Understanding Ninh Binh’s Climate
To organize your visit wisely, you need to understand the Temperature of Ninh Binh and how it changes through the various times of the year. Ninh Binh is a region in Northern Vietnam, near the Gulf of Tonkin. It experiences a humid subtropical climate with four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
The Temperature of Ninh Binh ranges from 13°C in winter to 40°C in summer.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Cool, foggy, and dry – perfect for temple hopping and scenic bicycle rides.
- Summer (May–Aug): Warm, humid, and rainy – perfect for boat trips along green rice paddy scenery.
- Boat season is from May to October, with the peak month being August, and tropical rains.
- Sun and blue skies from November to April.
Temperature in Ninh Binh by Month
January – Cold & Cultural
The temperature in Ninh Binh in January offers a cool and peaceful start to the year:
- Average Temperature: 13°C (low) – 21°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~25mm, on 9 rainy days
- Humidity: Approximately 85%
- Sunshine: Barely 2.5 hours/day average
Air is fresh, and morning is foggy and quiet, infusing a sacred, almost-poetic atmosphere into the ancient pagodas and karst hills. Winter is perfect for cultural tours, as Bai Dinh Pagoda begins to welcome worshippers for the next festive season.
Sunlight is limited, but the serenity of the countryside makes January one of the richest, spiritually rewarding times to travel to Ninh Binh.
Best Activities:
- Walk with fewer tourists around the Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex
- Join early ceremonies before Lunar New Year crowds
- Take misty morning photographs at Tam Coc or Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
- Visit handicraft villages and warm up with hot local food
Clothing Tip:
Put on warm layers: long-sleeve shirt, thermal shirt, lightweight windbreaker, and walking shoes. Bring a rain poncho or umbrella just in case.
Walking Around Bai Dinh Pagoda in January (Source: tienphong)
February – Chilly with Festivals
February Temperature in Ninh Binh remains cold but with a minor boost of energy and sunshine.
- Average Temperature: 15°C (low) – 23°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~30mm, over 13 days
- Humidity: 88%
- Sunshine: ~1.5 hours/day
February is the Tet Lunar New Year month – Vietnam’s biggest national festival. Everywhere in Ninh Binh, lanterns, flowers, ceremonies, traditional music, and crowds of locals paying homage to spiritual sites.
One of the best, most vibrant, and culturally-celebratory periods of the year to be in Ninh Binh, with cool temperatures and occasional light sprinkles.
Best Activities:
- Join Tet festivities at Bai Dinh and the surrounding villages
- Explore Hoa Lu ancient capital in early spring rituals
- Gobble “banh chung" and “mut Tet," local Tet staples
- Join in spring prayers and donation ceremonies
Clothing Tip:
Layered clothing is still needed: jeans, long sleeves, scarves. Take something waterproof in case of light rain showers.
Travel Tip: More people to contend with book accommodations and tours ahead of time.
Tet Festivities at Bai Dinh in February (Source: laodong)
March – Mild & Blooming
The Weather in Ninh Binh is more enticing for outdoor activities by March.
- Average Temperature: 18°C (low) – 26°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~50mm, on 16 days
- Humidity: 90%
- Sunshine: ~1.5 hours/day
March is also known for soft heat, over-humidness, and the initial flush of true spring green in Ninh Binh’s valleys. Whilst there are common light rainfalls, it displays a new and energetic beauty of nature.
This month, the Hoa Lu Festival is renowned, held in Vietnam’s ancient capital city, and it is the best blend of history, community, and culture.
Best Activities:
- Mark history at the Hoa Lu Festival in historic parades and games
- Drift along Trang An on a boat trip in an otherworldly landscape of mist and new greenery
- Mountain trek to Mua Cave Viewpoint early in the morning to take in stunning views without summer heat
- Relax with herbal foot baths or local cuisine after walking tours
Clothing Tip:
Light sweaters or jackets in the mornings, light tops in the daytime, and waterproof shoes on board for boat trips.
