Tam Coc and Beyond: A Perfect Day Trip from Hanoi

Tam Coc, often called “Ha Long Bay on Land,” is a stunning natural area in Ninh Binh Province, northern Vietnam. Its picturesque landscape features rice paddies, imposing karst mountains, and the scenic Ngo Dong River, offering a diverse range of activities. While easily accessible from Hanoi as a day trip, a longer stay is highly recommended to fully appreciate the region.

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Top Things to Do in Tam Coc

Tam Coc, meaning “three caves,” is best known for its iconic Bich Dong Pagoda and the unique foot-powered boat tours on the Ngo Dong River. However, the area offers much more than just these popular attractions.

Explore Tam Coc by Bicycle or Motorbike

Renting a bicycle or motorbike is an excellent way to explore Tam Coc and its surrounding villages. The relatively flat terrain makes cycling easy, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the scenic countryside. However, exercise caution when navigating narrow streets, as stray dogs may be present. Expect to pay approximately 200,000 VND ($8.57 USD) for motorbike rental, plus an additional 50,000 VND ($2.14 USD) for fuel.

Take a Tam Coc Boat Tour

A boat tour along the Ngo Dong River is a quintessential Tam Coc experience. From the scenic Tam Coc lake, you can embark on a sampan (a small, traditional boat) and glide through the serene waterways, passing through rice paddies and three stunning caves. The unique aspect of these tours is that the boats are propelled by local rowers using their feet.

Visit the Bich Dong Pagoda

The three-tiered Bich Dong Pagoda, situated near Ngu Nhac Mountain, is a must-see. Dating back to 1428, its stunning architecture and location make it a highlight of any visit. The pagoda’s striking entrance, a beautifully ornate arch, leads to three levels – Ha (lower), Trung (middle), and Thuong (upper). The middle level offers access to a Dark Cave, but be prepared for potentially very dark, wet steps – a flashlight is recommended. The climb to the upper pagoda offers breathtaking panoramic views, although it can be challenging. While entry to the pagoda is free, be aware that locals may attempt to solicit payment. Parking for bikes and motorbikes costs around 10,000 VND ($0.43 USD), though charges may vary.

Explore the Imperial City of Hoa Lu and its Temples

Only 90 km from Hanoi, Hoa Lu provides an excellent day trip option from Tam Coc. This historical site served as the capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries, housing the Dinh and Early Le dynasties.

Two main temples within Hoa Lu – King Dinh Temple and King Le Temple – are dedicated to these respective rulers. King Dinh Temple is located within the former royal palace, while King Le Temple sits at the foot of Ma Yen Mountain, offering panoramic views from its summit. Additional attractions in Hoa Lu include the First Column Pagoda (Nhat Tru), which houses 10th and 11th-century artifacts, and Thien Ton Cave, adorned with Ly Dynasty motifs. A small temple near Nhat Tru tells the tragic tale of Dinh Tien Hoang’s daughter.

Exploring Ninh Binh and Tam Coc: A Comprehensive Guide

This guide details a visit to Ninh Binh province, focusing on the popular tourist destinations of Tam Coc and surrounding areas.

Bai Dinh Pagoda: Vietnam’s Largest Buddhist Complex

Bai Dinh Pagoda, located just outside Ninh Binh city, is Vietnam’s largest Buddhist pilgrimage site. It houses hundreds of Buddha statues of varying sizes, including an impressive 10-meter-tall bronze Buddha. The complex blends old and new architecture, with the newest structures completed in 2010, and the original pagoda situated 800 meters away. Avoid visiting during the lunar festival (February-March) for a less crowded experience, though this period offers unique cultural immersion with local rituals and food stalls.

Trang An: Ha Long Bay on Land

A Vietnamese woman skillfully rowing a boat with her feet, showcasing traditional methods of navigation.

