Tam Coc-Bich Dong, situated in the Ngu Nhac Son Mountains in Hoa Lu District of Ninh Binh Province, is a magnificent complex consisting of Bich Dong pagoda and Tam Coc grotto. It is one of the 21 significant tourist destinations in Vietnam.
The region enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons – a cold and rainy season from May to October and a dry and hot season from November to April. The average annual temperature in Tam Coc-Bich Dong is 23.5oC. It is a combination of a half-mountain and half-plain area, with an 18-kilometer coastline located at the base of the Red River Delta Triangle.
Historical Values of Tam Coc-Bich Dong
Bich Dong is a pagoda located on Ngu Nhac Mountain, established in 1428 during the Le Dynasty. It consists of three structures named Ha, Trung, and Thuong Pagodas arranged in ascending order.
During his visit to this cave in 1773, Mr. Nguyen Nghiem (the father of the famous writer Nguyen Du) was captivated by the breathtaking scenery of mountains, waterways, fields, and sky shrouded in green mist. He then gave it a romantic name, Green Pearl Grotto, which is now known as Bich Dong.
Adding to its picturesque landscape is Tam Coc, which comprises three caves namely Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. The name Tam Coc means Three Caves in English. Tam Coc offers an alluring charm and sense of mystery, attracting tourists to explore and discover its beauty.
To experience Halong Bay-on-land and the Citadel, check out the tour offered by Vietnam Discovery that includes a visit to Tam Coc in their itinerary.
One-day Classic and Culture tour from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc – Bich Dong includes transportation, meals, entry ticket, tour guide, and two additional offerings. The cost starts at US$50 per person.
What to See in Tam Coc-Bich Dong?
1. Tam Coc Wharf – Starting Point of Journeys
Tourists must first line up at Tam Coc Wharf to board a boat and explore the rivers. This pier remains bustling with visitors from morning until afternoon. All who come here share a sense of delight in the picturesque surroundings, including a charming communal house, an aged banyan tree, flourishing moss, marble rocks, and hospitable locals.
2. Tam Coc – A Mysterious Grotto
Tam Coc Grotto, situated around 2km from the pagoda, offers an enchanting hideaway that transports tourists into a mystical fairyland.
Located 3 km from Van Lam Wharf, visitors can take a boat trip from here to explore Tam Coc Grotto, which features three caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba. The journey takes approximately three hours as you glide along the Ngo Dong river, surrounded by picturesque rice fields and imposing karst formations.
The largest cave is 125m long with a ceiling height of 2m above the water level. Decorated with stunning stalactites and stalagmites that glitter like jewels in various shapes and hues, it is a spectacular sight to behold.
Drifting along the serene Ngo Dong River under the grotto, visitors can immerse themselves in the refreshing aroma of the river and cool air from the nearby karst mountains as they explore each of the three caves in succession.
Of the three caves, Hang Ca is the most visually stunning, boasting the longest length and captivating natural formations within its depths. Measuring around 127m in length, with a cavernous entrance 20m wide, it is a must-see for any visitor to the area.Upon leaving Hang Ca, take a moment to glance back and you will find it resembles an old man with white hair sitting down to fish. According to Vietnamese legend, this spot was once a heavenly abode where a fairy fisherman resided, accompanied by a flock of graceful fairies in white attire. The ethereal scenery may lure you in so much that you won’t want to leave.
Hang Hai is the second stop along your waterway adventure, situated nearly a kilometer away from Hang Ca. Within this cave, there are strikingly beautiful, colorful stalactites hanging from the ceiling, spanning a length of approximately 60 meters. Lastly, there’s Hang Ba which is only a short distance away, stretching roughly 50 meters in length with a lower ceiling than the aforementioned caves, evoking the appearance of a platonic cupola.
After making your way out of the entire grotto, indulge in the breathtaking view of the vast landscape before you, featuring mighty mountains and waterways as far as the eye can see. By traveling four kilometers further, you’ll stumble upon Fairy Stream, a crystal-clear stream resembling a mirror, through which you can observe schools of fish swimming amidst the moss layers. As per legend, fairies would frequently land here to swim, hence the name Fairy Stream.
