Blog Vietnam Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Ha Long Bay on land," is one of Northern Vietnam’s most picturesque destinations, famous for its dramatic limestone karsts, tranquil rivers, and ancient temples. Each season in Ninh Binh offers a different experience, and choosing the best time to visit can help you make the most of your journey.

1. Spring (February to April)

Weather: Spring in Ninh Binh is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 17-25°C (63-77°F) and moderate humidity. Rainfall is generally low, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Highlights:

• Tam Coc’s Blossoming Fields: Spring is when the rice paddies in Tam Coc and surrounding areas begin to green, creating stunning, lush landscapes.
• Festivals: Spring also coincides with some of Ninh Binh’s most vibrant festivals. Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s largest Buddhist temples, hosts an annual festival during this time, featuring ceremonies, traditional performances, and cultural activities.
• Boat Rides: With pleasant temperatures, it’s an ideal time to take a boat trip through Tam Coc or Trang An, where you can float along the river surrounded by blooming flowers and green scenery.

2. Summer (May to August)

Weather: Summer in Ninh Binh is warm and humid, with temperatures around 25-35°C (77-95°F) and occasional rain, especially in July and August.

Highlights:

• Golden Rice Fields: Late May to early June is the rice harvest season in Tam Coc, when the fields turn a vibrant golden color, making it one of the most scenic times to visit. This creates a stunning contrast with the green karst mountains and is perfect for photography.
• Lush Greenery and Rainy Season: Summer rains bring out the lush, vibrant green landscapes, particularly around the rivers and mountains.
• Fewer Crowds: Summer is not peak season in Ninh Binh, so travelers looking for a quieter experience may enjoy visiting during this period despite the occasional rain showers.

3. Autumn (September to November)

Weather: Autumn is considered one of the best times to visit Ninh Binh, with comfortable temperatures (20-27°C or 68-81°F) and lower humidity. Rainfall decreases, making the weather ideal for exploring.

Highlights:

• Ideal for Outdoor Activities: With clear skies and cooler temperatures, autumn is perfect for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and exploring attractions like Hang Mua (Mua Cave) and Cuc Phuong National Park.
• Harvest Season: In early autumn, Ninh Binh’s surrounding villages continue their harvests, adding a rustic charm to the scenery.
• Less Crowded: Autumn is not peak tourist season, so you can enjoy popular spots like Tam Coc and Trang An with fewer tourists.

4. Winter (December to January)

Weather: Winter in Ninh Binh is cool and dry, with temperatures between 15-22°C (59-72°F). Rainfall is minimal, and the days are often sunny.

Highlights:

• Comfortable Climate: The cool, dry weather is perfect for exploring Ninh Binh’s ancient temples, caves, and outdoor attractions.
• Tet (Lunar New Year) Atmosphere: If you visit in January, you may experience the preparations for Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), when local markets are lively, and there are festive decorations and cultural events.
• Peaceful Landscapes: Winter’s cooler temperatures bring a quiet atmosphere, ideal for a serene escape to scenic areas like Van Long Nature Reserve, a quieter spot for bird-watching and eco-tourism.

Ninh Binh: A Year-Round Destination

Whether you’re boating through rivers lined by limestone cliffs, exploring ancient pagodas, or hiking up to panoramic viewpoints, Ninh Binh has something to offer in every season. Spring and autumn are often considered the best times due to the mild weather and beautiful landscapes, but each season provides unique highlights for travelers.

Tips for International Travelers:

• Dress Comfortably: Ninh Binh’s outdoor activities require comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes, especially if you plan to hike or explore caves.
• Prepare for Rain in Summer: The rainy season in summer brings lush landscapes but also occasional downpours. Bring rain gear if visiting during this time.
• Book Early for Spring and Autumn Trips: These seasons are popular, so booking accommodations and tours in advance is recommended.

With this guide, you can choose the best time to visit Ninh Binh and enjoy its stunning landscapes, rich history, and peaceful ambiance.

Best hotels & hostels in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, with its stunning karst landscapes, lush greenery, and historic sites, has become a popular destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and cultural experiences. Here’s a guide to some of the best hotels and hostels in Ninh Binh, offering options for various budgets and travel styles.

• Lalita Boutique Hotel and Spa Ninh Binh

• The Reed Hotel

• Hoang Son Peace Hotel

• King Kong Homestay

• Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel And Resort
  

• Ninh Binh Legend Hotel

• Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh

• Wyndham Grand Vedana Ninh Binh

• Tam Coc Garden Resort

• Xuan Son Lakeside Bungalow

How to get there

Ninh Binh is conveniently located just south of Hanoi, making it a popular and easy destination to reach for travelers exploring northern Vietnam. Here are the best ways to get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi:

1. By Train

Traveling by train is a comfortable and scenic option that allows you to enjoy views of the countryside.

• Duration: Approximately 2-2.5 hours.
• Departure Station: Trains leave from Hanoi’s main railway station (Ga Hanoi).
• Types of Trains: You can choose between regular and soft-seat trains. Overnight sleeper trains are also available if you’re arriving from central or southern Vietnam.

