Ayşe Akalın
Just two hours from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is one of Vietnam’s most captivating destinations. Often called “Ha Long Bay on Land,” the province enchants visitors with its dramatic riverine landscapes, where sheer limestone mountains rise from emerald paddies. But Ninh Binh is more than just scenery: it’s rich in cultural treasures, recognized as a UNESCO Heritage Site, and offers experiences that range from peaceful boat rides to awe-inspiring temple visits.
Next, head to the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. Being threaded through the caves on a small boat, with only the sound of oars and water cascading off rock walls, feels surreal. Clamber aboard a rowboat and settle in for a stunning ride. Jungle-covered karsts tower above, while your guide shares stories of prehistoric inhabitants and local farmers who still work these lands. Gliding silently through these caves, you feel as if time itself has stopped—the only sensation is lightness, a moment of pure presence.
Trang An even has a touch of Hollywood magic: some scenes from the 2017 movie Kong: Skull Island were filmed here. Those lush, mysterious landscapes in the film are the very karsts and caves of Trang An and the surrounding Ninh Binh region.
The best way to immerse yourself in Ninh Binh’s natural beauty is with a paddleboat ride through Tam Coc’s flooded cave karst system, part of the larger Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. Glide along the Ngo Dong River aboard a bamboo sampan, threading your way past towering limestone cliffs and tranquil paddies. For a panoramic perspective, climb the steps to Mua Cave, where sweeping vistas of mountains, rice fields, and rivers make every step worth the effort.
Ninh Binh is also home to a wealth of history and sacred sites. The Dinh and Le Temples, two of the province’s best-preserved national treasures, showcase traditional Vietnamese architecture and are among the top ten must-see attractions in the region. For a truly awe-inspiring experience, visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia. Wander among thousands of Buddha statues, admire elaborately carved bells, and ascend the 13-story watchtower to soak in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Plan to spend several hours here—especially during Buddhist holidays, when the site fills with pilgrims
Step back in time at Hoa Lu Ancient Village, just a 20-minute drive from Trang An. Once Vietnam’s very first capital, Hoa Lu flourished during the 10th and 11th centuries, protected naturally by the surrounding karst landscape. Today, only a few structures remain, but they exude a timeless atmosphere. Wander through leaning archways, explore courtyards lined with layered banyan trees, and admire the weathered brickwork that tells stories of centuries past. Every corner of this site offers a tangible connection to Vietnam’s early history, allowing visitors to imagine life in the nation’s first capital.
No trip to Ninh Binh is complete without sampling its signature dishes. Com chay, a crispy fried rice crust, can be eaten as a snack or dipped into a warm stew. De tai chanh, the province’s most popular protein, features tender goat meat lightly cured in lemon juice and tossed with chilies, lime leaves, and sesame seeds. For a truly local breakfast, try banh cuon: delicate rice paper rolls filled with diced pork and mushrooms, served with fresh mint and mild fish sauce.
Emeralda Tam Coc
Resort
Okm
Restaurant
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