Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural heritage in northern Vietnam. This article will share the best things to see in Ninh Binh for the best experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or cultural explorer, this guide highlights the top 15 attractions that make Ninh Binh a must-visit destination.
1. Cruise through the caves of Trang An
Often described as a natural masterpiece, Trang An Landscape Complex is one of the most iconic places to see in Ninh Binh. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An captivates visitors with its labyrinth of limestone karsts, emerald waterways, and sacred temples hidden within caves.
The best way to experience Trang An is via a traditional sampan boat ride, steered by local rowers. The route takes you through a series of grottoes, such as Sang Cave, Toi Cave, and Nau Ruou Cave, each revealing intricate rock formations and tranquil chambers. Along the way, you’ll also pass by ancient pagodas like Trinh Temple and Phu Khong Temple nestled into the cliffs.
What sets Trang An apart from similar sites like Tam Coc is its more extensive cave network and slightly less touristy atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking peace and immersion in nature.
2. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu
A visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s rich dynastic history. As the political and economic center of Dai Co Viet (the precursor to modern Vietnam) during the 10th and 11th centuries, Hoa Lu is a significant cultural and archaeological site.
This historic area is home to well-preserved temples, including Đinh Tiên Hoàng Temple and Lê Đại Hành Temple, both built to honor the emperors who once ruled here. These temples are surrounded by lush landscapes and dramatic limestone peaks, making the site not only historically valuable but also visually impressive.
You can walk along stone pathways, learn about the short-lived but impactful Đinh and Early Lê dynasties, and admire the ancient Vietnamese architecture, including intricately carved wooden altars and stone dragons.
Hoa Lu is often combined with trips to nearby attractions like Tam Coc and Trang An, making it an essential stop for those interested in Vietnamese heritage.
3. Climb to the summit of Hang Mua
If you’re looking for the most breathtaking view in Ninh Binh, look no further than Hang Mua (Mua Cave). Though the cave itself is small, it’s the steep hike to the top that attracts visitors.
The journey consists of roughly 500 stone steps, flanked by dragon sculptures and limestone ridges, leading to a panoramic viewpoint that offers an awe-inspiring perspective over Tam Coc’s rice fields, rivers, and mountains. The view is especially captivating during the rice harvest season (May–June), when the fields below glow in golden hues.
Hang Mua is not just about the view — it’s a rewarding challenge that brings a sense of accomplishment and serenity. At the summit, a large stone dragon statue (symbolizing protection and prosperity) makes for a memorable photo opportunity.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, and wear sturdy shoes for the climb.
4. Drift along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc
Known as the “Halong Bay on land,” Tam Coc is one of the most scenic areas in Ninh Binh, famous for its tranquil boat rides along the Ngo Dong River. As you gently glide on a traditional sampan, you’ll pass through three natural caves—Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba—each with impressive stalactites and cool, echoing chambers.
The journey is flanked by lush rice paddies, karst cliffs, and local farmers tending their crops, creating a peaceful rural charm. One of the most fascinating aspects of the experience is watching the boat rowers use their feet to paddle, a unique and skillful technique practiced in the region.
Tam Coc is best visited in late spring or early summer, when the rice fields are in full bloom, offering a stunning contrast of greens and golds against the limestone mountains.
5. Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
Tucked into the mountainside just a few kilometers from Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda is a spiritual and scenic highlight of Ninh Binh. The complex consists of three tiered pagodas—Ha (Lower), Trung (Middle), and Thuong (Upper)—each built at different elevations along a steep limestone cliff.
Visitors begin by crossing a charming stone bridge over a lotus pond, a perfect photo spot especially when the lotus flowers are in bloom. From there, stone steps lead to Trung Pagoda, nestled inside a cave, and finally to Thuong Pagoda, which opens up to a vantage point with sweeping views over the surrounding countryside.
The quiet ambiance, combined with the fusion of natural rock and sacred architecture, makes Bich Dong not only a place of worship but also one of the most atmospheric sights in Ninh Binh.