Often called the “Ha Long Bay on Land,” the Trang An complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers breathtaking boat tours through towering limestone karsts, lush valleys, and intriguing caves. These tours, similar to those originating from Tam Coc village, often require ducking in lower cave sections. Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and snacks; long sleeves are recommended for sun protection. Pre-booked tours are widely available.

Thung Nham Bird Garden: A Peaceful Escape

Near Tam Coc Garden Hotel and Bungalows lies Thung Nham bird garden, an ideal addition to a multi-day itinerary. Beautifully landscaped with pathways leading to viewing platforms, boat tours offer a closer look at the diverse birdlife.

Conquer Tam Coc Mua Cave for Panoramic Views

The dramatic staircase leading to Tam Coc Mua Cave provides stunning views.

For panoramic views of Tam Coc, climb the 500 steps to the summit of Mua Cave (also known as Dragon Mountain, due to a stone dragon along its ridge). Located 5 km north of Ninh Binh, the ascent is challenging but rewarding, offering 360-degree views of the rice paddies, Ngo Dong River, and a pagoda perched on a cliff. Access can be by foot, bicycle, or motorbike; parking costs approximately 10,000 VND ($0.43), and the entrance fee is 100,000 VND ($4.27). Explore various paths for alternative viewpoints.

Day Trip from Hanoi: Options and Considerations

Organizing a day trip from Hanoi to Tam Coc is straightforward. Independent travel involves a train to Ninh Binh followed by a taxi to Tam Coc. The 12GoAsia website (https://12go.asia/) is recommended for booking transport. Alternatively, pre-booked tours from Hanoi provide a hassle-free experience, often including Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Bai Dinh, and boat trips on the Ngo Dong River.

Ninh Binh City: A Brief Overview

Ninh Binh city itself is still recovering from the damage sustained during the Vietnam War, exhibiting ongoing construction. While there are limited attractions within the city, it may be of interest to those with extra time and transportation.

Tam Coc Travel Tips: Practical Information

A boat tour on the Ngo Dong River provides picturesque views of the Tam Coc landscape.

• Distance from Hanoi: Approximately 90km south, making it suitable for a day trip.
• Distance from Ninh Binh: Roughly 7km, easily accessible by taxi, motorbike, bicycle, or on foot.
• Taxi fare (Ninh Binh to Tam Coc): Approximately 100,000 VND ($4.28), although some drivers may attempt to overcharge.

Getting to Tam Coc Village, Vietnam

From Hanoi to Tam Coc

The most convenient way to reach Tam Coc from Hanoi is by train to Ninh Binh, followed by a taxi to Tam Coc. Train travel time from Hanoi to Ninh Binh varies from 1.5 to 2.15 hours, depending on the train schedule. Advance train bookings are easily made through websites like 12Go.Asia.

From Cat Ba Island to Tam Coc

Travelers originating from Cat Ba Island need a multi-stage journey. First, take a high-speed boat from Cat Ba Town harbor to Hai Phong. These boats are easily accessible at the harbor; tickets, costing approximately $7.71 USD per person, are purchased on arrival, though advance purchases may be unreliable. The boat trip is roughly an hour-long.

From Hai Phong’s Niem Nghia Bus Station, buses depart for Ninh Binh. Tickets cost around $6 USD per person and the journey takes approximately three hours. Note that local sleeper buses might be less than comfortable for taller individuals.

Finally, upon reaching Ninh Binh, a taxi will provide a short ride to Tam Coc village. Taxis are readily available for approximately $4.28 USD.

Accommodation in Tam Coc

While Ninh Binh offers numerous accommodation options, consider staying in or near Tam Coc village itself for a more immersive experience. The Tuấn Ngọc Hotel is a highly-recommended option, run by a local family. Its location slightly off the main street offers a peaceful atmosphere. Guests praise the spacious, clean rooms, a private balcony with scenic views, and a convenient terrace perfect for working remotely. The hotel costs approximately $18 USD per night, including breakfast. Booking.com provides alternative lodging choices in the region.