Top 14 Historical Sites in Ninh Binh That Captivate Travelers

Ninh Bình isn't merely the birthplace of exceptional heroes like Emperor Đinh Tiên Hoàng and the renowned scholar Trương Hán Siêu. This region is also profoundly connected to pivotal historical moments, including Emperor Lý Công Uẩn's significant relocation of the capital and Emperor Quang Trung's celebrated victory over the Qing dynasty forces. Every historical relic scattered across Ninh Bình serves as a living, breathing testament to the Vietnamese people's enduring journey of nation-building and defense.
Boasting thousands of years of history, Ninh Binh proudly preserves 1,821 relics, including 95 national-level and 405 provincial-level sites. These structures not only mark significant historical events but also reflect the unique cultural beauty of this heroic land. Join63Stravelas we explore 14 prominent historical sites in Ninh Binh that have shaped its reputation, on a journey back to its historical roots!
Top 14 Historical Sites in Ninh Binh Attracting Visitors
Follow 63Stravel as we highlight 11 famous historical sites in Ninh Binh that draw many visitors. Let's dive in!
Truong Han Sieu Temple
Temple of Truong Han Sieuis peacefully nestled southwest of Duc Thuy Mountain (Non Nuoc), firmly backed by the mountain and overlooking the Day River, which gracefully winds like a blue silk ribbon embracing the temple. The scenery here harmonizes nature with ancient architecture, creating a picturesque landscape that is both charming and majestic.

Visiting Truong Han Sieu Temple, a Cultural Figure in Ninh Binh
The temple is not only a place to commemorate the esteemed cultural figure Truong Han Sieu – a brilliant scholar, advisor to Tran Hung Dao, and author of “Bach Dang Giang Phu” – but also a spiritual destination for visitors from all corners seeking success in their careers and studies. With its unique D-shaped architecture, gracefully curved tiled roofs resembling a dragon boat, and a 1:1 bronze statue of Truong Han Sieu, the temple honors the cultural and historical values from the Tran Dynasty.
More than just a place of worship, the temple and Duc Thuy Mountain also bear a strong literary imprint with over 100 poems by renowned figures like Truong Han Sieu and Le Thanh Tong, making it a national historical site since 1962. With its natural beauty intertwined with history and spirituality, Truong Han Sieu Temple is an unmissable destination when visiting Ninh Binh.
Am Tien Cave
Approximately 10km from Ninh Binh city center,Am Tien Caveis a hidden gem within the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Scenic Complex, boasting a beauty that is both poetic and charming, with a touch of mystery. Nestled amidst towering cliffs and surrounded by a crystal-clear, emerald-green lake, it's often likened to "Tuyet Tinh Coc" (Valley of Love) – a tranquil haven separated from the outside world.

Am Tien Cave - Ninh Binh's 'Valley of Love' Attracts Young Travelers
The highlight of Am Tien Cave is its serene lake, reflecting the clear blue sky and majestic rock formations, creating a scene that is both contemplative and mystical. The year-round cool air at an altitude of 500m allows visitors to comfortably enjoy the surroundings and capture dreamlike photos.
To explore the cave, you'll ascend 205 stone steps leading to its dragon-mouth-shaped entrance, where traces from the Dinh and Le Dynasties are still preserved. The interior is magnificent, featuring diverse stalactite formations and caves that once served as storage for food and treasures. In ancient times, Am Tien Pagoda was built to resolve the grievances of death row prisoners, transforming this area from an execution ground into the peaceful and serene sanctuary it is today.
Tam Diep Defense Line
Located on the Tam Diep mountain range,Tam Diep lineis a famous historical site, marking the fierce battle between the Qing army and the Tay Son rebels. With its rugged terrain and strategic location, it once served as a crucial defensive outpost, forming a natural boundary between the North and Central regions.

