1. Discover Yen Thang Lake, a peaceful ecological destination in the heart of Ninh Binh
1.1. Geographical location and scale of Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh
Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh stretches across Dong Thai commune, Yen Thang ward, and Trung Son ward, Ninh Binh province, and is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the North with a water surface area of up to 180 hectares, extending about 6 km. Together with Yen Quang Lake and Dong Thai Lake, it contributes to creating a rich natural lake complex, regulating the climate and landscape for the ancient capital region.
Yen Thang Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the country. (Source: Collected)
With a shoreline of about 15 km, Yen Thang Lake possesses a serene beauty, very suitable for leisure activities, fishing, boating, or outdoor sports. Thanks to its convenient location, visitors can easily combine visits to many other famous attractions during their exploration of Ninh Binh.
1.2. Landscape and Climate Characteristics of Yen Thang Lake
The scenery around Yen Thang Lake bears the distinct natural imprint of Ninh Binh, a harmonious blend of the vast lake surface, gentle rolling hills, and lush green vegetation year-round. Nestled amidst forested hills, the lake offers a rare fresh, cool, and peaceful atmosphere. Along the lake are long stretches of grass, intertwined with a rich ecosystem supporting many species of birds, fish, and aquatic life, creating a vibrant natural picture.
In the early morning, Yen Thang Lake is draped in a light, ethereal mist, making the space enchantingly mystical and tranquil. As the early morning sun pierces through the dense green pine canopy, the lake surface shimmers with a golden hue, bringing a vibrant, lively scene. The area around the lake has the characteristic climate of the Northern Delta region, with four distinct seasons, among which, the best time to visit is from April to July, when the weather is dry, cool, and very conducive to outdoor picnics, camping, or leisure activities.
1.3. Historical and Cultural Value of Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh
Not only attractive for its serene natural beauty, Yen Thang Lake also holds deep historical and cultural value closely associated with the lives of the local people. This is a large-scale artificial lake project, built for irrigation purposes, making a significant contribution to regulating irrigation, supplying domestic water, flood control, and agricultural development.
Besides, the Nan Temple located near the lake shore is a familiar place of worship for local residents. The temple is where many traditional festivals take place, reflecting a rich spiritual life and contributing to preserving the folk cultural beauty of the ancient capital region. The blend of the irrigation project, spiritual relic, and natural scenery has created a distinctive image for Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh, making this place a typical destination for eco-tourism combined with the preservation of historical and cultural values.
2. Guide to Traveling To Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh
Traveling to Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh is quite easy thanks to the variety of transportation options. Whether you are departing from major cities or neighboring provinces, the journey to this ecological destination is always convenient for planning your trip.
Traveling from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and neighboring provinces:
From Hanoi, the distance to Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh is about 110 km, suitable for a trip lasting 2 to 2.5 hours. You can choose a motorbike for flexibility, or take a bus on the Hanoi - Ninh Binh route, with prices ranging from 70,000 to 250,000 VND per trip. After arriving in Ninh Binh city center, continue from National Highway 1A towards Tam Diep, then follow provincial road DT480 towards Yen Thang to reach the lake. This route takes you through rice fields and peaceful countryside, offering a pleasant feeling right from the start of your journey.
If departing from Ho Chi Minh City, visitors should book a flight to Noi Bai Airport or Tho Xuan Airport (Thanh Hoa), then transfer by car or bus to Ninh Binh. For nearby areas such as Thanh Hoa, former Nam Dinh, former Ha Nam, traveling by private car or bus is very convenient.
Traveling by plane is an option chosen by many tourists. (Source: Collected)
Getting around Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh:
After arriving at Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh, visitors have many ways to fully explore the beauty of this place. Motorbikes are the most popular choice, offering flexible movement and easy stops for photos at any spot by the lake. If you want to enjoy the fresh air and experience a slower pace of life, cycling around the lake will bring a feeling of extreme relaxation and closeness to nature.
Additionally, taxis and tourist electric cars along the lake are also ideal choices for families with young children or the elderly. The lakeside road is beautifully planned, winding around the water, with many attractive stops such as lush green lawns, small boat docks, check-in photo spots, golf courses, Doi Du tourist area, and lakeside picnic areas. Each destination has its own charm, contributing to a complete, colorful, and emotional journey of exploring Yen Thang Lake.
3. Explore Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh with a series of impressive experiences
Coming to Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh, you can not only enjoy the scenery but also participate in many rich entertainment activities. Here, there are enough experiences to meet diverse interests and spending levels, from nature-friendly activities to high-class resort services.
