NINH BINH to PHONG NHA — Bus, Train, Flight? ☀️
13 min readAug 27, 2020
Phong Nha-Ke Bang is one of the most amazing national parks in Vietnam.
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park lies nestled in Quảng Bình province, a mere 45 km from Dong Hoi city, making it one of the prime destinations in the region. However, it’s essential to note that the park lacks both an airport and a railway station. The nearest airport is situated in Dong Hoi City, with direct flights only from Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport. Notably, Phong Nha-Ke Bang gained international recognition as a filming location for the renowned blockbuster “Kong: Skull Island” in 2017, showcasing Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes. With its striking karst formations, the park offers reminiscent views of Ninh Binh. Recognized by UNESCO in 2003, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park holds a distinguished place on the World Heritage list.
⭐⭐⭐ You can book bus + train e-tickets from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha / Dong Hoi on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐
(You can also search another route and tickets, e.g. Hanoi > Dong Hoi, Phong Nha > Hoi An, Ninh Binh > Dong Hoi…)
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is renowned for Son Doong, the largest cave in the world, discovered in 2009. Beyond Son Doong, the park boasts numerous other caves accessible through various tours from Phong Nha. With approximately 300 caves and a total length of about 126 km, there’s no shortage of exploration opportunities. Dong Hoi city is easily reachable from Phong Nha, with a local public bus departing from Nam Ly bus station or the option of taking a private taxi. Travelers from Ninh Binh have two popular options to reach Phong Nha-Ke Bang: via sleeper tourist bus or Vietnam Railways train followed by a local bus or taxi through Dong Hoi city.
From Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park you can get by sleeper bus or train+bus.
TRAIN + BUS to Phong Nha or Dong Hoi:
Covering approximately 400 km by land through Dong Hoi, the journey from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is accessible via train and bus routes. Phong Nha lacks an airport and railway station, necessitating overland travel. Options include a sleeper bus departing from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha or utilizing the regular train service of Vietnam Railways from Dong Hoi. Upon reaching Dong Hoi, travelers can proceed to Phong Nha via local public bus or private taxi.
The overnight sleeper bus journey from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha spans roughly 9 hours, with one-way tickets priced around $15 per person. Alternatively, the train journey from Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi takes approximately 8 to 9 hours, with sleeper berths available for a more relaxed experience, costing between $7 and $25 per person. From either Nam Ly bus station or Dong Hoi, a local bus or taxi ride to Phong Nha takes about 1.5 hours.
BUS/TRAIN + FLIGHT to Dong Hoi (via Hanoi):
Although no direct flights link Ninh Binh to Phong Nha, travelers can opt for a combination of bus or train travel followed by a flight from Hanoi to Dong Hoi. The journey involves traveling from Ninh Binh to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi, covering a distance of approximately 100 km over 2.5 to 3 hours. From Noi Bai Airport, direct flights to Dong Hoi take approximately 1 hour. Transportation options from Ninh Binh to Hanoi include trains, buses, or private minivans directly to Noi Bai Airport, with tickets readily available for booking online. Direct flights from Hanoi to Dong Hoi are occasionally affordably priced, ranging from $25 to $70 per person.
This combination of bus/train and flight via Hanoi offers the swiftest route to both Dong Hoi and Phong Nha-Ke Bang. Travelers may also consider the scenic motorbike journey from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha, albeit spanning approximately 2 days. However, possessing an International Driving Permit (IDP) for motorbike travel in Vietnam is imperative. Detailed instructions on traveling from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha are outlined below for reference. From Phong Nha you can also travel by train/bus or plane via central Vietnam to Ho Chi Minh City.
How do I get from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha?
1. SLEEPER BUS from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha
- For travelers seeking a seamless and restful journey from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha, look no further than the convenient option of a sleeper bus. This mode of transportation promises a comfortable and hassle-free experience, allowing you to relax while traversing the picturesque landscapes of Vietnam.
- The journey from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha spans approximately 9 hours, offering ample time to unwind and enjoy the scenery along the way. Modern sleeper overnight tourist buses, originating from the charming area of Tam Coc, ensure a comfortable ride throughout the duration of your trip.
⭐⭐⭐ You can book bus + train e-tickets from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha / Dong Hoi on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐
- Among the reputable bus companies facilitating this route is Hey Travel, renowned for its reliability and commitment to passenger satisfaction. With affordable one-way bus tickets priced at around $15 per person, traveling from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha is both economical and convenient.
