Island Paradise Unveiled: Best Time To Visit The Philippines

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 6, 2021

When we talk of exploring Delhi or looking for places to visit near Delhi, we find the same regular answers. Delhi, being the capital of India, has received enough love over the years; hence, we call Delhites “Dilwala.” Dilwala means someone who has a big heart.  Exploring Delhi includes the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Taj Mahal Lodhi Gardens, etc. But is that enough to see in Delhi? Nothing beats the beauty of the off-beat places in Delhi.  Here, we will talk about the lesser-known places in Delhi that are worth noting. Unexplored Places To Visit Near Delhi Here we will list the not too famous places in Delhi that you will definitely love, You must visit them at least once in your life. Many people who visited Delhi are also unaware of these places. Do not miss this opportunity. Visit the places near that have not been explored ever before are here. Here are the places to visit near Delhi,  Delhi is one of the world’s top travel destinations and is frequently a stopover point for people looking to visit the wonders of Rajasthan and the famous Taj Mahal in Agra. However, if you want to just be in the capital city of India, and undertake Delhi tours, you can take help from the below-mentioned unexplored places. From great food to inspiring culture, Delhi has something to offer to every traveler.  1. Hauz Khas Village Exact Location – Hauz Khas Village, South DelhiNearest Metro – Hauz Khas This is an amazingly beautifully crafted medieval age city of the new age party culture. The name of this place is Hauz Khas Village, but without mention, this place is surprising. This place has a unique combination of tradition and trends. Leaving aside the sculptural beauty this place also has some new and trendy pubs, clubs, and cafes. The youth of Delhi enjoys this place day and night.  Many might not be aware that the place where Hauz Khas Village has been built was a place named Siri in the past. Since this place is situated in south Delhi, it faces a lot of crowds there. This tourist destination is securing its first place in the list of the best tourist places near Delhi. 2. Majnu ka Tila Exact Location – GT Road Nearest Metro – Vidhan Sabha metro station is near the Majnu Ka Tilla. This is the Tibetan colony which is also known as “the little Tibet”. This place gives shelter to 1000s of Tibetan refugees who had followed their religious leader Dalai lama. Now the entire area is for the Tibetan people who have made up their lifestyle comfortably in Majnu ka Tilla.  This place is located in North Delhi and represents the vivid Tibetan culture and tradition with clothes, accessories, and food of Tibet. Anyway, you could enjoy food in Delhi, but the food that the menu ka Tilla has is incomparable. The places near Delhi all are a little bit different, impression-wise. Anyway, you could enjoy food in Delhi, but the food that the Majnu ka Tilla has is incomparable. The places near Delhi are all a little bit different, impression-wise. 3. Mirza Ghalib ki Haveli Exact Location – New Delhi, Qasim Jan Street, Shahajanabad. Nearest Metro – Chawri Bazar Metro is the Nearest Metro station. This is the Haveli or the palace made in the memory of the world-recognized Urdu poet, Mirza Asadullah Baig Khan who is also known as Mirza Ghalib. He is said to have produced the most famous of his creations when he was in this home. Hence this place stands of importance to everyone.  This place is in Chandni Chowk which is the heart of the city, and it has been transformed into a museum now because it is maintained by the Government. Chadinchwak is a popular marketplace. Many tourists are visiting Chandni Chowk as a popular marketplace. But do you ever searching the “places to visit near me” when you are already in the Chadnichwak market? Try these tricks and let us know what the different types of tourist destinations you are getting. 4. Best Places To Visit Near Delhi – Sanjayvan Exact Location – Vasant Kunj, New DelhiNearest Metro – The nearest metro stations are the Chhattarpur metro station and the Qutub Minar metro station.  No one would have ever thought that there could be a forest in the heart of the city? But there is, the Sanjayvan is right in the middle of South Delhi. It is very close to the Qutub Minar there. It is a lush green forest, and this green forest spreads over 780km straight from all directions. This is one of the best-hidden places to visit near Delhi. This Sanvayvan is near or between Mehrauli and Vasant Kunj in the southern part of Delhi.  