Welcome to Ninh Binh, the most captivating hidden charm in North Vietnam just about two hours drive from Hanoi. If you’re wondering why you should pack your bags and head toward this lesser-known paradise, here is what is generally said about this place: “Halong Bay on Land." The city will present a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, deeply rooted history, and cultural importance. If you are planning your next great adventure, look no further! Following are the top 8 things to try on a Ninh Binh tour to have a full flavor of this enchanted destination.
Bai Dinh Pagoda
First on the list of things to try on a Ninh Binh tour is visiting the magnificent Bai Dinh Pagoda. Being the largest temple complex in Vietnam, Bai Dinh is a place that reflects the perfect blend of spiritual tranquility with grandiosity in architecture. This huge 700-hectare complex comprises both a new and an ancient temple area, making it a fascinating mix of past and present.
When walking around the Bai Dinh Pagoda, one feels that he or she is inside a sea of culture and history. The new addition has impressive colossal Buddha statues, a grandiose bell tower, and famous 500 Arhat statues lining the corridors. You will be impressed with the height and detailed features of the sculptures in expressing spiritual symbolism and artistic mastery. Meanwhile, the ancient temple is located upon the peak of a hill, offering a most rustic and sacred experience. Associated with the legendary monk Nguyen Minh Khong, this place adds a deeper and more intimate spiritual atmosphere to your visit.
It is not a place that one should miss if the visitor fathoms the spiritual essence of Vietnam. Pro tip: Go very early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and see the temple in its most serene state. The Giant Buddha statues of the main hall are among the largest in Southeast Asia absolute must-see
Remember to dress modestly-covered shoulders and knees are a must as a sign of respect in this sacred place. You should allow yourself about 3 hours if you want to fully enjoy the serenity of both the new and ancient parts of Bai Dinh. Of course, it’s rather easy to get there as it takes only a 15 km drive from Ninh Binh city and one can easily get by with a taxi or rent a motorbike for a more adventurous ride through the countryside.
Trang An Ninh Binh
A “must-see" on our list of things to try on a Ninh Binh tour, come with us for a visit to this spectacular Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, one of the two UNESCO World Heritage sites in Ninh Binh. As a rule, Trang An is said to be “Halong Bay on land." This “must-see" place comprises a tapestry of rivers, limestone mountains, and emerald-green valleys.
Boating is the best way to tour this natural wonder. Picture this: gently floating down the river in a wooden sampan with an oarsman guiding you skillfully through a maze of limestone cliffs and verdant foliage. You will float through mysterious caves such as Hang Toi or Dark Cave, Hang Sang or Bright Cave, and Hang Nau Ruou or Cooking Wine Cave, which all have a different story behind them and are filled with striking rock formations. Observe the breathtakingly beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formed in millions of years.
But that is not all; Trang An is a haven for wildlife lovers, too. The rich variety of flora and fauna, indeed rare species of birds and beautiful aquatic plants found here, are fully representative of nature and evolutionary history on Earth is indeed a geological museum!
Tips for visitors: For an ideal time that one can spend in Trang An, take Route 1 or 2 for the best mix of caves, temples, and scenic views. It is best done during the morning time when the light is soft and adds mist to the landscape, which makes it magical. One should not forget to wear sunscreen, a hat, and bring a bottle of water-it gets quite sunny outside on the water!
Mountain Goat Meat
No trip to Ninh Binh would be complete without savoring its most famous dish: mountain goat meat! Here are some of the tastiest dishes you should not miss on your things to try on a Ninh Binh tour for the best experience. What makes this particular goat meat so special? The explanation is pretty simple: goats in this province have to struggle on each rugged limestone mountain, and it is this special flavor and texture that make their meat, unlike anything you will taste elsewhere. The wild herbs and leaves they feed upon add an extra layer to the taste that is just unforgettable.
There are endless ways to enjoy this delicacy. Whatever one is in the mood for, from smoky and succulent grilled goat called “thịt dê nướng" to the richly aromatic spices of goat curry, “cà ri dê", one will find it here. Other popular dishes include goat hotpot, and “lẩu dê", great to share with friends on a cool evening.