- Whether you’re a solo adventurer or embarking on a group excursion, the sleeper bus provides an ideal means of transportation, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey to your destination. So sit back, relax, and let the sleeper bus transport you to the captivating wonders of Phong Nha with ease.
- you will receive your bus e-ticket to Phong Nha-Ke Bang by email, ready to print or carry in your mobile phone or tablet and present at the ticket counter of the station or in the bus in Ninh Binh - Tam Coc
2. TRAIN + BUS from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha (via Dong Hoi)
1.step - Travel from Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi by regular train
- For those seeking a scenic and leisurely journey from Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi, hopping aboard a regular train offers an authentic experience of Vietnam’s landscapes and culture. With departures available every day, Vietnam Railways provides a reliable and accessible mode of transportation between these two enchanting destinations.
- The train ride from Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi typically spans between 7.5 to 9 hours, allowing passengers ample time to relax and soak in the stunning vistas along the way. Whether you prefer the simplicity of hard or soft seats or the added comfort of sleeper berths, there are various seating options to suit every traveler’s preferences.
- Trains depart from Ninh Binh Railway Station and arrive at Đồng Hới Railway Station, ensuring convenient access to both cities’ central areas. With affordable one-way tickets ranging from $7 to $25 per person, travelers can embark on this journey without breaking the bank.
- Whether you’re a solo adventurer or traveling with companions, the regular train service from Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi promises an enriching and memorable experience. So sit back, relax, and let the rhythmic chug of the train transport you to your destination while you savor the beauty of Vietnam’s countryside.
- you will receive your train e-ticket to Dong Hoi by email, ready to print or carry in your mobile phone or tablet and present at the ticket counter of the railway station before boarding the train in Ninh Binh Railway Station
⭐⭐⭐ Book and buy train e-tickets from Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi easily online on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐
2.step - Travel from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha by bus or local taxi
- Nestled just 45 kilometers apart, Dong Hoi and Phong Nha-Ke Bang offer travelers a seamless journey through the heart of Vietnam’s stunning landscapes. To traverse this short yet captivating distance, one can opt for either a local bus or a private taxi, ensuring flexibility and ease in reaching their destination.
- For those inclined towards a budget-friendly option, hopping aboard the local bus presents an excellent choice. The bus, identified by its number B4 and marked with the route “Dong Hoi — Hoan Lao — Phong Nha” across its windscreen, can be conveniently accessed from outside the Nam Ly bus station (Ben Xe Nam Ly). With its regular service and efficient route, travelers can expect a comfortable journey from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha in approximately 1.5 hours.
- Alternatively, travelers seeking a more personalized and expedited experience can opt for a private taxi, offering the convenience of door-to-door service and flexibility in scheduling. While slightly pricier than the local bus, a private taxi ensures a swift and comfortable journey, allowing travelers to arrive at their destination in style.
- Whether you choose the local bus for its affordability and convenience or opt for the privacy and efficiency of a private taxi, rest assured that both options will provide a seamless and enjoyable journey from Dong Hoi to the captivating wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang. So sit back, relax, and let the adventure unfold as you embark on this scenic voyage through Vietnam’s enchanting landscapes.
3. TRAIN/BUS + FLIGHT + BUS from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha (via Hanoi, Dong Hoi)
This the most fastest option how to reach from Phong Nha, but it has 3 steps. You can travel by bus/train from Ninh Binh to Hanoi, from Hanoi you can take a direct flight to Dong Hoi and from Dong Hoi you can travel by local bus to Phong Nha. Travel time is totally about 7–8 hours via Hanoi+Dong Hoi.
1.step - Bus or Train from Ninh Binh to Hanoi
- travel by bus or train from Ninh Binh to Hanoi takes about 2.5 hours, about 3 hours to Noi Bai Airport
- there are also some private minivans from Ninh Binh to Noi Bai Airport
- the most cheapest option is to travel by train (seat costs about $4–7/pp)
- from Hanoi Railway Station you can travel by Express Bus №86 to Noi Bai Airport (about 1 hour)
- read this article: How to reach Hanoi from Ninh Binh?
2.step - Direct flight from Hanoi — Noi Bai Airport to Dong Hoi
- there are direct flights from Hanoi to Dong Hoi
- Dong Hoi Airport is about 5 km from the city center of Dong Hoi
- direct flight from Hanoi to Dong Hoi takes about 1 hour
- direct flight from Hanoi to Dong Hoi costs about $25–70/pp
- flights to Đồng Hới Airport, flights from Nội Bài International Airport
- you can read this article: How to reach Dong Hoi from Hanoi?