5. Best Places To Visit Near Delhi – Ghazipur Phool Mandi Exact Location – Ghazipur Village Nearest Metro Station – Anand Bihar ISBT is close to this place. You can either take an auto or walk down. As soon as you enter this place, you will get the fragrance of different kinds of flowers. Different types of flowers are there in this market, right from marigolds, roses, orchids, tulips, carnations, lilies of different types are available here. When you are searching the places to see around Delhi, you are getting the options from the surrounding areas, which are mostly human-made or artificial, but this small village is delivering the beauty of nature. This is an astonishing magical place known for its beautiful collection of flowers in the market. This place has all sorts of flowers at unimaginable low prices. You must take a visit to this place if you are visiting Delhi. This flowery village is one of the best places to visit near Delhi. 6. Neemrana, Rajasthan Neemrana has been recently in the news with the rising air pollution level in the NCR region. So, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4) has started in Neemrana, which borders Rajasthan.  Just around 116 kms away from Delhi, is Neemrana in Rajasthan. It is the ultimate destination if you are a history buff.  Once the power seat of Rajput Chauhans was taken over, Neemrana has now become a heritage destination.  Neemrana Fort is the center of attraction here and it was built by the Chauhans. However, unfortunately, the fort became an abandoned place in 1947.  Further, in 1991, there was some revival work to transform the Fort into a heritage hotel.  Also, Neemrana is famous as the zipline site in India. So, you can go for a zipline tour here for some adrenaline rush.  You can even visit the Neemrana Baori here and learn how this underwater conservation project has been crucial in the social and economic evolution of Neemrana.  Moreover, you cannot miss enjoying a camel ride when in Neemrana. It is the best way to understand the traditional way of living in Rajasthan.  7. Nuh, Haryana Just around 2 hours drive from Delhi, Nua is one of the less-explored places to visit near Delhi. Its distance from the New Delhi Airport is around 63 kms.  If you are a history buff and have an interest in Sufism, you must visit the Sheikh Musa Mosque. This mosque has an association with the Chisti Order.  Further, if you love watching birds, you must spend some time at Hari-Ke-Pattan Bird Sanctuary. There is no entry fee to visit the sanctuary and it remains open between 9 AM to 5 PM. The Hari-Ke-Pattan wetland is a manmade wetland spanning across 4100 acres. It is the largest in North India and is home to almost 375 species of birds.  You will find here great crested grebe, Indian Skimmer, Black-Necked Stork, etc. You may even spot jackals and wild boars here.  Moreover, if you are interested in automobiles, you can visit the Heritage Transport Museum in Nuh.  Frequently Asked Questions  Where should I go for a one day trip to delhi? You can visit these following places Murthal Damdama lake  Mathura and Vrindavan Noor Mahal Karnal  The Taj Mahal, Agra Where can couples go for privacy in delhi? Garden to five senses Qutub Minar Lodhi garden Millennium Indraprastha Park Hauz khas Village. What are the lesser known sights in Delhi to visit? Haveli Of Mirza Ghalib  Agrasen ki Baoli Majnu ka Tilla Sanjay Van  Kumhar Colony Where can I sit and study in delhi? Triveni Terrace Cafe Ivvy and Bean  Bent Chair Cafe Tea Trails Cafe Conclusion Delhi is the capital city. The rich history and the perfect combination of modern attire and historical background are making this place a perfect tourist spot. The city’s culture is very devised, and this diversity is making Delhi a different kind of tourist place. When you want to feel the true vibes of Delhi, visit these unexpected surrounding tourist places along with the main city. When you want to feel the true vibes of the city, include the unexplored places to visit near Delhi in your itinerary. Along with the places mentioned, you can also visit Nizamuddin Dargah, Agrasen ki Baoli, and Meharauli Archaeological Park.  Further, Delhi is about exploring the local culture. From enjoying the whiff of spices at the biggest wholesale spice market in Asia (Khari Baoli Road) to taking a stroll around the painted houses in Naughara, you have a lot to do in Delhi. If you liked our post, please comment below, and do not forget to share your experience with us.

