Ninh Binh is often called the “Halong Bay on land” because of its romantic background with mysterious karst landscapes, natural valleys, and ancient temples. If you are planning a trip to this “precious pearl” of Northern Vietnam, knowing the entrance fees in Ninh Binh 2026 is the first step to a smooth adventure.
Since the UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts millions of international tourists, ticket prices are updated regularly to support heritage conservation. From the soaring peaks of Mua Cave to the tranquil boat tours of Trang An, having an up-to-date budget ensures you don’t miss any part of this “small fairy world.”
Complete Price List for Ninh Binh Sightseeing Tickets and Boat Tours 2026
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Located in Truong Yen Commune, this ancient capital is the heart of Vietnam’s early feudal history. We can explore the King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple or check out the Nhat Tru Pagoda. If you visit during the Thai Vi Temple or Bao Ban Non Khe festivals, the atmosphere is electric.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Admission: Adults & Kids over 1m2: 20,000 VND.
- Seniors (60+) & People with disabilities: 10,000 VND.
- Small children (under 1m2): Free.
Tam Coc – Bich Dong
I love the vibe here, especially when you’re drifting down the Ngo Dong River on a sampan. In the summer, the golden rice fields look like a sample of a perfect postcard. Don’t forget to visit the “Green Pearl” cave pagoda built right into the mountain cliffs.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Mandatory Boat Fee: 150,000 VND per trip (fits 2 international travelers or 4 locals).
- Admission Tickets:
- Adults: 120,000 VND.
- Kids (under 1m4): 60,000 VND.
- Toddlers (under 3 years): Free.
Trang An Scenic Landscape
UNESCO recognized this spot as a dual world heritage site in 2014, and it’s easy to see why. The “Ha Long on land” scenery is a vivid mix of emerald water and hidden historical relics. I’m neutral on the crowd levels during Tet, but the views are always top-tier.
- Seasonal Hours: Summer/Holidays: 6:00 AM – 4:45 PM.
- Winter: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
- All-in-One Ticket (Includes boat & sightseeing):
- Adults & Kids over 1m2: 250,000 VND.
- Little ones (under 1m2): Free.
- Self-Guided Kayaking: 250,000 VND – 400,000 VND depending on time and boat type.
- Optional Guide: 300,000 VND per group.
Bai Dinh Pagoda
This pagoda is a massive spiritual complex in Gia Sinh Commune. It features huge gilded statues and peaceful courtyards. Since Bai Dinh contains the Largest Gilded Buddha, it’s a major pilgrimage spot.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
- Transport & Extra Services:
- Standard Tram (Round-trip): 100,000 VND.
- Shuttle Combo (Bus + Stupa + Foot Bath): 300,000 VND.
- VIP Package (Tram + Guide): 4,000,000 VND.
- Note: Keep your phone charged—tickets are QR codes!
Mua Cave (Hang Mua)
This is the ultimate spot for sunset hunters. You have to conquer 486 stone steps to reach the peak of Ngoa Long Mountain, but the view of the winding river and villages below is unmatched.
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
- Price: 100,000 VND per person.
Cuc Phuong National Park
If you want to escape city life, this is the place. As a vital nature reserve, the National Park conserves endangered species and offers incredibly fresh air.
- Access: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
- Fees:
- Adults & Kids over 1m2: 60,000 VND.
- Students: 20,000 VND.
- Kids (under 1m2): Free.
Thung Nham Bird Park
Watching thousands of birds fly across the blue sky is a demo of nature’s beauty. You can take a boat to explore the largest natural bird garden in the north.
- Hours: Summer (7:00 AM – 6:00 PM) / Winter (7:30 AM – 5:30 PM).
- Entrance (Includes Bird Park & Buddha Cave boat): Adults & Kids over 1m2: 100,000 VND.
- Add-ons: Electric car (40,000 VND) or Pool access (100,000 VND).
Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve
This “waiveless” bay is a quiet shelter for migratory birds and local wildlife. I like how peaceful the rocky islands feel compared to the busier tourist hubs.
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Cost Breakdown:
- Sightseeing: 20,000 VND.
- Boat Ride: 60,000 VND per trip.
Ninh Binh Ticket Prices At Other Attractions
Am Tien Cave (Tuyet Tinh Coc)
Nestled in Truong Yen Commune, Am Tien Cave is a key part of the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital historical relic complex. The cave is hugged by towering limestone mountains, making it feel like a secret fortress. My favorite feature is the massive natural freshwater lake that acts like a giant mirror reflecting the cliffs. It is an impressive scene that will totally overwhelm you.
- Address: Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lu District.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Admission: Adults & Kids over 1m2: 20,000 VND.
- Kids under 1m2: Free.
Thien Ha Cave (Galaxy Cave)
While Thien Ha Cave might not be a “superstar” spot yet, it is a top-tier destination for first-timers. Tucked into the Tuong mountain range, this ancient cave stays cool in summer and warm in winter. Inside, you can marvel at young stalactites still forming and discover traces of prehistoric times, including ancient artifacts.
