Hanoi’s chaotic charm is undeniable, but sometimes you need to trade honking horns for the hum of bicycle wheels. Just a two-hour drive south of the capital lies Ninh Binh, a land of towering limestone karsts, meandering rivers, and ancient temples. Strap on your helmet and join us for a two-wheeled adventure through Vietnam’s “Halong Bay on Land.”
Getting There: The Journey Begins
Start your trip with an early morning bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. Pro tip: Book with an operator that allows bike transport, or arrange rental in Ninh Binh itself. Local companies like Ninh Binh Cycling offer decent bikes and knowledgeable guides.
Route 1: The Trang An Loop (25km)
Our first ride takes us through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trang An. This gentle 25km loop is perfect for acclimatizing to the area’s stunning scenery.
Highlights:
- Mua Cave: Start with a leg-burning climb up 500 steps for panoramic views of the karst landscape.
- Trang An Grottoes: Park your bike and hop on a sampan (traditional rowing boat) to explore hidden caves and waterways.
- Bai Dinh Pagoda: The largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, offering a serene break from pedaling.
Local Secret: Time your ride to reach Mua Cave for sunset. The golden hour light on the karsts is pure magic.
Route 2: The Tam Coc Challenge (40km)
Ready to kick it up a notch? This 40km route takes you deeper into the countryside, away from the tour buses and into the heart of rural Vietnam.
Highlights:
- Tam Coc: Often called “Halong Bay on land,” cycle alongside the Ngo Dong River, flanked by rice paddies and karst mountains.
- Bich Dong Pagoda: A hidden three-tiered pagoda built into the mountainside.
- Van Long Nature Reserve: End your ride with a peaceful boat trip through the largest wetland in Northern Vietnam.
Adventure Add-on: For the truly adventurous, arrange a stop for some rock climbing on the karsts near Hang Mua.
Fueling Your Ride: Local Eats
You’ll burn plenty of calories, so refuel with these local specialties:
- Com Chay: Crispy rice paddies topped with savory pork and shrimp.
- Thit De: Tender, flavorful goat meat, a Ninh Binh specialty.
- Bia Hoi: End your ride with a frosty glass of fresh local beer.
Where to Rest Your Weary Legs
- Tam Coc Rice Fields Resort: Eco-friendly bungalows surrounded by rice paddies.
- Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel: City-center comfort with a rooftop pool for post-ride relaxation.
- Nguyen Shack: Budget-friendly stilted bungalows with stunning views.
Best Time to Visit
October to April offers the most pleasant cycling weather. Avoid summer months unless you enjoy pedaling in a sauna.
Gearing Up: What to Pack
- Padded cycling shorts (trust us on this one)
- High-SPF sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Camera (waterproof if possible)
- Small backpack for snacks and water
Responsible Riding
- Stick to established paths to minimize environmental impact.
- Support local businesses by buying snacks and water in small villages.
- Ask before photographing local people, especially in rural areas.
Cycling through Ninh Binh isn’t just about the physical journey – it’s about immersing yourself in a landscape that seems plucked from a Chinese watercolor. It’s about the wind in your hair as you coast past ancient temples, the burn in your legs as you climb for that perfect vista, and the connections you make with locals who wave as you pass.
So next time Hanoi’s hustle has you longing for open spaces, hop on a bike in Ninh Binh. Your legs might complain, but your soul will sing. Happy cycling!