BY  Sibashree May 31, 2025

People are calling Dubrovnik a travel secret, a hidden gem in the Mediterranean region, and whatnot! I don’t agree with these, as for the longest time, Dubrovnik has been famous as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Also, the Old Town of Dubrovnik was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Moreover, this city in Croatia has been facing overtourism since the HBO series Game of Thrones became so huge.  It is the filming location of the series.  Even if you are not a Game of Thrones fan, you will love the blue water of the Adriatic Sea, the walls around the Old City, the cobblestone streets, and, overall, the quaint charm.  While it takes almost a week to explore the best of Dubrovnik and indulge in its happening culinary scene, here I have curated a quick itinerary of what to do in Dubrovnik.  This time, the best activities in Dubrovnik span over 3 days, and here you go! However, before that, I want to share how I fell in love with this Mediterranean gem and what the best time to visit this beautiful city is. What Is The Best Time To Visit Dubrovnik? May to September is the best time to visit Dubrovnik.  Pleasant weather conditions Affordable hotel rates Less crowd An ideal situation for exploring beaches and water activities These are the benefits of scheduling your trip to Dubrovnik during these months.  Further, have a look at the table below to understand the weather conditions of Dubrovnik by month.  MonthsHighest Temperature (°C)Lowest Temperature (°C)Days of RainfallJanuary13710February1499March15109April17128May22156June27205July30223August31233September27204October23177November191110December 15810 Moreover, if you want to explore the festive scenario of Dubrovnik, you can plan your visit during the following months. Festivals in DubrovnikTimeSignificance of the FestivalFestival of St. Blaise3rd FebruaryThe two-day festivities include a grand procession, and the city celebrates St. Blaise, its patron saint, on this day. It is also an intangible cultural heritage identified by UNESCO. Dubrovnik Summer FestivalJuly-AugustUnique cultural programs and artistic performances are the festival's highlights. Festivities take place across various areas of Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik Winter FestivalNovember to JanuaryThe historic Old Town comes to life with music, lights, family fun, and more. Dubrovnik Good Food FestivalOctoberIt is a two-week-long food festival, including vibrant events. Stradun ClassicSeptember to OctoberMusicians around the globe perform at Stradun Classic. Midsummer SceneJune-JulyThis festival takes place at the Lovrjenac Fortress.Croatian and British theatre artists collaborate to perform the celebrated Shakespearean plays.  How I Fell In Love With Dubrovnik? Being the biggest fan of Game of Thrones, I, of course, got to know about this beautiful Croatian City.  Dubrovnik was the King’s Landing or the capital of Westeros in the series. The Red Keep and the unforgettable scene of Cersei’s “Walk of Shame.”  Then, I researched Dubrovnik and its magnificent walls surrounding the Old Town, and the seafood delicacies here made me fall in love with the city.  So, if you thought that Dubrovnik was all about pasta and pizza and exploring the Old Town on the hottest days, it’s time to guide you on how to do it right.  What To Do In Dubrovnik: A Complete 3-Day Itinerary For You Here is what to do in Dubrovnik during a 3-day trip.  Day 1: What To Do In Dubrovnik Your day 1 in Dubrovnik will be focused on exploring the walled Old City. You can also take your time to relax by the pool or the sea, visit the local restaurants, enjoy a cable car ride, indulge in fine dining and the best wines, and end your day with a night stroll.  1. Exploring The Walled Old City Of Dubrovnik The Dubrovnik Old City celebrates Croatia's rich medieval history. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and taking a stroll across the cobblestone street and visiting places like the Cultural History Museum are the ultimate experiences here.  “The 'Pearl of the Adriatic', situated on the Dalmatian coast, became an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration programme co-ordinated by UNESCO.” - UNESCO World Heritage Convention 2. Relaxing By The Pool Or The Sea If you want a delightful beach experience, you can visit Mlini Bay or Lapad Peninsula in Dubrovnik.  However, if you are feeling too lazy to explore the beach, you can explore hotels with pools for the perfect lounging time.  3. Visiting Local Restaurants Dubrovnik has places such as Proto, where you can have the best shrimp, scallops, and octopus delicacies.  Further, fish cooked in sea salt is something you cannot miss in Dubrovnik.  4. Enjoying A Cable Car Ride A ride on the Dubrovnik Cable Car before Sunset is truly magical. During this ride, you can enjoy the changing colors of the Sun in the sky.  Further, as you approach the top of Mount Srd, you will see wonderful views of the Elafiti Islands to the north.  5. Fine Dining And Wine Tasting Local restaurants, such as Panorama Restaurant in Dubrovnik, offer wonderful views alongside the best local cuisine.  They serve amazing steak sandwiches and Chicken “Rustico.”  Furthermore, you can taste red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines here. D’Vino Wine Bar is another hotspot in Dubrovnik to relish the best of Croatian wines.  6. Taking A Walk In The City At Night Are you a Dark Academia fan? Do you want to enjoy your “Everything is Grey” moment in the city?  Take a walk around the city at night when there are no cruise passengers, and the lights and darkness create a mysterious ambiance. Day 2: What To Do In Dubrovnik Kayaking, chilling by the beach, and exploring the City Walls are some of the best activities you can do on day 2.  1. Adventurous Kayaking In Dubrovnik Kayaking at the City Beach will be the best way to start your second day. Kayaking tours start here at $43.  2. Relaxing At The Beach If kayaking is not your forte, you can plan a visit to the City Beach and enjoy the crystal clear water and Sunshine while exploring the views of the Old City.  3. Exploring The Walls of Dubrovnik During The Sunset You can take a 2-hour walk along the city walls to relish the beauty of the Sunset. Once you reach the top, you can also grab some local snacks and the best coffee at the cafes.  You need to buy tickets to explore the City Walls, and the ticket prices are: During the high season, tickets for adults to explore the City Walls cost 40 EUR, while children's tickets are 15 EUR.  However, in the low season, ticket prices are 15 EUR for adults and 5 EUR for children. 4. Relishing Croatian Peka Meal If you're looking for a fun-filled community-building experience, consider the Peka Meal in the signature Dubrovnik style. Here, you will have the option of lamb, veal, or octopus in a communal pot. Further, potatoes will be cooked over the coal and served to everyone. Day 3: What To Do In Dubrovnik Your day three will begin a journey to Lokrum Island. This Island houses the Benedictine Monastery and the Dubrovnik Visitor Center.  The Visitor Center has the Iron Throne, where you can sit and live your Game of Thrones moments.  Furthemore, the Dalmatian Coast has rock slab beaches. You can jump into the water there and enjoy the most unique views of the Old City. Additionally, you can visit Mljet Island, home to the Mljet National Park and stunning saltwater lakes.  Then, the Red History Museum, located across from the Gruž Ferry Port, will be your next destination. The ticket to the museum is 9 EUR for adults, 7.20 EUR for seniors and university students, and 3.60 EUR for primary and secondary students.  Furthermore, for students under the age of 10, admission to the museum is free. Where To Stay In Dubrovnik?  Hotel Dubrovnik Palace and Hotel Excelsior are two of the best places to stay in Dubrovnik. Hotel Excelsior is located close to the walls of the Old Town and the City Beach.  On the other hand, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace offers a luxury resort experience, and it offers the best views of the Adriatic Coast.

