Ninh Binh to Ha Giang Travel Tips First-Time Visitors Should Know
Traveling from Ninh Binh to Ha Giang offers a unique transition from peaceful rivers and ancient temples to dramatic mountain passes and ethnic cultures. It is a favorite route for adventurous travelers seeking the full northern Vietnam experience.
Overview of Ninh Binh To Ha Giang
Ninh Binh and Ha Giang each offer a different side of northern Vietnam. Ninh Binh is quiet, easygoing, and full of history, with limestone cliffs rising from wide green fields. Ha Giang, in contrast, is bold and remote, known for winding roads, deep valleys, and high mountain passes. Traveling from Ninh Binh to Ha Giang feels like moving from calm to wild, from still water to rushing wind.
Many travelers choose to connect these two destinations to see more of what northern Vietnam has to offer. It’s a way to balance culture and nature, comfort and adventure. If you have around a week, this route creates a journey that’s both beautiful and deeply memorable, especially if you’re looking to go beyond the usual tourist trail.
How Far Is It From Ninh Binh To Ha Giang?
Ninh Binh and Ha Giang may look close on the map, but the landscapes between them are anything but flat and simple. The total road distance is about 400 kilometers (250 miles), winding through countryside villages, riverside towns, and eventually into the highlands of northern Vietnam. Because there are no direct flights or trains, the only way to travel is by road.
The time it takes to get from Ninh Binh to Ha Giang depends a lot on how you go. Sleeper buses usually take around 9 to 10 hours, while private cars might be a little quicker. Riding a motorbike takes longer, expect 10 to 12 hours, especially if you’re new to Vietnam’s roads. While the route isn’t particularly difficult, the final section near Ha Giang includes narrow mountain roads where speeds are slower, but the views are unforgettable.
How to Travel From Ninh Binh To Ha Giang?
Heading to Ha Giang will help you experience the Northern countryside as the ride leaves Ninh Binh and passes through small countryside towns and ever-changing scenery. It is not a short route, but the road shows lots of Vietnam on the way.
By Motorbike
Riding a motorbike through the northern part of Vietnam is the most fulfilling journey you could ever take from the northern part of Vietnam to Ha Giang. The road takes us out of flat fields into curvy mountain roads, where riders get a panoramic view of the change in scenery. It is perfect to suit the traveler interested in traveling leisurely and taking the ease of making a detour in small towns or overlooks that buses would not have continued to.
At that, the journey is arduous and may be very exhaustive. There are different types of roads, smooth highways as well as sharp turns on the mountains; the weather changes rapidly. It is not the most suitable for a newbie or someone who does not know how to ride in Vietnam. However, to seasoned motorcyclists, it is an excellent means of making the trip as well as the destination.
| Aspect | Details |
| Route | Day 1: Ride from Ninh Binh to the Hanoi outskirts via CT01 or QL1A. This leg is fairly easy, with flat roads, farmland views, and some last glimpses of things to do in Ninh Binh.
Day 2: Continue through Vinh Phuc and Tuyen Quang provinces. This part involves more highway and occasional traffic, but the scenery begins to shift toward hills and valleys. Day 3: Reach Ha Giang city. The final stretch includes winding mountain roads — not too steep but requiring focus, especially in wet conditions. |
| Distance | The total distance is approximately 400 kilometers (250 miles). |
| Travel Time | Most riders take 2 to 3 days, depending on riding pace and rest time. It’s possible to do it in 1 long day, but this is not recommended. |
| Suggeste Stops |
Hanoi outskirts: A place to refuel and rest before heading north.
Tuyen Quang: A convenient overnight stop halfway, with local guesthouses. Scenic points: Look out for rice terraces and traditional villages near Viet Quang or Bac Quang. |
By Bus or Minivan
A bus or minivan is the most convenient and reasonable means of transportation when travelling between Ninh Binh and Ha Giang. It is advisable to reserve your Ninh Binh to Ha Giang bus in advance to prevent possible inconveniences at the peak hours, because most buses depart later in the day or at night and get full. International travelers, particularly those who intend to begin the Ha Giang Loop as soon as possible, will find these services quite useful.
The ride can take a long time, but the ride on sleeper buses and minivans can be relatively comfortable with reclining seats or beds, air conditioning, and even USB ports. It can be an excellent choice of transportation for those who do not want to deal with a complex transfer experience. This makes the long ride more bearable, especially for travelers planning to explore Meo Vac or continue along the Ha Giang Loop.
| Vehicle Type | Price (VND) | Travel Time | Notes |
| Standard sleeper bus (open layout, 34–40 beds) | 280,000 – 350,000 VND | 10 – 12 hours | These buses offer basic overnight beds in a shared, open cabin. They are a good option for budget travelers looking for a direct ride. Some services also provide pick-up in Tam Coc or Ninh Binh City. |
| VIP minivan or limousine van (9–11 seats) | 350,000 – 400,000 VND | Around 8 – 9 hours | With reclining leather seats and more space per passenger, these vans offer a more comfortable ride. They are ideal for travelers who value comfort, though routes may include several local pick-ups. |
| Tourist sleeper bus | 300,000 – 350,000 VND | About 10 hours | These buses are commonly chosen by foreign travelers due to their reasonable prices and decent reliability. Some may stop briefly in Hanoi, so it’s worth confirming the exact route when booking. |
| Premium minivan (VIP configuration, newer models) | 350,000 – 400,000 VND | 8 – 9 hours | These vans are newer, well-maintained, and usually make fewer pick-ups. They suit travelers who prefer a quieter, faster, and more direct transfer. |
By Private Car
Traveling by private car from Ninh Binh to Ha Giang is the most cozy and flexible option, especially for families, groups of friends, or travelers wishing to avoid overnight buses. The journey takes approximately 8 to 9 hours and with the option to make scenic stops along the way. Travelers can choose their own departure time, request meal stops, and even ask the driver for a moment to stop for pictures in remote villages or summits.
