Discovering the Hidden Gems Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island

If you’re looking for a unique travel experience, Vietnam’s Ninh Binh province and Cat Ba island are two destinations that should be on your list. From majestic temples to stunning natural landscapes, these locations offer a wealth of cultural and natural wonders.

Who Should Visit Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island?

Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island are ideal for travelers looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Visitors who want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations will find these locations particularly appealing. Travelers who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking will also find plenty to do in Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island.

What Makes Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island Unique?

Ninh Binh is often called the “Ha Long Bay on land” due to its breathtaking natural scenery. The region is dotted with limestone karsts, rivers, and caves, making it a popular spot for boat tours and hikes. Ninh Binh is also home to several ancient temples and pagodas, including the famous Bai Dinh Temple and the Hang Mua Temple, both of which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Cat Ba island, located off the coast of northern Vietnam, is the largest island in Ha Long Bay. The island boasts beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourism and outdoor adventures. Visitors to Cat Ba island can hike through the Cat Ba National Park, take a boat tour of the bay, or go kayaking in the coves and lagoons.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island?

The best time to visit Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This is when the weather is most pleasant, with clear skies and warm temperatures. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect large crowds and higher prices. If you prefer fewer tourists and don’t mind the possibility of rain, consider visiting during the off-season from May to October.

How to Get to Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island?

To get to Ninh Binh from Hanoi, take a train or bus from Hanoi’s Giap Bat bus station or take a private car. The journey takes about two hours. To reach Cat Ba island, you can take a ferry from Hai Phong, which takes around 45 minutes, or take a bus or private car from Hanoi to Hai Phong and then take the ferry.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island

Pros:

• Stunning natural scenery
• Rich cultural heritage
• Abundance of outdoor activities
• Off-the-beaten-path destination

Cons:

• Crowded during peak season
• Limited dining and accommodation options in some areas
• Possible language barrier for non-Vietnamese speakers

Alternatives to Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island

If you’re looking for similar destinations, consider visiting the following locations:

• Ha Long Bay: Another popular destination known for its stunning limestone karsts and crystal-clear waters.
• Sapa: A mountainous region in northern Vietnam known for its hiking trails, rice terraces, and diverse ethnic cultures.
• Hue: A city in central Vietnam with a rich history and many ancient temples, palaces, and tombs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Visiting Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island

1. Plan your itinerary and book accommodations and transportation in advance.
2. Arrive in Hanoi and travel to Ninh Binh by train, bus, or private car.
3. Explore some of Ninh Binh’s top attractions, such as Bai Dinh Temple, Trang An Landscape Complex, and Hang Mua Temple.
4. Travel to Cat Ba island by ferry or bus and explore the island’s beaches, forests, and national park.
5. Take a boat tour of Ha Long Bay, which includes stops at various islands and caves.
6. Return to Hanoi or continue your journey throughout Vietnam.

Comparison between Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island

	Ninh Binh	Cat Ba Island
Attractions	Limestone karsts, rivers, caves, ancient temples and pagodas	Beaches, coves, lagoons, Cat Ba National Park, eco-tourism
Accommodation	Wide range of options including budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts	Limited but expanding options including budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and a few luxury resorts
Accessibility	Two-hour drive or train ride from Hanoi	Ferry ride from Hai Phong or Ha Long Bay	Peak Season	November to April	May to September
Off-Season	May to October	October to April
Activities	Boat tours, hiking, biking, climbing, exploring temples and pagodas	Hiking, kayaking, beach activities, eco-tourism, boat tours
Crowds	Crowded during peak season	Less crowded than Ninh Binh during peak season, although still busy
Natural Scenery	Limestone karsts, rivers, and caves with stunning views	Beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests

Tips for Visiting Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island

• Pack appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking.
• Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Learn some basic Vietnamese phrases to help navigate language barriers.
• Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
• Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting temples and other cultural sites.
• Try local cuisine such as pho, banh mi, and fresh seafood.

The Best Places to Visit in Ninh Binh and Cat Ba Island

Ninh Binh

1. Bai Dinh Temple: One of the largest Buddhist temples in Vietnam, known for its magnificent architecture and beautiful surroundings.
2. Trang An Landscape Complex: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring limestone cliffs, caves, and winding rivers.
3. Hang Mua Temple: A temple located atop a hill that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
4. Tam Coc: A scenic area known as the “Ha Long Bay on land” due to its towering limestone karsts and winding river.
5. Van Long Nature Reserve: A tranquil nature reserve home to endangered species such as the Delacour’s langur.

Cat Ba Island

1. Cat Ba National Park: A national park with diverse flora and fauna, including over 100 species of birds and several endangered primates.
2. Lan Ha Bay: A quieter and less touristy alternative to Ha Long Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches.
3. Cannon Fort: A historic fort offering stunning views of the island and surrounding bay.
4. Hospital Cave: A unique cave used as a hospital during the Vietnam War, now open for tours.
5. Tung Thu Beach: A scenic and tranquil beach with clear water and soft sand.

Conclusion

Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island are two hidden gems in northern Vietnam that offer a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, ancient temples, or stunning landscapes, these destinations have something for everyone. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island can provide an unforgettable travel experience.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to travel to Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island? Yes, both Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island are generally safe for travelers. However, exercise caution when hiking or participating in outdoor activities, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

2. What are some popular dishes to try in Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island? In Ninh Binh, try regional specialties such as goat meat and eel soup. In Cat Ba island, fresh seafood is a must-try, including grilled squid, crab, and fish.

3. Can I visit Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island in one trip? Yes, it is possible to combine visits to Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island in one trip, as they are located relatively close to each other.

4. What is the best way to explore Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island? The best way to explore Ninh Binh and Cat Ba island is by hiring a guide or joining a tour that specializes in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and boat tours.

5. What are some other destinations worth visiting in northern Vietnam? Some other destinations worth visiting in northern Vietnam include Sapa, Ha Long Bay, and the city of Hue.