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3 Day Vietnam Motobike Tour To Mai Chau – Tam Coc

This 3 day Northwest Vietnam motorbike tour to Mai Chau and Tam Coc is one of our best short Vietnam motorbike tours from Hanoi. Within 3 day touring, you will have a great chance to see the beautiful corner of Northwest Vietnam including Mai Chau valley and one of the most beautiful places in the Red revier delta – Tam Coc in Ninh Binh province, it’s also a great place for motorbike touring that you can spend a week to see around however, in this 3 day tour we will do our best to show you as much of Vietnam as possible. The ride is almost on pave roads but if you you wanna like offroad we can make it a more offroad motorbike tour for you. We know the region so well, we are confident to say we are Vietnam motorbike tours expert and we are flexible to make it easier or harder depending on your expectation.

Important Notes

What's include, booking condition, booking now.

Day 1: Hanoi Motorbike Tour to Mai Chau. 190 km.

This short Hanoi motorbike tour to Mai Chau will be started by leaving from our shop in the outskirts of Hanoi at around 8 . Avoiding the busy traffic by taking some narrow and small country roads. We  motorcycle to the south west Hanoi to Mai Chau valley- an area of beautiful landscape and home to the Thai ethnic minority. After lunch, we will have wonderful Vietnam motorbike tour on forgotten French road No 6, passing extensive farming lands comprising a sea of paddy fields split by tree-lined roads punctuated by limestone karst scenery. Here is known as Ha long bay on mountain . Then we cross Thung Khe – one of the most beautiful mountain passes in North Vietnam then we can do a short offroad motorbike ride before heading down hill to the valley settlement of Mai Chau. ( Home to the white Thai people who are living in houses on stilts). Diner and overnight in a Home stay.

Day 2: Mai Chau – Tam Coc. 160 km

After breakfast, the local guide of Vietnam Motorbike Tours expert will take on a quite mountain roads with a beautiful view. We will join the historical Ho Chi Minh Road after 2 hour riding from Mai Chau . The road goes along Cuc Phuong National Park so we can get some pictures of stunning landscape. Leaving the Ho Chi Minh road after 1 hour to Ninh Binh town. We will stop at Hoa Lu – the Capital of Vietnam in the 10th century to have a short walk around to see two nice ancient temple of King Dinh and King Le and learn more about important period of Vietnam history . And then keep riding to Tam Coc where we take a boat trip along the river and go through 3 caves. This could be part  of the Vietnam motorbike tours nearby Hanoi. It offers many picturesque landscapes of the Red River Delta and interesting sightseeing. Diner and stay in hotel in Tam Coc.

Day 3: Motorbike Tour Back to Hanoi: 130 km.

After breakfast, we take a 2 hours boat trip along the beautiful and winding river with 3 stalactite caves. Tam Coc is known as Ha long bay on land because of plenty of limestone mountains between rice paddies. Return to the harbor and get off the boat, we enjoy lunch with the local delicious dishes. After lunch, we motorcycle back to Hanoi. The short Vietnam motorbike tours to Mai Chau-Tam Coc ends in Hanoi at about 5 PM.

TOUR PRICE:

Our tour price is determined by two factors: the NUMBER OF RIDERS (the more people in the group, the lower the cost per rider) and the TYPE OF BIKES (choosing a smaller bike results in a reduced price). For more information and accurate pricing, please contact us. Below, you can find a sample price for our regular North Vietnam motorbike tour using 150cc bikes

• Tour for a group of 1 (solo rider): 210 USD/Day
• Tour for a group of 2 riders: 160 USD/Day/Person
• Tour for a group of 3 riders: 150 USD/Day/Person
• Tour for group of 4 – 10 riders: 140 USD/Day/Person

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• We can tailor a tour to your preferences and desired dates. Just share your expectations with us, and we will create your private tour
• The tour price does not include support vehicle, air tickets, or airport pick-up/drop-off… but we can arrange these services for an additional cost if needed
• We do have other bigger bikes for your tours, Please contact us for more details
• The prices listed above are only for the Northern Vietnam motorcycle tours, Other special motorcycle tours on the Ho Chi Minh trail or crossing the border to Laos or Cambodia… will cost more. Please contact us for more details.
• The tour price can be changed depending on the low/high tourist season or other special requests, Please contact us to get the right price for your tour.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

Tour price includes:

• Experienced English-speaking tour guides (+ mechanic)
• Quality Honda XR150L/CRF250L/CRF300L or other bikes with all fuel
• Quality Helmets/Gloves/Knee, elbow pads/Rain jackets/pants
• All meals on tour (All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners with local Vietnamese food)
• All accommodation on tour (twin share room in a hotel or stay at a homestay as mentioned in itinerary)
• Boat rides on lakes or crossing rivers as mentioned in the itinerary
• All entrance fees / Permits
• Hotel pick up/drop off before and after the tour
• Quality video of the trip
• Souvenirs from our team (Café Cup, Cap…)
• Tour price excludes:
• Medical insurance
• Bike damages
• Personal expense
• Drinks/Tips

