Discover Ninh Binh’s top activities and attractions, with costs and operating hours to help you plan your trip.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of northern Vietnam, Ninh Binh is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Known as the “Halong Bay on land,” this province offers a mesmerizing blend of ancient history, stunning natural scenery, and immersive cultural experiences. From majestic limestone karsts to historic temples and tranquil waterways, Ninh Binh has something for every traveler. In this blog, I’ll delve into Ninh Binh’s top activities and attractions, providing valuable information about costs and operating hours to help you plan your visit efficiently. This post contains affiliate links – if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
We explored Ninh Binh with this full-day tour through Viator and loved our experience. If you’re interested, you can even message them to request a private tour (vs small group) and it’s not that much more expensive so we thought it was totally worth it. We had full control of the schedule and how long we wanted to spend at each attraction. For your convenience, I’ve included some top-rated tours to check out.
TRANG AN GROTTOES
Trang An Grottoes is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a unique experience of exploring a labyrinth of limestone caves, serene rivers, and scenic landscapes. Hop on a boat tour and venture through 12 grottoes, marveling at the natural beauty and tranquility that surrounds you.
Boat Tour: 200,000 VND ($8.70 USD) per person
Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
MUA CAVE (Hang Múa)
For panoramic views of Ninh Binh’s stunning landscapes, make your way to Mua Cave. Climb the 500 steps to the peak, where you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Tam Coc’s karst formations and the winding river below.
Admission: 100,000 VND ($4.35 USD) per person
Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
LOTUS POND
After checking out Mua Cave, don’t forget to drop by the giant lotus pond, which you can also see from the top of the mountain. If you want to see the lotus in full bloom, you’ll have to endure the heat and visit during the summer. Your best bet is to check it out early in the morning or around sunset to truly enjoy the beautiful flowers. Pro tip – buy a bouquet of lotus at the cafe right by the entrance for your pictures!
Admission: included with admission to Mua Cave
Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
BICH DONG PAGODA (Chùa Bích Động)
Bich Dong Pagoda is a significant Buddhist temple complex in Ninh Binh renowned for its stunning natural surroundings, intricate architecture, and historical significance. It is a three-tiered complex that is built into a mountainside. Each tier consists of a separate temple structure, and they are interconnected by a series of stone steps and pathways.
- Lower Pagoda (Chùa Hạ): The lower tier features a spacious hall dedicated to worshipping Buddha. Visitors can also find a bell tower and several shrines in this area.
- Middle Pagoda (Chùa Trung): The middle tier consists of a smaller cave temple adorned with statues and altars. The cave opens up to a balcony offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Upper Pagoda (Chùa Thượng): The upper tier is located at the highest point and requires climbing a steep set of stone steps. It houses a small shrine and provides a tranquil space for meditation.
The pagoda is nestled between towering limestone cliffs, lush greenery, and serene water bodies, creating a harmonious blend of nature and spirituality. If you visit during the summer, the lotus will be in full bloom at the entrance.
Admission: FREE
Parking Fee: 20,000 VND ($0.87 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
TAM COC – BICH DONG (Tam Cốc – Bích Động)
Tam Coc, meaning “Three Caves,” is an iconic attraction in Ninh Binh. Embark on a boat trip along the Ngo Dong River, where the landscape is adorned with towering karsts and lush greenery. As you glide through the water, the person rowing your boat (usually with their feet!) will skillfully navigates through three natural caves, revealing mesmerizing formations.
Admission: 150,000 VND ($6.50 USD) per person
Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM
HOA LU ANCIENT CAPITAL (Hoa Lư)
Step back in time and visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, which was the political and economic center of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Explore the remains of temples, palaces, and tombs dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties. Hoa Lu was the capital of the Dinh Dynasty (968-980) and the early Le Dynasty (980-1009). During these periods, the area played a central role in the political and cultural development of Vietnam. It was chosen as a capital due to its strategic location amidst limestone karsts and natural defenses.
Admission: 20,000 VND ($0.87 USD) per person
Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM
CYCLING
Rent a bicycle and immerse yourself in the peaceful countryside of Ninh Binh. Cycle along scenic paths, passing by emerald rice fields, picturesque villages, and friendly locals. This activity offers an authentic and intimate glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. Make sure you check the tire pressure before starting your tour! One of my tires was flat after biking for 5 minutes and I had to return to the rental shop to switch bikes. Bike rental prices vary, but expect to pay around 50,000 VND ($2.17 USD) per day.
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Ninh Binh is a captivating destination that unveils the beauty of Vietnam’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. From boat rides through mystical caves to cycling adventures in serene countryside, the activities and attractions in Ninh Binh offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers. Prepare to be enchanted by the raw beauty and timeless charm of Ninh Binh, Vietnam.
