1. Discover Dong Thai Lake Ninh Binh, known as Ninh Binh's second "Tuyet Tinh Coc" (Secluded Love Valley)
Dong Thai Lake is located in Dong Thai commune, Ninh Binh province. This is the largest freshwater lake in Ninh Binh province with a water surface area of over 380 ha, surrounded by about 400 ha of primary protective forest. Thanks to its convenient location, visitors can easily combine visits with famous attractions such as Trang An, Tam Coc.
The clear blue lake reflects the Tam Diep limestone mountain range, creating a poetic landscape, giving the feeling of enjoying a miniature Ha Long Bay inland. What makes Dong Thai Lake Ninh Binh special is its natural pristine beauty, little affected by commercial activities, creating a peaceful space like "Tuyet Tinh Coc" (Secluded Love Valley) for those who need a quiet space.
Dong Thai Lake Ninh Binh is nicknamed the second "Tuyet Tinh Coc" of Ninh Binh. (Source: Collected)
2. How to get to Dong Thai Lake Ninh Binh 2025
From Hanoi to Dong Thai Lake Ninh Binh:
Starting from Hanoi, visitors can choose a passenger bus at Giap Bat station going directly to Yen Mo, prices range from 70,000 VND to 250,000 VND per person, travel time usually lasts 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is a suitable option for those who want to balance cost and convenience.
Traveling by bus is both fast and economical. (Source: Collected)
For those who choose a motorbike or private car, you can follow the Phap Van – Cau Gie – Ninh Binh expressway, then turn onto the provincial road towards Yen Mo. The total distance is about 100 km, with an estimated driving time of about 2 hours. The expressway helps shorten travel time and ensure safety, while choosing to travel along National Highway 1A will take longer but offers more opportunities to enjoy the scenery along the way.
From the old Ninh Binh city center to Dong Thai Lake:
From the old Ninh Binh city center, it only takes tourists about 40 minutes to reach Dong Thai Lake, covering a distance of about 20 km. Follow the main road towards Yen Mo district, pass through Dong Thai commune, and continue straight to the lake area. This journey is quite convenient, the road is flat, easy to travel, and suitable for both motorbikes and cars, allowing tourists to fully enjoy the exploration of the peaceful scenery in this poetic lake region.
Local transportation suggestions and safety tips:
Renting a motorbike from reputable establishments in Ninh Binh center is a preferred choice for many, offering flexibility in time and easy access to places like Ma Tien Cave and nearby limestone valleys. Other options such as taxis or ride-hailing services are also trusted by many tourists, suitable for those who prefer not to drive themselves.
Before arriving at Dong Thai Lake Ninh Binh, you should study the map carefully and proactively ask locals if traveling on small roads. If traveling in a group or unfamiliar with the area, consider booking a package tour from professional providers for itinerary support and safety assurance.
3. Attractive experiences at Dong Thai Lake Ninh Binh
3.1. Boating and sightseeing on the peaceful lake
Kayaking or rowing boat activities on Dong Thai Lake are very popular with tourists. Sitting on a boat amidst the clear blue water, you will admire the scenery of limestone mountains reflected on the lake surface and feel the unusual tranquility of nature here. This is an experience suitable for all ages, including children and the elderly, who can participate easily and safely.
For this activity, you should wear a life jacket throughout the boating time and follow the instructions of the locals. Do not boat when it is dark or when the weather is unstable to ensure safety. The best times to experience boating are in the morning from 7 AM to 11 AM or in the afternoon from 2 PM to 5 PM when the air is fresh and the light is gentle.
3.2. Camping and picnicking with friends or family
At Dong Thai Lake Ninh Binh, tourists can easily find many wonderful spots for camping and relaxing amidst nature. Flat grassy areas by the lake, lush pine forests, or small peninsulas surrounded by majestic limestone mountains are all ideal choices. These areas not only offer a quiet and fresh atmosphere but also ensure safety and convenience for outdoor activities, cooking, or watching the sunset by the calm lake.
