1. Hoa Lu – The ancient capital
Ninh Binh is well-known as the land of Hoa Lu capital, where was chosen by the 3 periods of early emperors throughout almost a half of century (968-1010). Hoa Lu was chosen as the Vietnam capital because of its special locations. It is surrounded by rugged mountains, Hoang Long River and immense field which is advantageous for defense in feudal time.
In the past time, people said that Hoa Lu capital was extremely magnificent, but its relics nearly disappeared. In steads, Dinh-Le temples were erected which worships 2 famous emperors of Vietnam.
2. Phat Diem Church
The Church was named by Nguyen Cong Tru, a famous courtier in Vietnam with the meaning of “exposing the beauty”. It is consider as “the Catholic capital” in Vietnam. Built in 19th century with smaller scale compared to other Ninh Binh’s structures, Phat Diem church emerges as a unique work because its perfect harmony with nature. Athough lacks of modern devices, skillful artists created a stone masterpiece with the high accuracy. This structure is divided into 3 parts: great church, stone church and man-made stone caves.
3. Tam Coc
This destination is always a visited tourist attractions which is called “Ha Long Bay on the land”. Tam Coc includes a system of 3 caves: Ca Cave, Hai Cave and Ba Cave. Travelers have to hire boats to access these areas. Everyone can actually enjoy picturesque landscapes along Ngo Dong River. The raped paddy fields weave with majestic stone mountains which bring a breathtaking experience for visitors.
4. Bich Dong Pagoda
It is a must-see place when you visit Tam Coc. Bich Dong’s position is only far from Tam Coc wharf about 2 km. This pagoda was built on a stone mountain which is typical for the Eastern architecture. Like other Vietnam landscapes, it can be seen that Bich Dong’s give tourists a feeling of peace because its structure is perfectly harmonious with wild nature.
5. Trang An eco-tourism zone
It has a various system of limestone mountains and natural caves which are a result of sea cavitation. With an area of 200 hectares, scientists estimated that Trang An eco-tourism zone is a biological treasure trove with more than 350 species of plants, hundreds of animal species and many other rare species.
6. Van Long Nature Reserve
Van Long Nature Reserve is known as “The biggest natural picture” with the diversity of both flora and fauna. Stretching throughout 3500 hectares of wetland, it is home to hundreds of plants and animals. In particular, this area was recorded for the appearance of rare spices which were listed in the Red Book such as silver langurs. Highlights of Van Long lie not only on bio-diversity, but for unmistakable landscapes with peaceful atmosphere of nature and 1000 beautiful caves for experiencing.
7. Cuc Phuong National Park
It is the first national park of Vietnam including a virgin forest with the diversity of floras and faunas. Winding through Cuc Phuong’s trails, visitors will be witnessed thousand-year trees or rare species which only survive in the tropical forest. The most ideal time to visit Cuc Phuong National Park is in the dry season (from December to April).
8. Thung Nham Bird Garden
This area is called “The land of bird” because it is a big house of about 40 species of birds. Thung Nham Bird Garden is a combination of lush greenery space of trees and annual wetland, so it is an ideal destination for birds to make nest and grow up. Every day, visitors will be seen a wonderful scenery when thousands of birds fly for finding foods at dawn and return their nests at sunset.
