Top 25 Things to Do in Ninh Binh (2025–2026): Vietnam’s Paradise

25 Unmissable Things to Do in Ninh Binh in 2025-2026: Vietnam’s Hidden Paradise

Nestled just 2 hours south of Hanoi, Ninh Binh remains Vietnam’s most captivating hidden gem – a magical landscape where limestone karsts rise dramatically from emerald rice fields, ancient temples whisper stories of bygone dynasties, and serene waterways wind through mystical caves. As Vietnam tourism evolves in 2025, Ninh Binh has transformed from a quick day trip into a must-stay destination deserving several days of exploration. This comprehensive guide reveals the 25 most extraordinary experiences in Ninh Binh, from UNESCO treasures to secret spots only locals know.

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1. Navigate the UNESCO-Listed Waterways of Trang An

The crown jewel of Ninh Binh, Trang An Landscape Complex earned its UNESCO World Heritage status for good reason. This spectacular network of limestone karsts, verdant valleys, and tranquil waterways offers an experience that rivals even the magnificent Halong Bay.

What Makes Trang An Special in 2025-2026

The Trang An boat journey takes you through an otherworldly landscape of 48 caves and numerous historic temples scattered throughout the complex. The traditional sampan boats are now guided by experienced local rowers who share fascinating cultural insights about the region.

Best Routes to Choose

In 2025, visitors can select from 4 distinct routes (the newest was added in late 2024):

• Route 1 (2.5 hours): Traverses 9 caves and 3 temples
• Route 2 (3 hours): The most popular option covering 12 caves, Trinh Temple, and the Kong: Skull Island film set
• Route 3 (3.5 hours): Features 8 caves and 5 spiritual sites including Tran Temple
• Route 4 (NEW in 2024-2025): Explores the previously restricted eastern section with 6 newly accessible caves and the ancient Vu Lam Palace

Pro tip: Book the first boat at 7:00 AM to avoid crowds and capture stunning morning light. The entrance fee is 250,000 VND (~$10 USD) per person in 2025-2026, including the boat ride.

2. Conquer the 500 Steps to Hang Mua Peak

For the most breathtaking panoramic views of Ninh Binh’s dramatic landscape, climbing Hang Mua Peak is absolutely essential. This 360-degree vantage point has become the defining Instagram spot of Ninh Binh.

The Dragon’s Spine and Summit Pagoda

The winding staircase to the summit resembles a dragon’s spine snaking up the mountain. In 2025, the path has been renovated with additional safety railings and rest platforms. At the summit sits a small pagoda dedicated to Quan Am (the Goddess of Mercy), where locals leave offerings and prayers.

Best Time to Visit

Arrive either at sunrise (5:30-6:30 AM) or for sunset (5:00-6:00 PM) to witness golden light bathing the limestone peaks and rice fields. The entrance fee is 150,000 VND (~$6 USD), and the complex opens from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.

Visitor insight: Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes. The climb takes approximately 20-30 minutes, and in 2025, a new eastern viewpoint has been added, offering an alternative perspective of the Tam Coc waterways.

3. Float Through Tam Coc’s “Three Caves”

Often called “Halong Bay on land,” Tam Coc offers a mesmerizing 2-hour sampan boat journey along the winding Ngo Dong River, passing through rice fields and three natural limestone caves.

The Three Caves Experience

The boat journey takes you through:

• Hang Ca (First Cave): 127 meters long
• Hang Hai (Second Cave): 60 meters long
• Hang Ba (Third Cave): 50 meters long

The ceilings of these caves hang just a few feet above your head, creating an intimate experience as your boat glides through the darkness, illuminated only by your guide’s headlamp.

When to Visit for the Most Spectacular Scenery

For the most vibrant experience, visit between May and early June when the rice fields turn a brilliant golden yellow just before harvest. Alternatively, late June to July offers lush emerald green fields after replanting. The boat ride costs 240,000 VND (~$9.50 USD) per boat (accommodating up to 3 people).

Cultural note: Your boat rowers, typically local women, often row with their feet while expertly navigating the waterways. While tipping isn’t mandatory, a gratuity of 50,000-100,000 VND is appreciated for their remarkable skill.

