Discover the Historical Sites of Nam Dinh: Ninh Binh Province’s Cultural Treasures

The Nam Dinh region, now a ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, is a cultural cornerstone in the Red River Delta, renowned for its historical sites that echo Vietnam’s storied past. From the sacred Tran Temple, honoring the Tran Dynasty’s heroic victories, to the UNESCO-recognized Phu Day Relic Complex, Nam Dinh’s landmarks offer a profound glimpse into the nation’s dynastic heritage and spiritual traditions. These sites, coupled with monuments celebrating local scholars like Luong The Vinh, reflect Nam Dinh’s legacy of resilience and intellect. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, invites you to explore these treasures through our eco-friendly tours—book via links throughout this guide. Dive into our comprehensive guide to Nam Dinh’s historical sites, featuring must-visit attractions, updated costs, and sustainable travel tips for an enriching experience in Ninh Binh Province.

Nam Dinh’s historical landmarks are a compelling draw for travelers:

• Rich Heritage: Sites like Tran Temple and Phu Day preserve Vietnam’s dynastic and spiritual history.

• Cultural Significance: Celebrate local heroes and scholars, from Tran Hung Dao to Luong The Vinh, shaping Vietnam’s identity.

• Serene Ambiance: Temples and monuments offer tranquil settings for reflection amidst scenic landscapes.

• Sustainable Tourism: Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours use low-impact transport and support local communities, aligning with Ninh Binh’s eco-tourism goals.

• Accessibility: Located ~90–100 km from Hanoi, Nam Dinh’s sites are ideal for day trips or extended visits.

Our sustainable tours, displayed around this article, ensure an authentic and responsible journey. Book now to uncover Nam Dinh’s history with Legend Travel Group!

Following Vietnam’s administrative changes, the former Nam Dinh Province is now a ward within Ninh Binh Province, with Ninh Binh City as the provincial hub. The district level has been abolished, enhancing infrastructure and access to Nam Dinh’s historical sites. This guide refers to the Nam Dinh region, ensuring accurate planning within Ninh Binh’s tourism framework.

Nam Dinh’s historical sites blend architectural grandeur, spiritual depth, and cultural legacy, offering immersive experiences for history enthusiasts. Below are the must-visit landmarks, with details on significance, costs, and travel tips.

1. Tran Temple (Tuc Mac Village)

A sacred complex honoring the Tran Dynasty (1225–1400), Tran Temple is Nam Dinh’s most iconic historical site, celebrating victories against Mongol invaders.

• Significance:

  • Comprises three temples: Thien Truong (Upper Temple), Co Trach (Lower Temple, dedicated to Tran Hung Dao), and Trung Hoa (Central Temple, built in 2000).

  • Surrounded by the Vinh Giang River, symbolizing prosperity and protection.

  • Hosts the Tran Temple Festival (lunar January 14–15), drawing thousands for rituals and prayers.

• What to Expect: Intricate wooden carvings, serene courtyards, and incense-filled halls; a place for reflection and cultural learning.

• Cost: Entrance ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD/person); donations ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD).

• Location: Tuc Mac Village, Nam Dinh region (~10 km from Nam Dinh City).

• Highlights: “A spiritual and historical masterpiece” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tips:

  • Visit early morning (7:00–9:00 AM) for tranquility; dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees).

  • Attend the festival for cultural immersion; book tours 2–3 weeks in advance.

  • Combine with Pho Minh Pagoda (~1 km) for a half-day itinerary.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Tran Heritage Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes guided visits, history insights, and eco-transfers.

2. Phu Day Relic Complex (Vu Ban)

A UNESCO-recognized site dedicated to Goddess Lieu Hanh, part of Vietnam’s Mother Goddess worship, offering spiritual and architectural beauty.

• Significance:

  • Features multiple temples, including Tien Huong and Van Cat, honoring Lieu Hanh, a revered deity.

  • Hosts the Phu Day Festival (lunar March 3–8), with processions and folk performances.

  • Reflects Vietnam’s matriarchal spiritual traditions and Tran Dynasty influences.

• What to Expect: Lush courtyards, ornate altars, and a peaceful ambiance; ideal for cultural exploration.

• Cost: Entrance ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD/person); donations ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD).

• Location: Vu Ban, Nam Dinh region (~15 km from Nam Dinh City).

• Highlights: “A serene cultural treasure” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tips:

  • Visit morning (7:00–10:00 AM) to avoid crowds; avoid festival season for quieter visits.

  • Respect temple etiquette (no photography inside sanctums); combine with Vieng Market (~5 km).

