1. Thung Nắng Ninh Bình: A Hidden Gem Amidst Nature
1.1. Where is Thung Nắng Ninh Bình?
Thung Nắng is located in Dam Khe village, Nam Hoa Lu ward, Ninh Binh province, in the central area of the Trang An heritage complex. This tourist area covers about 8 hectares, divided into two main areas: Thung Nắng Ngoài (Outer Thung Nắng) covering 3 hectares and Thung Nắng Trong (Inner Thung Nắng) covering about 5 hectares. Thanks to its prime location, visitors can easily combine their exploration of Thung Nắng with Tam Coc Bich Dong to fully appreciate the picturesque natural beauty of the ancient capital region.
1.2. Origin of the Name Thung Nắng Ninh Bình
The name Thung Nắng holds an interesting story about the natural beauty of this place. The word 'thung' in the local dialect refers to low-lying valleys, flooded year-round, surrounded by majestic limestone mountains. On summer days, when golden sunlight spreads across the calm lake surface, reflecting off the towering cliffs, the entire space becomes brilliantly illuminated and full of life. It is this beauty that led locals to affectionately name this place 'Thung Nắng', meaning the valley of sunshine.
1.3. Why Thung Nắng Ninh Bình is a Favorite Destination in 2025?
Thung Nắng Ninh Bình captivates visitors with its rare pristine beauty amidst modern life. Unlike many other destinations, it is not noisy or bustling; instead, it retains its original wild, rustic, and peaceful charm. This tranquility makes Thung Nắng an ideal resting place for those seeking to reconnect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The landscape of Thung Nắng is a magnificent painting of intertwined rivers and mountains. The river meanders around towering limestone mountains, interspersed with golden rice fields during harvest season, creating a serene yet poetic scene. Each season brings its own unique beauty: sometimes it's the vibrant yellow of ripe rice, other times it's a carpet of white reeds or a lake covered in purple water lilies. Amidst the fresh air, the chirping of birds, and the calm water, Thung Nắng is truly a peaceful retreat for the soul.
The scenery of Thung Nang is a magnificent painting of rivers, water, and mountains blending together. (Source: Collected)
2. Latest 2025 Guide to Traveling to Thung Nang Ninh Binh
Traveling from Hanoi to Thung Nang Ninh Binh:
From Hanoi, visitors have many ways to travel to Thung Nang Ninh Binh. If traveling by private car, you can follow the Phap Van – Cau Gie – Ninh Binh expressway, then turn onto National Highway 38B, continue towards the Tam Coc area, and then proceed to Thach Bich wharf to begin your journey to explore Thung Nang.
Buses are also a popular option, with departures from Giap Bat or My Dinh stations. Ticket prices range from 70,000 – 250,000 VND per trip, with a travel time of about 2.5 hours. Additionally, those who enjoy a leisurely experience can choose the train, departing from Hanoi Station to Ninh Binh Station. Ticket prices range from 60,000 – 443,000 VND, offering both safety and the opportunity to admire the Northern Delta scenery along the way.
Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City and other provinces:
Visitors from southern provinces can choose to fly to Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) or Tho Xuan Airport (Thanh Hoa), and then continue traveling by bus, coach, or taxi to Ninh Binh. From Noi Bai Airport, you can take a bus to My Dinh bus station and then catch a bus to Ninh Binh, or hire a taxi for a direct transfer to save time. The total travel time from the airport to the Thung Nang Ninh Binh tourist area usually ranges from 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on the chosen transportation and route.
Traveling by plane is an option chosen by many tourists. (Source: Collected)
How to get from Ninh Binh city center to Thung Nang:
Upon arriving in Ninh Binh, visitors can rent a motorbike to freely explore the poetic routes, being proactive with their time and easily stopping to check-in anywhere. Besides, taxis are also a convenient and comfortable option, suitable for groups of friends or families.
Additionally, visitors can opt for the local bus route Tam Coc - this route passes near Thung Nang, making it convenient for a day trip combining visits to famous spots like Tam Coc Bich Dong, Mua Cave, or Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, without needing to return to the starting point, making the journey more complete and time-saving.