4. Discover the Three-Tiered Bich Dong Pagoda

Just 2km from Tam Coc, the 15th-century Bich Dong Pagoda is a hidden architectural treasure built into the limestone mountainside. This three-level complex offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.

Exploring the Three Levels

• Lower Pagoda (Ha Pagoda): Features intricately carved stone and wooden architecture dating back to 1428
• Middle Pagoda (Trung Pagoda): Reached by climbing 100 stone steps, housed within a natural cave with ancient Buddhist statues
• Upper Pagoda (Thuong Pagoda): The highest point offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside

In 2025, the pagoda complex has been carefully preserved with new lighting in the cave sections and improved pathways.

Spiritual Significance

Local Buddhists believe that praying at all three levels brings threefold blessings. The complex is still an active place of worship, with monks in residence who sometimes share tea with respectful visitors.

Entry details: Admission is free, though donations are welcomed. The pagoda is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

5. Experience Wildlife at Van Long Nature Reserve

Van Long Nature Reserve, Northern Vietnam’s largest wetland preserve, spans an impressive 3,500 hectares of limestone peaks, marshland, and waterways. Unlike the more touristic Tam Coc and Trang An, Van Long offers a serene, uncrowded experience perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.

Endangered Species Spotting

The reserve is home to the world’s largest population of endangered Delacour’s langurs, with approximately 120-150 individuals remaining. Lucky visitors may spot these rare primates climbing the karst cliffs during early morning or late afternoon boat rides. The reserve also shelters:

• Over 40 bird species including kingfishers and herons
• Several endangered turtle species
• Unique wetland flora adapted to the limestone ecosystem

Peaceful Boat Journey

The 90-minute boat trip (100,000 VND per boat) through crystal-clear waters reflects the surrounding mountains like a natural mirror. The reserve has implemented a strict visitor quota system in 2025 to protect the fragile ecosystem, so booking in advance is recommended.

Conservation note: A portion of all entry fees supports the ongoing conservation efforts to protect the critically endangered Delacour’s langur.

6. Step Back in Time at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

As Vietnam’s first permanent capital (968-1010 CE), Hoa Lu offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s early imperial history. Surrounded by protective limestone mountains, this compact historical complex showcases traditional Vietnamese imperial architecture.

Royal Temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties

• Dinh Tien Hoang Temple: Dedicated to Emperor Dinh Bo Linh, who unified Vietnam in the 10th century. The temple features three chambers with the emperor’s stone throne and impressive bronze bells.
• Le Dai Hanh Temple: Honors Emperor Le Dai Hanh who succeeded the Dinh dynasty. The temple houses beautiful wood carvings and a ceremonial barge.

In 2025, new archaeological excavations have uncovered additional palace foundations and artifacts, displayed in the recently renovated on-site museum.

Historical Significance

The strategic position of Hoa Lu, protected by natural limestone fortifications, allowed early Vietnamese rulers to resist Chinese invasions. The site represents the birth of Vietnamese independence and national identity.

Visitor information: Entry fee is 30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD). Consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide (150,000 VND) to fully appreciate the historical significance.

7. Trek Through Cuc Phuong National Park

Vietnam’s oldest national park, established in 1962, Cuc Phuong spans 25,000 hectares of primary rainforest just 45km from Ninh Binh city. The park houses over 2,000 plant species and hundreds of animal species in a biodiversity hotspot.

Conservation Centers Worth Visiting

• Endangered Primate Rescue Center: Home to over 180 primates from 15 endangered species including langurs, gibbons, and lorises. The center offers guided tours at 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM daily (150,000 VND).
• Turtle Conservation Center: Protects 24 of Vietnam’s 25 native turtle species, including the critically endangered Vietnamese pond turtle. Open from 9:00 AM-4:00 PM (50,000 VND).

Hiking Trails for Every Level

• Botanical Garden Trail: A gentle 2km loop suitable for all fitness levels
• Ancient Tree Trail: A 7km path to a 1,000-year-old tree with a 20m circumference
• Challenge Track: For adventurous hikers, this 15km trail traverses the park’s rugged interior

In 2025, the park has introduced guided night treks (350,000 VND) with specialized equipment to spot nocturnal wildlife like civets, flying squirrels, and various amphibians.