3.1. Ecological, recreational, and resort activities
Recreational fishing is one of the most beloved activities at Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh. There are many private areas along the lake for enthusiasts of this sport, suitable for both tourists who want to relax and families who want to try new experiences. Thanks to the clear blue water and rich natural ecosystem, the lake is home to many fish species such as carp, crucian carp, tilapia... bringing an enjoyable fishing experience. Visitors can bring their own equipment or rent it directly at service points around the lake.
Besides that, camping and picnicking are also ideal choices for young groups or families. The wide grassy areas by the lake with spacious surroundings are perfect for setting up tents, organizing BBQ parties, team-building activities, or simply watching the sunset. The fresh air, the calm lake surface, and the chirping of birds make time here feel truly slow and relaxing.
Furthermore, cycling or walking around the lake is also an experience not to be missed. The tree-lined lakeside path winds around the hillsides, helping visitors both exercise and enjoy the peaceful scenery. Every turn, every patch of grass, or every bridge crossing the water can become a beautiful photo spot for you to capture memorable moments of your journey at Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh.
3.2. Royal Golf Course and high-class sports services
Royal Golf Club is located right next to Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh, standing out with its unique natural landscape and large scale. The golf course consists of three areas: King's Hill Course, Queen's Course, and Prince's Course with a total of 54 holes, meeting international standards. The modern design and spacious environment make it an ideal destination for professional golfers as well as tourists who want to experience high-quality services.
Royal Golf Course with a classy, professional design. (Source: Collected)
The golf course is synchronously invested, providing full professional services such as equipment rental, private coaches, high-class restaurants, relaxing spa areas, convenient changing rooms, and corporate event organization services. Every detail is meticulously cared for, bringing a perfect experience to players.
With a vast space, lush green landscape, and lake view, Royal Golf Club is not just a place for sports practice but also an ideal meeting point for tour groups, businessmen, and tourists seeking a high-class resort style. To book a tee time or schedule a match, you can visit the golf course's official website or contact reputable travel agencies for package support.
3.3. Doi Du Hill amusement area, picnic, camping, and weekend getaway
The Doi Du Tourist Area located by Yen Thang Lake is an ideal place for picnics and weekend relaxation. This area has reasonably arranged campsites, airy tent spaces, a children's play area, and many rich outdoor entertainment activities. Doi Du provides quality tent rental services, convenient grills, and necessary camping equipment. It also has a clean water supply system, private restrooms, a spacious parking lot, and a friendly team of local guides ready to assist tourists.
The experiences here are very diverse: from fishing, boating, organizing outdoor parties, enjoying BBQ with friends and family, to participating in traditional folk games. Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh is also a location chosen by many groups for team building and collective bonding. On weekends or holidays, you should proactively book in advance to get the best spot. At the same time, prepare personal items, sunscreen, and insect repellent carefully to make the trip smooth and safe.
4. Discover local delicacies and famous eateries around Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh
A trip to Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh will not be truly complete if you miss the journey of discovering local cuisine. Amidst the charming river and water scenery, the rustic yet sophisticated flavors of the local specialties here will make diners remember forever.
Fish dishes from the lake are the “soul” of the local cuisine. Black carp and tilapia are caught directly from the lake and processed while still fresh, helping to retain their natural sweet taste. Fish steamed with lotus leaves, delicately fragrant; fish grilled over charcoal, golden brown; or fish stewed with banana and tofu, with a rustic flavor, all captivate diners.
Ninh Binh mountain goat meat cannot be missed, a famous specialty of the ancient capital region. Goats are raised naturally on the limestone mountain slopes around the lake, so the meat is firm and has a characteristic aroma. Lightly sour goat salad, fragrant grilled goat, or steaming goat hot pot, each dish has its own flavor, both rustic and rich. In summer, cool field crab soup, clean green vegetables grown around the lake, or fragrant lotus seed sweet soup will be simple yet flavorful dishes, helping to dispel the heat and soothe the soul.
Enjoy Ninh Binh mountain goat specialty. (Source: Collected)
To enjoy the attractive specialties of the Ninh Binh land, tourists can visit some eateries and restaurants around Yen Thang Lake. If you love a refined culinary style, Hoang Gia restaurant located within the premises of Royal Golf Club is the perfect choice. Luxurious space, professional service style, along with a diverse Asian-European menu bring high-class meals, suitable for family parties, meeting partners, or corporate groups.