BOOKING CONDITIONS:

Reservation Process:

Your booking is confirmed upon receipt of the deposit. To secure your reservation, we request a small deposit, typically ranging from 10% to 30% of the total tour cost

Payment Policies:

When you’re ready to book a tour, we will send you a secure payment link, allowing you to pay the required deposit using your credit cards (3,5% will be surcharged for the bank service fee)

The balance will be paid in full at our shop just before starting the tour. You can pay in cash (USD or Euro) or by credit card (3,5% will be surcharged for the bank fee if you pay by credit card)

Cancellation and Refund Policy

• The deposit was not refundable but you can postpone the booking to another time.
• No refunds in case of bad weather conditions and customers’ reasons. Tour may be delayed by adverse weather conditions, but we take no responsibility in case of tour cancellation
• If your bike has a technical brake down, we will replace it with the same type of bike and our guide/mechanic will attempt to fix your bike within a day. For technical reasons, your tour may be shortened, You will get a refund for the day you can’t finish
• If you need to cancel your booking, you have the option to postpone to another time or transfer it to another person. Please note that you will be responsible for any associated administration costs, and it is your responsibility to ensure that your nominee pays the full amount

Age Limitation and License Requirements:

Although we do not have a specific age limit or license requirement, Vietnam Motorbike Tour Expert do require all participants to be in good health, physically fit, and capable of riding a motorbike

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Ninh Binh Explore Tam Coc, Mua Cave

Motorbike Tour Ninh Binh explore Tam Coc, Mua Cave is the best way to see the stunning view. The motorbike tour in Ninh Binh with local easy rider will bring you the unique experience. This motorbike tour can start from Ha Noi or Ninh Binh for flexible to your schedule

7:00-7:30AM : Pick up from hotel or provided address by car or mini van transfer to Ninh Binh

8:30AM:  Take a short break in middle way

9:00-9:30AM:  Arriver Tam Coc , our tour guide and driver team will pick up, after itinerary and safety brief our motorbike will take you to visit over  4 rural villages  to see the vast of  rice paddies fields  with beautiful landscape of limestone mountain called  Ha Long on land ,  you also have chance to visit some  local family,  and a huge Valley called  Thung Nham where you will see  stunning of beautiull landscape.

Then visit B ich Dong temple  where you climb to the cave to see and learn about this temple or visit Mua cave  – the most beautiful place to view in Ninh Binh , where can see the city far from the standing in front of Tam Coc in back and the limestone mountain along to the south of Vietnam.

12-12:30: Have luch with set menu of Vietnamese food in the local restaurant

13:00PM:  Board the sampan boats (2 people share a boat) in Tam Coc dock to drift down the river among the villages, mountains and lush rice fields. Passing through 3 caves “Hang Ca – First cave, Hang Hai – Second cave, Hang Ba – Third cave” to get a thrilling feeling.

14:45PM:  Our driver pick you up and take you to visit Hoa Lu (the ancient capital) Visit temples delicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang (923-979) and Le Dai Hanh (941-1005). Tour guide give you an introduction of Vietnam history in 10th century

15:30-16:00PM:  Getting on the car for returning Ha Noi

18:00-18:30PM:  Tour end and drop off at your hotel in Ha Noi

You can do this tour start in Ninh Binh if you wish. Anything else to know please feel free to contact us

Whatsapp: + 84939191456

Email: [email protected]

+ TOUR INCLUDED

Pick up, transportation, motorbike and driver, English speaking tour guide, bamboo boat trip, all entrance fees, lunch, drop off

+ TOUR EXCLUDED

Drinks, tips for pleasure sẻvice & personal expenses

Group tour $95/person (  Max 8 pax) Private tour $135/person

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Tam Coc travel guide – boat tour & 6 highlights

Tam Coc (Tam Coc – Bich Dong) in Ninh Binh is one of the most popular tourist destinations in northern Vietnam. It is after Trang An the most popular attraction in the province. The most popular attraction here is a boat tour on the Tam Coc river, but you can also explore this beautiful area by bike.

Tam Coc boat tour

Things to do in tam coc.

• Best time visit Tam Coc
• How do you get there?

Getting around

Accommodation in tam coc.

With limestone mountains, vast rice fields and small rivers that run between them, Tam Coc can best be experienced with a quiet rowing boat trip. The boats are rowed by women and men who often use their legs and feet to row. They taught themselves this technique because they spend long days rowing and this way they can rest their arms. A boat trip takes you past rice fields and between huge limestone mountains with three small caves (Hang Ca, Hang Hai and Hang Ba) that you sail through.

Unfortunately you have to be prepared for a number of persistent sellers. The boys you photograph ask for money for photos, and overpriced drinks and snacks are sold during and especially at the end of the river. Bring some water and food yourself and say clearly and politely “no” and show that you are not interested.

