Ninh Binh is a year-round beauty, and there’s no true best or worst time to visit.
Winter and spring often bring excellent weather to Ninh Binh, with cool temperatures, little rain, and fresh air. Summer is pretty hot and humid, but it’s also the most beautiful time of the year when rice turns golden in the paddy fields around the province.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing trip or to experience the stunning nature, here is our seasonal guide about the best time to visit Ninh Binh.
November to January is the best time for nice weather
November to January is the best season to visit Ninh Binh in terms of weather-wise.
November is the beginning of the province’s lovely weather. The entire area is pretty cool, with clear blue sky and little to no rain. The average temperature is around 24°C, with average humidity at 75%.
As it turns toward the end of January, the weather might be a bit chilly and dry, with the lowest temperature may get down to 13°C, and it’s better to bring some warm jackets with you.
The end of December marks the busiest time of the year for Ninh Binh this season, as it coincides with Christmas and New Year. Accommodations will be in high demand and often need to be booked well in advance. Famous attractions like Trang An grottoes or Mua Cave could also be packed with travelers, and we highly suggest traveling in the morning to avoid the crowds.
May to July is the hottest time yet most beautiful
Traveling to Ninh Binh during this season is a bit challenging due to extreme heat and high humidity (avg. 70%).
May marks the first summer month in Ninh Binh with an average temperature of 32 °C. The excessive heat will keep rising gradually over time till it reaches its peak—up to 38°C in July. You also could expect some sudden heavy rains at times, even though they normally last for just a few hours.
On the plus side, May to July sees Ninh Binh nature at its best, with all the plants in full bloom, especially the golden rice fields and poetic lotus ponds around the province.
In May, the rice fields in Tam Coc change color, turning from green to golden. By June, the bright pink color and fragrance of the lotus are blooming in all the ponds you pass by.
Note that this period is also a Vietnamese summer holiday, so it’s best not to travel on weekends to avoid the crowds of local travelers.
August to October is the rainiest season, ideal for budget travelers
August to October see a quiet time in Ninh Binh as it is the rainiest time of the year.
During this season, Vietnam experiences numerous storms, especially in September. Although Ninh Binh is usually not directly affected by these storms, it is still quite rainy. These rains typically occur 3 to 4 days before and after the typhoon collides. Not only do these typhoons bring rain, but they also bring pretty strong winds that could disrupt your travel plans.
Besides the rainy days, the temperature is quite cool, averaging around 25°C.
On a positive note, accommodation and other service prices this season are low, and attractions will be quieter with fewer tourists. That is why just with a little research on the forecast, you could have a joyful trip to Ninh Binh in a saving budget.
February to April is the season of the festival, and the crowd
February to April is when the spring comes and marks peak season in Ninh Binh. The weather during these months is quite pleasant and a bit chilly, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 23°C. Dizzle might happen for some time, but it rarely rains heavily.
February is usually the month to welcome the Lunar New Year, or Tết—perfect for you to experience the biggest festival in Vietnam. You can feel the traditional atmosphere everywhere in Ninh Binh weeks prior. Houses and streets are brightly decorated with colorful flowers and ornaments. And of course, a big celebration and fireworks on the last day of the old year.
During the first three days of Tet, keep in mind that many businesses, such as restaurants or shops, will be closed. They then will be gradually open and fully back to normal after a week.
March and April would be time for various festivals taking place around Ninh Binh. Rich-cultured festivals include Trang An Festival (April 26) or the Truong Yen Festival (March 8-10). At these festivals, you can experience ceremonial activities and participate in traditional games like tug-of-war, boat racing, or cockfighting.
However, please be aware that this is also the busiest time in Ninh Binh. Attractions will be flocked with tourists, going with higher prices of other services.
