1. Why is Ninh Binh a 'must-visit' destination?
Located just about 95 km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh has long been a top choice for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city to return to a peaceful space and majestic nature. With its convenient location, it takes tourists less than two hours by car or train to reach the land known as the 'Ha Long Bay on land' of the North. This has made Ninh Binh the perfect destination for weekend trips, picnics, or short getaways.
Not only does Ninh Binh boast poetic scenery, but it is also taking on a new look after merging with Ha Nam and Nam Dinh, forming a special cultural-tourism linkage region of the North. This place converges three irresistible attractions: ancient cultural heritage, majestic nature, and cuisine imbued with the soul of Vietnamese countryside. Visitors can fully feel the breath of history in the ancient capital Hoa Lu, immerse themselves in the picturesque landscapes of Trang An, or simply enjoy mountain goat dishes, crispy rice crust,... It is the exquisite blend of culture, nature, and people that makes this land a 'must-visit destination', where every step is a journey of discovery and every scene leaves an unforgettable impression.
Ninh Binh is a favorite destination for many tourists. (Source: Collected)
2. What to play in Ninh Binh? Top experiences you must try
The beauty of Ninh Binh is not only in its majestic mountains or ancient heritage, but also in the experiences that make anyone who visits want to return. So, what is there to do in Ninh Binh that is so captivating? Let's explore the most interesting activities and outstanding destinations you must try when setting foot in this land.
2.1. Boat tour through world heritage caves at Trang An
If there is one experience that captivates tourists from the first moment they set foot in Ninh Binh, it is the boat trip through the Trang An scenic complex – a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site. The journey begins at Trang An boat station, where small sampan boats gently glide on the calm water, taking visitors through a system of magnificent caves, towering limestone cliffs, and lush green vegetation reflected in the river.
Boat trip, admire the majestic mountains and rivers in Trang An. (Source: Collected)
Amidst that peaceful space, the gentle sound of oars paddling through the water blends with the chirping of forest birds, creating a symphony of nature, making people forget the daily hustle and bustle. Each boat route will take visitors to notable spots such as Toi Cave, Sang Cave, Trinh Temple, Tran Temple,... each place bears its own unique mark, both majestic and serene. This is not just a journey to admire beautiful scenery, but also a return to cultural roots, where humans and nature blend together in a magnificent picture.
2.2. Visiting Tam Coc Bich Dong - “Ha Long Bay on land”
Dubbed "Ha Long Bay on land", Tam Coc Bich Dong is a destination that amazes everyone with its rare picturesque landscape of mountains and water. The exploration journey begins with a boat trip along the Ngo Dong River, flanked by continuous limestone mountains reflecting in the calm, mirror-like turquoise water. During the ripe rice season, the scenery becomes even more poetic as vast golden rice fields stretch out, standing out against the blue sky and rolling mountains.
Not only beautiful scenery, Tam Coc Bich Dong also holds ancient cultural and historical imprints. Visitors can visit Bich Dong Pagoda, an ancient pagoda nestled against the mountain, appearing and disappearing amidst the ethereal morning mist. From above, the entire Tam Coc landscape appears like a vibrant ink painting, making anyone who visits want to linger to admire and feel it. This is an ideal place for visitors to immerse themselves in nature, find peace, and truly rest their souls.
2.3. Check-in at Mua Cave and admire the panoramic view of Ninh Binh
If you want to fully admire the beauty of Ninh Binh from above, Mua Cave is definitely a destination not to be missed. From the foot of the mountain, visitors will begin the journey to conquer nearly 500 winding stone steps leading to the summit, flanked by moss-covered stone walls and stretching green natural scenery. And when you reach the summit of Mua Cave, the reward for you is a scene that leaves everyone breathless. From above, the entire Tam Coc Bich Dong appears stunningly beautiful, with the Ngo Dong River gently winding through golden rice fields, surrounded by majestic limestone mountains stretching to the horizon. A scene that is both grand and poetic, making all the fatigue of the climb disappear in an instant.
Mua Cave is not only a place for "virtual living" photos but also an ideal stop for those who want to experience Ninh Binh in the most complete way. Sunrise and sunset are the two most beautiful times to visit this place, when golden light covers the mountains, creating a natural picture that is both magical and romantic, making it unforgettable for anyone who has stood on the summit of Mua Cave.