Location : Van Lam, Tam Coc, Ninh Binh ( Google Maps ) Tam Coc boat tour price : You can buy tickets at the port of Van Lam at the main entrance. You have two costs: entrance per person plus the costs for the boat.

• By boat : 150,000 VND
• Adults : 120,000 VND per person.
• Children (up to 1.40 meters): 60,000 VND per child. Children up to 3 years old are free.

Duration : 1.5 – 2 hours Opening hours : 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Number of people per boat : Maximum two people per boat. What to bring : Drinks and snacks. Protect yourself well against the weather. Take something with you on sunny days to protect yourself against the sun and something against the rain on rainy days.

Tam Coc is more than just a boat trip on the river. There are a host of other places of interest nearby or rent a bike to explore the area with high limestone mountains and rice fields.

1. Tam Coc boat tour

The biggest highlight is the Tam Coc boat tour, as mentioned before. Enjoy being paddled between the rice fields and the impressive karst mountains. Make sure to read the best time to visit Tam Coc , if you want to see the rice fields here on their best, with bright yellow or green colors.

2. Mua Cave

Mua Cave is no longer a hidden place, but now a tourist highlight. Nevertheless it is still of the best things to do in Ninh Binh and this viewpoint is definitely worth a visit, because the views you have here are amazing! Mua Cave is approximately 4 km from where the boats leave form the Tam Coc boat tour.

3. Bich Dong Pagoda

About 2 km from the port you will find the Bich Dong Pagoda . Through the iconic bridge you enter the small complex with a number of temples and a cave that you can visit. Admission is free but you pay a small fee to park your motorcycle or bicycle.

4. Thung Nham Bird Park

The Thung Nham Bird Garden is about 7 km from Tam Coc harbor. In this park you will find limestone mountains, many valleys and you can visit a number of caves, but the real highlight is the storks that fly back to their nests in the late afternoon.

5. Thai Vi Temple

Thai Vi Temple is an ancient temple from the 13th century and is located directly in the same village as the harbor for the boat trip (Van Lam).

6. Cycling in Tam Coc

Cycling in Ninh Binh is great, because the roads are flat, the scenery stunning and the traffic is low. Some of the best scenery for cycling can be found in Tam Coc. Enjoy biking through the rice fields with views of the impressive mountains in the background. Go more off the beaten track to discover the more rural countryside life of Vietnam. If you don’t like to bike around, you can also choose to rent a scooter.

7. Staying overnight in Tam Coc

Tam Coc is one of the best areas to look for an accommodation in Ninh Binh. Inside the Tam Coc village are some cozy accommodation, which is a lot better then the accommodation you will find in the main town, Ninh Binh City. But if you really are looking for something special, you should check the accommodation right on the countryside of Tam Coc. Here you can enjoy stunning views from your place on the rice fields, lotus lakes and impressive mountains.

8. Visit some of the attractions around Tam Coc

Tam Coc is also a great base to visit some of the other attractions in Ninh Binh. The Trang An boat tour is just 10 km from the Tam Coc boat tour port. The road between the two places is flat through the villages and along the coutnryside without much traffic. This makes it perfect for cycling or driving it by scooter. Also Hoa Lu , the ancient capital of Vietnam is located in that area. You can visit here some old temples in a beautiful location.

Van Long Nature reserve (25 km), a scenic wetland area full of births and Bai Dinh Pagoda (22 km), the biggest temple in Vietnam , can be visiting a bit further from Tam Coc.

Best time to vsit Tam Coc

The best time to visit Tam Coc is from mid-April to early June, during the rice harvest season. In April the rice fields are green and from the end of May to the beginning of June they turn yellow as they mature. But you can visit Tam Coc all year round and it is always impressive, but try to avoid September because there may be typhoons.

How to get there?

There are various 1-day and multi-day tours from Hanoi to Tam Coc. You will be picked up at your hotel in the old center of Hanoi and via a new highway you will be in Ninh Binh in 1.5 hours. You can also travel to Tam Coc yourself. With a tourist bus to Ninh Binh from Hanoi, Phong Nha or Halong Bay (Cat Ba), transportation is usually included to your accommodation in Ninh Binh city or Tam Coc. Ninh Binh also has a train station with connections to Hanoi, Dong Hoi (Phong Nha), Hue and Da Nang.

From Ninh Binh

If you travel with a local bus or train to Ninh Binh you have to travel from the city to Tam Coc. From Ninh Binh city to Tam Coc is about 7 km and it is best to take a taxi for this. When you stay in Ninh Binh city or somewhere in the countryside you can also visit Tam Coc by bike or scooter.

The landscape here is flat, so cycling through the rice fields is very nice. Drive at your leisure while enjoying the breathtaking view and the lush green colors. Bicycles can often be borrowed for free at your homestay or hotel and otherwise very cheap to rent. You can also rent a scooter or motorcycle to visit different places. Renting a scooter costs around 5 to 6 euros per day. The most comfortable option, especially if you want to travel a little further than Tam Coc, is to rent a car with driver for a day or go by taxi to the different sights in Tam Coc and beyond.

