Ninh Thuan Vietnam: Into the land of golden sunshine and dry wind

As a destination less traversed by mass tourism, Ninh Thuan Vietnam, welcomes visitors to explore its hidden gems, from pristine coastal bays to lush national parks.

Ninh Thuan Vietnam, a province in Central Vietnam, beckons travelers with its unique blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures. It showcases a distinct character that sets it apart from the more frequented tourist destinations in the country. From the sun-kissed shore of Ninh Chu Beach to the captivating landscapes of Nui Chua National Park, the beauty of Ninh Thuan unfolds.

1. Where is Ninh Thuan Vietnam? Is it worth visiting?

Ninh Thuan is a province located in the South Central Coast of Vietnam, situated about 350 km south of Ho Chi Minh City. With its proximity to Cam Ranh International Airport and notable cities like Nha Trang and Da Lat, Ninh Thuan Vietnam boasts a strategic location that facilitates economic and cultural interactions within the region. The province’s warm and sunny climate year-round contributes to the cultivation of high-quality crops and livestock, resulting in local specialties such as green mangoes, apples, garlic, and a burgeoning grape industry.

Ninh Thuan offers a rich tapestry of attractions and experiences that make it a compelling destination for travelers. This province is renowned for its Cham tower system, captivating landscapes, and a coastline stretching over 105 km. Ninh Thuan Vietnam is also a cultural melting pot, where visitors can immerse themselves in the traditions of the Cham and Raglai people. In recent years, tourism in Ninh Thuan has flourished, making it an increasingly popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. The unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty makes Ninh Thuan a worthwhile destination for those seeking an authentic experience during their Central Vietnam itinerary.

2. How to get to Ninh Thuan Province?

Getting to Ninh Thuan Province is convenient, with various transportation options available. If you prefer the train, you can depart from Thap Cham Train Station in Phan Rang – Thap Cham City, the capital of Ninh Thuan. For those choosing air transportation, the closest airport is Cam Ranh International Airport in Khanh Hoa Province. Alternatively, if you plan to drive, whether by car or motorcycle, you can easily get to Ninh Thuan Vietnam via National Road 1 or the scenic coastal road. These routes offer picturesque journeys to the province, allowing travelers to enjoy the diverse landscapes along the way.

3. When is the best time to visit Ninh Thuan Vietnam?

The optimal time to visit Ninh Thuan Vietnam is during the dry season, which extends from December to August. It is characterized by hot temperatures, minimal rainfall, and lower humidity. With an average annual temperature ranging from 26 to 27 degrees Celsius and a distinct lack of heavy rains, this season provides more predictable and favorable weather conditions for travelers.

Meanwhile, the rainy season from September to November brings lush greenery and a different atmosphere to Ninh Thuan. However, the possibility of heavy rains and less predictable weather conditions might impact travel plans. Visiting Ninh Thuan Vietnam during the dry season allows travelers to fully enjoy the diverse landscapes, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures the province has to offer.

4. Best places to visit in Ninh Thuan Province

4.1. Nui Chua National Park

One of the crown jewels of Ninh Thuan Province is Nui Chua National Park. This protected area offers a spectacular blend of lush forests, rolling hills, and a rugged coastline. Designated as one of Vietnam’s 11 biosphere reserves by UNESCO, Nui Chua is a haven for biodiversity. Its ecosystems encompass evergreen forests, coastal habitats, and a plethora of rare plant and animal species. 

Here, visitors will find themselves immersed in a vibrant and ecologically significant environment. Hiking trails crisscross the terrain, leading to hidden gems like secluded beaches, charming waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints. Beyond its natural wonders, Nui Chua National Park also holds cultural and historical significance, with remnants of ancient Cham temples still standing for tourists to contemplate.

4.2. Rai Cave

Ninh Thuan Province unveils another gem in its natural repertoire with the captivating Rai Cave. Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Vinh Hy Bay, it is a testament to nature’s artistic prowess. Rai Cave is renowned for distinctive rock formations that frame the entrance, which creates an enchanting setting for visitors. Inside, you will be greeted by a network of caverns adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.

The rhythmic sounds of waves echoing within Rai Cave create a soothing backdrop, enhancing the overall sense of calm. The play of light creates mesmerizing patterns on the rocky surfaces, adding to the allure of this underground wonder. Here, visitors can marvel at the contrast between the dark cave interiors and the vivid blues of the open sea, making Rai Cave a picturesque spot for appreciation of nature’s beauty. 

4.3. Bau Truc Pottery Village

In the heart of Ninh Thuan, Bau Truc Pottery Village is a cultural enclave where the ancient art of pottery has thrived for generations. Renowned for its traditional pottery products, this village unveils the rich heritage and skilled craftsmanship of the Cham people. Bau Truc is celebrated for its traditional pottery, including pots, stoves, and cauldrons.

For those fortunate enough to visit this village during Cham festivals, it offers an authentic culinary experience. Traditional dishes such as buffalo, goat, lamb, and chicken cooked with local herbs showcase the unique flavors of the region. Additionally, traditional Cham cakes like Ginraong Lay and Sakaya provide a taste of both cultural and culinary heritage.

4.4. Vinh Hy Bay

Vinh Hy is a small bay located in Ninh Hai District, approximately 38 km away from Phan Rang – Thap Cham City. The charm of Vinh Hy Bay is accentuated by the picturesque coastal road that provides panoramic views of the bay. Visitors can revel in the beauty of this unspoiled landscape from various viewpoints along the way. The bay is also dotted with floating seafood farms, allowing visitors to witness traditional aquaculture practices and indulge in fresh locally-harvested seafood.