Tourists can camp and picnic on the grassy areas by the lake. (Source: Collected)
Camping support services around the lake are quite diverse, from renting tents, mats, tables, chairs to other necessary items. Some restaurants around the lake can also prepare food in advance upon request, or tourists can contact local services to prepare for the most thoughtful picnic trip.
Before setting up camp, you should contact the tourist area management or local authorities in advance to be guided in choosing a suitable location and avoid ecological conservation areas. This will help you comply with regulations and protect the natural landscape of the area.
3.3. Instagrammable Check-in: Popular Photo Spots on Social Media
The small wooden bridge crossing the narrow bays of the lake creates romantic frames, especially prominent when sunset falls, the gentle golden afternoon light reflects on the water surface. This is a favorite spot for many young people when looking for beautiful photo spots at Ho Dong Thai .
Small peninsulas covered in green grass along with trails through primeval forests are also ideal places for "virtual life" photos. The terrain is spacious, not too crowded, so tourists can easily get natural photos without having to wait long as at some other tourist destinations.
3.4. Hiking and Trekking to Explore Ho Dong Thai Ninh Binh
The trekking route around Ho Dong Thai is rated as easy by many tourists, suitable for families and groups of friends who love nature. The trail around the lake, up the slopes of Tam Diep mountain, is not too difficult to walk, offering a gentle exploration experience, closer to nature than an adventurous one. Beautiful spots for sunset viewing include the long dike surrounding the lake or from the top of some small mountains near the lake. From here, you can cast your eyes over the entire lake surface and admire the majestic mountain scenery.
To make the hiking and trekking trip enjoyable and safe, you should choose light sportswear, wear specialized shoes with good grip, prepare drinking water, a sun hat, and a light jacket. It is advisable to bring a map or ask for directions from locals to avoid getting lost on the forest trails.
4. Discovering Nature and the Ecosystem around Ho Dong Thai Ninh Binh
4.1. Diversity of Fauna, Flora, and Seasonal Scenery
The ecosystem around Ho Dong Thai Ninh Binh is extremely rich with many bird species such as wild ducks, collared doves, starlings, egrets, and herons residing year-round. In autumn, you can easily observe migratory birds, while spring brings a scene of flowers and lush green trees, creating a gentle beauty for the area.
Besides bird species, the lake area is also home to gibbons, squirrels, and many other amphibians. Underwater, native fish species, soft-shelled turtles, and freshwater shrimp contribute to the balance of the freshwater ecosystem here.
The plant landscape is highlighted by lush pine forests along the lake, and wild flowers characteristic of the limestone mountain region. Some areas have been specifically planned to serve those who love nature photography or wildlife observation in their natural environment.
4.2. "Hidden" Attractions around Ho Dong Thai
Dong Ma Tien cave is located quite close to Ho Dong Thai ; to reach the cave, you will follow 100 stone steps through the primeval limestone forest. This place still retains its wildness, little affected by tourism activities, suitable for those who love exploring and learning about mysterious nature.
Combine exploration of Ma Tien Cave Ninh Binh. (Source: Collected)
The limestone valleys surrounding the lake create a quiet space with many small peninsulas and areas with few tourist footprints. This is an ideal place for those who wish to experience privacy, separate from popular tourist routes.
You can easily combine a visit to Dong Thai Lake with nearby destinations such as Ma Tien Cave or the lakeside villages within a 1-2 day itinerary. If you have more time, don't miss the opportunity to extend your journey to famous spots in the region such as Tam Coc, Trang An, Sun World Ha Nam, or Tam Chuc Pagoda. The combination of pristine natural beauty and unique spiritual cultural space will surely bring you a complete, emotional experience when exploring Ninh Binh and its surroundings.
Dong Thai Lake Ninh Binh is not only an ideal stop for nature lovers but also a place to fully experience the characteristic tranquility of the ancient capital region. Amidst the vast space of rivers, mountains, and green forests, all noise seems to disappear, leaving only relaxation and peace in every moment. Whether it's a picnic, camping trip, or a long exploration journey, Dong Thai Lake offers beautiful experiences, where people merge with nature, allowing the soul to settle and find true peace.
