Travel to Vietnam and explore the natural wonders of Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, situated about 90 km south of Hanoi in Northern Vietnam, is renowned for its expansive rice fields, meandering rivers, and iconic limestone mountains. If you seek an escape from the bustling city life, Ninh Binh provides an ideal destination to unwind and immerse yourself in the pristine natural environment.

The tropical monsoon climate of Ninh Binh, characterized by a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October, offers pleasant weather conditions for travel. Particularly in the late months of the year, the cool and mild temperatures make it an attractive time to explore without the intense heat.

Let's join Vietnam4seasons Travel in discovering the most beautiful destinations in Ninh Binh. 

1. Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel with Dinh temple & Le temple

Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel is a distinctive architectural complex located in Ninh Binh Province, recognized by UNESCO as one of the four core zones within the Trang An World Heritage Complex. This site marks the characteristics of both architectural ensemble and national historical relics, all considered exceptionally significant and requiring meticulous preservation.

With a history spanning over 1000 years, Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel stands as a living witness to the ebbs and flows, and the transformations of the Vietnamese people. This place is a treasure trove preserving historical relics through various eras, simultaneously serving as a symbol of strength and solemnity in the history of Vietnam. Despite the passage of time and numerous fluctuations, Hoa Lu still retains its distinctive historical traces, such as the remnants of sturdy citadels and two temples dedicated to Dinh Tien Hoang King and Le Dai Hanh King, designed in emulation of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. 

Dinh temple is a significant landmark within the specially protected area of the heritage complex of the ancient capital. Constructed using precious materials such as ironwood and blue stone, the temple showcases intricate decorative patterns that are delicately carved, reflecting the artistic talents of ancient craftsmen.

Le Temple is located in Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lu district, approximately 300 meters away from Dinh temple, in the former Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel. The temple follows a combination of domestic and foreign architectural styles but on a smaller scale compared to Dinh Temple. The uniqueness of Le Temple lies in the 17th-century wood carving art that has reached a high level of sophistication and delicacy. The wooden sculptures within the temple are intricately carved, vividly depicting the aura of historical figures.

2. Tam Coc – Thai Vi temple – Bich Dong 

The Tam Coc - Thai Vi temple - Bich Dong scenic complex is situated in the southeast of Ninh Bình province, specifically in Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district. 

Tam Coc

Tam Coc consists of three caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba, formed over millions of years through the natural processes.

Hang Ca is the largest cave in the complex, spans approximately 100 meters in length and 20 meters in width. Adorned with exquisite stalactites and stalagmites, it creates a shimmering and mystical atmosphere. Hang Hai, the second-longest cave, extends around 60 meters in length and 15 meters in width, featuring vividly shaped stalactites and stalagmites resembling dragons, elephants, and more. Hang Ba, the smallest cave, has a length of about 40 meters and a width of 10 meters, showcasing various stalactite and stalagmite formations resembling animals and flowers.

Thai Vi Temple 

Thai Vi Temple holds significance as an important historical and spiritual landmark in Ninh Binh. Constructed in the 11th century, the temple is dedicated to worshiping the emperors of the Ly dynasty. Visitors can admire the unique architecture of the temple and delve into the history and culture of the country.

Bich Dong 

Bich Dong Pagoda is located in Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province, approximately 2 km from Tam Coc wharf. The pagoda was built in 1428 and initially was just a small temple atop a mountain. Bich Dong Pagoda is constructed in the shape of the letter "Tam," with three buildings not contiguous, arranged vertically along the mountainside, following the natural slope from low to high. The uniqueness of the pagoda lies in the harmonious combination of the mountain, cave, and temple complementing each other amidst the grand scenery, creating a seamless integration with the natural surroundings.

3. Trang An -  Mua Cave 

Trang An 

The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is situated in the southeastern part of Ninh Binh province, encompassing numerous historically and culturally significant sites as well as renowned scenic landscapes. Recognized by UNESCO as a dual World Heritage site in 2014, the Trang An Complex features a diverse range of attractions, including caves, limestone mountains, rivers, and wetlands. The caves in Trang An, formed through the natural processes over millions of years, exhibit stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Mua Cave

Mua Cave is situated within the scenic complex of Trang An, located in Ninh Xuan commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province. Discovered in the year 2000, it has been open to tourism since 2016, featuring a length of approximately 200 meters and a width of about 100 meters. The outer part of Mua Cave encompasses a spacious garden adorned with various trees and flowers. From here, visitors can extend their gaze, marveling at the panoramic view of the majestic mountains and landscapes that characterize the ancient land of Hoa Lu.