Park access: Entry fee is 60,000 VND (~$2.40 USD), plus 20,000 VND for vehicles. The park is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

8. Cycle Through Rice Paddies and Rural Villages

One of the most authentic ways to experience Ninh Binh’s countryside is by bicycle. The flat terrain and network of quiet roads make it perfect for cyclists of all levels.

Best Cycling Routes in 2025

• Tam Coc Loop (12km): A leisurely ride through rice fields, past Bich Dong Pagoda, and along the Ngo Dong River
• Trang An to Hoa Lu Circuit (15km): Connects major attractions with beautiful countryside views
• Van Long Nature Reserve Route (20km): A longer journey through traditional villages and less-visited scenic areas

In 2025, new designated cycling lanes have been added to main routes, and several bike-friendly rest stops feature local refreshments and photo opportunities.

Bike Rental Information

Most accommodations provide free or low-cost bicycle rentals. Independent rental shops in Tam Coc and Trang An charge 50,000-70,000 VND ($2-3 USD) per day. For a more comfortable experience, premium bikes with suspension and better gearing can be rented for 150,000 VND ($6 USD).

Safety note: While traffic is lighter than in major cities, always wear a helmet (provided with rentals) and carry plenty of water, especially during summer months.

9. Visit the Impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex

The largest Buddhist complex in Southeast Asia, Bai Dinh Pagoda combines Vietnam’s traditional architectural elements with modern construction on a massive scale. Completed in 2014, this 700-hectare complex continues to expand with new shrines and gardens.

Remarkable Features of the Complex

• Great Buddha Hall: Houses three enormous bronze Buddha statues, the largest weighing 100 tons
• Bell Tower: At 13 stories, it contains a 36-ton bronze bell, the largest in Vietnam
• Arhat Corridor: Features 500 intricately carved stone arhat statues, each with unique features and expressions
• Copper Pagoda: A newly completed section in 2024, featuring a 36-meter pagoda made entirely of copper

Spiritual Tourism Experience

The complex remains an active place of worship, with hundreds of monks in residence and regular ceremonies. For a deeper experience, visitors can participate in meditation sessions (held twice daily at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM) or receive a traditional blessing from resident monks.

Visitor details: Entry is free, but the electric car shuttle service within the complex costs 50,000 VND (~$2 USD) round trip. The site is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Plan to spend at least 3 hours exploring the full complex.

10. Explore the Am Tien Cave and Tuyet Tinh Coc

Often overlooked by international tourists, the Am Tien Cave (Tuyet Tinh Coc) complex offers a tranquil alternative to more crowded attractions. This “hidden valley” features a small jade-green lake surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and ancient ruins.

Historical Significance

During the Dinh Dynasty (10th century), the site served as a royal retreat and meditation center. The ruins of stone steps, altars, and meditation platforms remain visible today. According to local legend, Emperor Dinh Bo Linh chose this secluded spot for spiritual guidance before unifying the country.

Exploring the Site

The complex includes:

• A natural limestone cave with impressive stalactites
• A small ancient temple dedicated to local earth deities
• A panoramic viewpoint reached by climbing 200 stone steps
• A crystal-clear emerald pool surrounded by karst formations

In 2025, new informational displays explain the site’s historical significance, and a small museum houses artifacts discovered during recent archaeological work.

Practical information: The entrance fee is 30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD). The site is open from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM and is located approximately 10km from Tam Coc.

11. Kayak Through Limestone Caves and Waterways

For those seeking a more active alternative to the traditional sampan boat rides, kayaking offers an immersive way to explore Ninh Binh’s waterways at your own pace.

Prime Kayaking Locations

• Trang An: Designated kayaking routes allow you to explore quieter sections away from the sampan boats. The crystal-clear waters make it feel like you’re floating on air between the karsts.
• Van Long Nature Reserve: Perfect for wildlife spotting as you silently paddle through wetland habitats.
• Thung Nang: A less-visited area with narrow waterways winding through limestone formations.

