Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh has evolved into a major travel centre in recent years. Its sudden transformation from sleepy hamlet to tourist magnet is thanks to its proximity to nearby Tam Coc – known to travelers as ‘Halong Bay without water’ or ‘Halong Bay on the rice paddies’ (9km), Hoa Lu – the ancient capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and early Le dynasties (12km), Kenh Ga floating village – one of the best places in the northern Vietnam to see river life (21km) and Cuc Phuong National Park (45km).
Although it is certainly possible to vsit these sights as a day trip from Hanoi, many travelers choose to overnight in Ninh Binh or the national park to appreciate the scenery at a more leisurely pace.