Hoa Lu Festival in March (Source: mia)
April – Pleasant & Perfect for Exploration
The temperature in Ninh Binh becomes warmer during April, but it is still very nice for travel.
- Average Temperature: low 22°C – high 29°C
- Rainfall: ~80mm over 13 days
- Humidity: ~90%
- Sunshine: ~3 hours/day
April is when true spring comes in full bloom. The landscape is lush, the air is fresh, and it’s among the best times to be outside exploring. The Ninh Binh Temperature is comfortable in the mornings and nicely warm during the day, ideal for a full day of exploration.
Best Activities:
- Explore caves like Galaxy and Thien Ha in ideal temperatures
- Take it easy on a tranquil boat tour in Trang An or Tam Coc, with fewer tourists
- Visit Bich Dong Pagoda in the dry season, and the colours are so vivid
- Biking on countryside roads lined with blooming trees and rice sprouts
Clothing Tip:
Pack light, light clothing. One long-sleeved or light t-shirt is enough for the day, but a light jacket is still necessary for the evenings. Waterproof boots come in handy in the event of the occasional spring shower.
Galaxy Cave in April (Source: dulich24)
May – Green Fields & Rising Heat
The temperature in Ninh Binh continues to rise in May, bringing early summer.
- Average Temperature: 25°C (low) – 31°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~165mm on 13 rainy days
- Humidity: 85%
- Sunshine: ~6 hours/day
May signals the start of rice harvest season, the golden time when vast fields in Tam Coc and Trang An change from radiant green to gold. As the Temperature in Ninh Binh is warming up, early mornings and late afternoons remain beautiful to experience during your trip. Get ready for some tropical rain showers, but primarily brief
Best Activities:
- Go on a sunrise boat tour along the golden rice fields in Tam Coc
- Hike to Mua Cave Viewpoint for panoramic vistas of fields
- Visit Van Long Wetland when the landscape is at its most colorful and vibrant
- Engage in rural village walking tours and photography excursions
Clothing Tip:
Wear light, loose clothing. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are essential. Take water and wear running shoes or sandals with a grip for wet floors.
Sunrise Cruise Over Tam Coc in May (Source: thesaigontimes)
June – Hot, Humid & Vibrant Nature
June is the official heat. The Temperature in Ninh Binh is at peak summer levels.
- Average Temperature: 27°C (low) – 32°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~230mm over 14 days
- Humidity: 83%
- Sunshine: ~6 hours/day
Despite the heat and humidity, June is a lush and scenic month. Rainy showers clear river waters, greenery develops rapidly, and the mountains take on an intense green hue. It’s a perfect time for boat and eco-tours, especially in shaded areas like waterways and caves.
Best Activities:
- Paddle through the Trang An grottoes, where cave ceilings drip cool air
- Discover Cuc Phuong National Park, trek early in the morning, primate rescue centers
- Walk along riverside homestays with fans and garden meals
- Experience true rural life with farmers in the wetlands
Clothing Tip:
Shorts, dry-fit tees, a wide-brim hat, and plenty of water. Remember to pack insect repellent and a poncho or umbrella for those afternoon rain showers.
June Morning Trek in Cuc Phuong Park (Source: falcontravel)
July – Hot, Humid & Perfect for Nature Lovers
Ninh Binh’s Temperature is highest in the month of July, one of the hottest months of the year.
- Average Temperature: 27°C (low) – 33°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~225mm over 13 days
- Humidity: ~82%
- Sunshine: ~6.5 hours/day
Although heat and humidity are in abundance, do not be put off! July is a great month for ecotourism, especially in Ninh Binh’s shaded waterways and misty valleys. Boat tours, hikes, and experiential local life are ideal when well-timed, early morning and late afternoon are your friends.
Best Activities:
- Take a traditional sampan paddle at Trang An or Van Long Nature Reserve, where cave tunnels offer cooling relief
- Go bird-watching in the evening at Thung Nham Bird Park
- Countryside cycle tour along quiet village roads
- Visit Phat Diem Cathedral early in the morning to avoid the heat
Clothing Tip:
Lightweight and breathable attire is essential, ideally moisture-wicking. Bring a hat, reusable water bottle, and raincoat for any brief showers.