3. Experience and Exploration Journey of Thung Nang Ninh Binh 2025
3.1. Boat tour winding through mountains and water
The experience of taking a boat tour is the most ideal option to fully appreciate the beauty of Thung Nang Ninh Binh . Visitors depart from Thach Bich pier, on small, rustic boats, following the clear water winding through majestic limestone mountains.
Tourists sit on a boat visiting Thung Nang. (Source: Collected)
Sunlight reflects on the water surface, combined with the gentle sound of oars, chirping birds, and a caressing breeze, making the scene surprisingly poetic and peaceful. Thung Nang possesses a pristine yet captivating beauty, not ostentatious, not noisy, only sun, wind, and the green of mountains and forests blending together, enough to make anyone feel lighthearted, as if lost in a fairy tale in the heart of Ninh Binh.
3.2. Explore the ecosystem and pristine landscape of Thung Nang
The water surface at Thung Nang is as clear as a giant mirror, reflecting the sky, clouds, and the majestic limestone mountains surrounding it. The gentle water flows through lush green grass, winding between fine white sandbanks, creating a soothing symphony of nature. Beneath the clear blue water, fish swim playfully, white ducks glide slowly, and soft green weeds sway, making the scene more vibrant and peaceful.
The special highlight here is the golden sunbeams piercing through the canopy, sparkling on the water surface, creating a shimmering, picturesque scene. In the early morning or at sunset, the light becomes even more magical, giving Thung Nang a unique, incomparable beauty. Especially, the ripe rice season from May to June is the most ideal time to witness the exquisite contrast between the golden hue of the rice fields, the jade green of the water, and the clear blue sky.
3.3. Caves and ancient relics at Thung Nang Ninh Binh
After traversing about 3 km of forest, visitors will encounter a system of fascinating caves hidden amidst the mountains of Thung Nang. While the outside is a vibrant natural landscape full of sunlight, the inside of the caves is strangely mysterious and tranquil. Both sides of the entrance are covered with white reeds, swaying in the wind, creating a scene that is both poetic and ethereal, like a fairyland.
Stepping into the cave, the air becomes cool and pleasant. On the ceiling are countless stalactites and stalagmites of various shapes, some so close you can reach out and touch the clear water droplets falling from them. Light from outside filters through the rock crevices, reflecting dazzlingly on the cave walls, making the space even more magical.
Not only is it famous for its picturesque natural scenery, but Thung Nang also preserves many cultural and spiritual values through its ancient structures. The most prominent is Thoong Nang Temple, a sacred temple dedicated to Chua Thuong Ngan (Mountain Goddess), nestled amidst rolling mountains. The tranquility of the forest, the babbling water, and the fragrant incense create a solemn and sacred atmosphere.
From Thoong Nang Temple, visitors can follow a small path to Voi Temple, an ancient stone structure built during the Le Dynasty. Amidst the majestic natural scenery, these two ancient temples stand as witnesses to time, contributing to the cultural and spiritual depth of the land of Thung Nang Ninh Binh.
3.4. Take stunning check-in photos with golden season, sun, and water
Thung Nang Ninh Binh is an ideal destination for those who love check-ins and stunning photos, offering many unique photo opportunities. The most beautiful time for photography is during the rice harvest season in May-June, when the golden color of the rice, the purple of the fig flowers, and the blue of the water blend to create a magnificent scene.
Mornings from 6-8 AM or afternoons from 4-6 PM are when the natural light is most dazzling. At these times, sunlight slants, creating impressive shadows on the water and the surrounding landscape. From the boat, you can capture a panoramic view of the majestic limestone mountains behind.
To get high-quality photos, you should choose a wide-angle lens to capture more details of the scenery, and use a slower shutter speed to record the effect of light passing through water and caves. Prepare a waterproof camera or protect your devices carefully for the trip.
4. Thung Nang Ninh Binh Entrance Fees and Opening Hours 2025
4.1. Detailed entrance and boat ticket prices for 2025
The cost of visiting Thung Nang Ninh Binh is very reasonable compared to the experience received. The entrance fee is currently 15,000 VND per adult and 5,000 VND for children. The boat tour ticket is 60,000 VND per trip, including cave exploration and commentary from the boat rower. If you want more privacy, you can rent a whole boat for about 240,000 VND/boat.
During holidays, Tet, or group tours, visitors have the opportunity to receive discount promotions. Therefore, proactively contact the tourist area in advance to get updated on the latest service packages and promotions for 2025.