Exploring the Tam Diep Defense Line in Ninh Binh
In 1788, when the Qing army invaded, Ngo Thi Nham chose Tam Diep as a base to halt the enemy's advance. It was here that Nguyen Hue planned and launched the renowned battle, leading to a resounding victory in early spring of the Ky Dau year (1789). Tam Diep was not only a military base but also where King Quang Trung gathered his forces and received invaluable support from the local people.
Today, the historical complex includes many landmarks such as Ba Doi Pass, Quan Chao Temple, Hau Vua Hill, and Dau Pagoda – all witnesses to a heroic historical period. Designated a national historical site in 1998, the Tam Diep Defense Line remains a symbol of patriotism and the indomitable spirit against foreign invaders.
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Phat Diem Stone Cathedral
Phat Diem Cathedral, located in Phat Diem town, Kim Son district, Ninh Binh, is a vast 22-hectare Catholic architectural complex renowned for its unique blend of church and traditional Vietnamese pagoda-temple architecture. Built between 1875 and 1898 under the guidance of Father Pero Tran Luc (also known as Father Sau), this structure has become a symbol of the harmonious fusion between Buddhist and Catholic essence.
A distinctive feature of Phat Diem Cathedral is its primary use of stone and ironwood, with some stone slabs weighing up to 20 tons and large wooden columns transported from afar by both land and water. Phuong Dinh – a masterpiece within the complex – is assembled from monolithic blue stone slabs, stands three stories high, and houses a 2-ton bell whose chime can be heard over 10km away.
Beyond its unique architecture, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Mary, built in 1883, impresses with its exquisitely carved bas-reliefs, depicting the beauty of the four seasons through pine, apricot, chrysanthemum, and bamboo. All these elements create an ancient and serene atmosphere, attracting visitors and devotees from all over to admire its beauty.
With over 100 years of existence, Phat Diem Cathedral is not only a special architectural heritage site but also dubbed the "Catholic capital" of Vietnam, making it an ideal destination for those wishing to explore cultural beauty and capture stunning moments in the heart of Ninh Binh.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital is one of the four core areas of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, preserving the full essence of national culture and history. For over 1000 years, it has stood majestically with a solemn and imposing beauty, marking a glorious era when Hoa Lu served as the first imperial capital of Dai Co Viet.
Spanning over 300 hectares, the complex encompasses numerous structures such as temples, pagodas, caves, and tombs, creating a picturesque landscape rich in traditional culture. Hoa Lu was once a vital political and military center, fortified by a range of limestone mountains and the Hoang Long River, acting as a sturdy natural screen.

