Explore Ninh Binh In June: Rice Season & Scenic Spots

June is undoubtedly the best time to visit Ninh Binh, where you’ll see golden rice fields, limestone mountains with dramatic scenery, and peaceful rivers. It is great to take a scenic boat trip, visit older temples, and get the perfect shot of Ninh Binh at its best.

Where Is Ninh Binh?

Ninh Binh is a beautiful province in northern Vietnam, located around 100 kilometers south of Hanoi. Nicknamed “Ha Long Bay on land”, it is characterized by towering limestone karsts, meandering rivers, rice fields, and old temples.

Many travelers visit Ninh Binh in June because it is the middle of the rice harvesting season when golden paddies fill the land between Tam Coc and Trang An, creating stunning landscapes. The hues of nature, a vibrant yellow and green, accompanied by the province’s cultural significance, make it a great place to visit in early summer.

What Is The Weather Like In Ninh Binh In June?

In Ninh Binh, June begins summer, with warm temperatures, high humidity, and the wet season! June can be hot and sticky, but it also invigorates the region; the rice fields are a bright green, and the landscape becomes vibrant and photogenic. The dramatic limestone mountains, veiled in light mist and surrounded by the occasional afternoon rain shower, offer remarkable scenery.

Even with the increasing rain, on most days the mornings are still sunny, and rain tends to occur later during the afternoon or evening. June is also a great time to enjoy the coolness of an early morning boat ride or hike before the day warms up and the rains begin. Just pack some light rain gear, stay hydrated, and enjoy Ninh Binh at its lushest!

What To See And Do In Ninh Binh In June

June is a lovely time to visit Ninh Binh and experience the countryside coming alive with lush greenery and golden rice fields ready to harvest. Ninh Binh is yours to experience, and it has so many different activities to offer, a peaceful boat ride, a mountain hike, your explore your unforgettable experience.

Take A Boat Ride through Tam Coc’s Golden Fields

Tam Coc in June is a living painting. The vibrant contrast between golden rice paddies, limestone mountains, and inviting blue skies provides a peaceful and dreamlike feel. You can take the time to appreciate the harvest season by taking a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River while local rowers guide your boat gently through cave systems and rice paddies.

This is one of the most iconic experiences you have in Ninh Binh in June. The golden season only lasts for a couple of weeks, making it the ideal time for travel photographers and nature lovers alike. It is also suggested that you try and do this excursion in the early morning or late afternoon, as this is when the weather is cooler and the sun is less harsh, providing ideal lighting conditions for taking photos.

Explore The Majestic Trang An Landscape Complex

Trang An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must whenever you visit, but in June, its natural charm is astounding. The river and caves of this karst site are at their most lush and photogenic. You can book a boat tour and effortlessly sail through this tranquil world of water and stone, with several stops along the route at historic temples that are tucked into the cliffs.

Unlike Tam Coc, Trang An has longer routes and more impressive caves, making it a more adventurous excursion, whether you want to do a bit of nature and culture in one excursion! Be sure to wear a hat and bring lots of water if you go during the hot months, as you may be on the boat for over two hours in direct sunlight.

Visit Mua Cave And Conquer The Iconic Dragon Mountain

When you visit Mua Cave, be sure to go to the top of Ngoa Long Mountain by climbing the 500 steps! You will be rewarded with an absolutely stunning panoramic view over Tam Coc’s rice fields, especially stunning in June when the crops are harvested, and you can see the golden glow of the rice fields.

Although the climb can be a bit sweaty in the summer heat, it is really beautiful, so be sure to get there as early as you can in the morning or go for sunset, to not only enjoy cooler temperatures but also breathtaking views. If you also enjoy photography, Mua Cave is lovely for photography and gives you one of the best top-down angles to shoot photos over Ninh Binh.

Savor the Tastes of Ninh Binh in June

While Ninh Binh offers remarkable landscapes, it is also a foodies’ haven. June is an excellent time to experience the local signature dishes prepared with local flavors that showcase the culture and natural ingredients of the region.

Mountain goat meat is worth a try, at the very least. Goats that have been raised on rocky limestone hills carry a unique flavor with lean and tender meat. You can have it rare with lemon (De Tai Chanh), steamed with ginger, grilled, or stir-fried with herbs.

Com Chay (crispy rice crust) is another must. Golden brown and crunchy, most commonly served with goat sauce or pork floss, and is quite delicious as either a snack or souvenir.

