Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh – Seasons, Weather & Travel Tips (2025)
Planning your Ninh Binh adventure and wondering when to go? This guide breaks down the weather, seasons, special events, rice harvest, and local festivals—so you can experience the very best of Ninh Binh, Vietnam. Discover the pros and cons of each month and find the perfect time for your trip!
When Is the Best Time to Visit Ninh Binh?
The best time to visit Ninh Binh is late April to early June or September to early November. These periods offer lush green or golden rice fields, mild weather, and fewer tourists compared to high season.
- For rice fields: May to early June (green and golden scenery)
- For cool weather and hiking: November to March (dry, crisp, less rain)
- For quiet travel: January, February, or October
Ninh Binh Climate & Weather Overview
Ninh Binh has a typical northern Vietnam climate with four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The weather is generally humid and warm, but there are distinct dry and wet periods. Here’s what you can expect:
- Average temperatures: 18°C (65°F) in winter to 32°C (90°F) in summer
- Wet season: May to September (occasional heavy rain, especially July–August)
- Dry season: October to April (cool, less rain, clearer skies)
- Humidity: 70–85% year-round
Note: While the rainy season brings dramatic green landscapes, it can also mean short downpours—so pack a raincoat if visiting in summer!
Seasons in Ninh Binh: What to Expect
Spring (February – April)
Spring is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 18–24°C (64–75°F). Flowers bloom, rice is planted, and there are fewer tourists. It’s a great time for boat rides and cycling, but some days can be misty.
Summer (May – August)
Summer is hot (28–35°C/82–95°F) and humid, with heavy but short-lived rain showers. The rice fields are at their greenest in May, turning golden in early June—this is the best time for landscape photography. July and August are hotter, and rivers/lakes are full, but expect more rain.
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn brings cooler air and less humidity. Rice may be replanted, and you’ll enjoy clear skies and comfortable hiking/cycling weather. October and November are especially pleasant.
Winter (December – January)
Winter is dry and cool (14–22°C/57–72°F). You’ll see misty mornings and few crowds, which makes this season perfect for tranquil boat rides and exploring temples.
When to See the Rice Fields in Ninh Binh
One of Ninh Binh’s greatest draws is its endless rice fields, especially along the Tam Coc and Trang An river valleys. The timing of your trip can make a huge difference if you want those “golden field” photos!
- Green rice fields: Late April to May (lush, fresh, and vibrant)
- Golden harvest: Late May to early June (the most beautiful, but only lasts about 2 weeks)
- After harvest: Mid-June onwards, fields are cut and planted for the next season
- Second harvest (sometimes): Late September–early October (but less predictable)
Pro tip: Visit Tam Coc or Trang An in late May or very early June for iconic photos of boats passing through golden rice paddies.
Month-by-Month Guide: Weather & Events
Month | Weather | Highlights |
---|---|---|
January | Cool, dry, misty | Quiet temples, Tet prep |
February | Cool, dry, festive | Tet Festival, spring flowers |
March | Mild, some rain | Spring planting, green fields |
April | Warm, little rain | Rice fields, best for boat/cycling |
May | Warm, green | Lush rice fields, few tourists |
June | Hot, some rain | Rice harvest, golden paddies |
July | Hot, wet, green | High water, dramatic landscapes |
August | Hot, wet | Low crowds, short rainstorms |
September | Warm, less rain | Hiking, start of second rice crop |
October | Cool, dry | Great for sightseeing, clear air |
November | Cool, dry | Best weather, low crowds |
December | Cool, dry, misty | Peaceful boat rides, quiet |
Festivals & Local Events in Ninh Binh
- Tet Festival (Lunar New Year): Usually late January–February; temples and pagodas are decorated, local families celebrate, expect crowds at Bai Dinh Pagoda.
- Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival: Early spring, draws thousands of pilgrims, features lanterns, music, food stalls.
- Trang An Festival: March–April, celebrates UNESCO heritage, boat parades, and folk music.
- Harvest Festivals: June and sometimes October, local food, music, and markets.
For updated festival dates, ask your host or contact Heera Travel for the latest info.
Tips for Each Season in Ninh Binh
- Bring a light raincoat May–September (rainy season)
- Book accommodation in advance for late May/early June (harvest photos!)
- Start sightseeing early for sunrise mist and cooler weather
- Try local specialties only available during festival season
- Bicycles and scooters are best for exploring rural scenery in spring and autumn
- Pack layers for winter (December–February), especially for early boat rides
- Visit major sites (Trang An, Tam Coc, Mua Cave) early or late for fewer crowds
Why Visit Ninh Binh with Heera Travel?
Heera Travel’s local guides know the best time for every experience: rice field photos, hidden boat tours, food festivals, and peaceful sunrise moments. Whether you want a private guide, a cycling adventure, or help with planning the perfect trip, we can customize everything to your needs—no tourist traps, just authentic local hospitality.
- Personalized itinerary planning for every season
- Real-time updates on festivals, weather, and best photo spots
- 24/7 support and local knowledge
- Eco-friendly, community-based tours
Contact Heera Travel