July Sampan Paddle at Trang An (Source: tienphong)
August – Tropical Rains & Deep Green Landscapes
Ninh Binh Temperature remains high in August, but it’s the wettest month of the year.
- Average Temperature: 26°C (low) – 32°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~315mm over 16 days
- Humidity: 85%
- Sunshine: ~5.5 hours/day
August brings in green scenery and heavy afternoon rain showers, making the entire region gleam in rich green. A good time to explore Ninh Binh’s national parks, caves, and wetlands, as the rain injects life into every corner.
Best Activities:
- Hike Cuc Phuong National Park in the early morning to avoid the showers
- Boat tour to explore Tam Coc or Thien Ha Cave with water mist
- Enjoy a home-cooked lunch at a local stilt house with a view of the rice paddies
- Explore Am Tien Cave (Tuyet Tinh Coc) with the deepest blue water color after the rain
Clothing Tip:
Quick-dry clothing, water shoes, a poncho or portable umbrella, and insect repellent are essentials.
Am Tien Cave Turns Deep Green After Rain (Source: wowweekend)
September – Cooler Days & Golden Harvest
The Ninh Binh Temperature begins to drop in September, ushering in a transition to autumn.
- Average Temperature: 25°C (low) – 31°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~270mm over 15 days
- Humidity: ~85%
- Sunshine: ~5.5 hours/day
This is another excellent month to visit Ninh Binh. The rice fields of Tam Coc and Trang An ripen once more, and the rain begins to let up. Ninh Binh’s Temperature becomes more comfortable for extended outdoor excursions like biking, hiking, and photography.
Best Activities:
- Take a golden hour boat tour of the Tam Coc rice fields
- Hike to the Hang Mua Viewpoint for panoramic views of the harvest
- Take a cycling tour of Gia Vien or Hoa Lu villages on dry, cool mornings
- Go to local markets to witness the rhythms of rural life during harvest season
Clothing Tip:
T-shirts, light trousers, and breathable shoes. Bring a light raincoat always, although the frequency of rain decreases later in the month.
Hike Hang Mua for Harvest Views in September (Source: cungphuot)
October – Breezy Autumn & Peaceful Views
In October, Ninh Binh starts to cool down noticeably, bringing about tranquil weather and stunning countryside landscapes.
- Average Temperature: 22°C (low) – 28°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~245mm over 12 days
- Humidity: ~83%
- Sunshine: ~5.5 hours/day
One of the nicest months to travel to Ninh Binh. The intense summer rains subside, the skies begin to clear, and the air becomes pleasantly cool. Nature is still lush, the rivers peaceful, it’s ideal for relaxed traveling, photography, and slow wandering.
Best Activities:
- Take the sunset boat trip in Trang An or Van Long, where the light is brightest
- Amble about Bich Dong Pagoda or Thai Vi Temple in the refreshing afternoons
- Visit the birding season at Thung Nham Bird Park
- Take a guided countryside photo walkabout through paddy fields and lotus ponds
Clothing Tip:
Pack a light sweater for chilly evenings, light layers for hot afternoons, and rain shoes for occasional showers.
Strolling around Bich Dong Pagoda in October (Source: danviet)
November – Cool, Dry & Ideal for Outdoor Activities
Dry season arrives, and the Temperature in Ninh Binh becomes pleasantly cool with minimal rain.
- Average Temperature: 19°C (low) – 25°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~70mm over 8 days
- Humidity: ~81%
- Sunshine: ~4.5 hours/day
November is perfect for outdoor lovers who enjoy cooler weather. Cycling through villages, hiking to limestone peaks, or simply going on easy country walks is always ideally suited to a full-day activity.
Best Activities:
- Hike to Mua Caves Viewpoint with unspoiled views over rice valleys
- Cycle between Hoa Lu and Tam Coc, looking at temples, rice paddies, and smiling locals
- Explore nearby markets and rural craft villages beneath clear blue skies
- Participate in an Impress Travel photo retreat or slow travel workshop
Clothing Tip:
Longs and lightweight jackets work well. Hiking boots and a backpack will keep you comfortable.
