With its beautiful natural scenery and rich culture, Vietnam is always an attractive destination for domestic and foreign tourists. Among the must see destinations, Sapa – A majestic Northwest mountainous region and Ninh Binh – A peaceful delta province, stand out with its unique beauty. The journey from Sapa to Ninh Binh will allow you to experience the diverse beauty of Vietnam. This article from Meditours Ninh Binh will provide detailed information about the journey from Sapa to Ninh Binh.
Introduction about Sapa and Ninh Binh
Sapa is not only a place with a cool climate but also an ideal destination for those who love to explore nature. Mountains, green valleys, and terraced fields surround it. In particular, Fansipan, the roof of Indochina, is one of the most famous landscapes any tourist wants to conquer. Moreover, Sapa is also renowned for the diverse culture of ethnic minorities such as Mong, Dao, Tay, Thai with many unique customs and practices.
Ninh Binh is attractive not only for its beautiful natural landscapes but also for its historical and cultural values. Trang An, Tam Coc – Bich Dong and Hang Mua are famous places in Ninh Binh, recognized by UNESCO as world cultural heritages. With golden rice fields, mysterious caves, and ancient pagodas, Ninh Binh offers a peaceful space close to nature.
Reasons for combining two journeys
One of the reasons why the journey from Sapa to Ninh Binh is so fascinating is the perfect combination of two different cultures and natural landscapes. From high mountain peaks to green fields, this journey fully meets tourists needs for exploration and experience. Trekking in Sapa or visiting famous places in Ninh Binh will bring unforgettable memories.
How to travel from Sapa to Ninh Binh
To travel from Sapa to Ninh Binh, you can choose one of the three popular means of transport below:
Passenger car
Traveling from Sapa to Ninh Binh by passenger car is one of the most convenient options. Just book tickets in advance through famous transport companies such as Sapa Express, Sao Viet, or Hoang Long, and you will easily arrive in Ninh Binh. With outstanding advantages in terms of travel speed and reasonable price, passenger cars are often the preferred choice of many tourists when traveling.
However, one of the most significant disadvantages of this means of transport is the inflexibility of departure time and the need for more variety in the types of vehicles you can choose. Ticket prices range from 200,000 to 400,000 VND per person per trip (depending on the type of vehicle and carrier). Travel time usually lasts about 7 to 9 hours.
Train
If you are looking for a relaxing means of transport, traveling from Sapa to Ninh Binh by train is an ideal choice. Departing from Lao Cai station, located near the famous tourist area of Sapa, you can enjoy an incredible journey before transferring to a bus to continue to Ninh Binh.
Trains such as SE1, SE3, and SE5 are the most famous trains that passengers often use. These trains are fully equipped with comfortable beds and clean toilets. The ticket price for each train ranges from about 300,000 to 800,000 VND per person, depending on the type of train and ticket class you choose.
The travel time for this trip usually takes from 8 to 10 hours. However, you will feel energized because this journey will bring you exciting experiences, such as admiring the beauty of the scenery on both sides of the rails. Every minute on the train allows you to explore and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Vietnam.
Private car/car rental
Renting a private car will be an extremely reasonable choice if you want to be flexible with your time and feel comfortable when traveling from Sapa to Ninh Binh. When owning a private vehicle, you can stop at your favorite places throughout the journey, making it easy to explore places according to your interests.
One of the most popular routes is from Sapa through Lao Cai to Hanoi and Ninh Binh. Before starting the trip, you must check the condition of the car and review the insurance terms. Moreover, you should prepare a paper map or a GPS device to avoid getting lost. Equally important is that you choose the type of car that suits your needs and your financial ability.
Cuisine in Sapa and Ninh Binh
From Sapa to Ninh Binh, you will not only admire the majestic natural beauty but also have the opportunity to enjoy unique specialties only available in this land. Below are some of the specialties of these two famous lands:
Cuisine in Sapa
Thang co
Thang co is a unique and traditional dish that represents the culinary heritage of the Hmong ethnic group in Sapa. It is known for its distinctive aroma. The main components of this dish consist of various meats, bones, and offals sourced from horses and buffalo, which are expertly combined with an assortment of over 20 different herbs.
These ingredients are simmered together in a large pot until tender and flavorful. At first, the broth may have a slightly bitter taste that can be quite pronounced, but when enjoyed in the chilly weather of Sapa, a steaming bowl of thang co allows you to appreciate the charm and culture of this beautiful area truly.
Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tube (Com lam)
Com lam, a type of sticky rice from Vietnam, is a straightforward but tasty dish popular in Sapa local markets and from street vendors. The process includes putting rice into a bamboo tube wrapped in banana leaves and then roasting it over hot coals. The delightful fragrance of the rice blends with the subtle scent of bamboo, resulting in an aromatic and appealing dish. Com lam is frequently paired with salted roasted peanuts, grilled pork, or chicken skewers.
Salmon and sturgeon hotpot (Lau ca tam)
Sturgeon and salmon hotpot are two famous dishes in Sapa. The sturgeon and salmon found in Sapa are recognized for their firm texture and rich nutritional benefits. They are perfectly paired with a steaming broth that is hot and sour, made from fish bones, fresh vegetables, and mushrooms cultivated in Sapa. If you’re considering a food tour in Sapa on a chilly day, trying the salmon and sturgeon hotpot, a distinctive Vietnamese dish, is essential.