Kayaking Practicalities

Rental stations in each location provide stable sit-on-top kayaks suitable for beginners. Prices range from 200,000-300,000 VND (~$8-12 USD) for a two-person kayak for 2-3 hours. Life jackets and dry bags are provided, and basic instruction is available for novices.

In 2025, guided eco-kayaking tours (500,000 VND per person) include transportation, equipment, cave exploration, and lunch in a floating village.

Safety note: While the waters are generally calm, follow guide instructions about which areas are safe to explore, especially during rainy season when water levels can change rapidly.

12. Marvel at Thung Nham Bird Garden

A paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, Thung Nham Bird Garden is home to thousands of birds from over 40 species, all living in their natural habitat spread across 350 hectares.

Bird Watching Opportunities

The best time to visit is between 5:00-7:00 PM when thousands of birds return to their nests after a day of foraging. Species you might spot include:

• White storks
• Little egrets
• Black-crowned night herons
• Kingfishers
• Oriental darters

In 2025, the park has added elevated observation platforms with professional spotting scopes available for rent (50,000 VND).

Beyond Bird Watching

The park also features:

• Fish Stream: A crystal-clear stream with hundreds of colorful fish
• Vai Gioi Cave: A mystical three-chamber cave with unique formations
• Buddha Cave: Housing a natural rock formation resembling a reclining Buddha
• Meditation Valley: A serene area surrounded by limestone walls where visitors can practice mindfulness

Visitor information: Entry fee is 120,000 VND (~$5 USD). The park is open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Consider hiring a local guide (100,000 VND) who can identify bird species and explain their behaviors.

13. Visit the Unique Phat Diem Stone Cathedral

Just 28km from Ninh Binh city, Phat Diem Cathedral stands as one of Asia’s most architecturally distinctive churches—a fascinating blend of European Gothic and traditional Vietnamese temple design.

Architectural Marvel

Built between 1875-1899 under the direction of Father Tran Luc, the cathedral complex features:

• A stone and wood main cathedral spanning 74 meters long and 21 meters wide
• Four smaller chapels with intricate stone carvings
• A free-standing bell tower constructed entirely from stone
• Dragon and phoenix motifs alongside traditional Christian imagery
• 100% Vietnamese materials including ironwood pillars measuring 11 meters high

Cultural Significance

The cathedral represents Vietnam’s unique cultural fusion and religious history. It remains an active place of worship with over 10,000 parishioners attending Mass each Sunday. The site gained international recognition after being featured in Graham Greene’s novel “The Quiet American.”

In 2025, a new visitor center explains the cathedral’s historical and architectural significance through interactive displays.

Visitor information: Entry is free (donations appreciated). The cathedral is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, though visitors should avoid Mass times (primarily Sunday mornings) unless attending services.

14. Explore the Mysterious Trang An Caves by Headlamp

While the standard Trang An boat tour passes through several caves, adventure seekers can now opt for specialized caving experiences that explore deeper, less-visited limestone caverns.

Specialized Cave Exploration

Introduced in 2024 and expanded for 2025, these guided adventures explore:

• Hang Toi (Dark Cave): A 980-meter system requiring headlamps to navigate narrow passages
• Hang Bai: Features underground lakes and spectacular stalactite formations
• Hang Dia (Earth Cave): Contains ancient rock paintings estimated to be 1,500-2,000 years old

Adventure Options

• Standard Cave Tour (3 hours/600,000 VND): Includes basic equipment and exploration of 2-3 accessible caves
• Advanced Spelunking (5 hours/1,200,000 VND): Ventures into more challenging caverns with specialized equipment
• Photography Cave Tour (4 hours/900,000 VND): Focuses on the most photogenic underground chambers with extra time for setup

All tours include professional guides with cave safety certification, equipment, and transportation from Tam Coc or Trang An.

Important note: These specialized tours must be booked at least one day in advance through licensed operators. Basic physical fitness is required, and participants should be comfortable in enclosed spaces.