4.5. Po Klong Garai Tower

Po Klong Garai Tower, situated in Do Vinh Ward, Phan Rang – Thap Cham City, stands as an exceptional national monument, embodying the distinctive architectural and artistic heritage of the Cham people in Ninh Thuan Province. It serves as a hub for various cultural, religious, and spiritual activities of the Cham people. Festivals like the Kate Festival draw visitors into vibrant ceremonies, providing an immersive experience of the Cham traditions. During significant occasions such as the New Year celebrations and rain-praying ceremonies, visitors can witness Cham families presenting elaborate offerings of fruits, cakes, poultry, goats, and betel nuts around the tower. These offerings symbolize wishes for happiness, prosperity, and a bountiful harvest.

4.6. Ninh Thuan Stone Park

Ninh Thuan Stone Park, within the expansive embrace of Nui Chua National Park, is a captivating attraction for nature enthusiasts seeking the beauty of untouched landscapes. Here, resilient plant species create a verdant backdrop to the geological marvels that unfold. The park is a testament to the tenacity of life in an environment subjected to year-round arid and hot conditions. Natural rock formations, shaped over millions of years through the relentless forces of erosion, grace the landscapes. These rocks, varying in size, form captivating stacks that spark the imagination. Visitors can identify shapes reminiscent of birds, sharks, elephants, monkeys, snakes, teapots, and even chairs. 

4.7. Ninh Chu Beach

Ninh Chu Beach is another renowned tourist attraction of Ninh Thuan Province. With its distinctive 10km-long crescent-shaped coastline, adorned with pristine azure waters and powdery white sands, this beach offers a serene escape complemented by refreshing sea breezes. Despite its recent emergence in tourism, Ninh Chu Beach has swiftly earned accolades, being voted as one of the nine most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. Its untouched beauty and tranquil ambiance make it a coveted retreat for those seeking a harmonious blend of coastal splendor and peaceful solitude.

4.8. Nam Cuong Sand Dune

Encompassing an expansive area of approximately 700 hectares, Nam Cuong Sand Dune is a captivating natural wonder located in Ninh Thuan Vietnam. Characterized by its vast expanse of sand, this unique attraction offers visitors an immersive experience in a landscape reminiscent of a sprawling desert. Standing atop the elevated dune, visitors can inhale the invigorating air while observing shrimp farms shimmering in the early morning. 

As the sun gradually rises, the dune comes alive with a vibrant play of shadow and light. And Nam Cuong Sand Dune is not just a daytime attraction; it transforms into a lively hub in the evening. As the sun sets, the dune becomes a popular spot for photography and sand sliding. Families seeking a break from the urban bustle can bring their children to savor the cool sea breeze with their back on the sand, enjoying the spectacle of the setting sun.

4.9. Dinh Cape

Situated approximately 30 kilometers south of the Phan Rang – Thap Cham City, Dinh Cape has swiftly become a magnet for tourists, particularly those with a penchant for exploration. Dinh Cape offers a retreat where visitors can fully immerse themselves in the unspoiled beauty of nature. The landscape here is a canvas painted with vivid strokes of golden sands and gray rocks. The sandy beach, smooth and expansive, stretches from the foot of the cliffs to the playful waves. Visitors can set up camp, pitch tents, organize BBQ parties, light bonfires, and indulge in refreshing sea baths. The experience is heightened by the opportunity to relish seafood freshly sourced from the ocean.

4.10. Vineyards in Ninh Thuan Province

Ninh Thuan Province, often referred to as a haven of grapes in Vietnam, boasts an abundance of renowned vineyards. Adorned with the harmonious blend of green foliage and purple grapes, these vineyards create an ideal setting for a tranquil photoshoot. Visitors also have the chance to delve into the intricacies of grape cultivation, understanding the various grape varieties and the meticulous practices employed in Ninh Thuan Vietnam. 

4.11. An Hoa Sheep Field

An Hoa Sheep Field is a pastoral haven approximately 16 kilometers northwest of Phan Rang – Thap Cham City. Renowned as one of the largest freely grazed sheep areas in Ninh Thuan Province, this enchanting locale provides travelers with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the authentic rural life of the region. Each morning at An Hoa Sheep Field unfolds as a serene spectacle, with the first rays of sunlight delicately illuminating the surroundings. The sight of the flock of sheep leisurely venturing from their pens to the expansive fields and rolling hills paints a mesmerizing picture. This immersive experience offers visitors a genuine encounter with the charm of rural life, a stark departure from the pace of urban existence.

5. Must-try culinary specialties in Ninh Thuan Vietnam

• Bun sua: This dish is also known as jellyfish noodles, where jellyfish is delicately prepared and combined with soft noodles, creating a one-of-a-kind seafood experience. 
• Ech nuong: In Vietnamese cuisine, frogs can be prepared in various ways. In Ninh Thuan Vietnam, they are commonly grilled with the local spices and enjoyed with a spicy fish sauce-based dip. 
• Goi ca mai: Mullet fish salad features mullet fish carefully prepared by removing the bones while retaining the sweet flesh. The salad is enhanced with additional ingredients and a dipping sauce.
• Banh canh cha ca: Fish cake noodle soup is a traditional dish made from rice flour and accompanied by delicious fish cakes. This dish is often a go-to choice for the locals under the chilly weather.