Immerse Yourself in the Picturesque and Magnificent Scenery of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
In 968, Dinh Bo Linh quelled the rebellion of the 12 Warlords, established the Dai Co Viet nation, and chose Hoa Lu as its capital. The Dinh – Early Le Dynasties lasted for 42 years, before King Ly Thai To decided to move the capital to Thang Long in 1010 to expand the country.
Although no longer the capital, Hoa Lu is still preserved with many famous architectural works. Historical sites such as King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple, King Le Dai Hanh Temple, Nhat Tru Pagoda, and the Sao Khe River still bear strong historical imprints. Additionally, scenic spots in the buffer zone like Am Tien Cave, Yen Trach Communal House, and the ancient Bai Dinh Pagoda further enhance the nostalgic beauty of this land.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital not only holds immense cultural and historical value but was also recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage site in 2014, contributing to Ninh Binh's appeal as a tourist destination. Every structure and relic here subtly evokes the heroic spirit of an ancient imperial capital, leaving visitors awestruck and enchanted.
Luoc Communal House
Peacefully nestled amidst the lush green landscapes characteristic of Northern Vietnamese villages,Dinh Luoclocated in Luoc Hamlet, Son Lai Commune, Nho Quan District, is a long-standing cultural symbol. Built in the "Nhat" (一) architectural style with three traditional bays, tiled roofs, and a sturdy wooden column system, the communal house features Nguyen Dynasty-era patterns, creating an ancient and solemn appearance. Surrounding the communal house are centuries-old persimmon trees, silent witnesses to many historical ups and downs.
The communal house worships the deities Nam Quoc Do Dai Tran Bac Dai Vuong and Chan Vuong Princess, who made significant contributions to building communal houses, pagodas, and developing education for the villagers. It also preserves many royal decrees, altars, and precious artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasties, showcasing profound cultural and historical value.
During the resistance war, Luoc Communal House served as a secret base for revolutionary forces, and today it is a center for community activities and spiritual life for the villagers. Annually, festivals such as the khai ha (start of farming season) ceremony, thuong dien (first rice planting) ceremony, and Lunar New Year attract people from near and far to return, commemorate their ancestors' merits, and preserve their homeland's traditions.
Kha Luong Pagoda
Located in Kha Luong Village, Ninh Thang Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh, the temple andKha Luong Pagodaare impressive not only for their serene landscape but also for their unique architecture. Thang Lam Pagoda and the temple are arranged in the "Front Deity, Rear Buddha" style, with the temple dedicated to Ho Sinh Dai Vuong – a figure who once helped the villagers and was honored as the Village Guardian Deity. Kha Luong Pagoda worships Buddhas and Holy Monks, along with folk beliefs, expressing wishes for peace for the villagers.
Architecturally, the temple is shaped like the Chinese character "Dinh" (丁), featuring ironwood columns, scale-tiled roofs, and exquisitely carved Four Sacred Animals. The pagoda is built in the "Nhi" (二) style, with blue stone columns and two stone dragons from the Ly Dynasty. The entire complex is shaded by green trees year-round, creating an ancient and solemn appearance.
During the resistance war, the pagoda served as a treatment center for wounded soldiers and an evacuation point for Ninh Thang commune's secondary school. Today, both the pagoda and temple still preserve many precious artifacts such as stone steles, ancient bells, royal decrees, and royal thrones.
Annually, the site hosts numerous cultural and religious festivals, attracting people to offer incense and pray for blessings. With its profound cultural and historical values, the relic has been classified as a provincial-level historical and cultural site, becoming a source of pride for the local community.
Dau Temple
Located approximately 110km from Hanoi,Dau Templeis one of the prominent destinations within the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. Built in 1580 to worship Princess Lieu Hanh, who transformed into a porridge seller, helping locals cultivate mulberries and raise silkworms, and contributing to the resistance against the Manchu Qing invaders. The temple not only worships Lieu Hanh but also honors Saint Tran Hung Dao along with various royal aunts and uncles.