15. Sample Ninh Binh’s Famous Mountain Goat Cuisine

Ninh Binh’s culinary claim to fame is its mountain goat (de nui) dishes. These goats graze on wild herbs in the limestone mountains, giving their meat a distinctive flavor not found elsewhere in Vietnam.

Must-Try Goat Specialties

• De Chao (Stir-fried goat): Tender slices of goat meat stir-fried with lemongrass, chili, and local herbs
• De Nuong (Grilled goat): Marinated in galangal, honey, and rice wine before grilling
• Lau De (Goat hotpot): A communal dish featuring goat meat, local vegetables, and medicinal herbs in a rich broth
• Com Chay De (Goat meat with crispy rice): A textural delight pairing tender meat with crunchy rice

Where to Enjoy Authentic Goat Dishes

• Dê Núi Quốc Hương (Ninh Binh City): A local institution serving goat since 1992
• Nhà Hàng Gia Viên (Tam Coc): Offers panoramic rice field views alongside excellent goat dishes
• Nhà Hàng Thành Thảo (near Trang An): Known for its traditional cooking methods using mountain herbs

In 2025, several restaurants now offer special “goat tasting menus” (350,000-450,000 VND) featuring 5-7 different preparations with paired rice wines.

Culinary tip: The most flavorful goat dishes are available from October to March when the animals have fed on the most diverse mountain herbs.

16. Discover Ancient Art at the Ninh Binh Museum

Recently renovated in 2024, the Ninh Binh Museum showcases the province’s rich historical and cultural heritage spanning over 10,000 years.

Museum Highlights

The museum is organized into chronological sections:

• Prehistoric Gallery: Features stone tools and pottery from Neolithic settlements dating back to 8,000 BCE
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Collection: Displays royal artifacts, weaponry, and architectural elements from Vietnam’s first permanent capital
• Colonial Period Exhibit: Documents Ninh Binh’s role in resistance movements
• Natural History Section: Explains the geological formation of the region’s distinctive karst landscape

Interactive Experiences

The 2024-2025 renovation introduced several interactive elements:

• Virtual reality reconstructions of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Traditional craft demonstrations on weekends
• Touch-screen displays with detailed information in multiple languages
• A children’s discovery zone with hands-on activities

The museum is located in Ninh Binh City, with an entrance fee of 60,000 VND (~$2.40 USD). It opens from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed Mondays).

Cultural insight: The museum café serves traditional Ninh Binh tea prepared according to ancient recipes documented in royal records from the Dinh Dynasty.

17. Experience Rural Life at Ninh Binh Farmstays

For travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion, Ninh Binh’s farmstays offer a window into traditional Vietnamese rural life while providing comfortable accommodations set amidst stunning landscapes.

Top Farmstay Experiences in 2025

• Tam Coc Rice Fields Homestay: Located within working rice paddies, this family-run property offers traditional stilt houses with modern amenities. Guests can participate in rice cultivation, cooking classes, and village visits.
• Trang An Mountain House: Set against limestone peaks, this eco-conscious farmstay features gardens supplying their farm-to-table restaurant. Activities include honey harvesting and traditional medicine workshops.
• Hoa Lu Ancient Village Stay: This collection of restored 100-year-old wooden houses offers heritage accommodations with cultural programs including traditional music performances and folk craft workshops.

Cultural Activities at Farmstays

Most farmstays offer:

• Agricultural experiences (rice planting/harvesting, vegetable gardening)
• Traditional cooking classes using home-grown ingredients
• Local craft lessons (weaving, bamboo craft, embroidery)
• Guided village walks with visits to local families and artisans

Prices typically range from $35-85 USD per night including breakfast, with cultural activities costing an additional $10-25 per person.

Booking tip: The most authentic farmstays have limited rooms and book quickly during peak season (September-November and March-May). Reserve at least 2-3 months in advance for these periods.

18. Photograph Sunset at Thung Nang Valley

While many visitors focus on Tam Coc and Trang An, photographers in the know head to Thung Nang Valley for the most spectacular sunset views in Ninh Binh.

