Independent Travel Experience in Ninh Binh will be an unforgettable adventure for many travelers. Ninh Binh, an ancient land in Vietnam, is an attractive destination with its charming natural beauty. When visiting Ninh Binh, tourists have the opportunity to explore many famous attractions such as the Trang An eco-tourism area, where they can immerse themselves in a magical world with glittering caves and a river winding through lush green meadows. Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia, exudes a sacred atmosphere. Tam Coc, a gently flowing river, and Mua Cave with its breathtaking panoramic views add to the wonderful charm of Ninh Binh. In Ninh Binh, visitors not only discover the beauty of nature but also immerse themselves in the history and traditional culture. Follow the article below to gain more experiences for your independent trip to Ninh Binh.
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Introduction to Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is a province located in the southern part of the Red River Delta, approximately 90km south of the capital city, Hanoi. It is renowned for its majestic natural beauty, featuring famous sparkling limestone mountains, lush green rice fields, and an extensive cave system that has made the region more appealing than ever. This area is also known as “Halong Bay on land.”
What is Ninh Binh’s climate like?
Ninh Binh, situated in the beautiful land of Vietnam, welcomes many visitors during the spring season for sightseeing and admiring the scenery. The ancient capital of Hoa Lu and Bai Dinh Pagoda become lively under the gentle cherry blossom paintings, turning every trip into an unforgettable spring journey. However, Ninh Binh is captivating throughout the year, with each season bringing a new beauty. Traveling independently to Ninh Binh is a great choice, offering the chance to experience the stunning landscapes of the water caves.
Spring in Ninh Binh
Spring in Ninh Binh lasts from January to March in the lunar calendar, bringing a warm and pleasant atmosphere ideal for spring excursions to enjoy the peaceful and picturesque beauty of the Vietnamese countryside. Early morning and late afternoon, when the gentle sunlight appears next to the mist, create a pure and romantic picture. Independent travelers can choose to explore Ninh Binh during this season for a tranquil and gentle experience of the Northern Vietnamese villages.
Summer in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh has its own unique beauty in each season, and summer, from April to September, marks the transition from spring to summer. During these months, the climate in Ninh Binh becomes pleasant, not too cold or too hot. April and May are particularly wonderful, with warm weather without the intense heat or stifling air like in Hanoi.
Autumn in Ninh Binh
From October to December is the ideal time for travelers from the South to explore the North, as Ninh Binh enters the autumn season. The weather during this time in the Northern region is usually not too hot, providing a cool and clear sky, making it favorable for sightseeing, especially at suburban attractions like Mua Cave, Tam Coc, and Trang An.
Winter in Ninh Binh
Winter in Ninh Binh mainly attracts foreign tourists, offering them a peaceful nature experience amid chilly days. During this period, the weather in Ninh Binh can be humid and cold, sometimes accompanied by light rain. Although winter is not as crowded for tourism as spring, Ninh Binh still maintains its unique beauty. The limestone mountains and remaining rice fields create a silent and mystical painting that many travelers appreciate. If you plan to visit Ninh Binh, be sure to prepare thoroughly for your upcoming independent trip, especially during winter, by bringing the necessary items to endure the cold Northern weather.
Ninh Binh: An Ancient Land with Rich History and Culture
Sinhtour will accompany you to explore this region, with its historical sites and famous cultural landmarks, providing the opportunity to learn about local life. Travelers have the chance to discover ancient temples, historical pagodas, and traces of the ancient capital, such as Hoa Lu, Trang An, and Bai Dinh Pagoda. Additionally, visiting during the early months of the year offers the opportunity to experience traditional festivals that attract a large number of visitors.
In the self-guided travel experience article about Ninh Binh, visitors will be shared with experiences for each season, from the blossoming of spring, the freshness of summer, to the mystical and tranquil atmosphere of autumn and winter that will leave you amazed. The article will also provide suggestions on itineraries, accommodations, and local cuisine to help travelers have the most flexible and comfortable journey when visiting Ninh Binh. If you are planning to explore Ninh Binh, Sinhtour’s article is undoubtedly valuable information to make your trip a rich and memorable experience.
Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh
Travelers can visit Ninh Binh at any time of the year, but the recommended best time is from January to March in the lunar calendar. During this period, many tourists come to explore. The weather begins to warm up gently without being too hot, providing an opportunity for visitors to experience the freshness of spring and participate in local traditional festivals. Especially, tourists can join the spring pilgrimage to visit pagodas and admire the natural beauty at sacred locations.
Furthermore, at the end of May and the beginning of June, when the rice fields in Tam Coc are ripe, it is an excellent time for those who love virtual check-ins. The sparkling golden rice fields, the winding river amidst limestone mountains, create a majestic and unique picture. Each traveler will have different preferences, and hopefully, the self-guided travel experience in Ninh Binh will help you make the most suitable choices when exploring this beautiful destination.
Guide to Traveling to Ninh Binh
Most international tourists typically arrive in Ninh Binh from Hanoi, so DanangPrivateCar.com’s will guide you on how to travel from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
Traveling from the Center of Hanoi to Ninh Binh
- By Bus: Travel from Giap Bat Bus Station; a bus journey takes about 1 hour to reach Ninh Binh. Ticket prices usually range from 80,000 VND to 100,000 VND per way. However, most buses only go to the center of Ninh Binh, from where you may need to use a motorbike taxi or taxi to reach the tourist destinations you want to visit.
- By Private Car: For those who want a quick and convenient trip with door-to-door service, you can book a private car service with a driver in Hanoi from DanangPrivateCar.com. Our private car service will help you have a trip that suits your needs, such as the departure time depending on your decision, and you can stop to visit, rest, etc., on the way. Book your trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by Private Car today.
- By Motorbike: If you want to experience a free and comfortable journey, riding a motorbike is an excellent option. You can follow Google Maps and take the old National Highway 1A; you can reach Ninh Binh in about 3 hours. This allows you to comfortably enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
- By Limousine: Currently, many Limousine companies provide services from Hanoi to Ninh Binh with various departure times such as 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 1:00 PM, with many hourly options. The price per person ranges from 250,000 VND to 300,000 VND per way, depending on the type of vehicle you choose.
Means of transportation in Ninh Binh
Motorbike Rental
Motorbike rental services for tourism in Ninh Binh have been growing rapidly in recent years. This mode of transportation allows tourists the freedom to enjoy the beauty of the area without being constrained by time.
The rental prices for motorbikes range from 100,000 to 180,000 VND depending on the type of bike.
Private Car Rental in Ninh Binh
Renting a private car is suitable for large groups, families, and international tourists. With door-to-door service and flexible scheduling, your trip will be the most comfortable.
DanangPrivateCar.com is a car rental service in Ninh Binh, with a professional team of drivers and extensive experience to make your journey as comfortable as possible. Contact us today for detailed advice.
Taxi
Taxi is also a good idea for a trip to Ninh Binh. Each taxi company has its own pricing regulations, depending on the car model, seating capacity, and distance. Here are some reputable taxi companies you can consider:
- Mai Linh Taxi: 0229 625 2525 – 0229 6251 888
- Ninh Binh Taxi: 0229 3633 788
- Xuan Thanh Taxi: 0229 368 6868
- Thuy Duong Taxi: 0229 372 7272
- Hoa Lu Taxi: 0229 2211 444
What to Prepare When Traveling to Ninh Binh?
To make your trip to Ninh Binh more complete, you should prepare the following items in your luggage:
Personal Documents
- Identity card/citizen identification card or passport, driver’s license. If you are traveling with someone under 14 years old, bring a copy of their birth certificate. These procedures will assist travelers in the check-in process for flights, hotel check-ins, and car rentals, etc.
- If staying with a foreign partner, bring a copy of the marriage certificate according to each hotel’s regulations.
- If you are traveling by train or booking a flight to Hanoi and then going to Ninh Binh, remember to bring your train/flight ticket.
Clothing
- Because you have to move a lot during your trip, you should choose the most comfortable and breathable outfits. If you want to take check-in photos, choose outfits with bright colors such as red, purple, pink, yellow, white, and avoid green outfits as they will not stand out. Also, bring an “ao dai” (traditional Vietnamese dress) and a traditional hat to have unique check-in photos.
Cash
Cash is an indispensable factor in every trip. However, you only need to prepare the amount of money to spend to avoid risks. During the journey, pay attention to safeguarding your belongings. You can also bring an ATM card to reduce the load.