Dau Temple - A Cultural and Religious Site for Mother Goddess Worship in Ninh Binh
Dau Temple is situated in a favorable feng shui location, surrounded by the Hong Ngoc, Chong Den, Ngang (Hoanh Son), and Beo mountain ranges, creating a picturesque landscape. The temple's architecture bears a strong ancient imprint with its "Nhi" (二) shape and numerous exquisite sculptures reflecting the Northern Vietnamese style. Prominent features include the large calligraphic panels "Tang Da Linh Tu" and carved motifs of bodhi leaves and dragons, contributing to its solemn and majestic beauty.
Inside the temple, the third sanctuary worships the Five Immortal Elders, while the second sanctuary is dedicated to the Council of Four Palaces, featuring blue stone columns engraved with couplets praising the merits of the Holy Mother. Finally, the first sanctuary venerates the Three Holy Mothers with statues of Lieu Hanh and two other Mothers, symbolizing "Three births, three transformations." Dau Temple is not only a place of worship but also a precious cultural heritage, expressing the gratitude of the people towards the revered figures who have blessed their homeland.
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Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex
The Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex is a mixed heritage site and also the first and only dual World Heritage site in Southeast Asia. Spanning an area of up to 6,172 hectares, this region stands out with its stunning natural beauty, including limestone mountains, magnificent caves, and a rich ecosystem of flora and fauna.
Trang An was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 2014 and is also classified as a particularly important national relic, affirming its status as an attractive international destination. This scenic complex is not only remarkable for its pristine beauty but also holds profound historical and cultural value, including the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital relic associated with the Dinh Tien Hoang Dynasty and architectural works such as Trinh Temple, Tu Tru Temple, along with a system of 31 lagoons and lakes connected to 48 caves.
Trang An is also known as an ink wash painting with unique caves like Bright Cave, Dark Cave, and rich cultural relics. If you have the chance to visit from the 17th to the 19th day of the third lunar month, visitors can participate in the Trang An Festival, honoring the deity Cao Son and experiencing many exciting folk games. Trang An is truly a place where nature and culture intertwine, leaving every visitor awestruck by its beauty and wonder.
Princess Phat Kim Temple
Temple of Princess Phat Kimis located within the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital relic complex, 150m north of King Le Dai Hanh Temple, precisely on the foundation of Vong Nguyet Palace, where the princess once lived. As the third daughter of King Dinh Tien Hoang, the Princess sacrificed her personal happiness to marry Ngo Nhat Khanh, a warlord leader. However, when her husband betrayed her and her father and brother were assassinated, the princess tragically took her own life by jumping into a well at Vong Nguyet Pavilion.
The temple, also known as Thuc Tiet Princess Temple, was built during the Dinh Dynasty to honor the princess's loyalty, filial piety, and courage. The temple's architecture covers an area of approximately 500 m², comprising three structures: the main temple, the left wing (ta vu), and the right wing (huu vu). In front of the courtyard is a screen featuring the character "Tho" (Longevity) and the large inscription "Cac trung tu de." The octagonal Ngoc Well, lined with stone, leads into the main temple.
The temple features unique architecture, shaped like the Chinese character "Dinh" (丁), comprising two main halls: Tien Bai (Front Hall) and Hau Cung (Rear Sanctuary), with the roof ridge adorned with "two dragons adoring the moon" motifs. Inside, a statue of the princess sits in the altar, hands in a mudra, flanked by two maidservants in red robes, with patterns reflecting Nguyen Dynasty art. In front is the ancestral tablet "Thuc Tiet Cong Chua Than Vi." All these details highlight the solemnity and cultural value of the temple.
Quy Minh Dai Vuong Temple
Located at the foot of Ham Rong Mountain, northeast of Binh Khe Hamlet, Ninh Nhat Commune, Ninh Binh City,Temple of Quy Minh Dai Vuongalso known as Thanh Quy Temple, along with Den Cave (or Nha Kho Cave), has been recognized as a provincial-level historical and cultural site since 2006. This is where Saint Quy Minh Dai Vuong is worshipped, a talented general during the 18th Hung King's reign, who rendered great service in defending Son Nam Pass and is revered by the people as a "Supreme Deity."
The temple is built in the "Dinh" (丁) architectural style, comprising a Front Hall (Tien Duong) and a Rear Sanctuary (Hau Cung). The Front Hall has three bays, where rituals take place, and was renovated in 2015. Meanwhile, the Rear Sanctuary remains well-preserved, featuring intricate patterns on the trusses and unique carvings such as "Cao Son Tu" and images of dragons and phoenixes. All these elements create a solemn, deeply spiritual space.

Quy Minh Dai Vuong Temple
Outside the temple, there are altars for mandarins, while the altar for Saint Quy is prominently placed in the center of the temple. On either side are altars for Quan Sat and Sac Nga Princess, with a crescent-shaped pond in front, symbolizing the gathering of water and blessings.
Den Cave is located directly behind the temple, with an entrance 10m wide and approximately 50m deep. Here, a small well known as the "path to the underworld" captures visitors' attention. Legend has it that to the left of the cave lies the grave of a lost precious warhorse, adding to the mysterious atmosphere.
Historically, the temple served as the headquarters for various agencies during the resistance war, a place for storing weapons and printing documents, demonstrating its value not only culturally but also in the nation's struggle for independence. Annually, on the 14th and 15th days of the tenth lunar month, villagers hold a ritual to honor the Saint, along with other full moon days throughout the year, to commemorate and express gratitude for his contributions.
Ly Thai To Stele House
Ly Thai To beer houseis situated by the Sao Khe River, in front of the temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le, and is believed to be one of the 10th-century Hoa Lu capital's boat docks, marking the starting point of King Ly Thai To's relocation of the capital. The architectural structure is a "phuong dinh" (square pavilion) with an 11.2m square footprint, featuring a column system of 4 main columns and 12 auxiliary columns, all crafted from reinforced concrete disguised as wood, mimicking traditional chồng diêm (layered roof) architecture.