Perfect Photography Spots

• Limestone Reflection Point: Where the setting sun creates a perfect mirror image on still waters between karst formations
• Fisherman’s Dock: Local fishermen returning with their catch against the backdrop of golden light on limestone peaks
• Rice Terrace Viewpoint: Elevated position capturing the sun setting behind mountains with terraced fields in the foreground

Photography Tips for Thung Nang

The valley faces west, making it ideal for sunset photography. Arrive by 4:30 PM to scout locations and set up equipment. Bring a tripod for low-light conditions and a polarizing filter to enhance the vibrant colors and reduce glare on water surfaces.

In 2025, a new photography platform has been constructed at the optimal viewpoint, though seasoned photographers often prefer to find their own unique angles.

Visitor information: Entry fee is 120,000 VND (~$5 USD). The area is open until 6:30 PM during summer months (April-September) and until 6:00 PM during winter (October-March).

19. Witness Traditional Crafts in Ninh Van Stone Carving Village

Just 12km from Ninh Binh City, the ancient craft village of Ninh Van has specialized in stone carving for over 800 years. Here, master artisans continue centuries-old traditions while creating everything from simple garden ornaments to elaborate temple sculptures.

Artisan Workshops and Demonstrations

Visitors can observe master carvers working on:

• Buddhist and Taoist religious statues
• Traditional Vietnamese architectural elements
• Modern artistic sculptures
• Stone furniture and decorative items

Several workshops now offer hands-on experiences where visitors can try basic carving techniques with guidance from artisans (250,000 VND for a 2-hour session).

The Stone Carving Museum

Opened in 2023, this small but informative museum displays:

• Ancient carving tools and techniques
• Historical pieces dating back to the Ly and Tran dynasties (11th-14th centuries)
• Documentation of famous projects created by village artisans, including work in UNESCO World Heritage sites

The village is open daily, though many workshops close for lunch from 12:00-2:00 PM. There’s no entry fee for the village itself, but the museum charges 40,000 VND (~$1.60 USD).

Shopping tip: Quality stone crafts make unique souvenirs. Small items like carved pendants (100,000-200,000 VND) are practical purchases, while serious collectors can commission custom pieces.

20. Take a Cooking Class Featuring Ninh Binh Specialties

Ninh Binh’s cuisine blends mountain ingredients with river delicacies, creating distinctive flavors that reflect the region’s diverse geography. Cooking classes offer both culinary skills and cultural insights.

Popular Cooking Class Options

• Tam Coc Garden Cooking School: Set in an organic garden, this class begins with ingredient harvesting before preparing 4-5 traditional dishes (650,000 VND per person).
• Trang An Eco Cooking Experience: Combines a morning market visit with cooking overlooking the limestone karsts (550,000 VND per person).
• Hoa Lu Ancient Recipes Workshop: Focuses on royal cuisine from the Dinh and Le dynasties, using historical recipes (750,000 VND per person).

Signature Dishes You’ll Learn

Beyond the famous goat dishes, cooking classes typically teach:

• Com Chay (Crispy rice crust): Rice cooked in special clay pots creating a golden crust
• Canh Chua Ca (Sour fish soup): Made with local fish and wild vegetables
• Nem Tai (Fermented pork rolls): A Ninh Binh specialty wrapped in banana leaves
• Che Khoai (Purple yam dessert): Sweet soup made with mountain-grown yams

Most classes run 3-4 hours and include recipe booklets to take home. Vegetarian options are available with advance notice.

Booking information: Classes should be reserved at least one day in advance, with morning sessions (9:00 AM-1:00 PM) generally preferred as they include market visits.

21. Visit Kenh Ga Hot Springs and Floating Village

Located 20km from Ninh Binh City, Kenh Ga (Chicken Stream) offers a glimpse into a traditional way of life centered around the river and natural hot springs.