6. Cycle through the countryside
One of the most immersive ways to experience the beauty of Ninh Binh is by renting a bicycle and exploring the countryside at your own pace. The region is crisscrossed with flat, scenic roads that wind past rice fields, limestone karsts, grazing water buffalo, and charming villages.
Cycling allows travelers to discover hidden paths and stop to interact with locals, snap photos, or simply enjoy the serenity that defines this area. Many accommodations in Tam Coc and Trang An offer free or low-cost bike rentals, and you can easily cover several major attractions in a day.
Popular routes include rides from Tam Coc to Bich Dong Pagoda, or from Trang An to Hoa Lu. Along the way, you might also encounter quiet temples, small family farms, and local markets that aren’t listed in guidebooks.
7. Discover Xuyen Thuy Cave
Hidden beneath the majestic Mua Cave mountain lies one of Ninh Binh’s lesser-known gems—Xuyen Thuy Cave, a tranquil underground river cave that promises a peaceful and almost mystical experience. Often overshadowed by more popular attractions like Trang An or Tam Coc, this hidden cave offers a more secluded, serene journey ideal for travelers seeking quiet exploration.
The cave stretches over 350 meters, offering a calming ride through nature’s hidden corridor. It’s not as wide or dramatic as some of Ninh Binh’s other water caves, but that’s part of its charm. The low ceiling and close proximity to stalactites make the passage feel more intimate and immersive.
One of the advantages of visiting Xuyen Thuy Cave is its proximity to other key sites. After your boat journey, you can hike up Hang Mua for a panoramic view of Tam Coc, or take a short bike ride to local villages and rice fields. This makes it an easy stop on a day itinerary without adding travel time.
8. Admire the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda
As Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda is a monumental spiritual site that showcases Vietnam’s religious devotion and architectural grandeur. Located near the Trang An complex, Bai Dinh spreads over 700 hectares and combines ancient pagodas, massive new temple buildings, a 13-story stupa, and hundreds of stone statues.
A highlight of the complex is the 500 Arhat statues lining the walkway, each one unique in expression and posture. Visitors can climb the stupa for sweeping views of the entire area or explore the underground shrine chambers lit with golden altars and serene Buddhist icons.
Bai Dinh is also an important site for spiritual pilgrimages, especially during Tet (Lunar New Year) and major Buddhist festivals.
9. Take a boat trip through the Trang An landscape complex
Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is widely recognized as one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural attractions. This karst landscape complex features a network of waterways winding through limestone cliffs, mystical caves, and ancient temples.
Unlike Tam Coc’s shorter route, the boat tour at Trang An can last up to 2–3 hours, taking you through multiple caves such as Sang Cave and Toi Cave, with some boat paths even passing beneath low-hanging rock ceilings. You’ll also stop at spiritual and historical sites like Trinh Temple and Kong Island, a filming location for Kong: Skull Island.
The clear waters, majestic peaks, and sacred landmarks create a serene and cinematic experience, making Trang An a must-see for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
Co Vien Lau is not a typical museum—it’s a thoughtfully preserved and curated collection of authentic old houses, transported from different regions of Northern Vietnam. Each wooden house showcases intricate carvings, red tile roofs, and antique furniture, offering insight into how Vietnamese families lived centuries ago.
Inside, you’ll find everything from ancestral altars and handcrafted ceramics to farm tools, all arranged as they would have been in a traditional Vietnamese home. The attention to detail creates a feeling that you’re walking through a real village from the past, rather than a static exhibit.
Co Vien Lau Ancient Village may not be as famous as Ninh Binh’s natural landmarks, but it’s a hidden treasure worth discovering. With its dedication to preserving cultural heritage and its idyllic location, it adds depth and authenticity to any itinerary in Tam Coc and beyond.
