Ninh Binh, Vietnam: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Ninh Binh, Vietnam? If you're planning to go to Ninh Binh, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Based on the climate and weather in Ninh Binh, Vietnam, the best time to go is March. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ninh Binh, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Ninh Binh, Vietnam by month

January

Traveling to Ninh Binh in January, you will notice that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

February

If you go to Ninh Binh in February, you will notice that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

March

If you visit Ninh Binh during March, you might see that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

April

If you go to Ninh Binh in April, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

May

If you vacation in Ninh Binh during May, you will probably see that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

June

In June, Ninh Binh can be sweltering and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Ninh Binh, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to choose the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

July

July in Ninh Binh is extremely hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) to low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

August

In August, Ninh Binh can be very hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Ninh Binh, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

September

September in Ninh Binh is extremely hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

October

October for Ninh Binh is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to find the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

November

November in Ninh Binh is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

December

If you visit Ninh Binh during December, you will probably see that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ninh Binh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

If you are intending to see the majestic Phat Diem Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

Going to Dich Long Cave and Pagoda? You'll need:

What to do in Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Ninh Binh is a province located in the Red River Delta region of northern Vietnam. It is known for its natural beauty, diverse landscape, and scenic cultural sites. The area has become increasingly popular among tourists who are drawn to the beauty of the countryside and the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Ninh Binh:

1. Tam Coc - Bich Dong:

Tam Coc is a beautiful valley filled with rice paddies and karst hills. It is often referred to as the "Ha Long Bay on land" due to its similar topography. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride along the river and through the caves that tunnel through the limestone mountains. Bich Dong Pagoda, located nearby, is a complex of three pagodas built in the 15th century on the side of a mountain. The pagodas offer stunning viewpoints of the surrounding landscape.

2. Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex:

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its karst landscape and complex of caves and river systems. The complex covers over 10,000 hectares and features a network of waterways, valleys, and cliffs. Visitors can take a boat ride through the caves and hidden grottoes to explore the natural beauty of the region.

3. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital:

Hoa Lu was the capital city of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. The city features the remains of ancient palaces, temples, and tombs of Vietnam's first royal dynasty, the Dinh and Le Dynasties. The architecture and design of the ancient buildings reflect the unique blend of Vietnamese and Chinese cultures.

4. Bai Dinh Pagoda:

Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the largest temples in Vietnam, covering an area of 539 hectares. It is home to several architectural and artistic gems, including the world's largest bronze Buddha statue and a 13-story bell tower. Visitors can explore the temple complex and enjoy scenic views from the top of the bell tower.

5. Cuc Phuong National Park:

Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam's first national park and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails to see rare native animals such as the langur, deer, and civet. The park also features a botanical garden and several ancient caves.

Ninh Binh offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to explore the lesser-known parts of Vietnam. Whether you're interested in boating through scenic caves, exploring ancient architecture, or hiking through lush forests, Ninh Binh has something to offer everyone.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Osiyan, India, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana, United States of America, Dugi Otok, Croatia, Jaipur Division, India, Cortez, Colorado, United States of America, Pocklington, England, United Kingdom, Mont Saint-Michel, France, Nicoya City, Costa Rica, Israel, Israel, Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, British Columbia, Canada, and Eastport, Newfoundland, Canada.