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Home Blog PLace to go Ninh Binh Cycling: The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Vietnam’s Most Scenic Countryside on Two Wheels

Ninh Binh Cycling: The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Vietnam’s Most Scenic Countryside on Two Wheels

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Ninh Binh Cycling: The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Vietnam’s Most Scenic Countryside on Two Wheels

Ninh Binh is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful travel destinations, known for its breathtaking karst mountains, peaceful rice fields, ancient temples and emerald waterways drifting through cave systems. Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh offers some of the most immersive cycling landscapes in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re a beginner looking for gentle countryside rides or an adventure enthusiast seeking longer routes and scenic backroads, Ninh Binh cycling delivers a unforgettable journey into nature, culture and traditional Vietnamese life.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into everything you need to know about cycling in Ninh Binh. From the best cycling routes to hidden village paths, from Tam Coc to Trang An and Hoa Lu to Bich Dong, this guide offers a complete resource for planning your perfect cycling experience.

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Ninh Binh Cycling

You will also find itinerary examples, cultural tips, photography insights, packing lists, FAQs, reviews, and recommendations for the best cycling operator: Golden Cycling Tours, a trusted company offering high-quality guided cycling tours in Ninh Binh and northern Vietnam.
Website: https://goldencyclingtours.com/

Let’s begin exploring the magic of Ninh Binh by bicycle.

Why Choose Ninh Binh Cycling

A Landscape Designed for Cycling

Ninh Binh is one of those rare places where cycling is not only possible—it’s ideal. The terrain is mostly flat, making it comfortable for riders of all levels. The scenery is incredibly rich and diverse, offering limestone mountains, rice paddies, rivers, lotus ponds, ancient temples and historic villages.

Authentic Rural Vietnam

Cycling in Ninh Binh gives you a unique chance to see local life up close. Riders can witness farmers working in rice fields, families drying rice or fishing along small canals, children waving from their bicycles, and workers tending to goats or buffalo.

Escape the Tourist Crowds

While major attractions like Trang An and Tam Coc can be busy, cycling allows you to explore areas few travelers ever see. Quiet backroads, village alleys and local markets open a completely different and far more authentic experience.

Suitable for Everyone

Whether you're a solo traveler, family, couple or active group, Ninh Binh has perfect cycling routes. From short 5–10 km flat paths to longer 20–30 km scenic loops, the region offers a variety of options.

Stunning Photography Opportunities

Cycling makes it easy to stop and capture iconic views—terraced rivers, mountains rising from fields, lush green rice paddies, old pagodas and lotus ponds. Every corner is a postcard.

Professional Cycling Tours Available

Golden Cycling Tours provides high-quality guided cycling experiences with modern bikes, English-speaking guides, and customizable itineraries.
Book here: https://goldencyclingtours.com/

Best Cycling Routes in Ninh Binh

Below are the top cycling routes that capture the beauty and culture of Ninh Binh.

Tam Coc Cycling Route – Rice Fields and Limestone Cliffs

Tam Coc is one of the most famous destinations in Ninh Binh, known for its towering karst formations and reflective rice paddies.

Highlights

Endless rice fields
Majestic limestone mountains
Farming villages
Peaceful countryside roads

Who It’s Perfect For

Beginners
Families
Photography lovers
Couples

Tam Coc’s flat and scenic paths make it one of the best starting routes for Ninh Binh cycling.

Trang An Scenic Cycling Loop – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its cave system, dramatic rock formations and spiritual temples.

Why Cyclists Love This Route

Quiet backroads
Wide open fields
Beautiful cave landscapes
Pagodas and historic temples

The route combines stunning nature with rich cultural heritage.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Route – Culture + Nature

Hoa Lu was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th century and remains one of the most historically significant cycling spots.

Highlights

Dinh and Le King Temples
Ancient stone structures
Limestone backdrop
Rustic countryside paths

This route is ideal for travelers interested in blending history with scenic cycling.

Bich Dong Pagoda Route – Iconic Mountain Pagoda

One of the top attractions in Ninh Binh, Bich Dong is a pagoda built into a limestone mountain.

Highlights

Lotus lakes
Ancient temple gates
Stone bridges
Peaceful walking areas

Cycling to Bich Dong is a gentle and highly rewarding experience.

Mua Cave Cycling + Hiking Route – Perfect for Adventurers

Mua Cave (Hang Mua) is home to the most spectacular viewpoint in Ninh Binh.

What to Expect

Cycle through rice fields
Climb 500+ steps to the mountain summit
Panoramic views of Tam Coc
Fantastic photo opportunities

This is a must-do for active travelers wanting a combination of cycling and hiking.