11. Relax at Van Long Nature Reserve
For a quieter alternative to the popular boat rides in Tam Coc or Trang An, the Van Long Nature Reserve offers a peaceful and pristine escape. This wetland reserve is the largest in the northern delta region and is home to a variety of rare flora and fauna, including the endangered Delacour’s langur, one of the rarest primates in the world.
A traditional sampan boat takes you through calm waters surrounded by limestone cliffs, lotus flowers, and lush reeds. The stillness of the water reflects the sky and peaks, making for stunning photographs. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting egrets, herons, and even kingfishers in their natural habitat.
Van Long is perfect for travelers seeking tranquility, birdwatching, and authentic eco-tourism.
12. Visit the scenic Thung Nham Bird Park
Located near Tam Coc and Bich Dong Pagoda, Thung Nham Bird Park is a hidden gem that combines ecological richness with natural beauty. The park features lush gardens, mysterious caves, fruit orchards, and a sanctuary for thousands of birds.
The best time to visit is in the late afternoon when flocks of birds return to their nests, creating a mesmerizing scene against the backdrop of karst mountains and wetlands. Over 40 bird species live here, including storks, herons, and the rare phoenix-headed bird.
Besides birdwatching, visitors can explore caves like Vai Gioi Cave, row along peaceful canals, or simply relax in the peaceful atmosphere surrounded by green hills.
13. Step into history at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Once the political and cultural heart of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital offers a fascinating journey into the country’s early dynasties. This historical site was the capital during the Dinh and Le dynasties, and today, visitors can explore two well-preserved temples: Dinh Tien Hoang Temple and Le Dai Hanh Temple.
Set against a dramatic limestone backdrop, these temples are built in traditional Vietnamese architectural style, complete with wooden structures, stone carvings, and decorative altars. Visitors can also walk around the old citadel area, take in panoramic views of the countryside, and learn about Vietnam’s rich past from on-site guides or informative plaques.
Hoa Lu offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, architecture, and natural scenery.
14. Enjoy a local food experience in Tam Coc
No visit to Ninh Binh is complete without diving into its culinary scene, especially in the Tam Coc area, where local dishes are made with fresh ingredients and deep-rooted traditions. Popular dishes include:
- Goat meat (dê núi): Often grilled, steamed, or served with herbs and dipping sauces.
- Cơm cháy (crispy rice): A local specialty served with savory sauces or goat meat.
- Eel vermicelli (miến lươn): A flavorful noodle soup with fried or stewed eel.
Dining at family-run restaurants or rustic eateries near rice fields enhances the experience. Some accommodations, like Tam Coc Garden or local homestays, even offer cooking classes so travelers can learn how to make Vietnamese dishes from scratch.
Food lovers will find Ninh Binh a satisfying destination for both taste and authenticity.
15. Stay in a nature-inspired accommodation
The natural beauty of Ninh Binh isn’t limited to its attractions—many accommodations here are designed to blend into the landscape, offering immersive experiences in comfort and tranquility. Whether you’re looking for luxury or homely charm, there are many standout options:
- Tam Coc Garden: A boutique eco-resort surrounded by rice paddies, offering traditional-style villas, lush gardens, and organic dining.
- Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh: A high-end resort with spa facilities, large pools, and nature-centric design.
- Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow: A charming family-run stay with stunning mountain views.
- Tam Coc Wonderland Bungalow and Tam Coc Banana Bungalow: Perfect for backpackers and mid-range travelers seeking nature and simplicity.
- Melody Homestay and Sunshine Homestay: Cozy, welcoming spots with local hospitality and authentic meals.
No matter your preference, accommodation in Ninh Binh enhances your journey, making your stay more connected to the land and its people.
By exploring these top 15 things to see in Ninh Binh, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. And with thoughtfully designed accommodations like Tam Coc Garden and cozy local homestays, your journey is sure to be as relaxing as it is inspiring.
Start planning your trip to Ninh Binh today, and experience firsthand why it’s often called “the Halong Bay on land.”
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