THINGS TO DO // NINH BINH

Less popular than its sister to the northeast, Halong Bay, but just as stunning and diverse are the still hidden treasures Ninh Binh and Tam Coc. Next to Guilin and Halong it has one of the most charming an beautiful Kart Mountain sceneries of the world. I urge you to visit those places before it gets over run by tourism - what will definitely happen, as soon as the amazing pictures spread. I spent two days there which was enough, but you could also choose to have a recovery vacation, since there a lot of beautiful home stays on the very peaceful country side. Ninh Binh was not half as magical as expected it was double, triple - you know what I mean. Rent a scooter and explore it's stunning, breathtaking places. They are all very close to the city center, you could also do it on a bicycle.

HOW TO GET THERE

There are various ways to get to Ninh Binh, depending on where you are coming from.

From Hanoi (2h)

by train (SE5, SE7, SE19)

by bus from the south bus terminal (Giap Bat), only 70'000VND

From Halong Bay (5h)

by bus, a lot of bus companies offer different prices and comforts

From Cat Ba

by bus is the most comfortable way - check out the "DISCOVERY BUS" to Ninh Binh

TRANG AN, TAM COC, VAN LONG, CUC PHUONG

I'd highly recommend you to stay somewhere on the countryside since it is very beautiful, peaceful and you have awesome views, especially during golden hour. Otherwise the Central Backpacker Hostel was awesome, it's in the city center but in reach of all attractions.

TRANG AN

TRAN GAN GROTTOES
HOA LU TEMPLE
BAI DINH PAGODA
THUNG NHAM BIRD GARDEN

TAM COC

TAM COC RICE FIELDS
TAM COC BOAT RIDE
BICH DONG PAGODA
HANG MUA TEMPLE

VAN LONG

VAN LONG NATURE RESERVE
DICH LONG CAVE & PAGODA

CUC PHUONG

CUC PHUONG NATIONAL PARK
PHAT DIEM CATHEDRAL

TRANG AN

BOAT RIDE

Rowing down the vivid Emerald River, getting lost in a wonderland of Karst Mountains, Evergreen Jungles, Ancient Temples, Lush Rice Fields and Mystical Caves - it was one of my absolute favorite things during my Vietnam trip. I had no idea what would expect me, as suddenly our boat entered a tiny cave, with the ceiling hanging so low, we had to sit on the floor of the boat instead of the benches (route number 3). We were rowing 1km below mystical limestone spears hanging down from the roof, without the kerosene lamp illumination it would have been just darkness. Sometimes the only sound we could hear, were the flapping wings and clicking calls of the invincible bats above us. It was breathtaking, terrifying and intriguing.

INFORMATION

Entrance Fee 200 VND, Parking Fee 15 VND

There are 3 tour options, the price and duration are the same. Since you'll be out in the open sun for around 3 hours, make sure you're skin is covered, get one of the fancy hats or even an umbrella. There are some opportunities to buy water and snacks, but I recommend you to bring it along as well.

1. Route 1 – 9 caves, 3 temples

This route is designed for those passionate about geology. It is the only tour that will take you through that many caves and has the most attractions of all routes.

2. Route 2 – 4 caves, 3 temples

This route is the most balanced one with a fair number of caves and temples to visit.

3. Route 3 – 3 caves, 3 temples, Kong Island

If you want to enjoy the limestone mountains, then this route is definitely for you. Plus, there's a stop in the Aboriginal Village where Skull Island was filmed. Most of the tour will be out in the open air.

HOA LU

Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Park your scooter outside and explore it by foot. The historical site consists of temples, ponds and beautiful views.

TAM COC

BICH DONG PAGODA

Passing through Tam Coc, you'll soon reach the Bich Dong Pagoda. It is marvelous, built into a cave and with a stunning view from the top.

HANG MUA TEMPLE & CAVE

The Hang Mua Temple is getting more and more popular, the view from the top is just breathtaking. And the Eco Village on its foot offers a lot to do and, kinda funny, also instagram photo spots.