If you’re planning a trip to Ninh Binh, a hidden gem in northern Vietnam often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land,“ you won’t want to miss these five must-visit destinations. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and serene atmosphere, Ninh Binh offers an unforgettable experience. According to Ninh Binh Travel, these are the top five places that should be on your itinerary.
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ninh Binh, is famed for its stunning karst landscapes, intricate cave systems, and deep historical significance. Often compared to Halong Bay for its similar topography, Trang An offers a more tranquil and less crowded experience, making it a must-visit destination in Vietnam.
Visiting Trang An feels like stepping into a world where nature and history blend seamlessly. The main attraction is the serene Trang An boat tour, which takes you through a captivating network of rivers, ancient caves like Dia Linh, Sinh Duoc, and May, and lush green valleys. As you glide through the calm, emerald waters, you’re surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and dense forests that showcase the breathtaking beauty of Ninh Binh’s UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
The journey is visually stunning and deeply peaceful, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Along the way, you can stop at historic temples like Den Trinh and Den Tran, offering a fascinating insight into Vietnam’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. With its awe-inspiring scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and rich history, Trang An promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Tam Coc-Bich Dong is a must-visit destination in Ninh Binh, where nature and culture beautifully converge. Known for its striking limestone karsts that rise dramatically from lush rice paddies, Tam Coc offers a serene river journey highlighting the area’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Tam Coc, meaning “”Three Caves,”” is best explored by boat. The boat ride takes you through three spectacular natural caves—Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba—carved by the Ngo Dong River. This journey provides an up-close view of the stunning karst formations that make Tam Coc iconic. As you drift along the calm river, be surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and picturesque rice paddies that change colors with the seasons, from vibrant green to golden yellow.
In addition to its natural allure, Tam Coc is culturally significant. The landscape is dotted with historical temples and pagodas, including the nearby Bich Dong Pagoda, often called the “”second most beautiful grotto in Vietnam.”” Built into the mountainside, Bich Dong Pagoda offers a peaceful spiritual retreat with ancient temples and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a must-visit for travelers exploring Ninh Binh’s unique blend of natural and cultural landmarks.
Mua Cave
Hang Mua, also known as Mua Cave, is one of Ninh Binh’s most popular destinations, particularly for adventure seekers and those looking for breathtaking views. Renowned for its stone steps leading to the mountain peak, Hang Mua offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
To reach the summit, visitors must climb over 500 stone steps that wind up the mountain, with the views becoming more stunning at each level. At the top, you’re rewarded with one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the region, offering a 360-degree panorama of the Tam Coc area. The view encompasses the winding Ngo Dong River, expansive rice fields, and the dramatic limestone peaks that define Ninh Binh’s landscape.
Adding to the allure is the iconic Hang Mua dragon statue, a favorite photography spot, especially during sunrise and sunset when the landscape is bathed in soft, golden light. This combination of adventure and visual splendor makes Mua Cave a must-visit for travelers seeking the best views in Ninh Binh.
Bai Dinh Pagoda
Chua Bai Dinh, or Bai Dinh Pagoda, is the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam and one of the country’s most significant spiritual sites. Nestled in a scenic area surrounded by mountains, Bai Dinh Pagoda is a must-visit destination for those interested in Vietnamese culture and religion.
More than just a place of worship, Bai Dinh Pagoda is a cultural landmark that showcases Vietnam’s rich spiritual heritage. The sprawling complex features numerous temples, shrines, and statues spread across a vast area, offering a deep insight into the country’s religious traditions.
Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex of history and tradition
Among the cultural and religious treasures within the complex, the giant bronze Buddha statue stands out as the most impressive. At 10 meters tall and weighing 100 tons, it is the largest Buddha statue in Southeast Asia, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. The Bai Dinh bell tower houses a massive 36-ton bell, the sound of which reverberates throughout the complex, creating a profoundly spiritual atmosphere. Another highlight is the pilgrimage route lined with 500 Arhat statues, each uniquely crafted, representing a meditative journey through Buddhist principles.
The pagoda’s tranquil location, surrounded by mountains and valleys, enhances its serene and contemplative ambiance, making Bai Dinh Pagoda an essential stop on any Ninh Binh spiritual tourism itinerary.
Cuc Phuong National Park
Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s oldest national park and a renowned biodiversity hotspot, is located about 45 kilometers from Ninh Binh City. A paradise for nature lovers, the park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including trekking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting, making it a must-visit destination in Ninh Binh.
Unlock the wildlife animals in Cuc Phuong National Park
Unlike other regional destinations, Cuc Phuong National Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, explore dense forests, and encounter rare wildlife. The park has various flora and fauna, including several endangered species. Whether you’re trekking through the ancient forest, visiting the primate rescue center, or exploring the park’s numerous caves, Cúc Phương promises an adventure for every type of traveler.\
Have a closer look at the most reclusive species in Vietnam (Source: Collected)
One of the park’s top highlights is the trekking routes that lead deep into the ancient forest, where you can discover the Thousand-Year-Old Tree, a symbol of the park’s rich natural heritage. Wildlife enthusiasts will also be thrilled to spot rare animals like the Delacour’s langur, an endemic primate species that is one of the park’s most treasured inhabitants. The Cúc Phương Primate Rescue Center allows visitors to learn about the park’s conservation efforts and see these rare creatures up close. Additionally, the park boasts several significant archaeological sites, including the prehistoric Man Cave and Con Moong Cave, offering fascinating insights into early human history in the region.
Ninh Binh is a destination that perfectly blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. From the awe-inspiring landscapes of Tràng An and Tam Coc to the serene spirituality of Bai Dinh Pagoda, each must-visit location promises a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an adventurer, a culture enthusiast, or seeking peace and tranquility, contact Ninh Binh Travel to fully explore this culturally rich land.