Right near the entertainment area, Doi Du restaurant offers a more simple, familiar style with a spacious lake view and cool green scenery. Fresh fish dishes are prepared immediately after being caught, combined with local specialties such as grilled fish, mountain goat, wild vegetables… bringing authentic, rustic flavors yet still delicious. This is an ideal stop for groups of friends, couples, or small families wanting to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
On the road leading to the lake, tourists can also encounter many roadside eateries serving clay pot rice, fish stewed with banana and tofu, goat hotpot, or boiled vegetables with sesame salt dip. Although simple, these small eateries still retain the rustic hometown flavor and the characteristic hospitality of the Ninh Binh people.
On weekends or holidays, you should book a table in advance to get a good spot and ensure fresh ingredients. A delicious meal amidst the cool breeze from the lake, under the gentle golden sunset will conclude the journey of exploring Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh with unforgettable flavors.
5. Useful Tips for Exploring Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh
To make the trip to Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh more complete, thorough preparation and grasping practical experiences will help you have a reasonable itinerary, enjoying every moment at this attractive ecological destination.
5.1. Suggested Itinerary Combining Ecological and Historical Experiences
Day 1: Discover the Beauty of Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh Morning is the ideal time to depart for Yen Thang Lake. The cool air, gentle sunlight create perfect conditions for tourists to sightsee, row boats, take photos by the lake shore, or stroll around the lake. By noon, you can rest at resorts around the lake or choose to dine at lakeside restaurants such as Hoang Gia, Doi Du to enjoy lake fish specialties, mountain goat meat in a peaceful natural setting.
Afternoon is the ideal time to experience light recreational activities such as fishing, cycling along the lake, or picnicking with family. If you love sports, you can challenge yourself at Royal Golf Club. Before ending the day, don't forget to visit Nan Temple to learn about local spiritual life and admire the romantic sunset over the lake.
When night falls, enjoy a cozy dinner at a lakeside restaurant and stay overnight at a nearby hotel or homestay. If traveling in a group, you can organize a night picnic, gather around a campfire, enjoy grilled food, and together admire the starry sky reflected on the calm water surface. The sounds of nature blend with the fresh air and the shimmering light of the lake at night will bring a rare sense of peace.
Day 2: Enjoy at Sun World Ha Nam and visit Tam Chuc Pagoda The next morning, you depart for Sun World Ha Nam, about 60 km from Yen Thang Lake (about 1.5 hours travel). Here, tourists can freely enjoy at the most modern water park in the North with many water slides, wave pools, children's entertainment areas, and attractive culinary spaces.
Afternoon, move to Tam Chuc Pagoda, the largest pagoda in Vietnam located amidst picturesque natural scenery. Here, you can take a boat trip to admire Tam Chuc Lake, visit Quan Am Palace, Tam The Palace, pay homage to the jade Buddha statue, and enjoy the serene, sacred atmosphere.
Combine sightseeing and worship at Tam Chuc Pagoda. (Source: Vietnam Pictorial Vietnamese)
At the end of the journey, visitors can rest and enjoy a light dinner in the Tam Chuc area before returning to Ninh Binh or Hanoi. This 2-day, 1-night itinerary offers a complete experience, from pristine nature to culture, spirituality, and modern entertainment, helping you recharge your energy after busy working days.
5.2. Notes – Pocket Tips For Your Trip to Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh
To make your trip to Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh more complete and comfortable, you should prepare a few things carefully:
Ideal time: From April to July is the best time to visit the lake, when the weather is dry, with light sunshine and lush green scenery. If traveling during the rainy season (August–October), bring a raincoat or a foldable umbrella for convenience.
Appropriate attire: Prioritize light, breathable clothing that is easy to move in. If participating in camping or cycling, wear sports shoes or non-slip soft-soled sandals.
Essential items: Sunscreen, insect repellent, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, personal drinking water, and wet wipes are indispensable. If picnicking, prepare trash bags and light snacks to protect the environment.
Safety during your visit: Follow the instructions at the tourist area, do not swim in deep water areas, especially when accompanied by young children. If fishing or having a campfire, choose a safe area, avoid areas near the forest edge or where there is strong wind.
Preserve the landscape: Do not litter, do not pick flowers or break branches along the lake. Contribute to preserving the natural beauty of the lake so that this place remains a pristine and memorable destination.
A little thoughtful preparation along with a spirit of exploration will help you have a truly enjoyable, safe, and valuable experience at Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh.
Yen Thang Lake Ninh Binh not only offers pristine natural beauty but is also a place where visitors can find rare peace amidst modern life. Amidst the vast expanse of water, pine hills, and gentle breezes, all worries seem to disappear, leaving only a sense of relaxation and tranquility. Whether you come to relax, camp, fish, or simply wander and sightsee, Yen Thang Lake always offers memorable moments.