Cuisine in Ninh Binh
Rice crust
In Ninh Binh, many specialty restaurants and well known tourist spots offer burnt rice to cater to travelers tastes. The burnt rice produced in this region has a delightful, crispy texture and a delicious flavor that many people enjoy. Several variations are available, including burnt rice served with meat, shrimp, onions, and more, allowing a wide range of options to satisfy different preferences.
Ninh Binh goat meat
The goat meat from Ninh Binh is renowned for its exceptional flavor and quality. It is neither overly tender nor tough, primarily because the goats are raised in hilly terrains where they graze on a diet composed largely of natural forage. This diet contributes to the unique taste and texture of the meat. If you are interested in purchasing Ninh Binh goat meat for your family meals, you have several options available. You can find it at local markets, or you might also consider dining at restaurants or visiting food shops that specialize in this local delicacy.
Sticky rice with ants eggs (Xoi trung kien)
The mention of “ant eggs” certainly piques one interest regarding this unusual delicacy. The most notable type of ant egg dish comes from the brown ant species that inhabit the limestone mountains of Nho Quan. Each year, during the second lunar month, locals embark on their quest to gather these precious eggs.
Once collected, the ant nests are thoroughly cleaned using warm water and seasoned with a variety of spices. After this preparation, they are transformed into a distinctive dish that has an unconventional name. Due to the rarity of ant eggs, the price for a serving of this sticky rice can be relatively high, ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 VND per dish.
Suggested travel itinerary
Day 1: Immerse Yourself in Sapa Charm
Morning: Arrive in Sapa and check into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the stunning mountain views.
Afternoon: Embark on a guided trekking tour through the vibrant Hmong and Dao villages surrounding Sapa. Experience the local culture, admire the terraced rice fields, and interact with friendly locals.
Evening: Return to Sapa town for dinner and explore the bustling night market. Indulge in local delicacies and shop for unique souvenirs.
Day 2: Conquer Fansipan and Journey to Ninh Binh
Early Morning: Take the cable car or embark on a challenging trek to conquer Fansipan, the “Roof of Indochina”. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Afternoon: Descend from Fansipan and check out of your accommodation. Transfer to Ninh Binh, a picturesque province renowned for its karst mountains and lush rice paddies.
Evening: Arrive in Ninh Binh and check into your hotel. Relax by the pool or explore the local area.
Day 3: Discover Tam Coc – Bich Dong and Hang Mua
Morning: Starting on a leisurely boat ride through the enchanting Tam Coc, often called “Halong Bay on Land”. Witness the stunning limestone formations, emerald waters, and local farmers tending to their rice fields.
Afternoon: Visit the nearby Bich Dong Pagoda, a serene temple complex with breathtaking natural beauty. Afterward, climb the challenging steps to the top of Hang Mua Peak for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local Ninh Binh specialties, such as grilled goat or rice.
Day 4: Relax and Explore Ninh Binh
Morning: Visit the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a boat ride through hidden caves and admire the stunning scenery.
Afternoon: Explore the charming ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where you can visit the former royal temples of King Dinh and Le.
Evening: Relax by the pool, enjoy a spa treatment, or explore the local night market for souvenirs and regional delicacies.
Remember to customize this itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Consider incorporating activities like biking, cooking classes, or photography tours to enhance your experience.
Travel experience
From Sapa to Ninh Binh, its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage are must visit destinations in Vietnam. To ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience, consider these essential travel tips:
The ideal time to travel
Each season brings its own unique scenery. For example, spring is the time when peach blossoms bloom, creating a cheerful atmosphere, while summer, with its hot and humid weather, is suitable for mountain climbing activities to explore nature. Autumn is romantic with falling yellow leaves, while winter in Sapa brings a cold feeling, where you can see white snow falling. Choose the time that you feel is most suitable for your personal preferences.
Prepare luggage
Preparing luggage is very important when traveling from Sapa to Ninh Binh. You should choose clothes suitable for the weather conditions of each season. In addition, do not forget to bring some necessary medicines, personal items such as toothbrushes and shower gel, and important documents such as ID cards, maps, or GPS devices to avoid getting lost.
Specialty Cuisine
A trip will not be complete if you miss out on the delicious specialties in Sapa. Dishes such as thang co, black chicken hotpot, and salmon will surely satisfy you. Ninh Binh is also famous for dishes such as bun cha, burnt rice, or goat meat. Refer to the favorite culinary destinations in both places on social networking platforms for more great options for experiencing rich cuisine.
Accommodation
When coming to Sapa and Ninh Binh, you have many accommodation choices, from luxury hotels and budget motels to homestays that bring a feeling of closeness and friendliness to the locals. You can choose the appropriate accommodation to enjoy your trip, depending on your budget and preferences.
Travel Tips
A valuable piece of advice for those who enjoy traveling and shopping is to engage in price negotiation. Haggling over prices can not only lead to significant savings but also provide a sense of accomplishment from obtaining a more favorable deal than the initial offer.
When negotiating, it is essential to communicate clearly and straightforwardly. Avoid unnecessary repetition of questions, as this can detract from effective communication.
The journey from Sapa to Ninh Binh brings you exciting experiences and an opportunity to explore the diverse beauty of Vietnam. With detailed information and specific instructions, we hope that you will have a smooth and memorable trip. Remember to record beautiful moments in your journey and share the most exciting experiences with everyone!
