Top 10 things to do in Ninh Binh

Boat trip on Tam Coc river

Tam Coc is also called the Halong Bay of the Vietnamese inlands. The mountains here are not surrounded by ocean, but by green rice fields and wild nature. By far the best activity you can undertake in Tam Coc is taking a boat trip. Board a rowboat and let the locals paddle you through the green area. Karst mountains, caves and beautiful views pass you by, and in roughly 2 hours you will close this region to your heart.

See ancient history in Hoa Lu

Your first introduction to Ninh Binh is the historic site of Hoa Lu. These grounds were the seat of Vietnam’s first feudal dynasty and saw an assassination plot, two reigns and a transfer to Hanoi 42 years later. Today Hoa Lu is surrounded by limestone karsts and natural moats.

Take a few minutes to wander around this centuries-old site, and admire its temples, pagodas, and artefacts. Your guides will fill you in on the fascinating details of Hoa Lư’s history and offer tidbits about local life in the area.

Drift with the current in Tràng An

Trang An Ninh Binh

Your next stop is the Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex. Clamber aboard a rowboat and settle in for a stunning ride. With impressive, jungle-covered karsts towering above, listen in as your guide shares stories about the people that lived in these mountains in prehistoric times, as well as those who still farm the area.

You’ll need to duck down in parts as the boat glides beneath cool, dark grottoes. Along the way, you’ll encounter tranquil pagodas on the river banks, and a set from the film ‘Kong: Skull Island’, which you can explore on foot.

Indulge with a local lunch

Local lunch Ninh Binh

Once you emerge from Tràng An, hop into the van for a quick ride to lunch near Tam Cốc. Lunch may be an array of local specialities, including a Ninh Binh favourite: goat meatballs. Enjoy the lovely scenery as you enjoy an authentic Vietnamese meal, complete with fish cakes on lemongrass skewers, stir-fried greens and steamed rice.

Learn about Bích Đong Pagoda

Bich Dong Pagoda Ninh Binh

Newly energized, it’s time to continue your Ninh Binh adventure at the 15th-century Bích Động Pagoda. A small, photogenic path between lotus ponds leads you to the first gate of the pagoda. From here, you’ll need to hike up the stairs along the mountainside to reach the top tier of the pagoda. Your guide will fill you on the history of the pagoda, as you soak up the peaceful atmosphere. You may like to leave a coin from your home country as a token offering before descending.

Soak up panoramic views at Hang Múa

Stairs up from Mua cave

This cave offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape from the top of a limestone mountain. Visitors can climb 500 steps to reach the top and enjoy the breathtaking view.

Bai Dinh Pagoda:

This pagoda is the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam and is home to many beautiful statues and temples. Visitors can explore the complex and admire the intricate architecture.

Thung Nham Bird Garden:

This garden is home to various species of birds, including storks and herons. Visitors can take a boat ride through the garden and spot different types of birds.

Kenh Ga Hot Spring:

This hot spring is located in a small village and is known for its therapeutic properties. Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the area and relax in the hot springs.

Phat Diem Stone Cathedral:

This cathedral is a unique blend of Vietnamese and European architecture and is made entirely of stone. Visitors can explore the cathedral and admire its intricate design.

Phat Diem Cathedral

When visiting these natural attractions in Ninh Binh, it’s important to come prepared. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring plenty of water and sunscreen. It’s also a good idea to hire a local guide or join a tour group to make the most of your visit. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Ninh Binh is a must-visit destination for any nature lover.