Ninh Binh: Vietnam's Hidden Gem
Ninh Binh: Vietnam's Hidden Gem
In Vietnam, there is a lesser-known but charming place called Ninh Binh. Like a beautiful woman hidden away, it is quiet and beautiful, waiting for travelers to uncover its mysterious veil.
The natural scenery of Ninh Binh is breathtaking. Tam Coc is the star attraction here, where the karst landscape is vividly displayed. As you ride a bamboo raft and glide over the mirror-like water, the scene before you unfolds like a dream. Towering peaks pierce the sky, each with a unique shape, some like swords, others like camels, appearing and disappearing in the mist, as if celestial mountains have descended to earth. The mountain reflections sway gently in the clear water, blurring the line between mountain and water. Occasionally, a few water birds skim the surface, breaking the silence and adding a touch of lively beauty.
The wheels of history have left deep marks in Ninh Binh. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital was once the political center of Vietnam, witnessing the rise and fall of countless dynasties. Walking among the ruins of the ancient capital, the old city walls may be incomplete, but their former majesty can still be felt. The palace foundations and temple ruins, each brick and stone, carry the memories of time, telling stories of past glory. Here, you can touch the threads of history and feel the weight of time.
The cuisine of Ninh Binh is equally unforgettable. Ninh Binh spring rolls are a local specialty, with a thin wrapper filled with fresh vegetables, tender shrimp, and fragrant fried meat, dipped in a tangy fish sauce. A bite releases a burst of flavors on the tongue, refreshing and satisfying. Then there's the soft and sticky banh cuon, with delicate rice flour wrappers encasing carefully seasoned fillings, such as pork or shrimp, paired with a rich and savory broth. Each bite is full of Vietnamese flavor, leaving you wanting more.
Ninh Binh lacks the hustle and bustle of popular tourist spots, but it offers the purest natural beauty, the deepest historical heritage, and the most authentic cuisine. It is a forgotten gem in Vietnam, waiting for you to discover and savor, offering a unique, peaceful, and beautiful travel experience.