Ninh Binh has recently earned its spot as the fourth destination in the prestigious "Top 10 Crowd-Free New Wonders of the World," as per experts cited by the British newspaper Daily Mail. This recognition is attributed to Ninh Binh's stunning beauty, magnificence, and its ability to enchant tourists while preserving a tranquil ambiance.
The Enchanting Beauty of Ninh Binh
Known as Vietnam's hidden treasure, Ninh Binh distinguishes itself among global wonders with its captivating landscapes and charm. Featuring towering limestone peaks rivaling the splendor of Halong Bay, Ninh Binh offers visitors a mesmerizing vista of rivers, mountains, and temples within a mere two-hour drive from Hanoi.
Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh
If you're contemplating a trip to Ninh Binh, it's prudent to consider the most suitable time based on your preferences. From November to April, the weather tends to be cooler with clear skies, ideal for outdoor adventures like cycling through rice fields and embarking on boat tours without worrying about rainfall. Conversely, for a less crowded experience, visiting from May to October is recommended, despite the warmer and wetter conditions. During these months, the lush greenery resulting from rainfall adds a unique allure to the landscapes, offering picturesque views. Travelers can fully experience the beauty of Ninh Binh by booking a vacation through Vietnam local tour operators.
Must-See Tourist Attractions in Ninh Binh
Spanning an area of 1,400 km2, Ninh Binh boasts renowned landmarks such as the cultural-historical Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the scenic wonders of Trang An - Tam Coc - Bich Dong, and the pristine forests of Cuc Phuong. Notably, Trang An has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site, marking it as Southeast Asia's first and only dual UNESCO heritage site.
Highlighted "9 Must-See Attractions and Activities in Ninh Binh"
- Embark on the Trang An Scenic Landscape boat ride.
- Ascend the Hang Mua viewpoint.
- Explore the countryside by bicycle.
- Indulge in a leisurely visit to Tam Coc.
- Immerse yourself in the history of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
- Delight in birdwatching at Van Long Nature Reserve.
- Trek through the lush terrain of Cuc Phuong National Park.
- Discover the ancient charm of Bich Dong Pagoda.
- Experience serenity at Am Tien Lake.
International Recognition for Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh's picturesque landscapes and cultural richness have positioned it as a premier tourist destination in Vietnam. This is not the first time Ninh Binh has garnered international acclaim. The province consistently ranks high on reputable travel websites, with distinctions such as being listed among the 14 most attractive destinations in Asia by Trips to Discover (USA) in 2020, and recognized as one of the 12 most interesting filming locations in Asia by Travel + Leisure (USA) in 2022. Additionally, Ninh Binh was the sole representative of Vietnam to be named one of the 10 most friendly destinations in the world by the Traveler Review Awards 2023.
Apart from Ninh Binh, the top 10 lesser-visited tourist spots include renowned destinations such as the coral triangle, the ancient Maya ruins at Caracol, the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil, Valley of Fire State Park in Las Vegas, Nevada, the Namib Desert in Namibia, Napier in New Zealand, ancient Tibet in China, the boiling lake in Morne Trois Pitons National Park in Dominica, and the Kimberley coast in Australia.
Essential Tips for Your Ninh Binh Adventure
Armed with knowledge about the top sights and experiences in Ninh Binh, let's now dive into essential advice, tips, and practical information for exploring this breathtaking region of Vietnam.
How to Get to Ninh Binh?
Traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is hassle-free, with various transportation options catering to different preferences and budgets:
Train: Enjoy a comfortable 1.5-hour train journey.
Bus: Opt for buses for a slightly longer but equally comfortable ride.
Private Transfers: For added comfort and luxury, private car services are available.
The Best Way to Explore Ninh Binh
The best way to explore Ninh Binh is undoubtedly by bicycle! Cycling allows you to seamlessly traverse between attractions such as Trang An and Tam Coc while relishing the picturesque scenery. Many accommodations offer complimentary bicycle rentals, and local taxi services are readily available for attractions further afield. Alternatively, scooter rentals provide independence, although the region's gravel roads may offer a bumpy ride.