Now head to one of the best experiences: Duc De Restaurant on Doan Ket Street or the famous Hoang Long Restaurant. These places are favored both by locals and tourists for their real taste and friendly atmosphere. And not only be fed but also feel the local eating traditions: take a piece from the common plate with your chopsticks, dip it into a little bit of fermented soy sauce, and enjoy!
Cuc Phuong National Park
Looking for more daring things to try on a Ninh Binh tour? Pay a visit to Cuc Phuong National Park, considered the oldest and largest park in Vietnam, and a true ecosystem treasure! Only 45 km from the city of Ninh Binh, this tropical rainforest is a hotbed of biodiversity that offers a wide range of activities from wildlife spotting to ancient cave exploration.
From here, enter a rich jungle trek to encounter myriad wildlife: light-hearted Delacour’s langurs, various bird species, and colorful butterflies flying around. Keep your eyes out for the best of them all rare and beautiful Silver Pheasant, or even a King Cobra slithering in your direction! If lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Slow Loris or a black giant squirrel!
If you are into caves, Cuc Phuong has some of the oldest ones around, while the prehistoric Cave of the Early Man and the fascinating Thousand-Year-Old Tree wait for your visit. You are free to pay a visit to the Endangered Primate Rescue Center as it showcases some incredible park conservation with the chance to catch a glimpse of the rare primate.
Tips for visitors: Wear good shoes in which you can hike, take insect repellents with you, and enough water. It is best seen between December and April because of the weather being dry and pleasant. Furthermore, follow the trails and respect all wildlife; carry out your trash to leave this place beautiful.
Phat Diem Stone Cathedral
If you are looking for something truly unique among the things to try on a Ninh Binh tour, make sure not to miss Phat Diem Stone Cathedral. No ordinary cathedral, it is a beautiful marriage of Vietnamese and Gothic architecture, standing tall and proud to attest to the cultural harmony of East and West. The Stone Cathedral of Phat Diem in Vietnam, built in the 19th century, is much more frequently called the “Notre Dame of Vietnam," but let me tell you it’s so far more than that.
Imagine a church almost wholly constructed of stone but with the intricate carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and lotus flowers one would normally see in some ancient temple in Vietnam. Still, this wonder features vaulting pointed arches and a great bell tower housing a huge bronze bell. Begin with the great bell tower: it is the centerpiece of the complex, an imposing structure. From there, go see the detailed carvings on the wall in stone, showing scenes of both Christian and Vietnamese folklore. And finally, step inside to see the beautiful woodwork lining the interior, notably done by local artisans who pay much attention to detail and give homage to tradition.
Visitor Information: Unlike some other major sites in the country, there is no charge for the public to enter the cathedral, and it is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. Located approximately 28 km southeast of the city in Ninh Binh Province, it can easily be a destination site by motorbike, taxi, or even bicycle for the more adventurous person. While you are in the area, you may also want to explore other attractions in the environs!
Kenh Ga Hot Springs
Sick of all the sightseeing so far? One of the most relaxing things to try on a Ninh Binh tour is a visit to Kenh Ga Hot Springs. Being on a small island in isolation from people by the Hoang Long River, this should be very ideally placed for a place to relax and rejuvenate.
The hot springs here are mineral-rich and known to cure many ailments, including joint pain and skin conditions. The water keeps a soothing 53-degree Celsius throughout the year; hence, quite pleasant any time of the year. But it’s not all about the setting is pictorial. Imagine soaking in a hot spring surrounded by misty mountains and the soft murmurs of the river flowing by. Pure bliss!
Activities Available: Other than soaking oneself in this hot spring, one can easily take a boat trip around the village to get a feel of the local way of living. Watch fishermen at work, see buffaloes grazing by the water, or simply enjoy the serene landscape. If you’re a person who enjoys a bit of exploration, then you can walk around the village and search for hidden temples and traditional wooden houses.
