Ninh Binh Province

Ninh Binh – the first imperial capital of Vietnam in the 10th century – is witness to many ups and downs of the nation…

Ninh Binh is a province located in the southern gateway of the North and the Northern Delta region of Vietnam. Ninh Binh shares the borders with Hoa Binh, Ha Nam in the north, Nam Dinh in the east, and Thanh Hoa in the west. The center of the province is Ninh Binh city, 93 km south of Hanoi.

Ninh Binh is the capital of Vietnam under its three first dynasties: Dinh – Le – Ly. Associated with the legacies of 6 kings, this land has witnessed many majestic historical events of the nation which left historical vestiges in temples, pagodas, mountains, rivers.

Tourists attractions

1. Trang An 

Trang An is the most famous tourist destination of Ninh Binh. With beautiful unspoiled natural scenery, Trang An was recognized by UNESCO as a natural heritage and world cultural heritage. The scene here is made up of winding rivers flowing through limestone mountains. Also, there are countless fanciful natural caves. That’s why this place is also known as the second Halong bay. 

2. Tam Coc – Bich Dong

Tam Coc – Bich Dong is also a famous destination that tourists definitely should visit when coming to Ninh Binh. To visit Tam Coc, tourist will be on the boat, down the Ngo Dong River to admire the mountains and the golden rice fields. The poetic scene here will surely charm anyone. 

In addition, visitors can visit Bich Dong which is a dry cave in the middle of the mountain. On the mountain, there is Bich Dong Pagoda – an ancient temple stretching over 3 mountain floors.

3. Hoa Lu ancient capital 

Hoa Lu ancient capital is located in Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lu district. This place is a particularly important national monument of Vietnam. This relic includes King Dinh Temple, King Le temple and many other structures. Hoa Lu ancient capital is now a favorite destination for many tourists, especially those who want to learn about the history of Vietnam.

4. Mua cave

Mua Cave is located at the foot of Mua Mountain. Despite not being as famous as many other scenic spots in Ninh Binh, Mua cave has won a lot of visitors’ love because of the beautiful natural scenery. Moreover, this destination is not as crowded as other tourists destinations.

From the foot of the mountain, you can the stairs extending to the top of the mountain, which looks like the Great Wall of China. From the top of the mountain, you will have a panoramic view of rice fields, the rowing boats on the water.

5. Bai Dinh pagoda

Located 15km from Ninh Binh city, Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the largest pagodas in Vietnam with many records established such as the tallest bronze statue of Vietnam; the temple has the largest well in Vietnam, etc. 

This is a remarkable destination for tourists who have a huge interest in Buddhism. The scene is like in folklore stories of Vietnam. Therefore, anyone who comes here can feel the purity and peace. 

6. Thung Nham Bird Garden 

This destination is one of the most interesting places in Ninh Binh. It’s surrounded by strips of rainforest on limestone mountains, with many caves and valleys. In particular, tourists will have a chance to discover nearly 40 species of birds. Every time when the sunset comes, you will see a flock of white storks flying around the wetland, creating an amazing wild beauty.

7. Cuc Phuong National Park

Located 45km from Ninh Binh city to the Northwest is Cuc Phuong National Park. This amazing park covers an area of 22,200ha. This is the first national park and the first nature conservation unit of Vietnam. In this park, there are lots of trees which has existed for thousands of years. Cuc Phuong National Park is an ideal place for nature lovers. 

8. BEAR SANCTUARY Ninh Binh

With the newly built BEAR SANCTUARY Ninh Binh, FOUR PAWS aims to contribute significantly to end bear farming in Vietnam, and provide a haven for bears – whether confiscated or voluntarily given up by their owners – where they will be cared for properly.

Parallel with rescuing and rehabilitating former bile bears all across Vietnam, FOUR PAWS has been carrying out continuous education programs for the younger generation to enhance their awareness of animal welfare, nature protection and biodiversity conservation. When visiting BEAR SANCTUARY Ninh Binh, you can rummage for environmentally and locally produced souvenirs, as well as savor tasty vegan/vegetarian dishes made from fresh, locally grown ingredients served at the sanctuary’s bistro that overlooks the tranquil surroundings.

Every cent you spend here will go directly towards taking care of the bears. Free parking, entrance, and wifi!

Opening hours: 9 AM to 5 PM every day

Storytelling tour: VND 150,000/adult and VND 100,000/child.

Ninh Binh’s special dishes

Ninh Binh cuisine is most famous for 2 dishes: burnt-rice and meat goat, so when you come here you should enjoy these 2 dishes. In Ninh Binh, especially tourist areas, almost every restaurant has two dishes on their menu. Besides, you should try other dishes such as raw fish salad, Yen Mac fermented pork roll, etc.