Day Trips in Ninh Binh, Vietnam 🇻🇳

Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” is a picturesque province in northern Vietnam, offering a captivating blend of scenic beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences. If you’re planning a day trip, here are some must-visit destinations and helpful tips:

🏞️ Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

• Location: Gia Vien District
• Highlights: Boat tours through stunning karst landscapes, temples, and rice paddies.
• Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a hat or umbrella for shade/rain protection.

🏠 Bai Dinh Pagoda

• Location: Gia Vien District
• Highlights: One of the largest pagodas in Vietnam with over 500 statues, including the world’s second-largest Buddha statue.
• Tips: Dress respectfully (long pants and covered shoulders) when visiting temples and religious sites. Guided tours are available for a more enriching experience.

🌳 Tam Coc - Three Caves

• Location: Ninh Hà District
• Highlights: Boat ride along the scenic Ngo Dong River, passing through three picturesque caves and rice paddy fields.
• Tips: Consider renting a bicycle to explore the surrounding countryside and villages after your boat trip.

🏰 Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

• Location: Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District
• Highlights: Ruins of the ancient Vietnamese capital, including the Temple of King Dinh and the Temple of King Le.
• Tips: The site is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.

🛣️ Getting Around

• Renting a scooter or bike is a popular way to explore Ninh Binh independently, but be aware that roads can be busy and sometimes in poor condition.
• Organized day tours are also available if you prefer a more structured itinerary with transportation included.

🍲 Local Cuisine

• Goat Meat Dishes: Ninh Binh is famous for its goat meat, which is cooked in various ways, such as grilled goat meat or goat meat stewed in earthen pots.
• Spring Rolls: Don’t miss the fresh spring rolls made with local ingredients like goat, shrimp, and vegetables.

🌞 Weather

• Ninh Binh has a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons: a hot and dry season from November to April, a hot and wet season from May to October, and a cooler season from October to November.
• Plan your day trips accordingly, considering the weather and potential rainfall during the wet season.