- Address: Son Ha Commune, Nho Quan District.
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: 70,000 VND for adults; 35,000 VND for children (6-15) and seniors (60+).
- Boat Ticket (Max 5 people): 50,000 VND/trip for adults; 25,000 VND/trip for kids/seniors.
Non Nuoc Mountain (Duc Thuy Son)
Located right where the Day and Van Rivers meet, Non Nuoc Mountain is a poetic spot with huge historical weight. It has been a sample of inspiration for Vietnamese writers for centuries. I neutral about the climb, but conquering the 72 stone steps to reach the summit is worth it for the breathtaking river views.
- Entrance fee: 5,000 VND.
Specialty Cave and Mountain Routes
For those who want to dig deeper into the “Halong Bay on land” geography, these combined routes offer great value.
- Chua Cave – Ghe Cave – But Cave (Linh Coc – Hai Nham):
- Admission: 20,000 VND (Adults); 10,000 VND (Kids 6-15/Seniors).
- Boat Trip (Max 2 international/4 locals): 120,000 VND (Adults); 60,000 VND (Kids/Seniors).
- Ghenh Thap Mountain – Luon Cave – Lien Hoa Mountain – Mang Waterfall:
- Admission: 70,000 VND (Adults); 35,000 VND (Kids/Seniors); Under 6 years: Free.
Ninh Binh Free Entrance Attractions
Phat Diem Cathedral
This stunning stone church was built by Priest Peter Tran Luc between 1875 and 1899. Even after 120 years, it looks incredible. I love the architecture here because it beautifully blends Asian and European styles. It is a rare example of a stone cathedral with traditional Vietnamese curved roofs.
- Address: Phat Diem Town, Kim Son District.
- Hours: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM.
- Entrance: Free.
Chau Son Monastery
Also known as the Chau Son Holy Mother Monastery, this quiet retreat belongs to the Cistercian Order. Since it is nestled in a tranquil mountain forest, the atmosphere is incredibly fresh. The Gothic architecture and well-kept miniatures make it look like a slice of Europe in the middle of Ninh Binh.
- Address: Phu Son Commune, Nho Quan District.
- Hours: Morning (8:00 AM – 10:30 AM) / Afternoon (2:30 PM – 4:30 PM).
- Entrance: Free.
Essential Tips for Ticketing and Visitor Conduct
Understanding the rules will save you money and stress. Most Ninh Binh tourist attraction prices use a height-based system for children. If a child is under 1 meter, they are often free. Between 1m and 1.4m, they qualify for the child rate. I recommend measuring your kids before you get to the window to avoid confusion.
Also, many sites like Bai Dinh now use QR code tickets. You must keep these tickets throughout your visit, as staff may scan them at different checkpoints.
When visiting these sacred sites, respect is mandatory. Travelers must respect sacred sites by wearing clothes that cover shoulders and knees. While on the water, boat tours require life jackets at all times. Even if you want a perfect photo without the orange vest, the guards are strict about safety.
Most ticket booths now accept digital payments, but having cash is still safer for smaller sites like Non Nuoc Mountain (5,000 VND) or Dong Chuong Lake (30,000 VND).
To plan your day perfectly, I recommend checking out this guide to local Ninh Binh attractions to see which spots fit your vibe.
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No matter where you start your journey — Hanoi Old Quarter or Noi Bai Airport — Huracars provides convenient, door-to-door transfers to Ninh Binh for a smooth travel experience. |
Choosing the Right Route: Comparing the Value of Trang An vs. Tam Coc
I often get asked: “Trang An or Tam Coc?” The answer depends on your taste. Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and feels more organized. It has three different boat routes. Route 2 is a popular sample because it hits several caves and the Kong: Skull Island film set.
Tam Coc is famous for the “green sea” of rice. If you visit in May or June, the rice fields are a vibrant yellow. I like Tam Coc for its rustic feel, but it is shorter than the Trang An experience. In terms of value, Trang An is more expensive but lasts longer (about 2.5 to 3 hours).
FAQs Ninh Binh Entrance Fees
Can I pay by credit card at the ticket booths?
Most major sites like Trang An now accept digital payments, but I always carry cash for smaller sites like Van Long or Mua Cave.
Are there any free sites in Ninh Binh?
Yes! Phat Diem Cathedral has free entrance. It is a unique blend of Vietnamese and European stone architecture.
What is the best way to get around?
Huracars provides private car services which are the most comfortable way to jump between sites. However, many people love renting a bicycle for about 50,000 VND a day.
Does the entrance fee include the boat rower’s tip?
No. The entrance fees cover the ticket only. Tipping is not mandatory, but a small tip (50,000 – 100,000 VND) is a nice gesture for the rowers who work very hard.