Ninh Binh province is located in northern Vietnam, about 100km south of Hanoi. With its hundreds of limestone cliffs emerging from the ground scattered across the rice fields, this region is appropriately nicknamed the “Halong Bay in land”.
How to get to Ninh Binh
From Hanoi, you can reach Ninh Binh city by train. There are at least 3 sounthbound trains available (SE5, SE7, SE19). Another more convenient option for travelers is the bus. There are regular buses from Hanoi’s southern bus terminal (Giap Bat) with prices starting at 70,000 dong. However it is not recommend as the absolute cheapest ones – you might get cranked in a tiny seat inside an overcrowded bus. Both the train and the bus take 2 hours, give or take, and you can book the trip with any travel agent.
Things to do in Ninh Binh:
Cycle around the rice paddies
The best way to see Ninh Binh is from the seat of a bicycle. Many hotels will have free bicycles or ones to rent for a few dollars. If yours doesn’t, check at nearby hotels and shops. Getting around the central main attractions near Tam Coc is really easy and it is always nice to simply go where the wind takes you. The paths between the rice paddies are especially pretty.
Take a Tam Coc Boat Trip
A boat trip through the rice paddies. The ladies row the boats with their feet which makes for a slow and relaxing journey. The scenery is absolutely beautiful and the journey will take you beneath 3 caves carved into the rock by the river. Make sure to go in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and to escape the crowds of day-trippers from Hanoi.
Be aware that the ladies selling crafts and snacks inside the caves can be rather boisterous. Be polite and smile if you are going to let them down.
Peak at Thai Vi Temple
Another temple close by Bich Dong and Tam Coc is the Thai Vi temple. Surrounded by those iconic mountains, it is an impressive sight and a peaceful place to wander.
Explore Mua Cave
This is one of our favourite areas in Ninh Ninh with plenty to see. Make sure to head as far as you can into the Spring Cave. You’ll have to take off your shoes and bring your own torch to find your way on the watery path! Through another cave, you can meander beside the rice paddies all the way out to near the Tam Coc river route.
Hike to Tam Coc Viewpoint
From Hang Mua, you can also hike up to a viewpoint over Tam Coc. It’s a sweaty, steep hike but there is a pagoda at the top to offer you some shade while you take in the spectacular view.