The Floating Village Experience

While modernization has changed aspects of village life, many families still live in floating houses and maintain traditional fishing practices. Visitors can:

• Take a boat tour through the village (200,000 VND for up to 5 people)
• Observe unique fishing techniques using trained cormorants
• Visit floating markets (on the 5th, 10th, 15th, 20th, 25th, and 30th of the lunar month)
• Purchase fresh seafood directly from fishermen

Therapeutic Hot Springs

The natural hot springs maintain a constant temperature of 53°C (127°F) and contain minerals believed to have therapeutic properties. The recently developed spa facilities offer:

• Mineral Baths: Private and public options with water piped directly from the spring source
• Mud Therapy: Traditional treatments using mineral-rich mud
• Herbal Steam Rooms: Featuring local medicinal plants

In 2025, the hot spring complex has expanded with new infinity pools overlooking the limestone landscape. Entry to the hot springs area costs 150,000 VND (~$6 USD) for a 2-hour session.

Visit timing: The village is most active in early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) when fishermen return with their catch. The hot springs are less crowded on weekdays.

22. Attend the Hoa Lu Festival (April)

If you’re visiting in April, don’t miss the Hoa Lu Festival—the most important cultural celebration in Ninh Binh, commemorating the kings of the Dinh and Le dynasties who established Vietnam’s independence.

Festival Highlights

The three-day celebration (typically held in early April, aligned with the lunar calendar) features:

• Royal Procession: Hundreds of participants in traditional royal costumes recreate ancient imperial ceremonies
• Traditional Games: Wrestling competitions, crossbow tournaments, and folk games
• Cultural Performances: Ancient court music, traditional dance, and historical reenactments
• Temple Ceremonies: Solemn rituals at Dinh and Le temples with offerings and prayers
• Local Cuisine Fair: Showcasing Ninh Binh’s traditional foods and royal recipes

2025 Festival Enhancements

For 2025, the festival has expanded with:

• Nighttime illumination of historical sites
• An international cultural exchange program featuring performances from Asian countries influenced by Vietnamese ancient culture
• Virtual reality experiences recreating the ancient capital in its prime

The festival is centered around the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital complex, with most events free to attend, though some special performances require tickets (50,000-200,000 VND).

Visitor tip: Book accommodation well in advance as Ninh Binh fills quickly during the festival. Consider staying in nearby villages for a more authentic experience and lower prices.

23. Hike to Hidden Waterfalls in Cuc Phuong National Park

Beyond the main trails in Cuc Phuong National Park lie several hidden waterfalls that reward adventurous hikers with pristine swimming holes and untouched nature.

Accessible Waterfall Trails

• Ngoen Stream Falls: A 4km moderate hike through primary forest leads to this 15-meter cascade with a deep natural pool perfect for swimming.
• May Waterfall: More challenging 7km trail featuring three distinct tiers of falls, the highest reaching 20 meters.
• Silver Cloud Falls: Named for its misty appearance, this secluded 12-meter waterfall requires a guided 9km trek but offers complete solitude.

Hiking Practicalities

Waterfall trails are best attempted during the dry season (November-April) when paths are less slippery and water levels allow safe swimming. The park provides guides for these trails (mandatory for some routes) at 300,000-500,000 VND depending on distance.

In 2025, new boardwalks have been installed on particularly steep sections of the Silver Cloud Falls trail, making this once-expert route more accessible to intermediate hikers.

Safety information: Always check current conditions before departure, as heavy rains can make these trails dangerous. Proper hiking footwear is essential, and hikers should carry at least 2 liters of water per person.

24. Enjoy a Luxury Ninh Binh Retreat

While Ninh Binh began as a budget destination, it now offers world-class accommodations that blend luxury with the area’s natural beauty. These properties make perfect bases for exploring during the day and unwinding in comfort each evening.

Top Luxury Options in 2025

• Tam Coc Garden Resort: Set amidst rice fields with 16 elegant bungalows featuring traditional architecture and modern amenities. The infinity pool overlooks limestone mountains. Rooms from $150 USD.
• Emeralda Ninh Binh Resort & Spa: A sprawling property near Van Long Nature Reserve with extensive wellness facilities including Vietnam’s largest hot spring pool. Rooms from $180 USD.
• The Reed Hotel Ninh Binh: Newly opened in 2024, this design-focused property features contemporary rooms with panoramic landscape views and a rooftop infinity pool. Rooms from $140 USD.

