A Quick Guide to Exploring Ninh Binh in Vietnam
Ninh Binh is the ancient capital of Vietnam, with lots of landscapes and cultural heritage to offer and only 100km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is has recently become a favourite place to explore for many travellers.
Ninh Binh is the ancient capital of Vietnam, with lots of landscapes and cultural heritage to offer and only 100km from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is has recently become a favourite place to explore for many travellers.
Trang An
The must to visit attraction here is Trang An. This UNESCO cultural heritage site attracts many visitors with its distinct river, sandstone mountains and natural landscape. Thanks to its mountain scenery, Trang An was selected as the main location for the movie Kong: Skull Island, a sequel in the King Kong franchise.
Bai Dinh Temple
Another attraction not to miss out on is Bai Dinh temple. It holds the record for the longest La Han statue in Asia and the biggest Maitreya buddha golden statue in South East Asia.
Local Foods
During your trip, make your way to eat Ninh Binh’s fried rice that available anywhere from street vendors to restaurants. Fried rice here is different from others for its unique frying techniques and special local dipping sauces. The ideal fried rice must be yellowish, sticky yet crunchy and sweet.
Tips
- Time to visit: The most ideal traveling time is between January and August, after the Tet holiday.
- Hidden gems: Cuc Phuong national park, Thung Nham province.
- Foods to eat: Steamed goat, fried rice, boiled snail.
- Transportations: Buses are the most popular mean of transportation from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. There are about 10 buses departs throughout the day, soonest at 5am and latest at 23pm. One ride lasts for about 2 hours and cost you at least $4 for one way run.