The accommodations in Tam Coc have been greatly improved in recent years to cater to tourists. You have a choice of regular hotels, homestays, bungalows and dreamy resorts among the rice fields with a great view. Tips for best accommodation in Tam Coc are:

• Tam Coc Rice Fields Homestay – From $ 14
• Tam Coc Westlake Homestay – From $ 19
• Tam Coc Melody Homestay – From $ 13
• Tam Coc Craft Homestay – From $ 15
• Tam Coc Tropical Homestay – From $ 16
• Gia Bao homestay – From $ 13
• Tam Coc Sunshine Homestay – From $ 19
• Tam Coc Nature – From $ 40
• Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow – From $ 40
• Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort – From $ 80

Alternatively you can also find a hotel or homestay in Ninh Binh city, Trang An or in the countryside between the rice fields.

Tam Coc tour

Interested to visit some of these highlights in this area of to do the Tam Coc boat tour? Check our combination tours, where you can visit Tam Coc with some of the other great sights you can find in Ninh Binh. There are also options to combine Tam Coc with Halong Bay or Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

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Local tip! You might like these experiences

Ninh Binh 2 day experience: Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, cooking class & local market

• Learn more about the local culture and history at Hoa Lu and Bich Dong Pagoda.
• Enjoy a boat trip between rice fields and impressive mountains
• Visit a local market and join a cooking class
• Walk to the top for the best viewpoint in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh experience: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc boat trip & biking day tour from Hanoi

• Visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam
• Explore the rice fields and caves on a sampan boat through Tam Coc
• Discover the countryside of Ninh Binh by bike

Ninh Binh discover: Hoa Lu, Mua cave, Tam Coc & cycling day tour from Hanoi

• Learn more about the ancient history of Vietnam at Hoa Lu.
• Visit the best viewpoint of Ninh Binh at Mua Cave
• Enjoy a calm boat trip in Tam Coc with beautiful rice fields and impressive mountains
• Day trip from Hanoi by comfortable limousine van
• Destination: Ninh Binh
• By: Marnick Schoonderwoerd
• September 23, 2019
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Tam Coc Caves

TAM COC – BICH DONG TOURSIM AND THE DELICIOUS DISHES

Tam Coc – Bich Dong is considered the most attractive tourist destinations in Ninh Binh, participate Vietnam Motorbike Tour to visit “Ha Long Bay on land” or “Second best cave in the Southern sky” (Nam Thien De Nhi Dong). Tam Coc includes three caves. All three caves are formed by Ngo Dong River flowing through mountain. Away from center of Hanoi about 90km along National Highway No. 1, then continue approximately 25km further, you will reach Tam Coc – Bich Dong, one of the most famous landscapes in Ninh Binh that is called as “Halong” on land of Ninh Binh. Indeed, when arriving here, you will realize its charming beauty.

Tam Coc is the long-standing tourist destination therefore all services is quite well-organized. Along the meandering Ngo Dong River, by the two sides the golden rice fields ripen, you can zoom in views of the fascinating rock ranges or closely observe the abundant aquatic species scampering in the water and watch the birds slinging over trees, mariscus lushing on dams.

Move on Ngo Dong River, you will reach the 3 caves respectively Hang Ca 127m long, through a large mountain, with a wide entrance of above 20m. In the cave it is quite cool and many pendulous stalactites in varied shapes. Continue your journey and come to Hang Hai cave, approximately 1 km from the previous cave, 60m long, the downward stalactites in very strange shapes. Finally, Hang Ba, near Hang Hai, 50m long, the cave ceiling resenbles a stone arch, lower than other two caves.

After the end of the trip to Tam Coc, you can visit Bich Dong Pagoda which is an ancient temple associated with rocky orientalstyle. According to history books, epitaphs and the village elders, the temple used to be known by the common name Bich Son or green mountain. Because of its stunning and magnificent scenery the cave was named “Nam Thien De Nhi Dong” by Nguyen Nghiem, father of poet Nguyen Du. In other word, the landscape in Ninh Binh province is the harmony of the wonderful cave scenery, the rugged mountains, the romantic rivers and streams with the talent of local here and created a consistent, inseparable combination.

Standing in the grounds of the upper temple, guests zoom panoramic view of Ngu Mon fields and cover the whole beauty of Bich Dong Pagoda, not only the graceful beauty of the charming landscape, the culture-arts architecture, but also means a historical relics.

Dong Tien is a dry beautiful cave in Tam Coc – Bich Dong. The cave is located approximately 1 km from Bich Dong Pagoda. Cave range is composed of three large caves, wide and high. There are pendulous colorful stalactites that looks like a large tree roots. On the ceiling there are many bats and birds. Viewed from outside, it looks like a magnificent castle. The natural variabilities create interesting shapes of stalactites in the cave with money tree, rice plant, budda, fairy, elephant, lion, tiger, lizard, dragon, eagles, and even colorful clouds. The rocks in the cave when knocking in will create many strange sounds.

