Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh Province
Ninh Binh is a city in northern Vietnam located in the province of the same name, 93 km south of Hanoi. Located in the Red River Delta, the cradle of Vietnamese civilization, the landscape complex of Trang An or “terrestrial Hlong Bay” and the province of Ninh Binh are a set of spectacular landscapes, karst peaks criss-crossed by valleys, for some submerged, and framed by steep, almost vertical cliffs.
Apart from the natural sites, you can discover several cultural and historical sites. It was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries.
The best way to get a feel for this UNESCO-protected site is to take a punting trip along its glistening rivers and climb to the top of its legendary peaks. A site of great beauty, a true jewel of northern Vietnam.
The best time to visit Ninh Binh
The discovery of the region can be done almost all year round. But it is advisable to come and visit this magnificent region when the rice has been planted. A first harvest takes place at the end of May and a second at the end of September. It is during this period that the landscapes are most spectacular, when the rice fields are adorned with a hypnotic luminous yellow, just before the harvest.
The two best periods to visit “terrestrial Halong Bay” are therefore the end of April/beginning of May and the end of September.
What to see, what to do…?
The province of Ninh Binh is known to host a large number of natural and/or cultural sites not to be missed. Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from the 10th and 11th centuries, is nestled in its spectacular scenery, as well as temples, pagodas, villages and sacred places.
Top 10 activities to do in Ninh Binh:
- Rowing boat cruise in Trang An.
- Boat trip in the flooded forest of Van Long (nature reserve) in search of wildlife.
- Bike ride in Ninh Binh.
- Discovery of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
- Discovery of the stone Cathedral of Phat Diem.
- See the view from Hang Mua Peak.
- Visit the Bai Dinh Buddhist pagoda, one of the largest in Vietnam and Southeast Asia.
- Discover Cuc Phuong National Park.
- Hike in the ecological and ornithological park of Thung Nham.
- Visit to the Rescue Center for Endangered Monkeys and the Turtle Conservation Center.

