Ninh Binh

Enjoying the tranquillity of nature is by far the biggest appeal of visiting Ninh Binh. A boat trip through Trang An Grottoes allows you to experience all of the elements together. The picturesque cave and river complex was awarded the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014 not only for its outstanding beauty but also its cultural and historical significance. The journey on the small sampan takes you along the still waterways lined with lotus and waterlily. As the boats approach the rock face, they disappear into tiny openings into the water-worn caves that cut through the rock. The journey takes in rivers, caves and beautiful temples, and you are sure to feel weightless as you float along in the afternoon sun.

Tam Coc is another area of stunning beauty that takes in all the elements of the environment but this time with the added bonus of the ever evolving rice paddies. The river Ngo Dong, flanked by the fertile rice paddies whose patchwork of greens change with the seasons, slips between the imposing peaks and through the low-lying caves. Here the boats that meander along the silky river appear tiny, the skyline dominated by tremendous peaks which echo into the horizon.

The Van Long Nature Reserve is another opportunity to board a sampan and voyage through the incredible landscape of Ninh Binh. The large open waters are hemmed in by grand mountains creating a wildlife haven. The waters, caves and surrounding forests are home to many fascinating species including white shorts langurs, Asian black bears, Bengal slow loris and catfish. Hundreds of birds also flock to the reserve during the dry season as part of their migratory route filling the air with the sound of birds song and the flurry of feathers. The reserve also has 32 different grottoes to explore each one offering its own unique beauty.

Another stunning cave not to be missed in Ninh Binh is Hang Mua. The main attraction here is definitely the view from the top of the mountain. Next to the cave is a set of stairs which seems to climb high up into the clouds, twisting around the edge of the peak. The trek up the hundreds of stone steps is definitely worth the effort as the view from the top is truly astounding. In one direction you can see the patchwork of fields and rice paddies and in the other direction, the towering karst peaks which fade into the horizon. This view is best enjoyed at sunset when the beauty is illuminated by the glow of the sun. The majestic dragon which guards the peak creates an amazing silhouette against the changing hues of the sky as the sun dips down behind the mountains.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam Travel – The way to Mua cave.

Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, uncovers the rural area’s important past. During the 10th century, Ninh Binh was home to the capital of Dai Co Viet, an ancient Vietnamese Kingdom. Although once a grand citadel, time and weather have taken their tolls on the area and very little of the original structure remains. Now visitors can enjoy strolling amongst the temples that have been erected in honour of the ancient capital’s leaders. As well as offering a glimpse into Ninh Binh’s significant history, the temples also showcase some traditional architecture set against some stunning backs.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam Travel – Hoa Lu, a vestige of the very old dynasty.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam Travel – Thung Nham Bird Garden.

Ninh Binh has the added appeal of independent exploration. It is easy to spend an afternoon cycling along the winding roads taking in the views of the rivers and mountains which punctuate the scenery. There are plenty of small pools to stop by which often have herds of goats also stopping for a spot of refreshment. Because Ninh Binh is not as well established as a tourist destination as some of Vietnam’s other beauty spots, there are plenty of opportunities feel alone with the beauty of nature, taking a quiet moment to drink in the fresh air and feel refreshed. For those who prefer to travel with an engine, Ninh Binh is also a great place to explore by motorbike.

Bich Dong Pagoda is a complex of three structures which emerge from the cliff face. Set into the edge of a Mountain, the site is believed to have been chosen by two monks Thich Tri Kieu and Thich Tri, and it is easy to see why. Its name translates to Pagoda of the Emerald Grotto and is believed to have come from Nguyen Nghiem, the father of a famous Vietnamese poet. It is clear to see where he took his inspiration from as the greenery that clings to the mountain is reflected in the mirror-like water creating an emerald glow around the pagodas.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam Must See – Bich Dong Pagoda.

Chua Bai Dinh is an example of a grand modern Buddhist complex which features a number of structures built between 2003 and 2010. The buildings have been skillfully constructed with the finest natural materials showcasing stone carving, bronze work and woodwork. The complex is watched over by a giant bronze Buddha who sits in Phap Chu Hall.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam Travel – Bai Dinh Temple, an example of modern Buddhist architecture.

As well as some beautiful Buddhist temples, Ninh Binh also has a famous cathedral. Construction of Phat Diem Cathedral began in 1875 and took roughly 24 years to build. The architecture features elements of a traditional cathedral overlaid with a traditional Vietnamese style resulting in an elegant yet imposing structure. The cathedral was forced to close its doors in 1954 when the communists took power over Vietnam, and the Catholics were forced to flee south. It later suffered damage from bombing in 1972 but has since been restored. The Cathedral’s past in combination with the gothic elements of its design give the area a tranquil yet solemn ambience. Visitors can now enjoy the peaceful atmosphere whilst taking in the cathedral, lake and stone church.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam Travel – Phat Diem Cathedral.

Each year Ninh Binh holds a grand festival to celebrate its former glory days as the capital. From the 10-13th of March in the lunar calendar, the Truong Yen Festival takes place to honour the two kings Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai who established the capital. The celebration begins with a water procession in which a ceremonial bamboo adorned with wishes is rowed along the river in traditional dragon boats. Once in the middle of the river, rituals are completed, and then the worshipping ceremonies at the temples begin. After the ceremonies, the celebrations continue with traditional games, singing and dancing.

From the first to the third lunar months, the Bai Dinh Temple lights up with the colours of festivities as crowds of people pilgrimage to the New Year’s festival. Throughout the months the air at the temple becomes thick with incense smoke, and the sound of traditional music and singing reverberates amongst the temples. It is fantastic time to take in the true atmosphere of the temple with people joining together to celebrate their beliefs.

On the 18th day of the third lunar month, there is a festival in honour of Saint Quy Minh Dai Vuong. It is held in the remarkably beautiful setting of the Trang An complex and is a chance for local people to pray for health and prosperity. The usually still quiet waters of Trang An are brought to life by the colourful floating processions and musical performances which pay respects to the saint who defended Ninh Binh during the time of the 18th Hung King.