Ninh Binh (Tam Coc): The Complete Guide
Visiting Ninh Binh in Vietnam offers travelers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh features stunning limestone karsts rising dramatically from emerald-green rice paddies and winding rivers. One of the highlights is a boat trip through the Tam Coc or Trang An landscapes, where you glide past towering cliffs and serene caves, experiencing the tranquil beauty of the region up close. The scenic beauty is matched by the historical and cultural attractions, such as the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where visitors can explore temples and ruins dating back to the Dinh and Le dynasties.
Beyond its natural and historical allure, Ninh Binh also offers a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. Visitors can bike through picturesque villages, interact with friendly locals, and witness traditional farming practices. The area is home to several significant religious sites, including the Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest Buddhist complexes in Vietnam, featuring an impressive array of statues and stupas. For those seeking adventure, the climb to the top of Hang Mua provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire region, rewarding the effort with one of the most iconic vistas in Vietnam. Ninh Binh is a destination that promises both relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the northern part of the country.
History of Ninh Binh (Tam Coc)
Early History of Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh’s history dates back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence of human settlement in the region for thousands of years. The area’s fertile land and strategic location made it an important site for early Vietnamese civilizations.
Ninh Binh as the Ancient Capital
In the 10th and 11th centuries, Ninh Binh served as the capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and early Le Dynasties. The ancient capital, Hoa Lu, was established by King Dinh Tien Hoang and later expanded by King Le Dai Hanh. This period saw the construction of significant structures and the establishment of Vietnam’s early political foundations.
Ninh Binh During the Feudal Period
During the feudal period, Ninh Binh remained an important region due to its strategic location and agricultural productivity. It was a key area for rice production and a vital link in the country’s transportation and communication networks. Various feudal lords controlled the area, contributing to its cultural and economic development.
Ninh Binh Under French Colonial Rule
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ninh Binh came under French colonial rule. The French introduced new infrastructure, including roads and railways, to exploit the region’s resources and integrate it into their colonial economy. Despite colonial exploitation, local resistance movements played a significant role in the struggle for independence.
Modern Ninh Binh
Today, Ninh Binh is a vibrant province known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its scenic karst formations, historical sites, and traditional villages. Efforts to preserve its natural beauty and historical significance continue, making Ninh Binh a key destination for both domestic and international travelers.
Visiting Ninh Binh (Tam Coc) for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Ninh Binh (Tam Coc) on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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9 Best places to See in Ninh Binh (Tam Coc)
This complete guide to Ninh Binh (Tam Coc) not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Ninh Binh (Tam Coc) and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Mua Cave Viewpoint
Location: Viewpoint Đầm sen Hang múa, Ninh Xuân, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình, Vietnam | Hours: Daily 6:00 AM -7:00 PM | Price: 100,000 VND per person ($4.2 USD) | Distance: 4.5km
Visiting Mua Cave Viewpoint
Tam Coc
Location: Tam Cốc – Bích Động - Ninh Bình, Việt Nam, Ninh Hải, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình, Vietnam | Distance: 5.4km
Visiting Tam Coc
Thai Vi Temple
Location: Thai Vi Temple, Ninh Hải, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình, Vietnam | Price: Free | Distance: 5.5km
Visiting Thai Vi Temple
Trang An Caves & River Tour
Location: Tràng An, Đông Thành, Ninh Bình, Vietnam | Hours: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm | Price: 250,000 VND/person | Website | Distance: 5.8km
Visiting Trang An Caves & River Tour
Am Tien Pagoda Cave (Tuyệt Tình Cốc)
Visiting Am Tien Pagoda Cave (Tuyệt Tình Cốc)
Bich Dong Pagoda
Location: Bich Dong Pagoda, Ninh Hải, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình, Vietnam | Price: To visit Bich Dong Pagoda, you need to buy a ticket to the Tam Coc - Bich Dong tourism complex, which costs VND 250,000 per adult and VND 120,000 per child. | Distance: 7.1km
Visiting Bich Dong Pagoda
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Location: Hoa Lư Ancient Capital, Trường Yên, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình, Vietnam | Hours: 7 am to 5 pm. | Price: 20,000 VND for each person | Distance: 7.8km
Visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Bai Dinh Pagoda
Location: Bai Dinh Pagoda, Gia Sinh, Gia Viễn District, Ninh Bình, Vietnam | Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. | Price: Free | Distance: 11.7km
Visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda
Cuc Phuong National Park
Location: Cuc Phuong National Park, Nho Quan District, Ninh Bình, Vietnam | Hours: 06.00am – 05.30pm | Price: 50.000 VND/Person | Distance: 38.8km
Visiting Cuc Phuong National Park
Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh (Tam Coc)
Visiting Ninh Binh in Spring (Best)
Spring, from March to May, is the best time to visit Ninh Binh. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The landscape is lush and green, making it ideal for exploring the outdoor attractions and enjoying boat trips through the scenic waterways.
Visiting Ninh Binh in Summer
Summer, from June to August, brings warm temperatures and high humidity to Ninh Binh. The weather can be hot, with temperatures often reaching 35°C (95°F). While this season sees more rain, it is also a great time to witness the vibrant green rice paddies and enjoy the less crowded tourist spots.
Visiting Ninh Binh in Autumn
Autumn, from September to November, is a favorable time to visit Ninh Binh. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). The rice fields turn golden, offering picturesque views, and the clear skies are perfect for photography and sightseeing.
Visiting Ninh Binh in Winter
Winter, from December to February, is the coolest season in Ninh Binh, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). While it can be chilly, this season provides a peaceful atmosphere and fewer tourists, making it a great time to explore the cultural and historical sites without the crowds.
Average Temperatures in Ninh Binh (Tam Coc)
- January 22°C 72°F 4
- February 28°C 82°F 2
- March 28°C 83°F 5
- April 31°C 89°F 9
- May 35°C 94°F 21
- June 35°C 96°F 21
- July 35°C 96°F 32
- August 33°C 91°F 43
- September 32°C 90°F 36
- October 30°C 86°F 24
- November 28°C 83°F 8
- December 24°C 75°F 3
How to get to Ninh Binh (Tam Coc)
Traveling to Ninh Binh by Train
You can travel to Ninh Binh by taking a train from Hanoi. Trains run regularly from Hanoi Railway Station to Ninh Binh Railway Station, with the journey taking approximately two hours. The train offers a comfortable and scenic ride through the Vietnamese countryside.
Traveling to Ninh Binh by Bus
Several bus companies operate services from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. The journey by bus typically takes around two hours, and buses depart from various locations in Hanoi, arriving at Ninh Binh’s central bus station or directly at popular tourist areas.
Traveling to Ninh Binh by Car
Driving to Ninh Binh is an option for those who prefer the flexibility and comfort of a private vehicle. The drive from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes about 1.5 to 2 hours via the Hanoi-Ninh Binh Expressway. Renting a car or hiring a private driver allows you to explore the area at your own pace.
Traveling to Ninh Binh by Motorbike
For the adventurous, traveling to Ninh Binh by motorbike is a popular choice. The journey from Hanoi takes around two to three hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This option provides the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and enjoy the scenic routes.
