For anyone interested in Asian history and culture, Vietnam is a must-visit destination. From its ancient ruins to contemporary cities, you will get an experience of a lifetime while in this country. One of the most popular destinations for travelers is the Southwestern province of Ninh Binh. A landlocked province, Ninh Binh used to be a trading post in ancient times. Today, it’s one of the most visited places in the country for its rich cultural diversity, natural beauty and friendly people. Hanoi - Ninh Binh Tours is home to beautiful lakes and waterfalls; caves and limestone hills; ancient Buddhist temples and modern apartment buildings; well-preserved French colonial architecture; colorful markets and handicraft shops selling locally grown handicrafts; weaving villages with sacred Dai ethnic minority villages; as well as some top hotels that welcome visitors every year. Whether you want to discover the history behind some of these attractions or just want to relax after your busy day in Hanoi, there are many ways to explore Ninh Binh. Here is our guide on how you can make the most of your time in this picturesque area:
Plan your trip to Ninh Binh
One of the most popular destinations for travelers, Ninh Binh is also one of the most accessible. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are just a short drive away, while Hanoi’s Nightlife and Beach Strip are just an hour or so away. This makes it an ideal place to start your trip to Vietnam. You can easily get around on public transportation and tour many attractions in a single day.
Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and Ang Son Pagoda
These two UNESCO World Heritage sites are easily the most popular stops on any Ninh Binh tour. The Thien Mu Pagoda, also known as the Southern Manmade Hill, is the largest Buddhist pagoda in the world. It was first built in the 740s and is considered a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture. Many Buddhist temples and churches are also located in Ninh Binh, and the area is known for its spiritual peace and calm, particularly at sunset.
The Ang Son Pagoda is perhaps a little less well-known, but it is just as important as the Thien Mu Pagoda. It is the largest Catholic Church in Asia and the third-largest in the world. It was built in the 1680s and is considered one of the most beautiful examples of French Colonial architecture. Visit either pagoda and you will be in awe of its architectural beauty and size.
Be sure to visit Do Gioc Ha Cave and Huyen Thanh Hai Waterfall
If you have time and want to learn more about the area, take a Cultural Tour of Ninh Binh. This tour is another must-do in this beautiful area. It will take you to a village near the top of a hill, where you can experience traditional Dai culture. You will see beautiful houses made out of earth and rocks, and several fascinating and unique waterfalls, including one that you can walk behind the houses and into the gorge to experience another culture.
If you have time and want to learn more about the area, take a Cultural Tour of Ninh Binh
If you are interested in learning more about the culture and history of Ninh Binhi, a cultural tour of Ninh Binh is a must. The village of Hoa Lai is rich in culture and history thanks to its proximity to the famous and powerful Buddhist and Catholic monasteries. Traditionally, the inhabitants of this village were known as the Lai Clan. The village was famously captured by American troops in Vietnam War. The imposing, whitewashed Lai Clan Church is one of the most famous and recognizable structures in Vietnam. Hoa Lai is also home to the fascinating Huyen Thanh Hai Waterfall, which splits the monastery grounds into two and cascades through a beautiful valley to merge again with the Hoa Lai River.