If you have never heard of the “Ha Long Bay on Land”, strap in tight as we explore this place packed with adventures of a lifetime. Welcome to the province of Ninh Binh Vietnam where nature has painted a beautiful picture of rice fields, mountains of limestone and meandering rivers. Located just a few hours away from Hanoi, this place gives travellers a chance to immerse themselves in the nature and history of Vietnam. There are many activities in Ninh Binh for you to participate in as well. Whether you are canoeing along the calm rivers or visiting the temples thousands of years old, Ninh Bình will not let you remain indifferent. Ready to dive in? Now let’s see what makes this place so unique.
Ninh Bình Vietnam Weather
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As it has been observed, the climatic conditions of Ninh Bình are as diverse as its terrains. The best season to visit is from October to April because the cool and dry climate makes it conducive for outdoor activities. Spring season is characterised by blooming flowers and moderate temperatures from February to April while the autumn season brings in cool weather and clear skies from September to November. Summer is also wet and can be very hot, ideal for the growth of green vegetation, and sometimes it is accompanied by thunderstorms. Winter is a little colder but not really harsh for trekking and sightseeing.
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Activities In Ninh Binh
There are a variety of activities to indulge in on vacation. So have a look at some of them as mentioned below to embark on this exotic destination.
1. Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
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Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, which is 7km away from the city centre, is also known as the “Ha Long Bay on Land.” This is a World Heritage site where a number of rivers pass through the limestone karst and caves. A boat tour in Trang An is a wonderful trip through the greenery and the calm waters; the boat also takes tourists to visit the ancient temples built in the rocks. The experience is quite peaceful and dream-like, and it offers a great combination of the natural scenery and the cultural heritage. It is the perfect place for photographers and lovers of nature since the scenery varies with the different seasons.
2. Tam Coc
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Another popular destination is Tam Coc, located 5 km from the city centre, famous for its picturesque karst scenery. The name Tam Coc means “Three Caves” and tourists can visit these through a rather leisurely boat ride through the Ngo Dong River. While gliding through the caves, you will be accompanied by enormous limestone cliffs and green rice terraces that look like they were taken out of a picture. The boat ride is calm and provides the opportunity to take a closer look at the stunning landscape; therefore, it is recommended that anyone who is travelling to Ninh Bình should not miss this. People from the region use their feet to propel the boat, which is a cultural aspect of the trip.
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3. Mua Cave
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Mua Cave, situated 6 km from the city centre, has one of the best views of the area in Ninh Bình. Upon reaching the top of the stairs, which are 500 in number, tourists are presented with breathtaking views of the Tam Coc region, including its valleys and river courses. The climb itself presents a scenic view with statues made of stones and a sculpture of a dragon at the front. It is a little tiring but the view from the top is so beautiful as one has to look 360 degrees around. Mua Cave is especially popular with photographers and adventurers. It is recommended to go in the morning and evening at sunset because the lights are perfect for photography.
4. Bai Dinh Pagoda
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Bai Dinh Pagoda is 12 km from the city centre and is the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam. This huge compound features an old pagoda, a set of monumental bronze Buddhas, and a monumental stupa. The park is accessible to the public and contains hundreds of statues and other detailed carvings around the park. The visit becomes all the more special with the lights on at night when we visit the pagoda. Bai Dinh Pagoda is not only a religious site but also a very important architectural and historical site. The environment of the site is very quiet and therefore it is appropriate for meditation and spiritual replenishment.
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5. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
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Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, located 13 km from the city centre, is an archaeological site in Vietnam’s capital in the early 10th and 11th centuries. There are still some remains of the old palaces and temples, which give a clear insight into the early dynastic history of the country. The site is located with the backdrop of the mountains making the place even more attractive. Some of the attractions include the temple built for King Dinh Tien Hoang and the temple for King Le Dai Hanh. Due to the rich history of Hoa Lu and the beautiful landscapes of the area, this place is interesting for tourists and history lovers. The numerous monuments and relics give the tourists an insight into the history of Vietnam.
6. Cuc Phuong National Park
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Vietnam’s first national park, the Cuc Phuong National Park, is one of the most bio-diverse areas. It has more than 2000 plant species and a rich fauna, which includes langurs, macaques and more than 300 bird species. It also has a primate rescue centre, which is home to the rescued primates.
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7. Van Long Nature Reserve
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Van Long is the largest wetland reserve in northern Vietnam and offers a great opportunity for a boat ride surrounded by stunning views. There is a very small population of Delacour’s langur and several birds in this beautiful and calm wetland.
8. Thung Nham Bird Garden
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A paradise for bird lovers, Thung Nham is recognized as the site where thousands of birds nestle including the storks, herons and parakeets. The park also has caves and fruit trees, and thus it is a one-stop centre for those who love nature.
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9. Local Culture And Cuisine
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The culture of Ninh Binh is rich and diverse, and it reflects the history of the country to a great extent. The food is delicious and the local specialities include goat’s meat dishes and cơm cháy, which is crispy rice. The food in Ninh Bình has developed over time to suit the region’s agricultural and the fusion of Vietnamese dynasties. It is also enriching to interact with the locals through the local festivals, village markets and traditional music and dance performances.
Getting To Ninh Bình Vietnam
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Many tourists are often confused about how to get to Ninh Binh Vietnam easily and comfortably. Choose from the various modes of transportation as given further.
By Train: Take a train from Hanoi, which will take approximately two hours to reach the town of Ninh Bình. The trains are comfortable and the sightseeing of Vietnam countryside is perfect to warm you up for your adventure.
By Bus: Buses are cheaper, and it will take around 2-3 hours from Hanoi. If you are coming from farther afield, then consider taking a sleeper bus for extra comfort.
By Motorbike: For the rustic traveller in you, hiring a motorbike is a great way to experience the Vietnamese countryside. The roads are good and the flexibility to pull over and check something out is hard to beat.
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Important Tips For First-Time Visitors
- Bring light and airy clothes for the sunny weather and warm clothes for the evening.
- Some essentials that one should not forget include strong hiking shoes, sun lotion, and insect repellent.
- The overall security of this province is quite good, however, it is wise to be wary of pickpockets and scam artists especially when hiring motorbikes.
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Ninh Bình is an enchanting province of Vietnam that has a lot to offer in terms of nature, history, and culture. From boat cruises to historic cities, there is something here for every traveller. Plan a trip to Vietnam and start an amazing journey to the province of Ninh Bình – it’s worth it!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Ninh Bình Vietnam
Is it possible to go on a hot air balloon ride in Ninh Bình?
Yes, hot air balloon rides are possible and tourists can view the karst formations from the sky. This is one of the adventurous and memorable things to do on your trip to Vietnam.
I am interested in knowing if there are any night markets in Ninh Bình.
Yes, the Ninh Bình Night Market has a number of foods, souvenirs, and handicrafts that are local to the area. One can explore the beautiful night markets and do some shopping.
Can I do a bike tour in Ninh Bình?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity because it allows tourists to ride through beautiful countryside and visit nearby villages.
Can I get cooking classes in Ninh Bình?
Yes, there are some places where you can enrol for cooking classes and learn how to prepare Vietnamese cuisine.
Is there a standard dress code for visiting local temples in Ninh Bình?
Yes, it is recommended to dress modestly while visiting sacred temples and pagodas of the province. This is to show respect and gratitude towards the lord.
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