Wellness and Cultural Programs

Luxury properties now offer curated experiences including:

• Sunrise yoga sessions overlooking rice fields
• Traditional Vietnamese herbal spa treatments
• Private boat tours with gourmet picnics
• Personalized cooking classes with executive chefs

Booking tip: For the best rates, book directly through hotel websites which often offer exclusive packages including airport transfers from Hanoi (2 hours away) and complimentary experiences.

25. Combine Ninh Binh with a Halong Bay Cruise

The perfect northern Vietnam itinerary pairs Ninh Binh’s “Halong Bay on land” with the real Halong Bay’s emerald waters and floating fishing villages. This combination offers a comprehensive experience of Vietnam’s most spectacular landscapes.

Recommended Combined Itineraries

• 3-Day Ninh Binh and Halong Bay Adventure: Spend one full day exploring Ninh Binh’s highlights before embarking on an overnight cruise through Halong Bay’s iconic limestone islands.
• 5-Day Northern Vietnam Explorer: Begin with two days in Ninh Binh, followed by a premium 3-day cruise exploring both Halong Bay and the less-visited Lan Ha Bay.
• Week-long Heritage Journey: Combine Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and a luxury 2-day Halong Bay cruise for the ultimate northern Vietnam experience.

Seamless Travel Connections

In 2025, dedicated shuttle services now connect Ninh Binh directly to Halong Bay cruise terminals, eliminating the need to return to Hanoi between destinations. These comfortable minivans include WiFi, refreshments, and English-speaking hosts.

Planning tip: The ideal sequence is to visit Ninh Binh first, followed by Halong Bay, ending your journey in Hanoi. This route minimizes travel time and builds logically from land to sea experiences.

Essential Travel Tips for Ninh Binh in 2025

Best Time to Visit

• March to May: Pleasant temperatures (20-30°C) with lush green landscapes
• September to November: Clear skies, moderate temperatures, and harvest scenery
• Avoid June-August: Potential for heavy rains and high humidity

Getting Around

• Private Driver: Most efficient option at $40-60 USD per day
• Motorbike Rental: Offers maximum flexibility at 150,000-200,000 VND daily
• Bicycle: Perfect for exploring flat areas around Tam Coc and Trang An
• Ride-hailing Apps: Grab now operates throughout Ninh Binh as of 2024

Accommodation Areas

• Tam Coc: The most convenient base with numerous restaurants and services
• Trang An: Quieter area with premium accommodations and natural surroundings
• Ninh Binh City: Budget options with easy access to transport connections

Sustainable Tourism Initiatives

Ninh Binh has implemented several eco-friendly practices for 2025:

• Plastic bottle ban in protected areas (refill stations available)
• Electric shuttle buses between major attractions
• Community-based tourism projects supporting local villages
• Visitor quotas at sensitive ecological sites

Must-Pack Items

• Comfortable walking shoes for limestone terrain
• Light, breathable clothing (plus one warmer layer for evenings)
• Insect repellent (especially important during summer months)
• Reusable water bottle and shopping bag
• Small backpack for day trips

Final Thoughts: Why Ninh Binh Deserves More Than a Day Trip

While many visitors still treat Ninh Binh as a day trip from Hanoi, the region truly deserves 3-4 days to experience its diverse attractions. From UNESCO World Heritage sites to hidden villages, ancient capitals to natural wonders, Ninh Binh offers one of Vietnam’s most rewarding travel experiences.

The perfect northern Vietnam itinerary combines the limestone landscapes of Ninh Binh with the emerald waters of Halong Bay. These complementary destinations showcase the incredible diversity of Vietnam’s natural beauty while providing unforgettable cultural experiences.

As tourism infrastructure continues to improve in 2025, now is the ideal time to explore this still relatively uncrowded destination before it gains the international recognition it deserves. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, cuisine, or simply spectacular photography opportunities, Ninh Binh delivers experiences that will remain among your most treasured travel memories.

Hotline | WhatsApp: +84.978.358.422

Phone | WhatsApp: +84.962.261.687

Email: halongbayluxcruises@gmail.com

vietnammarveltravel@gmail.com

Top Halong Bay Review on the TripAdvisor