Cycle Tam Coc to see November Rice Fields (Source: kemholiday)
December – Tranquil Winter & Local Charm
The Temperature in Ninh Binh is at its lowest in December, but it lends a tranquil, reflective beauty to the region.
- Average Temperature: 14°C (low) – 21°C (high)
- Rainfall: ~30mm over 6 days
- Humidity: ~81%
- Sunshine: ~4 hours/day
Even for those who are used to colder climates, some may even consider this to be a “cold" month by Vietnamese terms, December in itself in Ninh Binh is well more than satisfactory. The weather is tranquil, fewer tourists, and the ideal time to get to learn about local customs, history, and more relaxed tempos of life.
Best Activities:
- Visit nearby craft villages like Kim Son and Gia Vien
- Take in the peaceful mornings of pagodas and ancient temples untouched by tourists
- Taste hot local dishes like goat meat with lemongrass or elderberry rice wine
- Sleep at a family homestay and experience rural winter life
Clothing Tip:
Dress in warm attire in the morning and evening, thermal layers, light fleece, and comfortable sneakers. Daytime still allows for less warm clothing.
Kim Son Sedge Village in December (Source: bazantravel)
Best Seasons to Visit Ninh Binh
Spring (February–April)
In mild spring temperatures of 15°C to 26°C, Ninh Binh in spring teems with life and vitality. Pagodas are crowded by locals during Tet and Bai Dinh festivals, while the countryside scenery is filled with flowers. It is a pleasant time for cultural absorption and tranquil boat rides.
Summer (May–July)
This is when the Ninh Binh Temperature is 30°C–40°C. Hot, yes, but the countryside is coming to life with jade rice paddies, rivers of crystal clarity, and mystical morning fog. It’s a boat trip, photography, and sunrise trekking time.
Autumn (August–October)
Ninh Binh in autumn is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful transitions. Temperatures cool down (about 24°C–31°C), and rice paddies become golden. It’s ideal for hiking, biking, and taking in panoramic scenery from Mua Cave or Trang An’s limestone valleys.
Winter (November–January)
This is off-season travel in Ninh Binh at its finest. With dry, cool air (13°C–21°C), winter invites leisurely adventures. Imagine temple tours on quiet mornings, a homestay experience, or simply soaking in the misty majesty of the limestone peaks.
Conclusion
Knowing the Temperature in Ninh Binh keeps you traveling smarter, packing smarter, and experiencing the proper activities at the proper time. If you’re looking for golden paddies or peaceful temple dawns, the proper time is everything. Find the tours by season on our website, Impress Travel, and view the full guide to the best time to visit Ninh Binh Vietnam.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Ninh Binh?
The best time to visit Ninh Binh is April or October, when the Temperature in Ninh Binh is nice, the scenery is stunning, and the weather is ideal for boat cruises, rice field photo shoots, and cultural sightseeing. For a comprehensive breakdown, read our guide to Ninh Binh, Vietnam’s best time to visit.
What do you wear in Ninh Binh, Vietnam?
Pack according to the Temperature in Ninh Binh during your visit. Summer (May–August) is light, air-circulating clothes, a sun hat, and protection. Winter (December–February) requires layers: sweaters, a light jacket, and nice footwear, particularly for temples or early morning visits.
How long should we stay in Ninh Binh?
We recommend spending 2 to 3 days experiencing the best: Trang An, Tam Coc, Mua Cave, Hoa Lu, and Cuc Phuong National Park. This leaves enough time to view everything without being in a hurry, and also accommodates flexibility if weather conditions change because of the Temperature in Ninh Binh.
How cold does it get in Ninh Binh?
During winter, the Ninh Binh Temperature drops as low as 8–10°C (46–50°F), particularly between the months of December and February. Although it’s not cold, it might be a bit cool because of high humidity and overcast weather, so it is recommended to wear warm attire.