In these early days of winter, Ninh Binh’s weather becomes more pleasant than ever. Thin layers of morning mist settle across rice fields, valleys, and rivers, creating a scene reminiscent of an ink-wash painting. The earthy scent rising from the damp ground and the crisp breeze awaken all the senses, allowing visitors to fully embrace the grandeur of the ancient land.

For nature lovers, early winter in Ninh Binh offers a refined, poetic experience: the dawn mist along the Trang An waterway, soft shades of pink and purple on the Ngo Dong River, and the white reed flowers blooming gracefully along the banks—all coming together to paint a serene yet vibrant landscape.

Trang An – A Mist-Covered Wonderland

If Trang An dazzles in summer with towering limestone cliffs rising beneath clear blue skies, early winter brings an entirely different beauty—subdued, mystical, and dreamlike. The mountains appear softened under a veil of mist, creating a scene that feels otherworldly. The water flows quietly through valleys shaded by white reeds swaying gently in the cool breeze. As visitors drift through caves and waterways by boat, they can feel the deep tranquility of this ancient land where nature and people exist in perfect harmony.

Tam Coc – A River Glowing with Pink Hues

Late autumn and early winter give Tam Coc a unique charm. The Ngo Dong River glows with the pink and purple hues of blooming water lilies—nature’s carpet welcoming visitors into a fairy-tale Tam Coc. Humble yet striking, these lilies bloom at sunrise and close at dusk, symbolizing beauty, faith and enduring love.

This is an ideal time for travelers seeking peace, quiet reflection, and picturesque check-in photos within a landscape as poetic as a watercolor painting.

Hang Mua – A Perfect Cloud-Hunting Spot

Hang Mua is an unmissable destination in early winter. Climbing more than 400 steps to the top of Ngoa Long Peak, visitors are rewarded with a panoramic view of Tam Coc from above. At dawn, light mist drapes over the limestone peaks, blending with the soft winter sunlight to create scenes reminiscent of historical films. The cool, crisp weather makes the hike more pleasant—energizing but not exhausting.

Bai Dinh Pagoda – Sacred and Serene

Visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda in early winter offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling crowds of festival season. The stone pathways, trees turning color, and distant echo of temple bells create a sacred yet intimate atmosphere, allowing visitors to reflect and find inner calm.

This is also the perfect moment to admire the impressive architectural features—from the Tam The Hall to the bronze Shakyamuni Buddha statue, the tallest of its kind in Vietnam.

Winter Cuisine – A Warm Taste of Ninh Binh

A trip to Ninh Binh in early winter wouldn’t be complete without sampling its comforting, signature dishes such as straw-roasted mountain goat, crispy rice with goat sauce, goat porridge, eel glass-noodle soup, “banh da” fish soup, and Gia Vien shrimp paste. These dishes not only warm the body but also reflect the cultural identity and humble lifestyle of Ninh Binh’s people.

The cozy atmosphere inside local eateries—steaming pots of broth, lively conversations, and the warmth of shared meals—adds an inviting touch to the winter chill, making the journey even more memorable.

Ninh Binh in early winter is not only home to magnificent landscapes but also a place where cultural heritage and simple local life are preserved. A visit during this season brings peace, authenticity, and dreamlike photo opportunities for every traveler. Come to Ninh Binh in early winter to feel the breath of nature, the warmth of its people, and to capture the unforgettable moments of this quiet yet vibrant ancient land.