Ninh Binh, often called the “Halong Bay on Land,” is a must-visit destination in Vietnam. We visited this mesmerizing place in December and spent two days soaking in its natural beauty, history, and adventure. From breathtaking limestone karsts to peaceful boat rides and scenic bike trips, Ninh Binh had everything we could ask for. Here’s a detailed Ninh Binh travel guide based on our experience!
Where We Stayed: Tuyet’s Homestay
For our trip, we stayed at Tuyet’s Homestay, a beautiful and cozy place with warm hospitality. The location was perfect—it was within walking distance from Mua Caves and surrounded by lush greenery. The peaceful ambiance and comfortable stay made our trip even more enjoyable.
Exploring the Beauty of Ninh Binh
1. Mua Caves – The Ultimate Adventure
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting Mua Caves. It was an adventurous climb of over 500 steep steps, but the effort was worth it. At the top, we were greeted by a massive dragon statue and a breathtaking panoramic view of Tam Coc and the river below. The scenery was absolutely surreal, making it one of the best viewpoints in Vietnam.
Just beside the caves, we explored a large lotus garden, which was incredibly beautiful and added to the charm of the place.
2. Trang An Boat Ride – A Serene Experience
Our next stop was Trang An, a UNESCO-listed site known for its scenic boat rides. As we glided through the emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone mountains, we passed through stunning caves and historic temples. The peaceful boat journey was a highlight of our trip, offering an unforgettable experience.
3. Tam Coc – Breathtaking River Views
Another must-visit place was Tam Coc, famous for its picturesque boat rides. From the top of Mua Caves, we could see the winding river cutting through golden rice fields and limestone peaks. The beauty of this place was straight out of a postcard.
4. Hoa Lu – A Glimpse into History
We also visited Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Exploring the historic temples and learning about Vietnam’s rich past was a great cultural experience. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings made it a worthwhile visit.
Biking Around Ninh Binh
One of the best ways to explore Ninh Binh is by bike, and we loved riding through the countryside. The landscapes were stunning, and the ride was peaceful, allowing us to soak in the beauty of nature. A Ninh Binh travel guide is incomplete without mentioning how biking lets you experience the true essence of this destination.
Where We Ate: Indian Curry Restaurant
After all the adventure, we satisfied our hunger at Indian Curry Restaurant, which served delicious vegetarian and Indian dishes. It was conveniently located near our homestay, making it an easy and satisfying meal option.
Final Thoughts
Our 2-day, 1-night trip to Ninh Binh was nothing short of magical. From thrilling climbs at Mua Caves to peaceful boat rides in Trang An and scenic bike rides, every moment was unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, Ninh Binh should definitely be on your list!
Have you been to Ninh Binh? Share your experiences in the comments!