While this is also the most expensive alternative, the overall experience door-to-door is extremely easy and has very little hassle. Cars are typically clean and air-conditioned, and drivers are professionals who have experience driving the northern routes. Some providers will assign English-speaking drivers if that matters to you, just confirm this in advance of the trip.
| Car Type | Estimated Price | Travel Time | Notes |
| 4-seater sedan | 3,800,000–4,500,000 VND (USD 150–180) | ~8 hours | Suitable for 1–2 travelers with minimal luggage. Comfortable and efficient for a direct ride without unnecessary stops. |
| 7-seater SUV or MPV | 4,500,000–5,500,000 VND (USD 180–220) | ~8.5–9 hours | Ideal for small families or groups. Offers more luggage space and better comfort over longer distances. |
| 9-seater minivan | 5,500,000–6,000,000 VND (USD 220–240) | ~9 hours | Great for larger groups. Some vehicles come with reclining seats, bottled water, and optional English-speaking drivers. |
| Luxury option (on request) | From 6,500,000 VND+ (USD 260+) | ~9 hours | Premium service includes Wi-Fi, reclining seats, and flexible schedules. Suitable for business travelers or those who want maximum comfort. |
By Train via Hanoi
At this time, there is no direct train from Ninh Binh to Ha Giang. However, many travelers opt to divide this journey into two more relaxed legs. The first leg will take a train from Ninh Binh to Hanoi and, for the second, an overnight bus or limousine minivan from Hanoi to Ha Giang. This is an excellently suited option for travelers who prefer a calmer mode of travel and do not want to spend hours on a single bus.
Below is the key information to help you plan your Ninh Binh to Ha Giang trip by train via Hanoi:
| Aspect | Details |
| Travel Time | Ninh Binh → Hanoi: around 2.5 hours by train
Hanoi → Ha Giang: around 8 to 10 hours by sleeper bus or minivan Total travel time: approximately 10 to 13 hours (including waiting time) |
| Cabin Types or Options | Ninh Binh to Hanoi: soft seat or sleeper cabin (depending on train type)
Hanoi to Ha Giang: sleeper bus with flat beds or limousine minivan with reclining seats |
| Required Documents | Just a passport and a valid train/bus ticket (digital or printed). Tickets can be booked online or through hotels and agencies. |
| Estimated Price | Train: ~80,000–150,000 VND (USD 3–6)
Bus: ~250,000–400,000 VND (USD 10–16) Total: ~330,000–550,000 VND (USD 13–22) |
| Best For | Travelers who prefer smoother rides, are prone to motion sickness, or want to make a short stop in Hanoi before continuing to the mountains. |
Tips For Traveling From Ninh Binh To Ha Giang
This is not a short ride, and the terrain shifts quite a lot from flat plains to mountain curves. A few small choices can really shape how smooth (or stressful) your journey turns out.
- Night buses usually stop at random roadside restaurants, so it’s a good idea to ask your hotel about dinner options or pack something you know your stomach agrees with.
- If you get motion sickness, lower sleeper beds tend to feel more stable than the top ones, especially when the road gets twisty.
- Some bus companies drop passengers outside Ha Giang city center. Double-check the drop-off point if you plan to rent a motorbike right after arriving.
- Most buses turn off air-conditioning during midnight stops, so having a light scarf or hoodie can make a big difference.
- For motorbike riders, leaving Ninh Binh in the morning gives you more daylight and reduces the risk of riding mountain roads after dark.
- Ha Giang’s border roads often have a weak signal, so offline maps are your best friend once you’re past Tuyen Quang.
- Not all drivers speak English. If you’re hiring a private car, sending your destination pinned on Google Maps can help avoid misunderstandings.
- Some parts of the route may not have ATMs, and card payments aren’t common, so carrying 300,000–500,000 VND in cash is a smart backup.
- If you plan to go by train via Hanoi, allow at least 2 hours between your train arrival and bus departure — Hanoi traffic isn’t always predictable.
- You don’t need to rush this leg of the journey; adding a short stop in Tuyen Quang or Viet Quang can help break the ride and give you a more relaxed start to Ha Giang.
Final Thoughts
It may seem that it takes time to move between Ninh Binh and Ha Giang, but it is possible to make it quite easy. All that has trade-offs, and it is a real difference when you choose the option that best suits you and your time, energy, and level of comfort. Seni World will assist you when you still need to consider the alternatives or when you need some local assistance to make it easier. We have made this trip work out successfully with many travelers, and we can do the same with you as well.