Ly Thai To Memorial Stele House in Ninh Binh
The roof is exquisitely designed with two tiers, each featuring four curved "slipper-nose" tiled roofs and traditional sword-like finials. Notably, the column bases are clad in stone carved with lotus petal motifs, while the balustrades feature intricate cultural patterns such as pine, apricot, bamboo, and chrysanthemum.
The centerpiece of the stele house is a stone stele, 1.99m high and 1.38m wide, with its forehead carved with a moon face and chrysanthemum vine motifs, creating an eternal symbol of gratitude for the efforts in building the nation's independence. Additionally, this area preserves many other important relics such as Ly Thai To Temple and Tran Hung Dao Temple, further enriching Ninh Binh's cultural and historical value.
King Le Dai Hanh Temple
Located in Truong Yen Ha Hamlet,Temple of King Le Dai Hanhalso known as Ha Temple, is an indispensable part of the special relic complex of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Ninh Binh. This ancient temple, over 100 years old, still preserves the unique architectural features of the 17th century, located just about 300m north of King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple.
King Le Temple was built concurrently with King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple, sharing similarities in architecture and sculpture from the Later Le Dynasty. Featuring an "internal công, external quốc" layout, the main difference lies in the eastern entrance, which has an additional side hall (tu vu) and lacks the high stone thresholds found at King Dinh Temple.
According to legend, the temple was built on the former site of the royal palace in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, a fact confirmed by archaeological excavations in 1998. This is an ideal spot for those who love to delve into history and appreciate ancient architectural art.
The temple consists of three main halls: Bai Duong (Front Ceremonial Hall), Thieu Huong (Incense Burning Hall), and Chinh Cung (Main Sanctuary). The Bai Duong has five bays with three large vermilion and gold-gilded plaques, the most prominent being "Truong Xuan Linh Tich." The Thieu Huong Hall, built in the "ong muong" (tube-shaped) architectural style, worships the Four Pillars of the Early Le Dynasty. Finally, the Chinh Cung is where the majestic statue of King Le Dai Hanh sits on his throne, alongside statues of Empress Duong Van Nga and Le Long Dinh.
A highlight of King Le Temple is the clean main path leading into the temple. To the left is a majestic phoenix-shaped rockery, and to the right is the front hall with another rockery and a centuries-old duoi tree. Inside the complex, there are two symmetrical flower gardens and rows of viewing houses, along with dragon and phoenix-shaped rockeries. All these elements create a serene and solemn space, reflecting the distinctive architectural and carving art of the 17th century.
King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple
Temple of King Dinh Tien Hoangis an ancient temple over 100 years old, located within the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital relic complex. It is the only place in Vietnam that worships King Dinh Tien Hoang along with his parents, sons, and generals of the Dinh Dynasty. This is not only a typical architectural marvel but also a symbol of gratitude for the hero Dinh Bo Linh. In 2014, the temple was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site within the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.

King Dinh Tien Hoang Temple: A 100-Year-Old Cultural Architectural Gem in Ninh Binh
Built in the 17th century, King Dinh Temple has witnessed centuries of history. According to legend, King Dinh and his son Dinh Lien were assassinated in 979, and the temple was erected in their memory. The temple's architectural style bears the influence of the Nguyen Dynasty, featuring a "cong" (工) shape, encompassing the incense burning hall and the main sanctuary.
Upon entering the temple, you will pass through Ngo Mon Quan gate, inscribed with four Han characters "Bac mon toa thuoc duoc." In front of the temple is a crescent-shaped pond shimmering with water lilies, creating a peaceful scene. The temple is divided into three main halls: Bai Duong (Front Ceremonial Hall), Thieu Huong (Incense Burning Hall), and Chinh Cung (Main Sanctuary). In the Bai Duong, a meticulously carved royal bed (long sang) stands out, showcasing the artistic talent of Dinh Dynasty figures. In the Chinh Cung, a majestic statue of King Dinh Tien Hoang sits on his throne, flanked by statues of his sons, creating a solemn and profound atmosphere.
Thus, through this article, everyone has explored 14 famous historical sites in Ninh Binh, places recognized as national-level historical relics. The rich cultural and historical values here will undoubtedly make you feel closer to the people and this land. Don't forget to follow 63Stravel to discover more interesting and useful articles!
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Update day : 16/10/2024
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