Ninh Binh recently secured its place as the fourth destination in the esteemed “Top 10 Crowd-Free New Wonders of the World,” as confirmed by experts cited by the British newspaper Daily Mail. This acknowledgment underscores Ninh Binh’s remarkable beauty, grandeur, and its ability to captivate tourists while maintaining a serene atmosphere.
The Beauty of Ninh Binh
Recognized as Vietnam’s hidden gem, Ninh Binh stands out among global wonders with its captivating landscapes and irresistible allure. Boasting towering limestone peaks that rival the splendor of Halong Bay, Ninh Binh offers visitors a mesmerizing panorama of rivers, mountains, and temples within a convenient two-hour drive from Hanoi.
The Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh
Planning a visit to Ninh Binh prompts consideration of the most suitable time based on personal preferences. From November to April, the cooler weather and clear skies create an ideal setting for outdoor adventures such as cycling through rice fields and embarking on boat tours without the concern of rainfall. Conversely, for a less crowded experience, visiting from May to October is advisable, despite the warmer and wetter conditions. During these months, the landscape flourishes with lush greenery resulting from rainfall, offering picturesque views. Travelers can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Ninh Binh by arranging tours through Indochina Tours.
Must-See Attractions in Ninh Binh
Spanning an area of 1,400 km2, Ninh Binh boasts renowned landmarks such as the culturally rich 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, making it 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.
- Enjoy 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 delve 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.