Reasonable Thung Nang entrance fees, suitable for many visitors. (Source: Collected)
4.2. Opening hours, operating schedule
Thung Nang Ninh Binh is open to visitors from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM and sells tickets from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, including holidays, Tet, and weekends. This wide operating window allows you to easily arrange your schedule and combine visits to multiple attractions in the area.
5. Tips for traveling to Thung Nang Ninh Binh in 2025
Clothing and essential items for visiting Thung Nang:
When preparing for a trip to Thung Nang Ninh Binh, choosing appropriate clothing is crucial for a comfortable and safe journey. Visitors should wear light, breathable cotton shirts combined with long pants to minimize insect bites and sun exposure. A pair of sports shoes or soft-soled, non-slip shoes will help you move easily when getting on and off the boat or exploring paths within the caves.
Besides, don't forget to bring sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, insect repellent, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin and health. Preparing drinking water, light snacks, wet wipes, and a trash bag also demonstrates environmental consciousness. If you want to capture memorable moments, bring a waterproof camera or a waterproof bag for your phone to enjoy the river and water scenery of Thung Nang without worrying about damaging your equipment.
Some notes on safety and environmental protection:
When visiting Thung Nang Ninh Binh, safety should always be the top priority. Visitors should follow the instructions of the boat rower, sit in the correct position, and avoid moving arbitrarily while the boat is in motion to ensure balance. Absolutely do not jump into the water or enter areas with danger signs, especially inside caves where the terrain is wet and slippery.
In addition, each visitor should also demonstrate environmental awareness throughout the journey. Do not litter into the river, bring personal trash bags, and dispose of them in designated areas after the visit. Please limit the use of single-use plastic items, do not pick flowers, break branches, or affect the natural landscape and ecosystem. When visiting spiritual sites, maintain a respectful attitude, dress modestly, keep the general hygiene, and limit noise to help preserve the serene and solemn atmosphere of the heritage land of Thung Nang.
6. Nearby destinations in Ninh Binh you shouldn't miss
6.1. Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Located only about 2.5 km from Thung Nang Ninh Binh, Tam Coc Bich Dong is known as "Ha Long Bay on land" and is an iconic destination for Ninh Binh tourism. The boat trip through three natural caves offers visitors an unforgettable experience amidst a poetic river landscape and rolling mountains. Besides, the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled against the mountain, is also an ideal stop for those who love spiritual spaces and serene scenery.
6.2. Mua Caves
About 10 km from Thung Nang, Mua Caves is a famous check-in spot with a spectacular panoramic view of Tam Coc and the winding Ngo Dong River. To reach the summit of Mua Mountain, visitors will conquer about 500 winding stone steps, each step offering a new perspective on the majestic beauty of the ancient capital region. At the top is the Sacred Dragon statue, a new symbol of Ninh Binh tourism. The best time to climb Mua Caves is early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is gentle and the air is fresh, allowing you to fully appreciate the grandeur of the landscape.
6.3. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
About 15 km from Thung Nang Ninh Binh, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is a special national historical site, once the first capital of the centralized feudal state of Vietnam under the Dinh and Early Le dynasties. It features a complex of temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh, two structures bearing the imprint of ancient, majestic architecture amidst a magnificent mountainous landscape. Visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, visitors not only learn about the history of nation-building but also immerse themselves in the tranquil and sacred atmosphere of a land with a thousand years of culture, preserving the golden values of the past.
Combine sightseeing and historical learning at the Ancient Capital Hoa Lu. (Source: Collected)
If you want to combine your journey to explore Sun Valley Ninh Binh with modern entertainment experiences, you can visit Sun World Ha Nam. The park boasts many attractive game areas for all ages, such as spiral slides, super-fast water slides, wave pools, children's play areas, and outdoor relaxation pools. The facilities are designed to international standards, ensuring absolute safety and offering exciting experiences for visitors.
Sun Valley Ninh Binh is not only a destination for those who love the wild beauty of nature but also a peaceful place to help people find tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of life. The clear blue water, rolling mountains, warm golden sunlight, and the gentle sound of oars create a graceful symphony of the land and sky in the ancient capital region. Visiting Sun Valley once, you will understand why this place always captivates people's hearts.
