.
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Mountain Goat (De Nui)
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On the mountainsides, locals raise Ninh Binh goats naturally. This results in firm, tender meat with a pleasant aroma. The special flavor of Ninh Binh’s mountain goat dishes comes from how locals skillfully prepare the thoroughly cleaned meat with their traditional spices.
When you come to Ninh Binh, you can freely enjoy many delicious dishes made from mountain goat such as: goat with lemon, stir-fried goat, roasted goat, goat cooked with fermented rice wine, steamed goat, braised goat, goat hot pot, etc. You can eat it with fresh vegetables, wild leaves, or a ginger dipping sauce to enhance the flavor and sweetness of the goat meat.
Mountain goat meat is a delicious dish that you must try when traveling to Ninh Binh.
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Scorched Rice (Com Chay)
When it comes to Ninh Binh specialties, people often immediately think of the famous scorched rice. Unlike the ordinary scorched rice snacks in many other regions, Ninh Binh scorched rice is meticulously prepared by mixing two types of rice, one dry and one sticky. The rice is then fried until the grains expand evenly, becoming crispy, golden, and puffy, with a little bit of salty shredded pork and spices. Especially when you dip the scorched rice in the thick sauce, it brings a delicious, crispy, nutty, and rich flavor that is not greasy. If you have the opportunity to travel to Ninh Binh, you should try this specialty scorched rice or buy it as a gift for your family and friends.
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Freshwater Eel Salad (Goi Ca Nhiec)
It would be a pity to come to Ninh Binh without trying the freshwater eel salad. The freshwater eel salad specialty is considered one of the best local specialties. This freshwater fish is prepared very meticulously. After being carefully selected from fresh batches of fish, the fish is marinated with seasonings such as ginger, lemongrass, and dried onions, and is eaten with fresh vegetables such as star fruit, figs, chili, and herbs, and a sweet and sour dipping sauce. The delicious, crispy, and sweet flavor of the fish mixed with the sourness of the vinegar, the warmth of the ginger, the nuttiness of the roasted sticky rice, and the slightly bitter taste of the wild vegetables will make you remember it forever after one bite.
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Eel Vermicelli (Mien Luon)
Eel vermicelli has long been a famous specialty of the ancient capital of Ninh Binh, enchanting any tourist who has ever tried it. The special feature of Ninh Binh eel vermicelli is that it is made from green vermicelli and fresh eel. The broth is simmered for many hours with eel bones and pork bones. Therefore, when you eat it, you will clearly feel the sweet, chewy, naturally fragrant, and rich flavor, which is not fishy, and has an attractive thick dark brown color. The eel vermicelli specialty is served with fresh herbs, thinly sliced banana blossoms, and a little lime and chili, which is both delicious and exotic and will surely conquer the taste of even the most demanding diners.
5. Things to Note When Traveling to Ninh Binh Vietnam
To make your self-guided Ninh Binh trip complete, economical, and wonderful, you should note some useful Ninh Binh travel experiences below:
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- Create a specific itinerary 1-2 months before your trip. This helps you manage your budget and prepare for the weather and activities you want to do.
- Bring essential documents like your ID and driver’s license for check-ins and rentals. Pack clothing suitable for your activities—lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes for hiking, and a life jacket for boat trips. Dress modestly and politely for temples and other spiritual sites.
- Check the forecast before you pack. Bring warm clothes if you’re traveling in winter, or sunscreen for spring and summer trips. Avoid the forest on rainy days as the paths get slippery and humid, and mosquitoes are common.
- Carry enough cash for small purchases. Pack a first-aid kit with basic medications for things like colds and headaches. Don’t forget your phone, power bank, and other electronic devices.
- Book your accommodation at least two weeks in advance. This gives you more options and helps you avoid fully booked hotels. Choose a clean and safe place that’s close to the areas you plan to visit.
- Learn about the local customs to avoid cultural conflicts. When you visit sacred sites, follow the rules and stay quiet to show respect.
- Find out local emergency contacts before you go, and let your family know your travel plans. Consider buying travel insurance to protect yourself from unexpected risks.
- Have a map and a smartphone ready. You can also hire a tour guide to learn more about the history and culture of the area.
- Research reputable shops and check prices before you buy souvenirs or use local services.
6. Conclusion
Ninh Binh is a land of spiritual and heroic people that possesses a pristine and majestic natural beauty, many famous landscapes, historical and cultural relics bearing the golden imprints of a heroic national era, and a rich specialty cuisine. We hope that the complete and detailed self-guided Ninh Binh travel experiences that Viet Travel Guide shared in the article above will help you have a complete and memorable journey to explore the ancient capital of Ninh Binh!
