Approximately two hours away from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is one of Vietnam’s most striking destinations. Breathtaking boat rides and lush countryside are just half of the appeal: the area is also rich in cultural treasures and is listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site. See the highlights of Ninh Binh with this itinerary in a single adventurous day.
Soak up panoramic views at Hang Mua
Discover the natural beauty of the countrysideHang Mua Peak. It’s 500 steps up, but the steep hike is worth the effort. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of Tam Coc valley below, with the faint outlines of karsts stretching toward the horizon. After taking pictures, wander around and you’ll find statues of Vietnam’s four sacred animals. Back at the base of the mountain, treat yourself to an ice-cream in Hang Mua cave.
Hop on a Bicycle tour
A bike tour is always a great idea in Vietnam. In Ninh Binh, you’ll get to know the backroads of Ninh Binh and snag an inside look at how the people in this area live. From the seat of a bicycle, Ninh Binh’s towering limestone karsts and vast paddy fields whizz by in a flash of vibrant green and dark grey, as does the local wildlife: climbing goats, placid water buffalo, and flocks of ducks,…
>>> Full-Day Ninh Binh Tour from Hanoi Small Group of 11 Boat Bike
Explore about lifestyle, agriculture of Vietnamese farmers
Visit a local farmer’s house, be warmly welcomed with tradition tea and peanut candy. Widen knowledge about a typical farmers’ life in Vietnam, about the main business VAC (Garden-Pond-Cage). Besides, you will have a better understanding about worshiping culture of Vietnamese family.
Indulge with a local lunch
Lunch may be an array of local specialities, including a Ninh Binh favourite: goat meatballs. Take in the lovely scenery all around as you enjoy an authentic Vietnamese meal, complete with fish cakes on lemongrass skewers, stir-fried greens and steamed rice.
Drift with the current in Trang An
Your next stop is the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. Clamber aboard a rowboat and settle in for a stunning ride. With impressive, jungle-covered karsts towering above, listen in as your guide shares stories about the people that lived in these mountains in prehistoric times, as well as those who still farm the area.
See ancient history in Hoa Lu
These grounds were the seat of Vietnam’s first feudal dynasty and saw an assassination plot, two reigns and a transfer to Hanoi 42 years later. Today Hoa Lu is surrounded by limestone karsts and natural moats.
Take a few minutes to wander around this centuries-old site, and admire its temples, pagodas, and artefacts. Your guides will fill you in on the fascinating details of Hoa Lu’s history and offer tidbits about local life in the area.
>>> Ninh Binh Full-day at UNESCO Site by A Private Tour From Hanoi