2. By Bus

Buses offer a direct and budget-friendly option, with various choices for comfort levels.

• Duration: Around 1.5-2 hours.
• Types of Buses: You can take a regular bus or opt for a limousine bus service, which provides reclining seats and extra legroom.
• Departure Points: Buses generally depart from Giap Bat or My Dinh Bus Station in Hanoi.

3. By Private Car or Taxi

For a more personalized journey, you can book a private car or taxi from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.

• Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.
• Benefits: You can stop along the way for sightseeing or breaks and enjoy a comfortable ride at your own pace.

4. By Motorbike

For those seeking a more adventurous route, a motorbike ride can be a scenic and exciting option.

• Duration: Around 2 hours.
• Route: Take Highway 1A or the more scenic Ho Chi Minh Road for a quieter journey with countryside views.
• Requirements: Make sure you’re comfortable riding a motorbike and have a valid license.

Tips for Traveling to Ninh Bình

• Book Tickets in Advance: Particularly during weekends and peak tourist seasons (April, May, October).
• Weather Considerations: Bring appropriate clothing, as Ninh Binh can get quite humid and rainy, especially from June to August.

Each mode of transport offers a unique way to experience the short journey to Ninh Binh, whether you prefer a fast, comfortable ride or a scenic, adventurous trip.

How to get around

1. Bicycle Rental

• Best For: Scenic routes, exploring villages, and short distances.
• Description: Ninh Binh’s relatively flat terrain and scenic countryside make biking a wonderful option. Many hotels and homestays offer bicycles for rent, allowing you to explore areas like Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, and Trang An at a leisurely pace.
• Popular Routes:
• Tam Coc to Bich Dong Pagoda: A short and scenic route with rice paddies and karst mountains along the way.
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Cycling around this ancient capital offers a glimpse of Vietnam’s history amidst beautiful landscapes.
• Tips:
• Bring water and wear sunscreen as some areas lack shade.
• Stick to main routes and be mindful of traffic, especially during peak tourist hours.

2. Motorbike Rental

• Best For: Exploring farther areas independently and flexible travel.
• Description: Renting a motorbike is a convenient way to cover Ninh Binh’s spread-out attractions, from Bai Dinh Pagoda to Mua Cave. Motorbikes can be rented from hotels and rental shops in Ninh Binh City or the tourist area of Tam Coc.
• Suggested Itinerary by Motorbike:
• Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex ➔ Mua Cave ➔ Bai Dinh Pagoda: A popular day-trip route with a good mix of nature, culture, and panoramic views.
• Tips:
• Ensure the motorbike is in good condition, especially if heading into rural areas.
• Roads are generally manageable, but exercise caution on narrow or busy roads, especially around Trang An and Tam Coc.

3. Boat Tours

• Best For: Scenic river routes and experiencing the region’s natural beauty.
• Description: Boat tours are a quintessential part of the Ninh Binh experience. Popular sites like Tam Coc and Trang An offer sampan boat tours operated by local rowers. Each tour takes you through stunning karst landscapes, caves, and riverside rice fields.
• Differences Between Tam Coc and Trang An:
• Tam Coc: Known for its rice field-lined river and closer proximity to Tam Coc town.
• Trang An: A more extensive complex with multiple caves and historic temples.
• Tips:
• Each boat typically fits 2–4 people, so it’s ideal for small groups.
• Bring cash for the boat fare and, if you’d like, a small tip for the rowers.

4. Taxi or Private Car

• Best For: Families, groups, and those seeking a comfortable, air-conditioned option.
• Description: Taxis and private cars are available in Ninh Binh City and Tam Coc and are a comfortable way to reach more distant or secluded sites like Bai Dinh Pagoda or Phat Diem Cathedral. Private cars can be hired for the day, offering convenience if you plan to visit multiple sites.
• Tips:
• Negotiate or confirm the fare in advance, especially for longer trips.
• Apps like Grab may not be widely available, so traditional taxis or pre-booked cars are often the best option.

5. Walking / Hiking

• Best For: Exploring specific sites and shorter distances.
• Description: While walking isn’t ideal for reaching distant attractions, it’s perfect for exploring areas like Mua Cave, where you’ll need to hike up 500 steps for a panoramic view of the Tam Coc region. Walking is also a great way to experience the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and its temples.
• Tips:
• Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for steep climbs, especially at Mua Cave.
• Early mornings or late afternoons are best for hikes, as midday can be hot.

6. Cyclo or Electric Car Tours

• Best For: Short distances, easy-paced sightseeing, and those who prefer minimal physical exertion.
• Description: In tourist-heavy areas like Trang An and Tam Coc, cyclos (bicycle rickshaws) or electric carts offer a laid-back way to explore the surroundings. They’re also a good choice for families or those wanting a break from walking.
• Tips:
• Electric carts are typically operated by local tourism agencies, and fares are fixed.
• Great for leisurely trips around tourist areas, but less suitable for reaching more remote sites.