Thung Nham Bird Park Cycling Route

For nature lovers, Thung Nham offers tranquil paths and a chance to see dozens of bird species.

Highlights

Bird valley
Forest paths
Lakes and gardens
Eco-tourism area

A relaxing and visually rich cycling route.

Van Long Nature Reserve Cycling Route

Van Long is quieter and less touristy than Tam Coc or Trang An but equally beautiful.

Why It’s Special

Smooth flat roads
Wetlands
Majestic mountains
Local wildlife

Ideal for peaceful long rides and photography.

Countryside Village Routes – The Hidden Gems

Some of the best Ninh Binh cycling experiences are found in small villages:

Ninh Hai
Gia Vien
Ninh Xuan
Gia Hung
Van Lam

These areas offer peaceful backroads, traditional craft villages and friendly locals.

Full-Day Cycling Itinerary Example (Designed by Golden Cycling Tours)

7:30 AM – Depart Hanoi

Comfortable car transfer with your guide from Golden Cycling Tours.

9:00 AM – Begin Cycling in Tam Coc

Ride through rice fields and limestone cliffs.

10:00 AM – Explore Bich Dong Pagoda

Climb to the upper temple for scenic views.

11:00 AM – Countryside Cycling

Pass buffalo fields, peaceful villages, lotus ponds and fishing lakes.

12:00 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Fresh Ninh Binh specialties such as crispy rice, goat meat and seasonal vegetables.

1:30 PM – Cycle to Trang An

Ride the UNESCO scenic loop.

2:30 PM – Optional Boat Tour

Choose between Trang An or Tam Coc boat ride.

4:00 PM – Return to Hanoi

Relax on the drive back to your hotel.

5:30 PM – Arrive in Hanoi

End of an unforgettable Ninh Binh cycling day.

What to Expect from a Guided Cycling Tour

Expert Guides

Professional English-speaking local guides ensure safety and provide cultural insights.

High-Quality Bicycles

Golden Cycling Tours provides modern mountain bikes with excellent comfort and control.

Tailored Itineraries

Routes are adjusted for:
Fitness level
Time available
Preferred scenery
Photography needs

Support Vehicle

For full-day tours, you’ll have a support vehicle carrying water, snacks and supplies.

Local Cuisine Experience

Enjoy authentic dishes prepared by Ninh Binh locals.

Personalized Experience

You can stop anytime for photos, rest or exploring interesting local spots.

What to Bring for Ninh Binh Cycling

Water bottle
Sunscreen
Sunglasses and hat
Camera or phone
Comfortable sporty clothing
Cycling shoes or sports shoes
Light rain jacket
Snacks

Best Time for Ninh Binh Cycling

Spring

February to April
Cool weather, blooming landscapes

Autumn

September to November
Golden rice fields, ideal climate

Summer

May to August
Green landscapes but occasional rain

Winter

December to January
Cool and dry, comfortable for cycling

Safety Tips for Ninh Binh Cycling

Wear a helmet
Follow your guide’s pace
Stay hydrated
Avoid cycling in heavy rain
Watch for local traffic in village areas
Respect local customs and temples

Customer Reviews

“Amazing cycling day in Ninh Binh”
“Golden Cycling Tours created an unforgettable experience. The views were breathtaking and our guide was fantastic.”
– Julia, Germany

“Great for families”
“We cycled through villages and rice fields. Our kids loved it. Highly recommended.”
– Mark & Sophie, Australia

“Best way to see Ninh Binh”
“Cycling allowed us to enjoy peaceful areas far from tourists. Beautiful routes.”
– Sarah, Canada

FAQ – Ninh Binh Cycling

Is Ninh Binh cycling suitable for beginners?
Yes. The terrain is mostly flat and easy.

How long is a typical cycling day tour?
Around 15–25 km depending on your preference.

Can I customize my cycling route?
Yes. Golden Cycling Tours tailors every itinerary.

Are bikes included?
Yes. High-quality mountain bikes are provided.

Best time to go?
Spring and autumn offer the best scenery and weather.

Where to book?
Golden Cycling Tours: https://goldencyclingtours.com/

Conclusion

Ninh Binh cycling is one of the most enjoyable, immersive and scenic experiences in Vietnam. With its peaceful rice fields, dramatic limestone mountains, ancient temples and charming villages, Ninh Binh is a dream destination for travelers seeking authentic countryside beauty. Cycling lets you explore quietly, deeply and at your own pace—making it the perfect way to connect with Vietnamese culture and nature.

For a safe, memorable and professionally guided cycling adventure, book your tour with Golden Cycling Tours, the leading operator in Ninh Binh and northern Vietnam.

Start planning your unforgettable cycling journey:
https://goldencyclingtours.com/

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