Lotus Season in Ninh Binh: When & Where to Admire

Interesting facts about the Lotus Flower in Vietnam

• The lotus flower is the national flower of Vietnam, symbolizing purity, resilience, and spiritual enlightenment.
• While there are native Vietnamese lotus varieties, some popular varieties cultivated include the white and pink Japanese lotus with its distinct pointed petals.
• Lotus plays a role in Vietnamese cuisine. Lotus roots stems, and seeds are used in various dishes, from salads and stir-fries to desserts. Lotus tea is also a popular beverage known for its calming properties.

• The lotus flower holds deep religious significance in Vietnamese Buddhism. Its ability to rise above muddy water is seen as a metaphor for spiritual purity and enlightenment.
• The lotus flower's shape and symbolism have influenced Vietnamese architecture. You'll see lotus motifs in pagodas, temples, and other traditional buildings.

When is Lotus time in Ninh Binh? 

• Time: Summer (May-Autumn) 

Lotus time is one of the best times to visit Ninh Binh. The lotus season in Ninh Binh blooms in the summer, specifically from late May to July. This is when you'll see the most vibrant displays of pink and white lotus flowers contrasting with the green mountains and rice fields.

If you plan to travel to Ninh Binh at that time, remember to check out the weather feature below. 

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Ninh Binh Weather Breakdown (May-August)

Ninh Binh experiences a tropical monsoon climate, meaning hot and humid summers with frequent rain showers. Here's a breakdown of what to expect weather-wise from May to August:

• May: Hot and humid, with the rainy season starting.
• June: Hottest month, with frequent afternoon showers and thunderstorms.
• July: Similar to June, with high humidity and consistent rainfall.
• August: Rainfall starts to taper off slightly, but it's still the rainy season.

Rainfall

• Rainy Season: This is the peak rainy season in Ninh Binh. Expect frequent afternoon showers and thunderstorms.
• Intensity: Rainfall can vary, with some days experiencing short bursts and others with longer, heavier downpours.

Temperature

• Hot: Expect highs in the range of 30°C (86°F) to 35°C (95°F) throughout the period.
• Humidity: High humidity levels, make it feel even warmer.

Is Ninh Binh Hot in Summer? Beat the Heat with Top Activities and Cooling Tips

Famous attractions with the best lotus view in Ninh Binh 

Large lotus pond in Mua Cave (Hang Mua)

Hang Mua or Mua Cave (The Dragon Mountain) is a popular tourist site known for its challenging climb to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain for panoramic views. Apart from the best Tam Coc viewpoint, Mua Cave is a favourite place because the campus under the foot of the mountain. 

At the foot of the mountain lies a large pond, heart-shaped, with lotus flowers, creating a picturesque scene. There's also a wooden walkway that winds through the lotus pond, offering a unique perspective for capturing photos.

• Location: Mua Cave (Google Maps) 
• Opening Time: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily
• Ticket Fee: 100,000 VND per person (roughly equivalent to USD 4)

The ticket is the entrance ticket for the whole complex, you don’t have to pay extra money for the lotus pond. 

Hang Mua Ninh Binh: A Complete Guide for a day trip from Hanoi 

Bich Dong Pagoda - The Lotus view in front of the temple

Bich Dong Pagoda, an ancient pagoda with 3 different levels, is specifically known for its lotus fields. Lotus flowers grow in ponds around the temple complex, adding to the serene atmosphere.

• Location: Bich Dong Pagoda, Ninh Binh (Google Map) 
• Opening Time: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
• Ticket Fee: Free (But you have to pay parking fees of around  $1

From Tam Coc boat station, you take a bike ride along the way to see the local village and rice field before reaching Bich Dong Pagoda. After checking a large lotus pond in front of the temple, you should start your journey to check out temples and caves inside and enjoy the view from the highest peak of the temple. 

Van Long Lagoon - Off Beaten Path in Ninh Binh

Van Long lotus pond covers an area of up to 1 hectare, mainly planted with Japanese lotus varieties with small petals and pointed tips. The blooming lotus flowers are usually white and gradually turn pink at the tip of the petals.

• Location: Van Long (Google Map) 
• Opening Time: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
• Ticket Fee: Free (However, if you plan to take a boat tour to explore the lagoon, there will be a separate fee for the boat tour itself)

Top Homestays With Lotus Views In Ninh Binh

Trang An Lotus Lake Homestay

This homestay boasts a 4.6-star rating on Google with praises for its idyllic location right next to a lotus lake. You can wake up to the refreshing sight of blooming lotuses and enjoy the tranquillity of the surroundings.

Lotus Field Homestay

As the name suggests, this homestay offers stunning views of lotus fields. They have a variety of rooms to choose from, including bungalows with balconies overlooking the lake. Guests also love their delicious breakfast served with local specialities.

Hang Mua Lotus Homestay

Located near the Hang Mua tourist area, this homestay offers convenient access to the area's attractions while still providing a peaceful retreat. They have a beautiful lotus pond on their property. 

Hali Home 

If you seek luxurious amenities, Hali Home might not be the top choice. However, its charm lies in its simplicity and connection to nature. Nestled against majestic limestone mountains, Hali Home offers a serene escape. Imagine waking up to the beauty of a lotus pond, its gentle fragrance filling the air.

Additionally,  Hali Home allows easy access to Ninh Binh's must-sees:

• Mua Cave: A scenic hike awaits, just 2 km away.
• Trang An and Tam Coc: Explore these world-famous grottoes within a 7 km radius.
• Bai Dinh Pagoda and Thung Nham Bird Garden: While a bit further (15 km)

Chez Beo Homestay

Established in 2005, Chez Beo Homestay provides comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations with patios, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration. 

Chez Beo Homestay is a homestay surrounded by views of the lake and offers a comfortable and serene environment for a stress-free getaway in Ninh Binh. During the lotus season, you will be immersed in the lotus smell and the beauty here. 

Top Cheap Hostels in Ninh Binh & Tips to Remember

Useful tips for coming to Ninh Binh in the lotus season

Ninh Binh is a popular destination, especially during the lotus season. You should book your homestay or hotel well in advance, especially if you have your heart set on a specific location with a lotus pond view.

Secondly, The weather in Ninh Binh during the lotus season can be hot and humid, so pack light, breathable clothing. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen! It's also a good idea to pack an umbrella or raincoat as there can be occasional downpours.

Last but not least, one of the best ways to experience the lotus fields is to take a boat tour. You can choose Trang An or Tam Coc Boat Tour. During the lotus season, the boat tours take on a special magic as you glide through fields of blooming lotuses.

Overall, every lotus season, tourists flock from all over. In recent days, the number of visitors coming to visit and take pictures of lotus has increased dramatically, regardless of sunny or rainy weather. It’s worth visiting Ninh Binh in the summer months in general and in lotus time in particular. 

See our offer: 

Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi 
Hoa Lu - Mua Cave - Tam Coc - Bike - Swimming with Sunset Party