Additional Tips for Getting Around Ninh Binh

• Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November, when the weather is mild and the rice fields are either lush green or golden. Avoid the rainy season (July-August) if possible, as the area is prone to sudden rains.
• Accommodation: Stay in Tam Coc if you want easy access to boat tours, or in Ninh Binh City for proximity to a wider range of services.
• Road Safety: Roads in Ninh Binh are generally well-maintained, but be mindful of narrow village roads and increased traffic during peak tourism times.
• Local Etiquette: When visiting temples or pagodas, dress modestly, and be respectful of local customs, especially in rural and sacred sites.

From tranquil boat rides to scenic motorbike journeys, Ninh Binh offers diverse ways to experience its natural beauty and cultural sites. With the right mode of transportation, you can easily explore this enchanting region at your own pace.

Top Experiences in Ninh Binh

1. Rowboat Ride Through Tam Coc

• Overview: Tam Coc, meaning "Three Caves," offers a scenic rowboat journey along the Ngo Dong River, passing through lush rice paddies and dramatic limestone formations.
• What to Expect: Boat rides are guided by locals who row with their hands or even feet, which is unique to the area. The ride takes you through three natural caves and offers spectacular views of karst cliffs towering over the river.
• Best Time to Visit: Late May to early June during the rice season, when the paddies surrounding the river turn vibrant green or golden.

2. Exploring Trang An Landscape Complex

• Overview: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An is famous for its network of waterways, limestone karsts, and spiritual sites.
• Experience: Take a sampan (wooden boat) ride through Trang An's scenic waterways, where you’ll pass through dark caves and stop at ancient temples and shrines.
• Highlights: The journey includes stops at temples nestled into the landscape and opportunities to explore caves like the Sang (Light) Cave, Toi (Dark) Cave, and Nau Ruou Cave.
• Cultural Insight: Trang An is home to several ancient temples, including those dedicated to the Vietnamese emperors of the Dinh and Tran Dynasties.

3. Climbing Mua Cave and the Lying Dragon Mountain (Hang Mua)

• Overview: Mua Cave is known for its panoramic views of the Tam Coc Valley and surrounding landscapes.
• Experience: After climbing around 500 steps up the Lying Dragon Mountain, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of rice fields, rivers, and limestone karsts.
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset or sunrise offers spectacular lighting and fewer crowds.
• Unique Feature: At the top, you’ll find a dragon statue winding along the mountain ridge, symbolizing protection over the area.

4. Exploring the Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex

• Overview: Bai Dinh is the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam, covering an area of 700 hectares.
• What to Expect: The complex consists of a series of temples, pagodas, and statues, including the impressive 10-meter-high bronze Buddha statue and a 13-story stupa with views over Ninh Binh.
• Highlights: The 500 Arhat statues lining the walkway are a unique feature, each with a different facial expression. The complex also houses the largest bell in Vietnam, weighing over 30 tons.
• Cultural Insight: This is a sacred site for Vietnamese Buddhists, and many locals visit Bai Dinh for prayer and worship, especially during the Lunar New Year.

5. Discovering Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

• Overview: Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries, during the Dinh and Early Le Dynasties.
• What to Expect: The area includes ancient temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and Emperor Le Dai Hanh. While much of the ancient capital has been lost to time, these temples provide a glimpse into Vietnam’s early history.
• Best For: History enthusiasts interested in learning about Vietnam's early dynasties and national defense strategies.
• Cultural Insight: The surrounding area has several stone sculptures, pillars, and relics from the 10th century, reflecting ancient Vietnamese architectural styles.

6. Cycling Through Ninh Binh’s Countryside

• Overview: Cycling is a fantastic way to explore the rural beauty and charm of Ninh Binh, offering a closer look at local life and the stunning landscapes.
• Popular Routes: Ride through Tam Coc, past the peaceful rivers, rice paddies, and limestone mountains, or explore quiet villages like Tho Ha, where locals engage in traditional farming and crafts.
• Best Time for Cycling: Early morning or late afternoon, when the weather is cooler and lighting for photography is perfect.
• Highlights: Many cycling routes pass by small temples, local homes, and scenic spots, providing a relaxing yet immersive experience.

7. Bird Watching at Thung Nham Bird Park

• Overview: Thung Nham, also known as the Bird Valley, is a sanctuary that provides a natural habitat for many bird species.
• What to Expect: You can take a boat ride around the park, where you’ll encounter flocks of storks, herons, and other migratory birds. The area is also dotted with caves and small temples.
• Best Time for Bird Watching: Late afternoon when the birds return to their nests is ideal for sightings.
• Additional Attractions: The park has other natural features, including caves like the Buddha Cave, which has rock formations resembling Buddhist imagery.

8. Sampling Ninh Binh’s Traditional Cuisine

Overview: Ninh Binh’s cuisine offers distinct dishes that showcase local flavors and ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Com Chay (Burned Rice): A crunchy rice dish, usually topped with pork or other savory ingredients.
• Goat Meat Dishes: Mountain goats raised in Ninh Binh provide a tender and flavorful meat, often served in stews or grilled.
• Fish Dishes from the Rivers: The area’s fresh rivers provide an abundance of fish, typically prepared with local herbs and spices.

Where to Eat: Local markets and traditional eateries in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh city offer authentic flavors and a chance to sample traditional dishes.

Ninh Binh Tour