Exploring the Best Tourist Attractions in Ninh Bình, Vietnam
Ninh Bình, a province in the Red River Delta region of Vietnam, is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With diverse terrains ranging from mountains and caves to rivers and valleys, Ninh Bình is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore unspoiled beauty and delve into history. In this article, we will introduce you to the best tourist attractions in Ninh Bình, ensuring you have an unforgettable journey.
The Best Time to Visit Ninh Bình
You can visit Ninh Bình at any time of the year, but the best period is from January to March according to the lunar calendar. During spring, the weather is neither too cold nor too hot, making it perfect for temple visits and early-year prayers. Additionally, the end of May to early June marks the rice harvest season in Tam Cốc, offering visitors a chance to admire the endless golden rice fields and capture stunning photographs.
How to Get to Ninh Bình
Ninh Bình is located 93 km south of Hanoi, accessible via National Highways 1A, 10, 12A, 12B, and the North-South railway. Visitors can reach Ninh Bình by various means such as trains, buses, private cars, or motorcycles.
If traveling by bus from Hanoi to Ninh Bình, there are dozens of daily trips starting from 5 AM to 11 PM. Some reputable bus companies include Sao Việt, Cường Hưng, Gia Minh, and Vũ Thưởng. The journey takes about 2 hours with a cost of approximately 80,000 VND per person. Alternatively, you can drive a private car or ride a motorcycle from Hanoi via the Pháp Vân – Cầu Giẽ Expressway, then follow the direction to Phủ Lý to reach Ninh Bình.
Top Tourist Attractions in Ninh Bình
Tràng An
Tràng An is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Ninh Bình, recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage site. With a river winding through majestic limestone mountains, Tràng An offers visitors a chance to explore mystical natural caves. The serene beauty of the mountains and rivers here is truly awe-inspiring.
Tam Cốc – Bích Động
Tam Cốc, meaning “three caves,” includes Hang Cả, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. These caves are formed by the Ngô Đồng River flowing through the mountains. Tam Cốc – Bích Động is the first boat tour route in this area. Hang Cả, the largest cave, is 127 meters long with a wide entrance through a large mountain. Inside, stalactites of various shapes hang down, creating a fascinating sight.
Bích Động, meaning “green cave,” is located 2 km from Tam Cốc. In front of the cave, the Ngô Đồng River meanders around the mountains, and opposite is a peaceful white silk-like rice field.
Hang Múa
Hang Múa is often compared to a “miniature Great Wall of China.” With over 400 stone steps leading to the peak of Múa Mountain, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Tam Cốc. Hang Múa boasts ancient and majestic beauty, making it a hot spot for photography enthusiasts.
Bái Đính Pagoda
Bái Đính Pagoda is a large complex known for setting several records, such as the largest bronze Buddha statue in Asia, the longest Arhat corridor in Asia, and the largest bronze Maitreya statue in Southeast Asia. When in Ninh Bình, a visit to Bái Đính Pagoda is a must to admire its unique architecture and learn about Buddhist culture.
Am Tiên Cave
Am Tiên Cave, also known as “Tuyệt Tình Cốc,” exudes a wild and romantic charm. You don’t have to travel far to witness the picturesque scenes often seen in ancient Chinese films. The poetic and slightly mysterious beauty of Am Tiên gives Ninh Bình a distinctive allure.
Phát Diệm Stone Cathedral
Phát Diệm Stone Cathedral, also known as Phát Diệm Church, is a 22-hectare Catholic church complex located in Phát Diệm Town, Kim Sơn District, Ninh Bình. Dubbed the “Catholic capital” of Vietnam, Phát Diệm is considered one of the most beautiful churches in the country, combining European and Asian architectural styles.
Hoa Lư Ancient Capital
Hoa Lư Ancient Capital is one of the four core areas of the Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex, with a planned area of 13.87 km². With over 1,000 years of history, Hoa Lư preserves many important historical relics from various dynasties. It is an ideal place to learn about Vietnam’s history and culture.
Vân Long Nature Reserve
Vân Long Nature Reserve is known as the “bay without waves” because when you go boating on the lagoon, the water surface is as smooth as a giant mirror. The picturesque scenery reflects the strong contours of limestone mountains with shapes that match their names, such as Mèo Cào Mountain, Mâm Xôi Mountain, Hòn Sách Mountain, Đá Bàn Mountain, Nghiên Mountain, Mồ Côi Mountain, and Cô Tiên Mountain.
Thung Nham Bird Park
Thung Nham Bird Park, located in Ninh Hải Commune, Hoa Lư District, is one of the tourist destinations that combines cultural, spiritual, scenic, and biodiversity elements. Visitors can explore the wild life of nearly 40 bird species with more than 50,000 individuals. It’s an amazing experience to sit on a boat and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
Cúc Phương National Park
Cúc Phương National Park is famous for its thousands of fluttering butterflies during the breeding season, creating a fairytale-like scene. Besides, visitors can explore the rich flora, admire the stunning natural landscapes, and participate in ecological tours and relaxation programs.
Must-Try Specialties in Ninh Bình
Mountain Goat
Mountain goat is the most famous specialty of Ninh Bình, known for its fragrant, firm meat prepared in various ways. The rare goat dish is the most popular, with a rich and delicious flavor.
Crispy Rice
Crispy rice in Ninh Bình is best enjoyed with mountain goat dipping sauce. Nowadays, crispy rice is produced and packaged under the Ninh Bình brand, making it a perfect gift to bring home.
Kim Sơn Wine
Kim Sơn wine is famous for its unique taste, made from crystal-clear river water and special yeast. This wine is beloved by connoisseurs, and despite its strength, it does not cause headaches or a hangover.
Travel Tips for Ninh Bình
Ninh Bình has numerous beautiful caves and landscapes. To fully explore its beauty, plan a trip lasting 3-4 days. This will give you enough time to discover all the highlights and enjoy a memorable experience.
Ninh Bình, with its magnificent natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, is sure to be a fantastic destination for travelers from around the world. Plan your trip to explore and enjoy the wonderful experiences that Ninh Bình has to offer.