Poetic view of Thung Ui in Ninh Binh province (Photo: The Hung/VOV5)

At the beginning of the year, as Ninh Binh enters its peak tourist season, popular attractions such as Trang An Landscape Complex, Tam Coc-Bich Dong scenic spot and Bai Dinh Pagoda have welcomed large numbers of visitors.

Just a few kilometers from Bai Dinh Pagoda, a tranquil valley surrounded by limestone mountains is emerging as a favorite for travelers in search of more exploratory experiences. This is Thung Ui, where a limpid lake and ancient spiritual structures create a serene atmosphere, in sharp contrast to the lively pace of nearby tourist sites.

A view of Thung Ui (Photo: The Hung/VOV5)
Seen from above, Thung Ui resembles a painting of a lake resting at the foot of the mountains, mirroring the blue sky and surrounding mountain peaks. Stone-paved paths lead to simple stilt houses and religious structures such as the Heaven (Thien), Earth (Dia), and Human (Nhan) Worship Platforms.

The space evokes a mixed feeling of sacredness from historical and spiritual elements, and comfort from the peaceful landscape. Vu Hien, a tour guide at the Bai Dinh spiritual complex, said: “The Heaven Worship Platform has been restored to remind us of the nation’s heroic past. The ritual consists of three parts to worship the Heaven, heavenly beings and deities, and the Earth.”

People experience Muong culture at Thung Ui. (Photo: The Hung/VOV5)
In addition to its scenery, Thung Ui offers rich local cultural experiences. Visitors can watch gong performances, join in traditional folk games such as bamboo dancing and swinging the Con cloth ball, and explore the daily life of the Muong ethnic community.

Tourist To Hong Nhung from Hanoi said, “What attracts me most is the landscape and Muong cultural space. It’s a very unique experience. I joined the bamboo dance and felt excited and thrilled. I also tried walking on stilts and throwing the Con ball.”

Kinh Thien, the Heaven Worship Palace (Photo: The Hung/VOV5)
Tourism experts say new destinations such as Thung Ui help diversify Ninh Binh’s tourism offerings while easing pressure on overcrowded sites. Vu The Binh, Chairman of the Vietnam Tourism Association, said, “With the current level of investment and the available resources, Thung Ui will certainly become a bright spot of Vietnam’s tourism in 2026.”
Kinh Thien, the Heaven Worship Platform where rituals to worship heaven and earth are held. (Photo: The Hung/VOV5)

As tourism industry moves towards sustainable experiences, destinations like Thung Ui are gaining more attention as they can offer visitors a space to find balance, reconnect with nature and gain a deeper understanding of the history of Vietnam’s 10th century imperial capital.