Roads are very convenient for you to reach Tam Coc-Bich Dong. From Hanoi, take the bus routing Ninh Binh-Hanoi, or join Vietnam Motorcycle Tours to be flexible in time management and drop in fine inns along the road for special dishes in localities such as Phu Ly cake rolls, Nam Dinh rice noodle, Ly Nhan tangerine at ripen season.

Special food in Ninh Binh must mention dishes from goat, hot pot, fried, roasted, steamed, stewed. Ninh Binh goat is leaner and more flavorful. Perhaps, because Ninh Binh has many mountains, goats running around a lot, then less fat than goats raised on the hill. Besides, with the typical topography of submerged limestone there are lots of vegetables, grasses, herbs suitable to be food for goats. Also roasted sticky rice, fried with meat, onions, mushrooms, carrots and tomatoes, bringing unforgettable flavor of Hoa Lu ancient citadel.

In short, tour to Ninh Binh, where the layer upon layer mountains, fertile landscape, floral untouched plains, caves with stalactites of various forms, the old temples present will be the memorable journey. Pack up stuffs to start a ride with ADV Vietnam Motorbike Tours and Dirtbike Travel instantly, there will be so many excitement awaiting you.

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Home » Vietnam Motorbike Tours » Daily Motorbike Tours around Hanoi » DECENT HANOI MOTORBIKE TOUR TO HOA LU AND TAM COC – ONE DAY

DECENT HANOI MOTORBIKE TOUR TO HOA LU AND TAM COC – ONE DAY

Destinations: Hanoi - Hoa Lu Tam Coc - Hanoi

Price: Contact Duration: 1

Highlights:

This full day Hanoi motorcycle tour to Ninh Binh is the experience for those who love the history and landscape of Vietnam with Hoa Lu and Tam Coc in the spotlight. Hoa Lư was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. It lies in Truong Yen Thuong village, Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam. Tam Cốc is a popular tourist destination near the city of Ninh Bình in northern Vietnam. The Tam Cốc (“three caves”) portion is a three-hour excursion by small boat along the Ngô Đồng River, beginning at the village of Van Lam and proceeding through a scenic landscape dominated by rice fields and karst towers. The route includes floating through three natural caves (Hang Cả, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba), the largest of which is 125m long with its ceiling about 2m high above the water. The boats are typically rowed by one or two local women who also sell embroidered goods.

One Day Hanoi Motorbike Tour to Hoa Lu – Tam Coc :

* One Day Hanoi Motorbike Tour to Hoa Lu – Tam Coc : Pre-words

Hoa Lư was the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. It lies in Truong Yen Thuong village, Truong Yen Commune, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam. The area is one of ricefields broken by picturesque limestone mountains, and is approximately 90 km south of Hanoi. Together with Phat Diem Cathedral, Tam Cốc-Bích Động, Bái Đính Temple, Trang An, and Cuc Phuong, Hoa Lư is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ninh Bình Province.

In the late 10th century, Hoa Lư was the capital as well as the economic, political and cultural center of Đại Cồ Việt, an independent Vietnamese polity founded in 968 A.D. by the local warlord Đinh Bộ Lĩnh (posthumously known as Đinh Tiên Hoàng, or “First Dinh Emperor”), following years of civil war and a violent secessionist movement against China’s Southern Han Dynasty. Hoa Lư was the native land of the first two imperial dynasties of Vietnam: the Đinh founded by Đinh Tiên Hoàng, and the Early Lê founded by Lê Đại Hành. Following the demise of the Le Dynasty, in 1010 Lý Công Uẩn, the founder of the Lý Dynasty, transferred the capital to Thắng Long (now Hanoi), and Hoa Lư became known as the “ancient capital

Tam Cốc is a popular tourist destination near the city of Ninh Bình in northern Vietnam. The Tam Cốc (“three caves”) portion is a three-hour excursion by small boat along the Ngô Đồng River, beginning at the village of Van Lam and proceeding through a scenic landscape dominated by rice fields and karst towers. The route includes floating through three natural caves (Hang Cả, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba), the largest of which is 125m long with its ceiling about 2m high above the water. The boats are typically rowed by one or two local women who also sell embroidered goods.

* One Day Hanoi Motorbike Tour to Hoa Lu – Tam Coc : Detailed Itinerary

07:00am, we’ll start our motorbike tour by riding through the city then following the High Way No 1 via some suburb districts of Hanoi like Thuong Tin, Phu Xuyen and Hanam province to get to Ninh Binh.

At around 10:30am, we arrive at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. In 968, Dinh Bo Linh declared himself as the King. Since then Hoa Lu existed as the capital for the next 41 years (968 – 1009), of which 12 years was under the Dinh dynasty – King Dinh Tien Hoang, the country named Dai Co Viet, and 29 years later was under the Le dynasty – King Le Dai Hanh.