BY  Sibashree Mar 2, 2026

Ninh Binh or Halong Bay on Land is a UNESCO-protected site and a hidden gem in the tourism landscape of Vietnam.  It has ancient temples, a surreal riverine landscape, and dramatic limestone mountains. A Ninh Binh boat tour and climbing up its beautiful peaks is the best way to explore this serene place.  Moreover, if you see Ninh Binh on the map, you will find it in the northern region of the country. Along with its natural abundance, it is also known for its historical and cultural heritage.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about what Ninh Binh is famous for, how to reach Ninh Binh from Hanoi, the things to do in Ninh Binh, where to eat in Ninh Binh, and more.  What Is Ninh Binh Famous For?  If you are a follower of the TheLowDownUnder Travel philosophy, Ninh Binh will become your instant favorite. It’s authentic, sustainable, and perfect for mastering the art of slow traveling.  In this way, Ninh Binh reminds me of Luang Prabang in Laos. During my Luang Prabang itinerary planner, I found out how it practices sustainable tourism.  In fact, being environmentally responsible is a common feature of these two neighbors.  Also, Ninh Binh is one of the most exotic places to watch the sunrise in Vietnam.  Nevertheless, here are the reasons why Ninh Binh is famous for.  1. Waterways And Wetlands Ninh Binh is a lush and fertile region blessed by a network of waterways. The Red River and the Day River function as the lifeline of this region, and at the same time, many smaller rivers have added to the fertility and unique topography of the region.  You can enjoy a boat tour of these waterways and experience an adrenaline rush.  Moreover, these wetlands, especially in places such as the Van Long Nature Reserve, are home to different types of birds and other animals.  2. Karst Limestone Cliffs Trang An, Tam Coc, and Van Long Nature Reserve are some of the most famous Karst limestone cliff areas in Ninh.  Most of the karst limestone formations here rise from the waterways and the rice paddies. Thus, this sudden rise against the lows of the waterway creates a sense of drama.  3. Grottes And Caves The limestone karsts in Nin Binh are all the more fascinating due to the underground exploration and adventure opportunities they offer.  Some of them, especially the ones in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, come with caves and grottes. Moreover, these caves and grottes are some of the largest in Southeast Asia. 4. Proximity To Hanoi Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital, is one of the cheapest places to visit in the world.  The Hanoi to Ninh Binh journey by road takes around 2 hours. Drive south from Hanoi, and you will reach the former capital of the country.  However, despite this proximity, Ninh Binh has maintained its idyllic charm. So, often, it is the go-to destination for a day trip or weekend trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.  5. Transportation Hubs The Ninh Binh City railway station is the gateway to the Ninh Binh region for the rest of the country.  Furthermore, Ninh Binh is well-connected via road. Thus, this scenic region of Vietnam is quite easily accessible.  6. Gateway To Exploration Ninh Binh is the gateway to Halong Bay in the east and the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.  Furthermore, from Ninh Binh, you can explore northern regions such as Sapa and the Vietnam-China border.  7. Historical And Cultural Heritage Ninh Binh is home to Hoa Lu, the first capital of independent Vietnam. The Dinh and Early Le dynasties ruled over Hoa Lu from 968 to 1010 AD before the capital was moved to Hanoi.  You will find here 10th-century temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le in Hoa Lu.  Furthermore, Nin Binh has many ancient pagodas, and its cultural significance lies in being a UNESCO-Protected Site.  8. Scenic Beauty  The waterways of Ninh Binh are tranquil. Furthermore, the lush landscape and karst limestone formations act as the most dramatic backdrop.  You will love trekking, birdwatching, and of course boating at Ninh Binh. How To Get From Hanoi To Ninh Binh? A Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi is quite common. You can take a bus or train, or reserve a private car for the day trip.  1. Hanoi To Ninh Binh By Train  You can take a train ride from Hanoi to the Ninh Binh Railway Station.  Depending on the class, your ticket price will be between VND 60000 and 200000, or around $8 USD.  Moreover, the travel time will be around 2.5 hours.  