Ninh Binh 3-Day Tours
- meditoursninhbinh
- May 31, 2024
- 6 min read
Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Halong Bay on Land," is a hidden gem in the northern part of Vietnam. This captivating province boasts of stunning landscapes, rich history, and authentic cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Known for its emerald rice paddies, towering limestone mountains, and shimmering rivers, Ninh Binh promises a journey that will take your breath away. In this 3-day itinerary, we will unveil the beauty and charm of Ninh Binh, taking you through a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture.
1. Explore the Majestic Landscapes of Ninh Binh: A 3-Day Tour Guide
Day 1: Immerse Yourself in the Natural Wonders
Morning: Kickstart your adventure with a visit to Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the southern part of Ninh Binh, this natural wonderland boasts of stunning karst formations, winding rivers, and hidden caves. The best way to explore this breathtaking landscape is by taking a traditional rowing boat ride. As you glide through the waterways, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of the surroundings. The tranquil atmosphere and lush greenery provide the perfect backdrop for some amazing photos.
Afternoon: After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, it's time to embark on a cycling adventure through the idyllic Tam Coc area. With its scenic routes, this area is often referred to as the "Halong Bay on Land." As you pedal along, you will be surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including vast rice fields, charming villages, and iconic limestone peaks. Take a moment to pause and soak in the peaceful atmosphere while interacting with the friendly locals. You can also stop at local farms to get a glimpse of the daily lives of the villagers.
Evening: To end your first day in Ninh Binh, head to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. This historical site is filled with temples, pagodas, and ancient ruins that will take you back in time. Take a walk around the area and learn about the rich history of Ninh Binh.
2. Ninh Binh in 3 Days: A Perfect Blend of History, Nature, and Culture
Day 2: Get an Insight into the Local Culture
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Van Long Nature Reserve, one of the largest wetland areas in the Red River Delta. Take a boat ride through the reserve and witness the diverse flora and fauna that call this place their home. Keep your eyes peeled for rare species like the Delacour's langur or the white-browed crake. You can also spot different types of birds, making it a haven for bird-watchers.
Afternoon: After a morning in nature, it's time to immerse yourself in the local culture. Head to Cuc Phuong National Park, the first national park in Vietnam. This park is not only home to a variety of plant and animal species but also houses the Endangered Primate Rescue Center. Here, you can get up close with some of the rarest primates in the world, including the Delacour's langur, golden-headed langur, and black-shanked douc. You can even volunteer for a day and help feed and care for these endangered animals.
Evening: End your day by attending a traditional water puppet show, a unique form of Vietnamese art that dates back to the 11th century. This cultural performance, accompanied by live music, tells stories of the daily lives of the locals and important events in Vietnamese history. It's a must-see when in Ninh Binh.
Day 3: Discover the Hidden Gems of Ninh Binh
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest pagoda complex in Southeast Asia. The complex is home to many records, including the largest Buddha statue in Asia and the longest corridor of Arhat statues in Vietnam. Take a leisurely walk around the complex and admire the stunning architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
Afternoon: After lunch, it's time to explore some hidden gems in Ninh Binh. Head to Hang Mua, also known as "Dancing Cave," for a panoramic view of Ninh Binh's landscape. To reach the top, you have to climb 500 steps, but the breathtaking view from the peak is worth every step. You can also visit Thung Nham Bird Garden, a lesser-known destination that houses various bird species, including pelicans, cranes, and storks. Take a boat ride through the bird garden and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Evening: End your adventure in Ninh Binh by visiting the ancient village of Van Lam, located on the banks of the Ngo Dong River. This traditional village is known for its skilled artisans who have been making beautiful embroidery pieces for generations. You can watch them at work and even try your hand at embroidering.
3. Ninh Binh in 3 Days: A Journey Through Time and Natural Beauty
Here is a breakdown of the estimated costs for this 3-day itinerary in Ninh Binh:
Activities | Estimated Cost (per person) |
Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex | $10 |
Cycling Adventure in Tam Coc | $5 |
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital | $2 |
Van Long Nature Reserve | $8 |
Cuc Phuong National Park | $10 |
Water Puppet Show | $5 |
Bai Dinh Pagoda | Free |
Hang Mua | $3 |
Thung Nham Bird Garden | $8 |
Ancient Village of Van Lam | $2 |
*Note: These costs are approximate and may vary depending on the exchange rate and season.
You can find varying accommodation options in Ninh Binh, ranging from budget-friendly homestays to luxurious resorts. Some popular choices are Tam Coc Family Hotel, The Reed Hotel, and Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh.
As for transportation, you can hire a private car or join a group tour. For a more authentic experience, you can also rent a motorbike and explore Ninh Binh at your own pace.
4. Suggested 3-Day Itinerary for Ninh Binh Tour
Day 1: Hanoi – Bai Dinh Pagoda – Mua Caves (Lunch / Dinner)
08:00-08:30: Pick up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter or the Hanoi Opera House, then depart for Ninh Binh.
10:00: Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, renowned for its numerous records: sprawling over 107 hectares, it houses the Tam The and Phap Chu temples, with a colossal bronze Buddha statue and three 50-ton Tam The statues.
12:00: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
13:30: Proceed to Mua Caves. Trek through winding paths surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful rock formations. Conquer the 500 steps to the peak of Mua Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Hoa Lu’s vast landscapes.
17:00: Return to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.
18:30: Dinner and free time to explore. Overnight stay in Ninh Binh.
Day 2: Ninh Binh – Hoa Lu – Trang An – Tam Chuc (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)
Morning: Breakfast and leisure time.
08:00: Check out from the hotel. Transfer to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th century. Visit the temples of King Dinh and King Le, as well as the beautiful Truong Yen Valley.
Continue the journey: Head to Trang An, embark on a boat to explore the breathtaking Trang An Eco-tourism Complex, a mystical landscape of limestone cliffs and winding rivers. Visit various caves with unique limestone formations.
13:00: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
14:00: Transfer to Tam Chuc Spiritual Tourism Complex. Start by visiting Thuy Dinh Guest House, where you can admire panoramic views and take photos.
Afternoon: Take a boat ride to explore Tam Chuc Lake and Tam Chuc Pagoda, known for its thousands of meticulously crafted stone statues. Climb the 299 stone steps to Ngoc Pagoda, offering stunning panoramic views.
19:00: Dinner at a restaurant. Overnight stay at Tam Chuc Guest House.
Day 3: Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda – Return to Hanoi (Breakfast / Lunch)
Morning: Breakfast and leisure time for relaxation and photography.
10:00: Depart for Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda in Thanh Liem District, Ha Nam Province. This serene and beautiful pagoda amidst pine forests offers a peaceful and spiritual experience.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Hanoi.
18:00: Arrive back in Hanoi, concluding the tour.
Ninh Binh may not be as well-known as other destinations in Vietnam, but it is undoubtedly a hidden paradise that should not be missed. This 3-day itinerary will take you through the best of Ninh Binh, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. From exploring natural wonders and getting an insight into the local culture to discovering hidden gems, Ninh Binh promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you wanting more. So, pack your bags, follow this guide, and get ready to discover the charm of Ninh Binh.
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