In 1010, King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long – present day Hanoi. Hoa Lu became the old citadel. In Hoa Lu there are now 2 temples have been built on the ground of the old royal palace, one is dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang, the other is to King Le Dai Hanh. The visit offers a chance to know more about part of feudal dynasties and historical periods in Vietnamese history.

11:30am, we’ll jump on our motorbikes to keep heading to Tam Coc at around 12:00pm. Right here, we’ll have a lunch at a local restaurant being served with goat meat which is famous as the local specialty .

1:30pm, 5 minute-walk to the boat station and start a 2-hour boat trip to visit Tam Coc. Known as “Halong Bay on land”, Tam Coc are three limestone caves stretching along Ngo Dong river. The boat trip is a nice journey along the river with peaceful scenery of limestone mountains, rice paddy and the site of some temples along the way from Hang Ca (first cave) to Hang Hai (second cave) and Hang Ba (third cave).

4:00pm, we’ll be ready to jump on our motorbikes again to ride back to Hanoi. Arrive Hanoi at 19:30. Finish unforgettable full day trip at your hotel in Hanoi!

End of tour : One Day Hanoi Motorbike Tour to Hoa Lu – Tam Coc!

Inclusions :

+ Motorbikes

+ English speaking guide

+ Entrance fees tô indicated sights

+ boat trip in Tam Cốc

+ Lunch at a local restaurant

+ Bottled Water & coffee

+ Protection equipments for your elbows & knees and helmets

Exclusions :

+ Gratitude / Tips to Tour Guide

+ Bottled Wine and Spirits

+ Any items not mentioned above.

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Faqs about vietnam motorbike tours.

What's the best time of year to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam is spring (February to April) and autumn (August to October). The temperatures are more moderate and rainfall is lighter. In spring, March and April have the lowest rainfall across all destinations and temperatures are pleasant, though still cool in the far north.

Can Australian license drive in Vietnam ?

You must have a valid Vietnamese driver’s license to drive in Vietnam . including for motorcycle 50cc or more . International Driver’s Permits issued in Australia are not recognized in Vietnam.

Is a UK driving Licence valid in Vietnam?

Long term UK residents of Vietnam can qualify for a Vietnamese driving licence when they are in possession of a diplomatic ID, temporary residence card or residence card validity for 3 months or more and also a valid UK driving licence or UK issued International Driver's Permit

Can Canadians drive in Vietnam ?

It is strongly recommended that Canadians consider carefully whether they should drive motor vehicles or motorcycles in Vietnam as unfamiliarity with local driving conditions may result in serious injury, or a heavy compensation payment(s) or imprisonment as a result of any accident

Is it safe to ride a motorcycle in Vietnam ?

it’s always dangerous if you ignore our advices but quite safe if you respect to our local rules. Actually there simply are no rules. Stick to the basics… ride on the right side of the road, keep your eyes on the road and be alert. People often say “when you’re in ROME, just do like Romans do”. Riding a motorbike in Vietnam is different from driving in Europe or North America, so even if you stick to the rules, 99% chance the locals next to you won't. So be alert and stay safe! Wear a helmet. ... Honk at least 1000 times a minute, you cannot go riding around Vietnam without honking

How do I get a Vietnamese motorbike license?

You can just obtain our Vietnamese driving license once you’re long-term officials working & living in Vietnam under the business visa within 6 months or more. But if you are just regular travelers having short-term tourist visa, this seems to be impossible.

How can I ride motorbikes legally in Vietnam?

You must be holding our appropriate Vietnamese driving licenses or International Driver’s Licenses

Can I ride motorcycle with car License?

it’s totally unacceptable but you must have appropriate driving licenses under our Vietnamese traffic laws.

How long does it take to ride a motorbike across Vietnam?

Minimum you take at least 12 days to ride from North to South or vice versa along the coast & on Ho Chi Minh trail.

How much does it cost to rent a bike in Vietnam ?

We’re not used to renting out bikes only but organizing private guided tours, however, in some typical circumstances, we can rent out manual dirt bikes at the cost of US$ 18/bike/day, US$ 28/bike/day and US$ 50/bike/day for the bikes of 125cc, 150cc & 250cc respectively.

Can I rent a motorbike in Vietnam ?

Of course, you can do this but must show up your appropriate legal documents (Vietnamese driving licenses or IDP, validated Visa in Vietnam & copy of your passport).

Can foreigners buy & ride motorbikes in Vietnam?

Yes, you can totally buy & possess a motorbike legally as many other Vietnamese people as long as you act in the laws correctly. Foreigners living in Vietnam can have their national driving license translated to Vietnamese and will be granted a Vietnamese license without passing any exam. ... The cost to obtain the A1 license should not be more than USD 50 with an agent. In case you want to ride a “real” bike, a genuine A2 is required..