3. Bich Dong Grotto
Bich Dong pagoda is located on Ngu Nhac Mountain and has three levels: Ha Pagoda, Trung Pagoda, and Thuong Pagoda. On the mountain peak, there is a statue of a scholar Mandarin looking at the landscape of Hoa Lu. Bich Dong grotto offers visitors a chance to learn about Post Le Dynasty legends.
The upper pagoda has the most stunning view of Bich Dong and boasts charming architecture and history. It was chosen as a location in 1428 after two monks were captivated by the river and mountain views. King Le Canh Hung later wrote a poem honoring its beauty.
The name Bich Dong means Green Grotto or Pearl Grotto due to its magnificent natural features. The shining stalactites come together in an enchanting display of colors, shapes, and sounds. Fairy Grotto, part of Bich Dong, is considered one of Vietnam’s most captivating caves.
The surroundings are also breathtaking, with mountains full of water throughout the year. Visitors can take a rattan boat ride amidst the mist and clouds, enjoying the picturesque pagoda landscape.
In conclusion, Bich Dong pagoda grotto is a rare masterpiece of nature, described in beautiful verses that capture its charm and allure.
4. Sun Valley – Attractive Ecological Tourism
Sun Valley (Thung Nắng) is the ultimate stop on your significant waterway expedition, offering an idyllic ecological tourism experience for nature enthusiasts. The valley houses an ancient limestone temple featuring intricate rock-style architecture and delicate carvings. While exploring this destination, visitors can unwind on a small boat, soak up the sun, and revel in the tranquil and pristine surroundings.
What to Eat in Tam Coc Bich Dong
Ninh Binh is not only known for its breathtaking scenery, but also for its goat meat delicacies. When visiting Tam Coc-Bich Dong in Ninh Binh province, it is highly recommended that you try the local goat meat dishes, which are prepared in a variety of alluring ways.
For instance, re-goats are served with an assortment of herbs including lemon, chili, seasoning powder and ginger. Grilled goat meat is combined with sesame, while rare goat meat is flavored with basil, coriander and fig leaves. A meal featuring goat meat is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Furthermore, Tam Coc-Bich Dong is renowned for its burnt rice, eel vermicelli and wine, traditionally consumed from a jar through pipes. Almost every restaurant in the area offers these distinct types of cuisine, providing a chance to savor the unique flavors of this mountainous region in one convenient location.
Where to Stay in Tam Coc Bich Dong
A plethora of accommodation options are available in Tam Coc-Bich Dong. Depending on your itinerary, you can select a place to stay near your desired destinations. Here are some recommendations:
- Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel Resort: This hotel and resort is situated 0.4 miles away from Tam Coc and is considered the best value among almost 150 hotels in Ninh Binh. Within walking distance from here, you can visit Tam Coc Wharf, Bird Valley, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Phat Diem Cathedral, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, etc.
- Thanh Dat Homestay: If you are on a tight budget yet still want to enjoy the remarkable beauty of Tam Coc-Bich Dong, this homestay is the perfect choice for you. It is located 0.3 miles away from Tam Coc and priced at nearly 400,000 VND. The homestay provides 24/7 service to ensure guests have a comfortable stay.
- Nan House: Another excellent option for lodging is Nan House. It is an authentic homestay nestled in the heart of Tam Coc-Bich Dong, Ninh Binh. The house features a small garden with many flowers, a swimming pool, and a playground for children’s activities. Its design blends modern and traditional styles, with views of pagodas, mountains and paddies. It is an ideal place to unwind after a long day.
How to Get to Tam Coc Bich Dong
To reach Tam Coc-Bich Dong from Hanoi, you can take a bus or train that will take approximately 2.5 hours to Ninh Binh province. Once there, it’s just a 5 km drive to get to Tam Coc-Bich Dong. If you’re interested in other activities, you can opt for a boat tour alongside the locals.
Best Time to Visit
Tam Coc-Bich Dong is a stunning destination all year round, but spring is the ideal time to visit. During this season, the sky is blue, the weather is pleasant, and the fields are lush green. Additionally, numerous Tet festivals are held by the Vietnamese people, creating an exciting atmosphere.
If you have doubts about visiting Tam Coc-Bich Dong, don’t hesitate any longer. It’s a legendary location renowned for its breathtaking rivers and mountains, making it an ideal and secure destination for travelers.
