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Ninh Binh, frequently dubbed “Ha Long Bay on land,” is a beautiful province in northern Vietnam, celebrated for its awe-inspiring landscapes, deep-rooted history, and distinctive cultural experiences. Featuring majestic limestone karsts, meandering rivers, and ancient temples, Ninh Binh provides a peaceful retreat from the busy city life. The things to do in Ninh Binh range from cruising along serene waterways to visiting historic pagodas and hiking to picturesque viewpoints, offering an unforgettable exploration of Vietnam’s natural splendour and cultural heritage.
Top 10 Things To Do In Ninh Binh
Here is a carefully selected list of the top things to do in Ninh Binh to make your visit both enriching and memorable.
1. Take A Boat Ride In Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Ninh Binh’s most iconic things to see in Ninh Binh. This stunning area is characterised by its limestone karst peaks, lush greenery, and winding waterways. A boat ride through Trang An takes you through a series of caves and grottoes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, you can explore ancient temples and pagodas, adding a cultural dimension to your experience.
Location: Trang An, Ninh Binh
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: VND 250,000 / Approx. ₹ 800
2. Climb To The Top Of Mua Cave
Photo: Superbass / Wikimedia Commons
Mua Cave, also known as Hang Mua, is famous for its panoramic views of Ninh Binh’s countryside. To reach the top, visitors must climb over 500 stone steps that zigzag up the side of the mountain. The effort is rewarded with stunning vistas of the surrounding rice fields, rivers, and limestone karsts. At the summit, you’ll find a stone dragon sculpture and a small temple, adding to the mystical atmosphere.
Location: Hang Mua, Ninh Binh
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: VND 100,000 / Approx. ₹ 320
3. Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda
Photo: Felix Nagel / Wikimedia Commons
Bai Dinh Pagoda is Vietnam’s largest Buddhist temple complex and a significant spiritual site in Ninh Binh. The complex is spread over a vast area and includes numerous temples, towers, and statues. Highlights include the 10-metre tall Buddha statue, the 13-storey tower, and the temple that houses thousands of Buddha images. The pagoda is a place of worship and a cultural attraction, offering insight into Vietnamese Buddhism.
Location: Gia Vien, Ninh Binh
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: VND 200,000 / Approx. ₹ 640
4. Explore Tam Coc
Photo: travel oriented / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring Tam Coc, often called the “Inland HaLong Bay,” is one of the best things to do in Ninh Binh. Tam Coc means ‘three caves,’ a boat tour here takes you through three stunning limestone caves along the Ngo Dong River. The journey offers breathtaking views of rice paddies, karst mountains, and local villages. The area is lovely during the rice planting and harvesting seasons when the fields are vibrant green or golden.
Location: Tam Coc, Ninh Binh
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: VND 150,000 / Approx. ₹ 480
5. Visit Phat Diem Cathedral
Photo: Kien1980v / Wikimedia Commons
Phat Diem Cathedral, located in a small village in Ninh Binh, uniquely blends Vietnamese and European architectural styles. Built in the late 19th century, the cathedral is made entirely of stone and wood, with intricate carvings and traditional Vietnamese roofing. The complex includes several chapels, a bell tower, and a cave, each showcasing a mix of Gothic and traditional Vietnamese designs.
Location: Phat Diem, Kim Son, Ninh Binh
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: None
6. Discover Cuc Phuong National Park
Photo: pululante / Wikimedia Commons
Discovering Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s oldest national park, is the best thing to do in Ninh Binh. The park has many flora and fauna, including endangered species like the Delacour’s langur. Visitors can explore the park’s dense forests, limestone mountains, and ancient caves. Highlights include the 1,000-year-old “Cho Chi” tree and the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. Cuc Phuong also offers opportunities for birdwatching, trekking, and visiting local villages.
Location: Nho Quan, Ninh Binh
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: VND 60,000 / Approx. ₹ 192
7. Explore Van Long Nature Reserve
Photo: Hòa Nguyễn / Wikimedia Commons
Van Long Nature Reserve is a peaceful wetland in Ninh Binh, known for its serene landscapes and diverse wildlife. The reserve is often called a “natural painting” because of its stunning limestone formations and tranquil water surfaces. A boat ride through Van Long offers a chance to see rare species such as the Delacour’s langur and various water birds. The reserve is also a popular spot for photography and birdwatching.
Location: Gia Vien, Ninh Binh
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: VND 100,000 / Approx. ₹ 320
8. Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Bich Dong Pagoda is a beautiful thing to see in Ninh Binh, nestled on the side of a mountain, it is one of Ninh Binh’s most picturesque spiritual sites. The pagoda complex includes three caves: Lower Pagoda, Middle Pagoda, and Upper Pagoda, each built into the rock face. The peaceful atmosphere and historical significance of Bich Dong Pagoda make it a must-visit for those interested in Vietnamese culture and spirituality.
Location: Ninh Hai, Ninh Binh
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: None
9. Discover Thung Nham Bird Garden
Photo: Kien1980v / Wikimedia Commons
Thung Nham Bird Garden, also known as Bird Valley, is a tranquil ecological area in Ninh Binh, home to various bird species. The garden is situated within a stunning landscape of limestone mountains and lush forests, providing a perfect bird habitat. Visitors can take a boat ride through the garden to observe birds in their natural environment. The area also features caves, orchards, and hiking trails, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Location: Ninh Hai, Ninh Binh
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: VND 100,000 / Approx. ₹320
10. Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons
Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, is a historic site from the 10th and 11th centuries. The capital was the political, economic, and cultural centre of the Dinh and Le dynasties. Visitors can explore the remaining temples, including those dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and Emperor Le Dai Hanh. Limestone mountains surround the site, adding to its majestic setting. Hoa Lu offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s early history and is a must-visit for those interested in the country’s cultural heritage.
Location: Truong Yen, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: VND 20,000 / Approx. ₹64
Various things to do in Ninh Binh offer a diverse array of activities. Whether you’re taking a boat ride through Trang An, climbing the Mua Caves, or exploring ancient temples and pagodas, Ninh Binh promises a journey full of unforgettable experiences. Ready to explore the hidden gems of Ninh Binh? Let TripXL plan your trip so you can fully immerse yourself in the wonders of this enchanting destination.
Cover Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