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The Top 3 Things to Do in Ninh Binh and Tam Coc, Vietnam (Plus Travel Tips)

Often referred to as “Halong Bay on Land” due to the lush green rice paddies and towering limestone cliffs, Tam Coc and Ninh Binh are areas of Vietnam that are all too often overlooked by visitors. Just two hours south of the bustling city of Hanoi, we’ve visited Tam Coc many times and believe it is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam .

Tam Coc and Ninh Binh are the perfect places to relax and unwind while soaking up the landscape and the culture of Vietnam. It’s the perfect retreat from hectic Hanoi and touristy Halong Bay. In fact, we highly recommend you add at least a couple of days in this beautiful region to your Vietnam itinerary .

Read on for the best things to do in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh plus where to stay, where to eat, and more tips for visiting this stunning part of Vietnam!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Tam Coc and Ninh Binh Travel Tips

Getting to tam coc and ninh binh.

The town of Ninh Binh is located about 60 miles south of Hanoi . There are three options to get to Ninh Binh – take a train, a bus, or hire a private driver. Or, of course, you can rent a motorbike and drive it yourself. Although, driving in Vietnam is not for the faint of heart.

Tourist Bus: Tourist buses depart from Hanoi around 8 am and will pick you up from your hotel if you stay in the Old Quarter. Tickets are typically around 160,000 – 250,000 VND ($7-11) per person depending on how luxurious a bus you want. The bus usually takes around three hours and makes one 20-minute stop to grab a snack and use the toilet.

We recommend booking bus tickets through Bookaway – there you can see all the bus and train options along with ratings and reviews.

Local Bus: If you’re feeling adventurous, local buses also depart regularly from Hanoi’s southern bus terminal, Giap Bat, but note that you may end up with less space and more stops than you planned for. If you take a local bus and want to visit Tam Coc, you’ll have to take a taxi from the station in Ninh Binh. (The aforementioned tourist buses stop in Tam Coc so you’ll avoid the extra taxi fare.)

Train: There are three trains departing daily from Hanoi Station and include the SE5, SE7, and SE19. The trip takes about 2.5 hours, but keep in mind that trains in Vietnam are often late so don’t be surprised if you have to wait a bit once you arrive at the station.

You can purchase the train tickets online through the Vietnam Railway site directly or through Bookaway (for some reason it is actually cheaper to buy the ticket through Bookaway ).

It’s also worth noting that if you are short on time, you can travel by bus directly between Ninh Binh and Halong Bay (or Lan Ha Bay ). This saves you from having to return to Hanoi between these two popular tourist destinations.

How Long to Stay in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh

Many people choose to visit the Ninh Binh region as a day trip . While it is possible to see some of the highlights in a short time, we would highly recommend spending a few days here.

You’ll have the opportunity to sleep in darling bungalows with sweeping views of rice paddies and towering limestone cliffs. Plus, you’ll be able to take your time in exploring the area and won’t be rushed by a tour guide trying to fit it all into a few hours.

If you give yourself some time to relax and unwind in Ninh Binh, it may just turn out to be the highlight of your Vietnam itinerary .

Weather in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh

The temperature in Northern Vietnam is hot and humid from May to October and the chance of rainfall is high. This rainfall can spoil your ability to explore the region but it also makes for vivid green rice paddies. November to April tends to be a bit cooler and drier.

You can visit Ninh Binh or Tam Coc at any time of year but best to check the weather prior to departing since pretty much all of the attractions are outdoors.

Currency in Vietnam

The currency of Vietnam is the Dong (VND) and at the time of writing, the exchange rate was approximately 24,000 VND to $1 USD. So if we say that something costs 50,000 VND, that’s just about $2.

There are several ATMs around but they are outside of the main area of Tam Coc. Several markets in Tam Coc advertise ATMs, but they will simply charge your card, add a 3% fee, and then give you cash. The closest ATM to Tam Coc is on the left-hand side of the road when you head east on DT491C.

Should you Stay in Ninh Binh or Tam Coc?

There are several small towns in the Ninh Binh region of Vietnam so don’t feel like you need to stay in Ninh Binh town proper. Tam Coc is the most popular town as there are plenty of comfy homestays and many delicious restaurants. Trang An is another area that has a few homestays but fewer dining options. If you stay in the heart of Ninh Binh town, you’ll probably find it to be a bit underwhelming.

We would recommend staying in Tam Coc where you’ll be surrounded by the beautiful countryside but still have plenty of eating and drinking venues right nearby.

Where to Stay in Tam Coc

Tam Coc Sunshine Homestay

Tam Coc Sunshine Homestay  is truly a home away from home. The darling little bungalows are situated right at the base of a massive limestone cliff and lush, green rice paddies are outside of your front door. Rooms have air conditioning, hot water, extremely comfortable beds, and are stocked with coffee and an electric pot. The complimentary breakfast is superb. You’ll love the views from your private front stoop!