2.4. Discover Hung Nghia Church
Located in Hai Hung commune, Ninh Binh province, Hung Nghia Church was built in 1927 and is considered one of the most architecturally impressive religious structures in the North. Strongly bearing the Gothic style combined with exquisite Spanish and ancient French architecture, the church stands out with its mysterious dark gray color and intricate carved details, creating the feeling of standing before an ancient European castle.
Seen from afar, Hung Nghia Church appears enchanting amidst the peaceful countryside, both solemn and subtly romantic. Stepping inside, light filters through the colorful stained-glass windows, reflecting on the stone walls, creating a sacred and artistic space. With its unique and distinct beauty, this place is not only a religious destination but also a popular check-in spot for young people visiting the former Nam Dinh tourist area. If visitors are passionate about photography or simply want to capture memorable moments, Hung Nghia Church will surely be the perfect backdrop for photos with a European flair in the heart of Vietnam.
2.5. Pilgrimage to Tam Chuc Pagoda
If you are wondering what to do in Ninh Binh , one of the unmissable experiences is the pilgrimage to Tam Chuc Pagoda. Nestled amidst majestic limestone mountains and a vast, tranquil lake, Tam Chuc Pagoda possesses a beauty that is both sacred and serene, making anyone who arrives feel the peace spreading in every moment.
Visit and explore at Tam Chuc Pagoda. (Source: Collected)
From the majestic Tam Quan gate, visitors can choose to take a boat on the lake or travel by electric car to admire the panoramic view of the magnificent architectural complex. Each structure in the pagoda, from Quan Am Palace, Phap Chu Palace to Tam The Palace, are meticulously carved, bearing the strong imprint of Buddhist culture. When the bells ring, that sound seems to resonate within one's soul, dispelling worries and bringing a rare sense of tranquility. Tam Chuc Pagoda is not only a spiritual destination but also a place connecting people with nature, where every step evokes a new emotion. Amidst the majestic mountain scenery and serene lake, visitors will feel their hearts soften, and then realize that the journey to explore Ninh Binh is not just about traveling, but also about finding oneself.
2.6. Play at Sun World Ha Nam
Sun World Ha Nam is the first water park in Vietnam with a water puppetry theme, where traditional folk art is creatively recreated in a modern entertainment space. The park is designed to international standards, in collaboration with the world's leading water technology brand Proslide, with 14 water play complexes and over 40 diverse slides, suitable for all ages. The special highlight of this place lies in its architecture inspired by ancient water puppetry stages, both familiar and modern, creating a space that is both rich in Vietnamese culture and novel and attractive.
Coming to Sun World Ha Nam, visitors will immerse themselves in a vibrant water world with many exciting activities: from gentle games for children, cool wave pools to challenging high-speed slides. The nearly 550m long lazy river winding around the children's play area brings a sense of relaxation, helping everyone fully enjoy their vacation. As night falls, the park dons the splendor of a "light park", where brilliant lighting effects reflect on the water's surface, creating a dazzling and emotional visual feast for visitors.
3. Experience and notes for the Ninh Binh trip
To make the Ninh Binh exploration trip most complete and comfortable, visitors should prepare thoroughly from transportation, attire to small notes during the visit. Here are some useful experiences to help your journey be smoother and more memorable:
Book tickets in advance: If traveling during peak season or festivals, visitors should book transportation tickets, accommodation, and attraction tickets at least 1-2 weeks in advance to avoid "sold out" situations.
Prepare suitable attire and check-in accessories: Ninh Binh is famous for its majestic river and mountain scenery, rice fields, and ancient heritage, so visitors should choose light outfits, bright or pastel colors to stand out in photos. Don't forget to bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, a scarf, or a light jacket, which will help protect your skin and serve as posing accessories.
Note customs, culture, and ecological protection when visiting : When visiting spiritual sites, visitors should dress politely, maintain order, and not litter. Avoid carving names or graffiti on relics and follow the instructions of the tourist area staff to contribute to landscape protection.
Choose suitable outfits for beautiful check-in photos in Ninh Binh. (Source: Collected)
Ninh Binh is not only a land of heritage and poetic scenery, but also a place offering countless experiences for all visitors, from exploring Trang An, Hang Mua, Tam Coc Bich Dong to moments of relaxation at Tam Chuc Pagoda or the vibrant Sun World Ha Nam. Each destination has its own unique beauty, making visitors want to return to experience it more fully. If you are still wondering what to do in Ninh Binh, pack your bags and explore this place yourself, because only when you set foot here will you see how memorable and lovely this land is.