3.step - Travel from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha by bus or taxi
- from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha you can travel by bus or private taxi
- travel distance is 45 km from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha
- travel by bus from outside the Nam Ly bus station (Ben Xe Nam Ly)
- the bus number is B4 and there is written — Dong Hoi — Hoan Lao — Phong Nha across the windscreen
- travel by bus from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha takes about 1.5 hour
Frequently Asked Questions— Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang:
1. How you can book tickets from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang?
⭐⭐⭐ You can search and book bus e-tickets from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park online on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐
(You can search, book another tickets, e.g. train, bus tickets from Ninh Binh > Dong Hoi, Hanoi > Dong Hoi…)
2. How to book homestay or hotel in Phong Nha? Where to stay?
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park offers various small guesthouses or hotels and there are also local homestays in various sites of this park. Book your accommodation in Phong Nha easily online.
- Book accommodation in Phong Nha-Ke Bang (Discount up to 60%).
3. How long does it take to get from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang?
- To get by sleeper tourist bus from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang takes about 9 hours.
- To get by train+bus from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang (via Dong Hoi) takes about 10–12 hours.
- To get by bus+plane from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha (via Hanoi, Dong Hoi) takes about 7–8 hours.
4. How much does it cost to get from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang?
- Travel by sleeper tourist bus from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang costs about $15/pp.
- Travel by bus+train from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang (via Dong Hoi) costs about $10–40/pp
- To get by bus+plane from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha (via Hanoi, Dong Hoi) costs about $25–70/pp.
5. How far is Phong Nha-Ke Bang from Ninh Binh?
- Travel distance from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang is about 400 km by bus/train via Dong Hoi.
6. What is the best way of travel from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang?
- The best and fastest way of transport from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang is to travel by plane from Hanoi to Dong Hoi and from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha by public bus. But this way of transport has 3 steps, but it is the fastest option of transfer.
7. What is the most cheapest option of transport from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang?
- The most cheapest way of transport from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang is to travel by train+bus via Dong Hoi. The most cheapest are hard or soft seats in the train from Ninh Binh Railway Station to Dong Hoi Railway Station.
8. Is there a direct flight from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang?
- No there are no flights from Ninh Binh to Phong Nha-Ke Bang because there are no airports in this cities. You can travel by plane from Hanoi - Noi Bai Airport to Dong Hoi Airport.
9. Where you can travel and go from Phong Nha?
- From Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park you can travel to Dong Hoi Railway Station and there are trains, buses or flights to central and southern Vietnam. You can travel by bus or bus+train from Phong Nha to Da Nang or from Phong Nha to Hoi An. You can also visit Hue, it is only about 100 km from Da Nang.
10. How to travel from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Ninh Binh?
- If you want to travel back from Phong Nha to Ninh Binh, you can also travel by sleeper tourist bus or by bus+train via Dong Hoi. The same way how you arrived to Phong Nha-Ke Bang.
11. What makes Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park special?
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang is renowned for its spectacular karst landscapes, extensive cave systems, and rich biodiversity. It is home to Son Doong Cave, the largest cave in the world, along with numerous other stunning caverns and underground rivers. Additionally, its pristine forests provide habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
12. How can I explore the caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang?
- There are various options for exploring the caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang. Visitors can join guided tours operated by local companies, which offer opportunities to explore caves such as Son Doong, Paradise Cave, and Phong Nha Cave. These tours often include transportation, equipment, and knowledgeable guides to enhance the experience.
13. What activities can I enjoy in Phong Nha-Ke Bang besides cave exploration?
- In addition to cave exploration, visitors to Phong Nha-Ke Bang can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, kayaking, and ziplining. The park’s diverse landscapes offer opportunities for adventure and exploration, including scenic hikes through lush forests, kayaking on pristine rivers, and ziplining across stunning valleys.
14. How do I get to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park?
- Phong Nha-Ke Bang is located in Quang Binh province, Vietnam. The nearest major city is Dong Hoi, which has an airport and railway station. From Dong Hoi, visitors can take a local bus or taxi to reach the park, which is approximately 45 kilometers away. Additionally, there are bus and train services connecting other cities like Hanoi and Hue to Dong Hoi.
15. When is the best time to visit Phong Nha-Ke Bang?
- The best time to visit Phong Nha-Ke Bang is during the dry season, which typically lasts from November to April. During this time, the weather is mild and rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for outdoor activities and cave exploration. However, it’s essential to note that certain caves may have limited access during the wet season due to high water levels.
