Things to Do in Ninh Binh

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a stunning network of limestone karsts, caves, and waterways. Take a traditional rowboat through emerald rivers passing through 12 caves and past ancient temples. The 2-3 hour boat tour offers multiple route options, each showcasing different caves and pagodas. This is where Kong: Skull Island was filmed, adding to its mystique. The most peaceful and well-organized boat experience in Ninh Binh.

The most iconic viewpoint in Ninh Binh, offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Tam Coc valley, limestone peaks, and the winding river below. Climb 500 stone steps to reach the dragon statue at the summit. The effort is rewarded with Instagram-worthy shots that have become synonymous with Ninh Binh. Best visited at sunrise or sunset when the golden light transforms the landscape.

Known as the Halong Bay on land, Tam Coc offers a scenic 2-hour boat ride through three natural caves carved through limestone mountains. Local rowers paddle using their feet while you drift past vibrant green rice paddies. The tour follows the Ngo Dong River under towering karst formations. While more touristy than Trang An, the scenery is equally stunning, especially during rice harvest season in May-June and September-October.

The largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia, spanning 539 hectares with impressive architecture and countless Buddha statues. Features the 100-meter tall Bao Thap Tower with panoramic views, a 36-ton bronze Buddha, and the world's largest bronze Buddha statue. You can explore on foot or rent electric carts. A pilgrimage site for Vietnamese Buddhists and an architectural marvel for visitors.

The first capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties in the 10th-11th centuries. This atmospheric historical site features well-preserved temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh. Wander through leaning archways, layered banyan trees, and rolling brick courtyards that transport you back in time. The surrounding limestone mountains once provided natural fortress protection for the ancient citadel.

An 18th-century pagoda complex built into a limestone cave, considered one of Vietnam's most beautiful pagodas. The ornate gate over a lotus pond is one of Ninh Binh's most photographed spots, especially spectacular when lotuses bloom in summer. Climb the stone steps through three cave temples offering stunning views of the surrounding karst landscape. A peaceful spiritual site just minutes from Tam Coc.

Vietnam's oldest national park, established in 1962, covering over 22,000 hectares of ancient rainforest. Home to diverse wildlife including rare langurs, reptiles, and over 300 bird species. Visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, explore ancient caves, and hike trails to thousand-year-old trees. A refreshing escape into pristine nature, located about an hour from Tam Coc.

A rescue sanctuary operated by FOUR PAWS that provides refuge for bears rescued from bile farms. Visitors can observe bears living in natural enclosures and learn about animal welfare issues in Vietnam. An educational and heartwarming experience that supports important conservation work. The sanctuary offers guided tours that explain each bear's rescue story and rehabilitation journey.