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Cities
Vietnam
NINH BINH
NINH BINH
Overview
Food & Drink
Travel Guide
Often referred to as the “In-land Halong,” Ninh Binh is one of the natural wonders of Vietnam, known for its breathtaking landscapes of limestone karsts rising dramatically from rice fields and meandering rivers. Located just two hours south of Hanoi, it offers a tranquil escape and an authentic look into rural Vietnamese life, making it a must-visit in any tour to Vietnam.
Ninh Binh’s nickname, the “Terra Cotta Mountains,” reflects its scenic beauty—towering cliffs that mirror those of Ha Long Bay, but set inland among peaceful paddies and ancient waterways. Travelers can explore the iconic Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a network of caves, temples, and waterways that you can discover by sampan boat.
Historically, Ninh Binh served as the capital of Vietnam during the Đinh (968–980) and Early Lê (980–1009) dynasties. The Hoa Lư Ancient Capital still houses centuries-old temples dedicated to emperors Đinh Tiên Hoàng and Lê Đại Hành, offering visitors a journey into Vietnam’s imperial past.
Ninh Binh is also tied to Vietnam’s resilience. Nearby, monuments and shrines commemorate the legendary Battle of Bạch Đằng River in 1288, where General Trần Hưng Đạo led a historic naval victory against Mongol invaders. This deep cultural legacy adds a historical depth to your Ninh Binh tour Vietnam experience.
Whether you’re cruising through Tam Coc, hiking in Cuc Phuong National Park, or visiting ancient pagodas, Ninh Binh delivers both natural beauty and rich history. Let a trusted Vietnam tour agency like Threeland Travel curate the perfect travel package Vietnam that includes this enchanting destination.
Activities
Our pick: Spend 1 or 2 nights for full discovery; take a rowing bamboo boat through three grottoes-on-river of Tam Coc, biking in the rural area of Bich Dong pagoda and Hoa Lu ancient capital
Rural cycling and trying buffalo carts with locals. Boat trips on small rivers with a luck to see wild gibbons and langurs at Van Long Reserve.
Great connection between Ha Long bay and other Northern Vietnam attractions such as Pu Luong, Mai Chau and Son La.
2 hours driving from Hanoi to the rural resort and eco lode, or home stay at a typical Northern peasants’ house.
Excursion to the first Catholic church of Phat Diem and Bai Dinh with the biggest Buddist statue.
Recommended Tours
Cuc Phuong national park adventure
5 Day(s)
Drive thought the countryside of Red River Delta to Ninh Binh, start your visit at Cuc Phuong National Park - an ideal peaceful place for jungle trekking, with its unique biodiversity. Visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center before heading to Van Long Nature Reserve.
EXPLORE NORTHERN VIETNAM
11 Day(s)
The Northern mountainous region perhaps offers the most spectacular scenery anywhere in Vietnam. Opportunities to see something of the lives, customs and costumes of many of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities abound. Contemplate the most splendid part of Vietnam, where concentrates magnificent limestone mountain ranges and incredible terraced paddy fields. 11-day adventure of all off-the-beaten mountainous Northern Vietnam with all inviting activities and trekking route.
A Day To Hoa Lu And Tam Coc
1 Day(s)
66
Known as Ha Long Bay on land, you will be amazed by the incredible landscape of Ninh Binh. Not only famous for the stunning view, but also an attracted place for who loves history. Starts the journey with a trip full of knowledge to Hoa Lu ancient capital to know about one of the honorable dynasties of Vietnam. Then drops thinking and gets deep in the spectacular landscape of Tam Coc Cave. Feel the peaceful atmosphere of the place, observe amazing achievement of Mother Nature, and know more about magnificent land.