Some Other Essentials
- Personal items: Toothpaste, face towels, razors, cosmetics, etc.
- First aid kit: Motion sickness pills, headache pills, fever-reducing medicine, insect repellent cream, etc.
- Some electronic devices: Phone, camera, power bank, memory card, etc.
Famous Tourist Destinations in Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is renowned for its beautiful attractions that attract thousands of domestic and international tourists every year. Below are some of the highly recommended places to visit when in Ninh Binh. Self-guided travel experience in Ninh Binh will help you have comfortable moments with more time to admire the fascinating scenery.
Trang An Tourism Complex – Ninh Binh
Trang An, a famous destination in Ninh Binh recognized by UNESCO as a world natural heritage, offers tourists an unlimited experience of natural beauty. When stepping into Trang An, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery from a small boat on the green river. Passing through fields and caves, where you can touch the clear water and feel the harmony of nature that has existed for many years. The visit to Trang An usually takes about 2 hours, during which you will explore unique caves, important spiritual sites, and magnificent natural beauty, creating a complete and memorable journey.
Mua Cave Tourism
From the top of Mua Cave, the view opens up with the Ngoc Dong River meandering gently through golden ripe rice fields. This is the golden moment to capture the harmonious beauty between mountains and rice fields, creating fantastic virtual photos.
Mua Cave is not only a majestic mountain but also an ideal sightseeing spot where you can immerse yourself in a peaceful space, blending into the magnificent natural beauty of Ninh Binh. Especially when traveling to Mua Cave in May – June, the summer season, you will witness a paradise on land, where the ripe golden rice fields make the landscape richer and more beautiful than ever.
Cuc Phuong National Park
- Ticket prices: Adults 60,000 VND; children aged 6 – 15: 10,000 VND; seniors (60 years and older): 15,000 VND; and students: 20,000 VND/person.
Cuc Phuong National Park boasts an incredibly diverse ecological system, characteristic of tropical rainforests, covering an area of up to 26,000 hectares. Every May and June mark the breeding season for butterflies. During this time at Cuc Phuong, you will witness the spectacle of millions of butterflies soaring in the sky, with giant ancient trees towering in the forest, some requiring several people to encircle.
Bai Dinh Pagoda Tourism
Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the first places that tourists should not miss when visiting this region. Recognized as a temple holding many records in Southeast Asia, Bai Dinh Pagoda is unique and magnificent, creating a distinctive spiritual picture.
Bai Dinh Pagoda includes the old Bai Dinh Pagoda, the new Bai Dinh Pagoda, the cultural park area, the Buddhist academy, the reception area, and the parking lot, covering a total area of up to 1700 hectares, about 15km from Ninh Binh city. Every year, especially during the first days of the lunar new year, Bai Dinh Pagoda attracts a large number of tourists to visit and enjoy the sacred beauty of this place.
Tam Coc Tourism
Tam Coc, often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” is a tourist destination with magnificent natural scenery that has long attracted many nature and travel enthusiasts. Possessing unique caves and stalactites, Tam Coc is where you have the opportunity to discover the mysteries of Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. The name Tam Coc originates from the harmonious interaction between these three caves, creating an elegant natural space.
Hoa Lu Tourism
Hoa Lu ancient capital is a national-level relic complex, an unmissable historical destination. This place carries important memories of Vietnamese history, especially during the time of Dinh Bo Linh establishing an independent and autonomous foundation after defeating the 12 feudal lords. It is a popular destination for many foreign tourists, especially when visiting Ninh Binh during the Truong Yen festival, which takes place annually in the third lunar month. Tourists have the opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the ancient capital of Hoa Lu during this traditional event, which includes traditional activities and folk art of the local people.
What to Eat in Ninh Binh?
The self-guided travel experience in Ninh Binh will be an unforgettable journey. After each adventure, the special gifts from the land of Ninh Binh are not just material souvenirs but also the flavors, the dishes that you want to share with friends and family. To bring a bit of the flavor of Ninh Binh, here are some incredibly enticing foods that you can consider when traveling to Ninh Binh.
- Burnt Rice (Cơm Cháy): The delicious aroma of Ninh Binh’s burnt rice is a wonderful gift for those who love to savor the distinctive cuisine of this region.
