Discovering the unspoiled beauty of Ninh Binh with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse experiences. Ninh Bình offers something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Ninh Binh for travelers, compiled by Pu Luong Excursion.
Tam Coc – Bich Dong
The best thing to do in Ninh Binh is start your journey at Bich Dong Pagoda, known as the “Second Wonder of Heaven”.
Bich Dong Pagoda, Ninh Binh
After enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, visitors can embark on a boat journey through Tam Coc, a natural wonder known for its three magnificent caves. The towering limestone cliffs, intricate cave formations, and lush rice fields create a truly unforgettable experience. The entrance fee is 120,000 VND per person, and the boat trip through Tam Coc costs 150,000 VND per boat.
Trang An Complex
Visiting Trang An is one of the best things to do in Ninh Binh. This place captivates visitors with its majestic mountains, winding rivers, and pristine valleys. The entrance fee is 250,000 VND for adults and 100,000 VND for children under 1.4m. A guide fee of 300,000 VND per tour is required.
Trang An Complex, Ninh Binh
There are three boat tours available, each offering a unique journey through caves and ancient temples. Tour 01 includes nine caves, passes through Trinh Temple, Tran Temple, and Khong Palace. Tour 02 passes through four caves, takes you to Cao Son Holy Temple, Vu Lam Palace, and Tran Temple at Tien Spring. Tour 03 features three caves and visits Trinh Temple, Tran Temple at Tien Spring, and Vu Lam Palace. Each tour lasts approximately 2 – 3 hours.
Mua Cave
Just a short drive from Trang An, Mua Cave situated at the foot of a mountain, offers a unique hiking experience. For an entrance fee of 100,000 VND, visitors can climb approximately 500 steps to reach the top. This popular tourist spot is known for its stunning panoramic views of Ninh Binh’s natural beauty.
Mua Cave, Ninh Binh
The climb can be challenging, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape, including winding rivers, rice paddies, and majestic mountains. Conquering Hang Mua Cave is voted the best thing to do in Ninh Binh by tourists.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Experiencing the rich history of Hoa Lu is one of the best things to do in Ninh Binh. Served as the capital of Vietnam from 968 to 1010, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is one part of the UNESCO-listed Trang An World Heritage Site. Visitors can have a chance to explore the temples of King Dinh (Dinh Tien Hoang) and King Le (Le Dai Hanh), dating back to the 17th century.
Lu Ancient Capital, Ninh Binh
Surrounded by serene gardens, these temples provide a glimpse into Vietnam’s past with a museum on-site houses historical artifacts. Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the significance of this place. The entrance fee is 20,000 VND per person.
Am Tien Cave
As part of the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Am Tien Cave is located in Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh. Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and a tranquil lake, this cave offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Once known as the “Valley of Eternal Love” due to its remote location, Am Tien can now be reached via a tunnel.
Am Tien Cave, Ninh Binh
Visitors can hike to the temple and marvel at the intricate stalactite formations. The entrance fee is 20,000 VND per person. Visiting Am Tien cave deserved one of the best things to do in Ninh Binh.
Bai Dinh Pagoda
Covering over 500 hectares, Bai Dinh Pagoda, built in 2003, is a magnificent complex nestled among limestone karsts. The pagoda is divided into a New temple and Old temple. Visitors can explore Bai Dinh pagoda on foot or by electric car with 30,000 VND per person.
Bai Dinh Pagoda, Ninh Binh
Highlights include the Phap Chu Temple with its impressive 10-meter, 100-ton Buddha statue, and the Tam The Palace. In addition, climbing the bell tower to see the massive 36-ton Dai Hong Chung is considered as the best thing to do in Ninh Binh.
Van Long Nature Reserve
With its mirror-like surface, Van Long nature reserve is often referred to as “The wave-less bay”. Boating with Van Long’s incredibly calm waters is the best thing to do in Ninh Binh. The crystal-clear waters provide a stunning view of the underwater world.
Van Long nature reserve, Ninh Binh
As the home to the largest population of white-cheeked crested gibbons in Vietnam, Van Long is a haven for biodiversity. It also holds the record for the largest natural painting. The entrance fee is 20,000 VND per person, and boat tickets are 60,000 VND for 2 people.
Cuc Phuong National Park
Situated at the junction of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh, and Thanh Hoa provinces, Cuc Phuong National Park is the first Vietnam national park, covering approximately 22,000 hectares. Exploring Cuc Phuong is definitely the best thing to do in Ninh Binh.
Cuc Phuong National Park, Ninh Binh
This biodiversity hotspot offers a range of beauty, from ancient forests to caves with historical and cultural significance. Caves such as Trang Khuyet, Chua, Thuy Tien, and Nguoi Xua bear witness to a rich past. Along with hot springs and a diverse ecosystem, the park is home to a thousand-year-old Vu Huong tree and a wildlife conservation area.
With its breathtaking natural beauty and rich history, Ninh Binh is a must-visit destination. With the best things to do in Ninh Binh, from visiting stunning karst landscapes to exploring ancient temples, there is something for everyone. Come and experience the magic of Ninh Binh with Pu Luong Excursion.