  • Bring a reusable water bottle for walks.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Spiritual Retreat Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes Phu Day, guided insights, and eco-transfers.

3. Tran Hung Dao Monument (Vi Xuyen Park)

A towering statue honoring Tran Hung Dao, a 13th-century general who defeated Mongol invaders, symbolizing Nam Dinh’s pride.

• Significance:

  • Located in Vi Xuyen Park, a central gathering place for locals during Tet (lunar January).

  • Represents resilience and patriotism; a focal point for prayers and incense offerings.

• What to Expect: A grand statue in a spacious plaza, surrounded by Vi Xuyen Lake; ideal for photos and reflection.

• Cost: Free; donations ~5,000–10,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.40 USD); parking ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD).

• Location: Tran Phu Street, Nam Dinh City center.

• Highlights: “A proud cultural landmark” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tips:

  • Visit at dawn (6:00–8:00 AM) for a quiet experience; evenings are lively with families.

  • Respect the site; avoid climbing the statue base.

  • Walk to Tran Te Xuong’s Grave (~500 m) in the same park.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s City Heritage Walk (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) includes the monument, park strolls, and eco-transfers.

4. Tran Te Xuong’s Grave (Vi Xuyen Park)

A modest tribute to Tran Te Xuong (1870–1907), a celebrated Vietnamese poet known for his satirical works, reflecting Nam Dinh’s literary legacy.

• Significance:

  • Highlights Nam Dinh’s tradition of scholarly excellence, alongside figures like Luong The Vinh.

  • Offers a quiet space to honor Vietnam’s literary heritage.

• What to Expect: A simple grave amidst park greenery, with informational plaques; ideal for literary enthusiasts.

• Cost: Free; donations ~5,000–10,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.40 USD).

• Location: Vi Xuyen Park, Tran Phu Street, Nam Dinh City.

• Highlights: “A poignant cultural stop” (Nhan Dân Online, 4.3/5 stars).

• Tips:

  • Visit morning (7:00–10:00 AM) for solitude; read Tran Te Xuong’s poetry for context.

  • Maintain silence to respect the site; combine with Tran Hung Dao Monument (~500 m).

  • Use a translation app for Vietnamese plaques.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Literary Heritage Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD) includes the grave, poetry readings, and eco-transfers.

5. Luong The Vinh Relics

Dedicated to Luong The Vinh (1441–1496), a renowned mathematician, poet, and scholar of the Le Dynasty, whose legacy underscores Nam Dinh’s intellectual heritage.

• Significance:

  • Known for contributions to mathematics, music, and literature; authored the “Dai Thanh Mathematical Canon.”

  • Worshipped at village shrines and the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, reflecting his enduring influence.

• What to Expect: Small shrines or commemorative sites in Nam Dinh’s rural areas, often tied to local festivals honoring scholars.

• Cost: Free; donations ~5,000–10,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.40 USD); access may require local guidance.

• Location: Scattered in rural Nam Dinh (e.g., Hai Anh, Hai Hau); inquire locally for exact sites.

• Highlights: “A tribute to scholarly excellence” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.2/5 stars).

• Tips:

  • Engage a local guide (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD) for rural shrine locations; visit during spring (February–April) for festivals.

  • Respect sacred areas; combine with Hai Hau’s Thinh Long Beach (~10 km) for a day trip.

  • Learn about Luong The Vinh’s works for deeper appreciation.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Scholarly Heritage Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes rural relics, guided history, and eco-transfers.

From Hanoi (90–100 km, ~1.5–2 hours)

• Bus: Giap Bat to Nam Dinh City (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD), then taxi to Tran Temple (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).

• Train: Reunification Express to Nam Dinh Station (~75,000–150,000 VND, ~$3–$6 USD), then taxi (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).

• Motorbike: Rental ~100,000–250,000 VND (~$4–$10 USD/day), fuel ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Transport Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) includes eco-transfers.

From Ho Chi Minh City (1,300 km, ~4–5 hours by flight + road)

• Flight + Road: Fly to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport (~750,000–1,750,000 VND, ~$30–$70 USD), then bus/taxi (~200,000–1,200,000 VND, ~$8–$48 USD).

• Train + Road: Reunification Express to Nam Dinh (~750,000–2,000,000 VND, ~$30–$80 USD, 32–35 hours), then taxi (~100,000 VND, ~$4 USD).

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Flight & Heritage Tour (~3,500,000 VND, ~$140 USD) includes flights and transfers.

From Ninh Binh City Center (15–20 km, ~20–30 minutes)

• Motorbike: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day), fuel ~20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD).

• Taxi/Grab: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD/trip).

• Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day), ~45–60 minutes.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Local Heritage Tour (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) includes transfers.