Oc Nui (mountain snails) are seasonal – best enjoyed in June. Mountain snails found on rocky hills are known for their herbal taste and meaty texture. Locals typically will make them steamed, grilled, or sautéed with lemongrass and chili.

Explore The Wild Wonders Of Cuc Phuong National Park

With the park itself representing the very first national park in Vietnam, Cuc Phuong National Park is not only the oldest national park in Vietnam, but it is also the greatest find in Ninh Binh. June is one of the best months to visit, bringing with it high levels of nature’s beauty.

The park is about 45 km away from Ninh Binh city, given that the park has an ecological system with ancient trees, rare plants, and put your best home to endangered animals. The month of June is the middle of the butterfly season, so if you walk in a mature jungle forest, you could be mixed in a brigade of pastel colors with butterflies flying in the sunshine. It is something out of the books you may have read as a child.

You will also be able to visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center to visit the endangered special species like Delacour’s langurs and other gibbons. The hiking trails will lead you to limestone caves, thousand-year-old trees, and waterfalls hidden deep in the forest.

What To Pack For Ninh Binh In June

Ninh Binh in June is no joke when it comes to heat, humidity, and rain. If you’re planning on doing some sightseeing, hiking, or excursions on the water, you’ll want to plan accordingly and comfort during this time of the year can depend on your knowledge of gear and preparation for both sun and moisture.

Comfortable walking shoes

You’ll want to consider shoes that are either waterproof or breathable to ensure comfort over time. Sneakers or light hiking boots with grip will prove useful on the steps of pagodas, rocky paths to temples, and the slippery trails of rice paddies.

• Lightweight breathable clothing: Clothes made of cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking fabric are preferred as they allow your body to breathe in the heat and dry out with moisture. Long-sleeved tops and long pants help protect skin from the sun and bugs.
• A wide-brimmed hat or cap: You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors, especially on the open rivers, so you may want to be prepared with a hat to help shade your head and face from direct UV rays.

• Sunscreen: Be sure to use it generously, and bring a bottle for reapplications. You will also want a sunscreen with a higher SPF, and water/sweat-resistant when you’re out in the summer sun.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitos and bugs abound in rural areas and rice fields. If you bring a small spray bottle of insect repellent, you will be glad you did, for all the discomfort it may have saved you.
• Medications and toiletries: You should pack any necessary medications and some basic personal items, including a toothbrush, face towel, and shampoo, particularly if you plan to stay in eco-lodges or homestays.
• Cash and ID documents: Not every place accepts cards, and you will want cash in case of entrance fees, buying local food, or renting bikes. Don’t forget your ID, especially if you’re staying overnight.

Travel Tips For Visiting Ninh Binh In June

Planning a trip to Ninh Binh in June is a wonderful experience; however, proper planning can make your trip less problematic and more enjoyable. Here are some helpful tips to arrange your plans ahead of time and stay comfortable on your summer vacation:

• Book your services ahead of time: June is high travel season for Ninh Binh. Hotel rooms, restaurants, services, and roughly anything tied to travel have a high likelihood of being booked, so make sure to reserve your accommodations, transfers, and tickets early on.
• Protect yourself from the sun: It is very hot in Ninh Binh in the summer, with a lot of sun exposure during the day. Make sure to wear a wide-brimmed hat, a lighter jacket, and apply sunscreen on your skin, and watch for the warning signs of heatstroke.

• Plan your itinerary in advance: You can prioritize the attractions that you want to see, sketch out a route that saves you time and is close to the best hours of your location, and spending a little planning goes a long way in arranging your time and scheduling your cities.
• Keep hydrated: You’re going to be outdoors in the heat, and you’ll be busy, so bring a reusable water bottle and drink. It’s very easy to become dehydrated.
• Bring insect repellent: If you are going to be in areas on purpose, like Trang An or Cuc Phuong National Park, mosquito spray will be essential to your comfort and safety.
• Pack light but efficiently: Quick-dry clothes, comfortable shoes, and a small daypack will have you cool and travelling light as a feather, while being flexible for changes in the weather.

Final Thoughts: Is June A Good Time To Visit Ninh Binh?

There is no doubt that June is a fantastic time to visit Ninh Binh, especially if you’re a nature lover and a photographer. The golden rice fields, boat trips, and peaceful surroundings make for a truly relaxing and beautiful escape. If you’re looking for a less busy Vietnam destination in the summer, Ninh Binh in June is a top option. Let Seni World help you manage your trip and discover the hidden beauty of Vietnam today!