Ninh Binh
Geography
Ninh Bình Province is located in northern Vietnam's Red River Delta region, covering an area of approximately 1,412 square kilometers. It shares borders with Hòa Bình and Hà Nam provinces to the north, Nam Định Province to the northeast, and Thanh Hóa Province to the south and west. The province also has a short coastline along the Gulf of Tonkin. Notably, Ninh Bình is home to the Tràng An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its karst landscapes and historical significance.
Climate
The province experiences a humid subtropical climate, with an average annual temperature of 23.4°C. Annual rainfall averages around 1,800 millimeters, with the heaviest precipitation occurring in August and September.
Transportation
Ninh Bình boasts a well-developed transportation network:
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Roadways: National Highways 1A and 10 traverse the province, facilitating connectivity to Hanoi (approximately 91 kilometers to the north) and other regions.
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Railways: The province is served by express rail connections to Hanoi, Thanh Hóa, and Vinh, with Ninh Bình Station being a major hub.
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Waterways: The Ninh Phúc River Port is among Vietnam's largest, supporting significant inland water transport.
People
As of 2023, Ninh Bình has a population of approximately 1,017,100 people. The province is home to 23 ethnic groups, with the Kinh (Vietnamese) majority accounting for over 98% of the population. Other ethnic groups include the Mường, Tày, H'Mông, and Dao.
Culture
Ninh Bình's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its festivals, handicrafts, and historical sites:
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Festivals: Traditional events such as the Thái Vi Festival, held in the third lunar month in Ninh Hải Commune, Hoa Lư District, celebrate local history and culture.
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Handicrafts: The province is known for embroidered textiles from Hoa Lư District and sea reed products from Kim Sơn District.
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Historical Sites: Significant landmarks include the ancient capital of Hoa Lư, Phát Diệm Cathedral, and Bái Đính Temple, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam.
Tourism
Tourism plays a vital role in Ninh Bình's economy, with numerous attractions:
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Natural Attractions: The Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex offers boat tours through stunning karst formations and caves. Other natural sites include Tam Cốc-Bích Động, Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone, and Cúc Phương National Park, Vietnam's oldest national park.
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Cultural and Historical Attractions: Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lư, Phát Diệm Cathedral, and the expansive Bái Đính Temple complex.
The province's proximity to Hanoi makes it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists seeking to experience Vietnam's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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