The cave is divided into two main sections: the outer part and the inner part. The interior of Mua Cave is a dazzling and enchanting world with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. These formations have been shaped by the natural forces over millions of years. A highlight of Mua Cave is the statue of a fairy dancing on the mountaintop, crafted from white stone and standing approximately 10 meters tall. Exploring Mua Cave, visitors will have the opportunity to witness the magnificent beauty of nature, discover the exquisite stalactites and stalagmites, and admire the statue of the dancing fairy atop the mountain.

4. Van Long - Cuc Phuong 

Van Long Ecotourism Area

Van Long Ecotourism Area serves as an ideal destination for those wanting to explore the untouched and diverse nature of Ninh Binh. Boating through the rivers, visitors can admire vast rice fields, limestone mountains, and observe a variety of wildlife. Notably, the area is a habitat for many rare and precious bird species, attracting the attention of scientists and nature enthusiasts.

Cuc Phuong National Park

Cuc Phuong National Park is a nature reserve located in the territories of three provinces: Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh and Thanh Hoa, covering an area of 22,000 hectares. Cuc Phuong is the habitat of many rare and precious species of flora and fauna, including 35 animal species listed in the Vietnam Red Data Book and the global Red Data Book.

At Cuc Phuong National Park, visitors can admire rare primates that are being cared for by the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, with support from international conservation centers. Currently, the center is rescuing, nurturing, and caring for 16 primate species, totaling 179 individuals. These include primate species at risk of endangerment, listed in both the Red Data Book of Vietnam and the global Red Data Book. 

5. Bai Dinh - Largest pagoda in Vietnam with unique architecture

Bai Dinh, the largest pagoda in Vietnam sprawling over 700 hectares and built in 2003, showcases distinctive architecture with thousands of Buddha statues intricately carved from limestone. Noteworthy architectural structures include a bell tower, a prosperity tower, and the Avalokitesvara tower. Additionally, Bai Dinh features a vibrant flower garden and a 1km-long limestone wall adorned with carved Buddha statues.

6. Phat Diem Cathedral

Phat Diem Cathedral is a complex of Catholic churches spanning 22 hectares in the town of Phat Diem, Kim Son District, Ninh Binh Province. The construction took place from 1875 to 1899, blending Catholicism with the spiritual beliefs of the Vietnamese people. The distinctive feature of Phat Diem Cathedral is its complete construction using stone and wood in ancient architectural style, resembling traditional Vietnamese communal houses, temples, pagodas, and palaces.

The ensemble of structures at Phat Diem Cathedral includes a pond, a square lake, the main church, four smaller surrounding churches, three artificial stone caves, and a stone church. On both sides of the main cathedral, there are four smaller churches, each designed in harmony with its own unique features. 

The entire construction of Phat Diem Cathedral is entirely handmade, devoid of any machinery, iron, steel, or concrete. The primary materials used are stone and ironwood. Some trees, weighing up to 7 tons, and stone slabs, weighing up to 20 tons, were all transported solely by human effort. The Phat Diem Cathedral complex was designated a National Cultural and Historical Monument in 1988. The Ninh Binh Province and relevant authorities are in the process of completing the documentation to propose UNESCO's recognition of Phat Diem Cathedral as a world cultural heritage site.

Located near Phat Diem Cathedral is the renowned Kim Son Village, celebrated for its artistry in cultivating and crafting handmade artistic products from the Cyperaceae. If given the opportunity, tourists should make a detour to visit Kim Son Village, where they can explore and purchase unique artistic creations crafted by the skilled hands of the artisans in the village. 

7. Chau Son Holy Mother Monastery

Chau Son Holy Mother Monastery in Ninh Binh is a masterpiece, resembling a "miniature European heaven," constructed in 1939. Surrounded by the majestic mountains and forests of the ancient capital region, the monastery boasts classical architecture with walls reaching a thickness of 0.6 meters and columns measuring 1.2 meters. The monastery's structure is built using untainted red bricks, creating a classical backdrop adorned with moss that tells the tale of passing years.

Inside the monastery, the church is a sacred space for worshiping Jesus and engaging in daily prayers, featuring a towering white vault reaching a height of 21 meters. This architectural marvel stands as the grandest and most majestic structure within the monastery. The monastery grounds are further embellished with hundreds of colorful flowers and various types of trees, complemented by intricate sculptures and elaborate decorations.

Conclusion

Ninh Binh is not just a destination known for its prominent tourist spots like the Trang An scenic complex or its extraordinary caves; it's also an adventurous journey through diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences. This is a travel destination that offers a comprehensive and multifaceted experience, promising unique and unforgettable moments for every visitor. If you seek a deeper understanding of Vietnam's land and its people, choose Ninh Binh as a meaningful stop in your exploration journey.

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