2. Hanoi To Ninh Binh By Bus If you are a budget traveler, you can take a bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. The buses, however, take a little longer, and based on the traffic, it may take up to 3 hours.  The ticket price for a Hanoi to Ninh Binh bus ride is around USD 6 or VND 70000-150000.  3. Hanoi To Ninh Binh By Car  You can book an Uber or just take a private car to reach Ninh Binh by car from Hanoi. Of course, it is the most expensive mode of transportation and costs around 1,380,000 VND or USD 60.  Furthermore, the travel time will be around 1.5 hours.  Moving Around Ninh Binh  Once you are in Ninh Binh and want to explore it locally, you can do it on foot. The city of Ninh Binh is very walkable.  However, if you want to explore more, you can take a bicycle or rent a bike.  1. Exploring Ninh Binh On A Bicycle  It’s a miss if you are in Ninh Binh and don’t explore Tam Coc or other quieter areas of Ninh Binh.  I got a bicycle from the homestay I was staying in for free. However, some homestays can charge a little for the bicycle rental.  2. Exploring Ning Binh On A Bike  Renting a motorbike is the best way to roam around Ninh Binh. You have to spend around $6 USD or VND 80,000–150,000 to rent a bike for a day.  Then, you can explore all corners of this UNESCO Protected Site and explore how history speaks in its every corner.  What Are The Things To Do In Ninh Binh?  The Ninh Binh Vietnam attractions are endless. You have to just figure out the best time to visit Vietnam based on your areas of interest.  Also, the things to do or the places to visit will depend on your duration of stay. Here, I have enlisted the activities that will fit well into your Ninh Binh itinerary for two days.  Nevertheless, here are the details on what to do in Ninh Binh.  1. Ninh Binh Trang An Tour Tràng An is designated by UNESCO as a heritage site, and you can reach it by taking a no-hassle boat ride from Ninh Binh.  The boatride in the serene rivers with the karst limestone cliffs in the background feels cinematic.  Furthermore, on the way, you will find a few temples where you can sniff history and appreciate the architecture.  Why Take A Trang An Tour You must take a Trang An Tour because it is not as expensive as a trip to Bến Thạch Bích. Bến Thạch Bích tour is expensive and has now become a tourist scam.  A tour to Trang An costs around $10 USD or 250000 VND per person.  2. Hiking The Lying Dragon Mountain Or Núi Ngoạ Long The boat rides through the ancient waterways, watched over by the karst limestones, are not the only adventures offered by Ninh Binh.  You can plan a hike to the Lying Dragon Mountain top. You have to climb 500 steps to reach the top, and the view from there is unreal.  From the top, you will see the lush paddy fields and the waterways winding through the limestone cliffs. There is even a temple on a rocky spire.  Ideal Time For Hiking The Lying Dragon Mountain Sunrise and sunset hours are the best for hiking the Lying Dragon Mountain. You can enjoy the golden and red glow from the top of the mountain.  Also, if you are hiking early in the morning, you will have fewer people taking the steps to the top.  Entry Fee And Parking Tip  The entry fee for the Lying Dragon Mountain hike is 100,000 VND or $4 USD. However, please note that your parking fee is included in this fee.  The parking attendants are very aggressive, and they will often misguide you by saying that the parking lot is full. So, be strict about not paying them extra or giving in to their tricks. 3. A Visit To Bich Dong Pagoda The Bich Dong Pagoda in the Hoa Lu District was built by Ly Thai To. It is on the Truong Yen limestone mountain range, and its history dates back to 1428.  However, it was abandoned for many centuries until Tri The and Tri Kien discovered it in 1705. Furthermore, it was named the Bich Dong Pagoda or Green Pearl cave by Lord Trinh Sam of Dang Ngoai in 1774.  The Unique Structure Of The Bich Dong Pagoda  The pagoda has three levels, and the Dark Cave and the Xuyen Thuy Cave.  • Ha Pagoda Or Lower Pagoda The Ha Pagoda, or Lower Pagoda, has 5 rooms and 10 roofs.  Furthermore, there is a monolithic stone pillar adorned with the statues of Lord Buddha. The lower pagoda is used for worship, and you will smell incense once you enter it, and the smell evokes a spiritual feeling.  • Middle Pagoda Or The Trung Pagoda Then, you have to take 120 steps to reach the Middle Pagoda or the Trung Pagoda. It has beautiful tiles and scriptures written in Chinese.  Also, you will find the figures of Lord Buddha, flying dragons, turtles, fairies, and little boys here.  • The Upper Pagoda Or The Thuong Pagoda Finally, you will take 40 steps to reach the upper pagoda or Thuong Pagoda. There is a forecourt, two rooms, and a stone altar in the outer room of the pagoda.  Furthermore, there is an inner room, which has the idol of the Bodhisattva. Moreover, the Cam Lo pond near the upper cave is used for curing ailments.  • Dark Cave Bich Dong You will again climb 21 steps from the Upper Pagoda to reach the Dark Cave Bich Dong.  You will find a large bronze bell there in 1707. Furthermore, inside the cave wall, you will find amazing embossed pictures.  • Xuyen Thuy Cave The Xuyen Thuy Cave is semicircular in form and has a length of around 350 meters. In places, the cave is 6-15 meters in width.  4. Birdwatching At The Thung Nham Bird Valley The Thung Nham Bird Valley is a great spot for nature lovers. You will find the birds early in the morning or late afternoon.  However, if you are late in the morning or in the afternoon at the Thung Nham Bird Valley, you will find goats and ducks roaming.  Overall, the view of the field is amazing.  5. Exploring The Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Hoa Lu, or the ancient capital of Vietnam, is the place to enjoy the history of Ninh Binh.  Being here feels straight out of a movie scene, and this place of reign by the Le and Dinh dynasties, with the surrounding mountains looks straight from a movie scene. Where To Stay In Ninh Binh? You will find many budget-friendly homestays and hotels in Ninh Binh. Having said that, these are my favorite picks.  We stayed at the Ruby Homestay, and it offered a local and authentic experience. It was budget-friendly and still had amenities such as a pool.  However, if you want a more luxurious experience, you can even try the Ninh Binh Royal Homestay. It is a resort with a 3-star rating.  What To Eat In Ninh Binh? The mountain goat meat cooked in various styles, braised fish, rice, and crispy rice are some traditional Vietnamese dishes you can eat in Ninh Binh.  Furthermore, if you are more adventurous, you can try delicacies such as the snakehead fish salad and oakit or jackfruit snail.  Chookie's in Tam Coc and the local markets were our favorite go-to places for trying authentic Vietnamese cuisines and a mix of Western delicacies at times.  Is Ninh Binh Worth Visiting?  Yes, Ninh Binh is worth visiting, and it is the heart of Northern Vietnam for tourists. It has pagodas and temples that go back to the 10th century. Furthermore, the winding waterways through the karst limestone formations simply create a landscape of contrast.  Moreover, it is one of the best places to see sunrise and sunset in Vietnam.  It’s soulful, sustainable, and fertile with lush greenery. Come, visit Ninh Binh.  Ninh Binh, Vietnam: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Ninh Binh.  1. Which Is Better, Ninh Binh Or Halong Bay? Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a more celebrated attraction in Vietnam. Ninh Binh, despite being a UNESCO-protected site, is more like a hidden gem. However, Ninh Binh is closer to Hanoi, the Vietnamese capital, and only a 2-hour drive south. Also, the experiences in these places are very different. In Ha Long Bay, the activities include swimming in the Gulf of Tonkin, overnight cruises, kayaking, and exploring the limestone karsts. Ninh Binh, on the other hand, with a more rural charm, has ancient temples, pagodas, rice paddies, waterways, and dramatic limestone karsts.  2. How Many Days To Stay In Ninh Binh? Two to four days are ideal for staying in Ninh Binh. From hiking up the Lying Dragon Mountain to boat rides to Trang An and Tam Coc, you can cover the major attractions of Ninh Binh in two days. However, if you want to explore the Cuc Phuong National Park or have an in-depth understanding of rural life, you must plan a trip for 3-4 days.  3. How Far Is Ninh Binh From Hanoi? The Ninh Binh and Hanoi distance is around 94 km. The travel time by road down south is around 1.5 to 2 hours. Of course, the travel time will depend on the mode of transport. For example, if you are traveling by bus, the travel time will be around 2.5 to 3 hours. Also, if you are taking a train, it will take around 2.5 hours.  4. What Is The Best Time To Visit Nin Binh? November to April is the best time to visit Nin Binh if you want to enjoy pleasant weather conditions. Having said that, the exact timing of planning your trip will depend on the kind of experience you want. For example, March to May is the ideal time for seeing the blooming flowers. However, if you want to see the golden paddies along the Ngo Dong River, you have to plan a visit in late May to early June.