Within the Nam Dinh Region (1–15 km, ~5–30 minutes)

• Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day).

• Motorbike: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day), fuel ~10,000 VND (~$0.40 USD).

• Walking: Free to Vi Xuyen Park from central Nam Dinh.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s Local Shuttle Tour (~750,000 VND, ~$30 USD) includes eco-transfers.

Route Tip: Use Highway 38B for Tran Temple or Vu Ban; offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) recommended. Parking: ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD/motorbike).

• Best Time to Visit:

  • Spring (February–April): Mild (15–25°C), ideal for festivals like Tran Temple (lunar January).

  • Autumn (September–November): Cool (18–28°C), perfect for outdoor exploration.

  • Avoid summer (May–August): Hot, rainy (25–35°C); winter (December–January) is cool but misty.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance for festival season via Legend Travel Group or Baolau.com (+84 938 123 456). Sites open 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, and light layers; dress modestly for temples.

• Budget Wisely: Expect ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD/site) for entry; daily costs ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD, including transport and dining).

• Safety: Secure valuables at crowded festivals; respect temple etiquette (no flash photography); carry a translation app for signage.

• Sustainability: Support local guides and vendors; use reusable items; choose Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours to preserve heritage.

• Navigation: Allow 1–2 hours per site; combine Tran Temple and Phu Day (~15 km apart) for a day trip.

• Entry Fees:

  • Tran Temple/Phu Day: ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD/person).

  • Tran Hung Dao Monument/Tran Te Xuong’s Grave: Free; donations ~5,000–25,000 VND (~$0.20–$1 USD).

  • Luong The Vinh Relics: Free; guide ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD).

• Transport:

  • From Hanoi: Bus + taxi: ~200,000 VND (~$8 USD); train + taxi: ~175,000–250,000 VND (~$7–$10 USD); motorbike: ~150,000–300,000 VND (~$6–$12 USD).

  • From Ho Chi Minh City: Flight + road: ~950,000–4,700,000 VND (~$38–$188 USD); train + road: ~850,000–2,150,000 VND (~$34–$86 USD).

  • From Ninh Binh City: Motorbike: ~140,000–220,000 VND (~$5–$9 USD); taxi: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD); bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD).

  • Within Nam Dinh: Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD); motorbike: ~130,000–210,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD).

• Dining: Street food (phở, bánh mì): ~15,000–80,000 VND (~$0.60–$3.20 USD); restaurants: ~100,000–300,000 VND (~$4–$12 USD).

• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses: ~300,000–600,000 VND (~$12–$24 USD/night); mid-range hotels: ~800,000–1,500,000 VND (~$32–$60 USD).

• Total Daily Cost: ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD) (budget: ~$20–$35 USD; mid-range: ~$35–$50 USD; luxury: ~$50–$70 USD).

Our sustainable tours immerse you in Nam Dinh’s rich history:

• Tran Heritage Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Tran Temple, Pho Minh Pagoda, phở tasting; includes eco-transfers and lunch.

• Spiritual Retreat Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD/person): Phu Day Relic Complex, Vieng Market, local tea tasting; includes bike rentals and snacks.

• City Heritage Walk (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD/person): Tran Hung Dao Monument, Tran Te Xuong’s Grave, Vi Xuyen Park; includes guided walks and eco-transfers.

• Ninh Binh Historical Odyssey (~8,500,000–13,500,000 VND, ~$340–$540 USD/person, 3–4 days): Nam Dinh sites, Trang An, homestays (~300,000–600,000 VND, ~$12–$24 USD/night); includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) available. Book now via links around this page!

Nam Dinh region in Ninh Binh Province, 90 km from Hanoi, is a historical haven where landmarks like Tran Temple, Phu Day Relic Complex, and Tran Hung Dao Monument weave tales of Vietnam’s heroic and scholarly past, drawing thousands yearly. Explore Tran Temple (free entry), honoring the Tran Dynasty’s legacy, the Phu Day Relic Complex (free entry), a spiritual center for Mother Goddess worship, and the Tran Hung Dao Monument, commemorating the revered general. Supported by sustainable practices like eco-friendly transport ($2–$5/day bike rental, 50,000–125,000 VND) and community-led preservation, Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Ninh Binh Travel experience, blending historical exploration with visits to Trang An UNESCO site ($8 boat ride, 200,000 VND), Tam Coc, and culinary delights like cơm cháy ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Nam Dinh’s historical treasures? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and uncover Ninh Binh’s ancient legacy!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Nam Dinh Historical Sites Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vinpearl.com, localvietnam.com, discoverninhbinh.com, tripadvisor.com