- Fresh Goat Meat (Thịt Dê Tươi): Fresh goat meat is a good choice, especially if you come from the northern region and want to bring back high-quality products from Ninh Binh.
- Goat Fermented Sausage (Nem Dê): Goat fermented sausage or goat nem is an excellent combination of goat meat and characteristic spices, making it a delicious and unique gift.
- Goat Bone Broth (Cao Dê): Goat bone broth is rich in nutrients, especially beneficial for the elderly. Goat bone broth is a meaningful gift for the health of loved ones.
- Kim Son Wine (Rượu Kim Sơn): Kim Son wine is made from herbal yeast and golden rice, creating a unique and charming taste. It is a good choice for those who enjoy tasting specialty wines.
Accommodation in Ninh Binh
Visitors to Ninh Binh not only have the opportunity to admire the unique landscapes, poetic scenery, but also experience wonderful resorts with homestays, villas, bungalows, resorts, etc. Extremely attractive for solo travelers, this is a self-sufficient travel experience in Ninh Binh that you shouldn’t miss to have the most convenient and smooth journey.
Little Tam Coc
- Address: Dam Khe Ngoai, Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh.
- Room rates: From 800,000 VND to 1,500,000 VND/night
Little Tam Coc, a new but already popular choice, attracts many tourists with its impressive and unique space at reasonable prices. Located in an elegant area, Little Tam Coc focuses on creating a luxurious space with classical design, full of sophistication. The floor tiles, walls, doors, and furniture are meticulously cared for, reflecting the Vietnamese culture. Each room here is decorated with a spacious balcony overlooking the lush garden, creating a romantic and relaxing space, especially suitable for couples.
Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel and Resort
- Address: No. 9, Tam Coc Bich Dong Tourist Center, Ninh Binh
- Price range: From 1,500,000 VND to 4,000,000 VND/night
Located near Tam Coc Wharf, Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel and Resort proudly stands as a gem in the midst of the green forest. Rated as a 5-star resort, this resort offers a perfect experience with modern architecture and luxurious interiors, yet still maintains a closeness to the simple and warm beauty of the local culture.
With a system of 4 large restaurants, it promises to satisfy your taste with a variety of dishes from Ninh Binh specialties such as burnt rice, steamed goat meat, etc. Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel and Resort provides a luxurious and classy resort experience in the beautiful land of Tam Coc Bich Dong.
Hoang Hai Ninh Binh Hotel
- Address: 28 Truong Han Sieu, Ninh Binh City
- Price range: 600,000 VND – 1,000,000 VND/room/night
Hoang Hai Hotel is one of the top choices in Ninh Binh, especially with over 40 standard 3-star rooms designed in a modern style for comfortable rest. With its location in the center of Ninh Binh City, this hotel provides convenience for tourists who want to explore famous attractions.
Additional Self-Guided Travel Tips for Ninh Binh
To have the most convenient trip, pay attention to the following:
- Security Awareness: Ninh Binh is known for its good security and the friendliness of the local people. However, travelers should be cautious about loss and avoid carrying too many valuable items when going out to protect their belongings, especially during peak times.
- Cave Exploration: When visiting caves, wear life jackets and always follow the safety instructions of boatmen.
- Appropriate Attire for Climbing: If your itinerary includes destinations such as Bai Dinh, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, where climbing is involved, wear light, comfortable clothing, athletic shoes, and don’t forget to bring water.
- Respectful Clothing at Temples: When visiting temples, dress modestly to avoid unnecessary noise that may affect other tourists.
- Traffic Updates: Stay updated on road conditions, especially if you’re driving or renting a vehicle.
- Complete Documentation for Driving: Ensure you have all the necessary vehicle documents, adhere to traffic laws, and stay in your lane.
Remember these tips to make the most of your trip to Ninh Binh, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
I hope that with the self-guided travel experiences and the information about Ninh Binh in the article above, it will help you have an interesting and complete journey. With complete information on accommodation, sightseeing, dining, etc., it promises to bring you wonderful moments. If you are looking for transportation or need assistance, do not hesitate to contact the hotline below or visit the DanangPrivateCar.com website for detailed information and the most enthusiastic advice. Wishing you a memorable experience in Ninh Binh!
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