Tips for Visitors: A suitable time to visit would be early morning and late afternoon when it is cooler and the mist lends a magical touch to the landscape. Don’t forget a swimsuit, a towel, and comfortable clothes for exploring. If you wish to spend more leisurely moments with the springs, there are numerous cozy guesthouses nearby.
Tam Coc – Bich Dong
We now fly to one of the most iconic things to try on a Ninh Binh tour: Tam Coc – Bich Dong. It is also known as the “Second Most Beautiful Cave in Vietnam"; this place is made up of nature’s beauty combined with cultural heritage.
Tam Coc means “Three Caves," and this tranquil, meandering boat ride takes you through bright green rice paddies, serene rivers, and stark limestone karst formations. Take a three-hour cruise through three mystical caves named Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Each with its different characters. You will be whisked down the Ngo Dong River in a small sampan boat rowed by local women displaying their mastery of the use of their feet. You will feel you are in another world.
Only a short drive away, Bich Dong Pagoda is an outrageously pretty complex built into the side of a mountain. Considered spiritual and historic, Bich Dong is a pilgrimage point for many Vietnamese people. It dates back to the 15th century, from where serenity and absolute panoramic views of the countryside await you.
Practical Advice: This is 7 km south of the city of Ninh Binh, and it only takes a short ride for you to get there. As to the best time to visit, late spring or early summer is regarded as the best time, when the rice fields are at their most verdant, hence forming an extraordinary backdrop for your journey. Tickets normally cost about 120,000 VND per person, and normally, a boat ride can take about 2-3 hours. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and water, because it can get sunny on the river!
Ancient Village of Co Vien Lau
Co Vien Lau can be one of the most rewarding things to try on a Ninh Binh tour for those in love with taking a step back in time. This heritage village is somewhat of a living museum of traditional Vietnamese architecture and lifestyle. Just walk through the history book, with each page opening to different eras gone by of Vietnam’s past.
Co Vien Lau is a village with 20 houses, each built in various architectures from different regions of Vietnam. You will see old furniture, ceramics, and appliances your local citizens used many centuries ago. Because of that, there are also cultural shows within the village where you can enjoy traditional music, dances, and even reenactment of old ceremonies.
Suggested Activities: Spend a night in one of the traditional houses for a complete experience. In the evening, enjoy a folk performance where you will be serenaded by local artists with haunting melodies of cheo and ca tru; daytimes are spent meandering down villages’ streets, learning about the local way of life, and engaging with friendly residents who are more than ready to share their stories.
Cultural Insights: Co Vien Lau offers the unique chance to be exposed to the rural traditions, architecture, and way of life of Vietnam. It can also become a perfect setting for photography, and with a camera, you will be able to catch precious views.
Therefore, in brief, the following are some of our main things to try on a Ninh Binh tour: from the serenity of Bai Dinh and the enchanted waters of Trang An to the historical kookiness of Phat Diem and the warm, therapeutic springs of Kenh Ga, there is an elaborate tapestry of experiences that one will find in Ninh Binh.
Whether you’re going on an adventure, relaxation, culture, or just marveling at the beauty of nature, there is a special thing of interest for any tourist in Ninh Binh. Never miss the chance to spend unforgettable moments in this enchanting place! Are you ready to experience all of it by yourself? Book a tour with IMPRESS TRAVEL now and let us take you on a tour of the best of Ninh Binh. Your adventure awaits! Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ninh Binh and to book Ninh Binh Tour at the best prices.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Ninh Binh Tours – Impress Travel offers travelers the daily excursions – Small group deluxe tours, private Ninh Binh Vietnam package tours for the real experience of Ninh Binh’s discovery about the culture, history, tradition, local lifestyle, religion, and admiring of the breathtaking scenery of limestone island, rivers, water rice fields in Tam Coc and national park of Cuc Phuong with trekking and homestay at Muong Family. Ninh Binh Tours and private package tour’s highlights:
