Ninh Binh in January: Weather, experiences & travel tips

1. Weather in Ninh Binh Vietnam in January

Ninh Binh in January is in the middle of its dry season, bringing cool days, limited rainfall, and frequent mist that drapes the peaks like an enchanting veil. The weather in Ninh Binh this month is characterized by daytime warmth, crisp nights, and light, sporadic showers.

• Temperature: 15°C - 22°C
• Precipitation: 37 millimeters
• Rainy days: Roughly 9 days
• Humidity: 84%

>>> Read more: Temperature in Ninh Binh - A thorough guide to plan your trip accordingly

2. Top things to do in Ninh Binh in January

2.1. Enjoy a scenic boat ride through Tam Coc or Trang An

If you have been looking into the most beautiful attractions in Ninh Binh in January, you might have Tam Coc and Trang An tied at the top of your list.

A Tam Coc boat tour lets you glide beneath towering cliffs, winding along emerald waterways that feel straight out of a fairy tale. You will hop into a traditional sampan at Van Lam Pier and explore the three caves of Ca, Hai and Ba. The Tam Coc route is short, taking about 2 hours.

Trang An, on the other hand, has three longer boat routes through UNESCO-listed grottoes, temples, and caves, with options ranging from 2 to 4 hours. Bao Hieu Pagoda, Dark Cave, Light Cave, Nau Ruou Cave, Tran Temple, Dia Linh Mountain, and Hanh Cung Vu Lam are some highlights in this tour.

2.2. Journey through the timeless Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Established in the 10th century, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital still preserves sacred relics and shaded courtyards as one of the core parts of the famed Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. Here, you can wander between the 17th-century shrines of Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, each framed by lush greenery, then head into the on-site museum to admire the artifacts that bring early Vietnamese history back as vivid as possible. At just 20,000 VND per person for the entrance fee, it offers a compact lesson for anyone interested in learning about a significant part of Vietnamese history.

2.3. Visit sacred pagodas in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh temples & pagodas showcase the religious devotion as well as architectural flair of the locals. It may be difficult to visit all the spots in one trip, but if you are interested, these three have to be included in your itinerary.

• Bai Dinh Pagoda: As the largest pagoda complex in Southeast Asia, Bai Dinh boasts the continent’s largest bronze Buddha statue and a 36-ton bell. Its two zones invite you into the spiritual world of the locals while showcasing their handicraft through all the details in the architecture.
• Bich Dong Pagoda: Nicknamed the second-best cave in Vietnam, Bich Dong seemingly exists in a different time while clinging to a limestone cliff. Inside, three successive cave-temples housing intricate carvings and peaceful altars welcome you in with a sense of peace and tranquility.
• Non Nuoc Pagoda: At the foot of Non Nuoc Mountain beside the Day River, this 13th-century sanctuary is a worshipping haven in the middle of nature. After considerable renovation efforts in 2016, Non Nuoc Pagoda is now a place to unwind and admire sights like the Quan The Am statue.

2.4. Discover traditional craft villages

If you are interested in doing something else aside from exploring natural scenery, these four craft villages, each with their own story, signature product, and hands-on experiences, are perfect places to have a great time.

• Bo Bat Pottery Village: In Yen Thanh Commune, Bo Bat Pottery Village shapes white clay to make beautiful pottery products. Here, you will get to learn about the intricacies of these cups, plates, and pots that date back thousands of years by watching the artisans doing their job.
• Kim Son Sedge Weaving Village: In the floodplain of Kim Son District, the local artisans have been weaving sedge into sturdy mats, baskets, and lampshades since the 18th century. Here, you will see why these handcrafted products have made their way to 20 different countries across the world.
• Ninh Van Stone Carving Village: This village has carved giant slabs of stone into statues, gates, and architectural details for generations. The local sculptors chisel intricate figures of dragons and deities from granite blocks, all with their bare hands and some basic tools.
• Phuc Loc Carpentry Village: This village specializes in fine woodwork that can be found in ornate altars and elegant furniture. Here, you will have a chance to tour the locals’ workshops to see seasoned carpenters turn different types of wood into beautiful items for your abode.

2.5. Venture into the magnificent Mua Caves

The journey to Mua Caves, just a short ride away from Tam Coc, begins with a climb of roughly 500 stone steps. At the summit lookout, panoramic views of winding rivers, rice fields, and karst outcrops reward every step of the way. Other than that, you can also find your way to the nearby lotus pond, a magnificent sight that effortlessly embraces Vietnamese beauty with flowers blooming at their peak. From the views atop Ngoa Long Mountain to the photos you can capture, Mua Caves is a must-have on any Ninh Binh itinerary, especially if you are into photography and hiking.

2.6. Explore the avian paradise of Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve

Known as the “wave-less bay,” Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve becomes a gorgeous sanctuary from November through April, when dozens of migratory bird species, herons, storks and more, descend in flocks on glassy waters. A quiet sampan ride on Van Long Lake offers up-close views of the peaceful waters in the 3,000-hectare-wide area spanning 7 communes, a beautiful experience in Ninh Binh in January. The nature reserve will also take you to 32 caves, spiritual sites like Dich Long Temple, and a wide collection of flora and fauna. 

2.7. Escape to Thung Nham Bird Park 

Another great spot for birdwatching in Ninh Binh in January is located 12 kilometers from the city, Thung Nham Bird Park has been a safe haven for over hundreds of bird species for over 20 years, including some listed in Vietnam’s Red Data Book. Late-afternoon boat trips here can get you closer to kingfishers, egrets and storks. Afterward, you can wander along shaded boardwalks to discover an ancient banyan tree as well as a majestic cave system. The entrance fee is very affordable, so Thung Nham can be a budget‑friendly highlight for families. It is a perfect place for a picnic amidst nature in Ninh Binh in January.

>>> Check out more things to do in Ninh Binh!

3. Travel essentials for a trip to Ninh Binh in January

The cool and dry days in Ninh Binh in January call for layers and sturdy footwear. In general, these are the things you should not forget:

• Warm layers and footwear: While the temperature in Ninh Binh in January tops out around 22°C during the day, evenings can dip close to 10°C, so a lightweight jacket, sweater, and scarf should be in your luggage. Aside from that, make sure you have suitable footwear because you will be doing quite a bit of walking.
• Cash: Small vendors are not likely to take card payments, so you should have some cash in Vietnamese dong on hand.

4. FAQs about Ninh Binh in January

4.1. Is January a good time to visit Ninh Binh?

Yes. January kicks off quite a festive season in Ninh Binh. With the cool, dry Ninh Binh’s weather in January, you can have a whole lot of fun here.

4.2. What should I wear in Ninh Binh Vietnam in January?

Warm layers such as jackets, sweaters, or scarves will be needed, along with comfortable shoes for walking around.

4.3. What should I note?

The Tet Holiday, or the Lunar New Year, often falls in late January or early February in Vietnam. During this occasion, the number of domestic tourists surges, so be sure to check the lunar calendar and book accommodation early to ensure you get the best places to stay.

4.4. What are the best foods to try in Ninh Binh in January?

Ninh Binh’s signature dishes share a certain rustic style, highlighting local ingredients with bold flavors and simple preparations.

• Com chay (crispy rice cakes): These golden crusts are sun-dried then deep-fried until puffed and crunchy.
• Thit de tai (rare goat salad): Tender goat meat slices are blanched to a rosy pink, then tossed with kaffir lime leaves, chilies, ginger and lemon.
• Nem de (fermented goat meat): A combination of goat meat and seasoning wrapped in banana leaves and left to ferment for a couple days.
• Ca kho gao (caramelized fish): Freshwater fish are braised in a rich fish sauce and black pepper mixture and a fruit native to Ninh Binh that comes with a distinctive sour taste.
• Goi ca nhech (spiced mud eel salad): This dish is a bit of a DIY salad where all parts of the fish is used. The flesh is marinated in crushed roasted rice, the skin is deep-fried, and the bones are the base of a vinegar that makes the dipping sauce.
• Canh chua ca ro Tong Truong (sour soup with local perch): A tangy fish soup brims with tomatoes and tofu.

4.5. Are there any festivals in Ninh Binh in January?

You may encounter some amazing festivals in January if the month coincides with the Lunar New Year. The two most notable events are:

• Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival: This festival stretches from the 6th day of the 1st lunar month to the 3rd lunar month. There will be reverend ceremonies followed by folk games, cave tours, and traditional performances of cheo, xam, and ca tru.
• Yen Ve Village Festival: On the 4th day of the 1st lunar month, this festival begins with a tribute ceremony to Zen Master Giac Hai. The village square then transforms into a lively arena for wrestling, highlighting the energy of Ninh Binh.

Ninh Binh in January blends serene landscapes with cultural discoveries and welcomes you with open arms, letting you enjoy every single moment here. Pack warm layers, plan a great itinerary, and venture through Vietnam’s mist-clad wonderland to uncover the best it has to offer.

After soaking up Ninh Binh’s magic, you can continue your Vietnam travel to the island breezes in Phu Quoc, the limestone wonders in Ha Long, the charming streets of Hoi An, or the pristine beaches of Nha Trang. 

When it is time to let loose, book your stay at one of the luxurious hotels and resorts of Vinpearl, where world-class amenities and seamless services await. And don’t miss VinWonders, the ultimate paradise for entertainment packed with exciting games, vibrant shows, and family-friendly activities.

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