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Vietnam Travel Guide
Best time to visit Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is definitely worth visiting for its stunning natural scenery, including limestone karsts, rice paddies, and winding rivers. The best time to visit Ninh Binh is from February to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and dry, and the rice paddies are in their most beautiful state. Avoid visiting during the summer months from June to August, as it can be hot and humid with occasional heavy rain.
A quick overview
Ninh Binh weather
Ninh Binh has a tropical monsoon climate, which means it is typically hot and humid throughout the year with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season usually runs from May to September, with high humidity and frequent rainfall, sometimes leading to flooding in the region. The dry season is from November to April, with lower humidity and less rainfall.
During the winter months from December to February, the temperature in Ninh Binh can drop to around 10-15°C and can feel chilly, especially at night. While in the summer months from June to August, the temperature can soar up to 35-38°C with high humidity, making it uncomfortable for some visitors.
As a whole, the best time to visit Ninh Binh is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is mild and the skies are usually clear.
Ninh Binh seasons
Ninh Binh, located in the northern region of Vietnam, has a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Here’s a breakdown of each season:
- Spring (February to April): This is a popular time to visit Ninh Binh, as the weather is mild and pleasant with occasional rain. The rice fields are typically green, and the landscape is lush and verdant. The most famous festival of Ninh Binh, the Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival, is held during this season, attracting many visitors.
- Summer (May to August): Summer in Ninh Binh is hot and humid, with occasional heavy rain and thunderstorms. This is considered a low tourist season, as many people prefer to avoid the heat and humidity. However, it is a good time to witness the rice harvest season, as the fields turn golden and farmers begin to harvest their crops.
- Autumn (September to November): This is considered the high tourist season in Ninh Binh, as the weather is mild and dry with clear skies. The rice fields are usually golden and ready for harvest, offering a picturesque landscape for visitors. The Trang An Festival, held in September, is also a popular attraction during this season.
- Winter (December to January): Winter in Ninh Binh is cool and dry, with occasional fog and drizzle. This is another low tourist season, as the weather can be chilly and less appealing for outdoor activities. However, it is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quieter, more peaceful experience.
In addition to the traditional rice harvest season in summer and autumn, Ninh Binh also has a special harvest season called “com” (young sticky rice) season, which falls between August and September. During this time, locals harvest the young sticky rice, a delicacy unique to the region. Visitors can witness the harvest and sample the fresh, fragrant rice in local restaurants and markets.
Ninh Binh best time to visit
The best months to visit Ninh Binh are during the autumn season, from September to November.
One of the main reasons to visit Ninh Binh during the autumn season is the weather. The temperatures during this season are mild and comfortable, with clear blue skies and low humidity levels. This makes it the perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the countryside. The cooler weather also makes it a great time to visit the many temples and pagodas in the region, without the sweltering heat of the summer months.
Another reason to visit Ninh Binh during the autumn season is the stunning scenery. The rice paddies turn golden during this time of year and are ready for harvest. This creates a beautiful and unique landscape that is often referred to as the ‘golden season’. Visitors can take a bike or boat tour through the rice paddies to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.
The autumn season is also a time of celebration in Ninh Binh, with many festivals and events taking place. One of the biggest festivals is the Trang An Festival, which takes place in late September and celebrates the region’s cultural heritage. This is a great opportunity for visitors to experience the local culture, food, and traditions.
Therefore, the autumn season is the best time to visit Ninh Binh for those seeking mild weather, stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and smaller crowds.