Ninh Binh – The Inland Ha Long Bay

Ninh Binh Province is one of Northern Vietnam's most dramatic landscapes, where limestone karsts rise directly from emerald rice paddies and winding rivers. The Trang An Landscape Complex – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – offers unforgettable boat rides through limestone caves, ancient temples and hidden lagoons. Tam Coc (Three Caves) is equally stunning, best explored by rowing boat drifting through paddy fields. Bai Dinh Pagoda is Vietnam's largest Buddhist complex. Cuc Phuong National Park, the country's oldest national park, is just an hour away. Ninh Binh is an easy 2-hour drive or train ride south of Hanoi, making it ideal for a day trip or overnight stay.