Nature lovers will enjoy a side trip from Hà Nội to Ninh Bình, a scenic province in northern Việt Nam.
Looking for another easy day trip from Hanoi besides Hạ Long Bay? Ninh Bình lies about 90 kilometres south of the capital and is just a one-and-a-half-hour drive away. Here are 5 things that you can do on your visit to this province.
Ninh Binh Overview
Country: Vietnam (northern region)
Country Code: +84
Continent: Asia (Southeast)
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Language: Vietnamese
1. Hang Mua Peak
Hang Múa Peak is reached via a climb of around 500 stone steps, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views over the Tam Coc valley and its limestone karsts. The trail splits into two pinnacles: the right path leads to a lower viewpoint overlooking Ninh Binh City, while the left ascends to the summit of Ngọa Long Mountain (Lying Dragon Mountain). Here, you’ll find a towering stone dragon sculpture winding along the rugged ridge, as well as a statue of the Goddess of Mercy. This side offers the most spectacular views of the Ngô Đồng River and the surrounding Tam Coc valley.
2. Tam Coc River Cruise
Photo: Lord Acuña
A Tam Coc river cruise takes you along the winding Ngô Đồng River, passing through three giant natural caves: Hang Cả, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. The most fascinating part? Local boat rowers propel the traditional sampan boats using their feet instead of their hands. Surrounded by towering limestone karsts and lush rice paddies, the peaceful scenery provides a welcome escape from the busy streets of Hanoi.
3. Cycle through the countryside
Photo: Lord Acuña
Want to experience a slower pace of life? Hop on a bicycle and ride through Ninh Binh’s rural villages and rice fields. Our leisurely 30-minute ride gave us a glimpse into local life while taking in the surrounding countryside. A stark contrast to Hanoi’s endless motorbikes, it was also the perfect way to work up an appetite before lunch.
4. Trang An Boat Ride
If you have a little more time to spare, consider taking a boat ride in Trang An instead of Tam Coc. As a much larger wetland and river system, the cruise is longer and generally more expensive. As you glide through the waterways, you’ll pass dramatic limestone karsts, caves, and cultural sites such as Vu Lam Palace, a floating wooden pagoda complex built on the water. Another highlight is the Thủy Đình Pavilion, a picturesque lakeside structure that makes for a great photo stop.
5. Bai Dinh Pagoda
Wrap up your day with a visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam. This important religious and cultural landmark blends traditional Vietnamese architecture with modern elements, making it a site of great spiritual and historical significance. Among its many highlights are a massive bronze Buddha statue, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, and an enormous bronze bell, the largest of its kind in Vietnam.
So that’s how you can spend a full but easy day in Ninh Bình. Book a tour and enjoy a refreshing break from city life!
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