Check Prices on Booking.com

Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow

Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow  is another amazing choice in a picturesque setting! The owners offer sweet touches like fresh fruit upon arrival and relaxing foot baths at the end of the day, and they send you off with treats for your upcoming bus ride! Plus, the property is partially inside of a cave so the outside showers are truly unique.

Trang An Valley Bungalow

If you’d prefer to stay in Trang An over Tam Coc, then book a room at  Trang An Valley Bungalow . Not only do they have a stunning location that is extremely peaceful and relaxing, but also have a beautiful pool! It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day spent exploring the region.

Getting Around Tam Coc and Ninh Binh

Most of the homestays in Tam Coc have bicycles and motorbikes available to rent. While it’s nice to cruise around on a bicycle, a few of the highlights are outside of town so you’ll have a long ride ahead of you. A motorbike will run you about 120,000 – 150,000 VND/day but you’ll have to fill up the gas tank (~80,000 VND for a full tank).

For many visitors to Ninh Binh and Tam Coc, a favorite activity is simply roaming around the back roads on a bicycle or motorbike soaking in the beautiful landscape and views of daily life in rural Vietnam.

If you are staying in Tam Coc and are only interested in visiting Bich Dong Pagoda and taking a Tam Coc boat ride, you will be fine with just a bicycle. However, if you want to visit any of the other sites (such as Hang Mu, Trang An, or Hoa Lu), you’ll be much happier on a motorbike as these sites are several miles away from each other.

It’s also rather easy to get lost on the winding back roads of Tam Coc. We always recommend buying a Vietnamese SIM card as soon as you land in the country. Having internet on your cell phone allows you to utilize Google Maps to help with navigation. If you don’t have a local SIM card, you can download an offline map of Ninh Binh and Tam Coc on Google Maps.

Contact your homestay prior to your arrival to see if they can pick you up from the bus or train terminal. It’s amazing that they can balance your gigantic luggage and you on the back of their little motorbike on the bumpy, unpaved streets of Tam Coc!

Where to Eat in Tam Coc

• Hoa Luan Restaurant has a large menu filled with Vietnamese classics and a few dishes that you probably haven’t seen before. The fresh spring rolls are delicious and unique – the vegetables inside are cooked and seasoned to perfection!
• If you’re tired of eating so much Vietnamese food, how about a little Indian cuisine? Aroma Ninh Binh has a large menu of delectable Indian favorites at reasonable prices. Be sure to try the Aroma Special Naan!
• Bamboo Bar and Restaurant and Hai Linh Restaurant are two good choices in Tam Coc proper that offer delicious and affordable Vietnamese fare. Both have outstanding papaya salads and savory meat options, including the region’s specialty – goat.

The Best Things to do in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh

1. take a boat tour.

Boat tours are the most popular tourist activity in the Ninh Binh region. You’ll cruise along the scenic countryside and through several caves (depending on the time of year and water levels). And if you’re lucky, you’ll end up with a local who’s skilled enough to row with their feet!

You can take a boat trip from three departure areas in the Ninh Binh region – Tam Coc, Trang An, or Linh Coc. Tam Coc is the most popular with tourists and every tour group coming for the day from Hanoi boards a boat here. So expect crowds unless you go early in the morning or late in the day.

Tam Coc Boat Trip

When you arrive at the Tam Coc pier, you’ll park your motorbike near the WC for a 10,000 VND fee. You’ll pay the fee of 120,000 VND per person and 150,000 per boat. Only two foreigners are allowed on each boat. Then you’ll pick up a lifejacket and be assigned a boat driver.

The Tam Coc Boat Tour is an out-and-back, the scenery is nice, and you’ll go through a few caves (although none are so low that you need to sit at the bottom of the boat as you do with the Trang An boat tour). You won’t get out of your boat at all during the 1.5-2 hour ride so there are no bathroom stops along the way. They won’t make you keep your life jacket on unless you want to.

Most of the boat drivers paddle with their feet which must be quite challenging. Although they all appear to be so relaxed while doing it.

Trang An Boat Trip

The boat ride in Trang An is quite a bit more organized than the one in Tam Coc. You’ll park your motorbike in the designated area, cross the bridge, and pay your 250,000 VND/person fee at the ticket booth. From there, you’ll head to the dock where you’ll be assigned a boat (they usually wait for a group of 3 or 4 prior to departing).

There are actually three different boat routes and you’ll need to choose which you want to take (you’re ticket only includes one boat ride, but I suppose you could buy three tickets and do all three routes).

You’ll get off of the boat to explore a few beautiful temples and go through a few narrow caves where you’ll have to duck your head and/or sit on the floor of the boat. It’s exciting and pretty amazing that the boat drivers are able to navigate so well!

There are toilets at each stop (for a 2,000 VND fee) as well as plenty of places where you can purchase drinks and snacks. And they are sticklers about you keeping your lifejacket on when you are on the boat. The entire trip will take 2.5 – 3 hours.

2. Visit the Temples and Pagodas

Bích động pagoda.

Built into the side of a cliff, the Bích Động Pagoda is most certainly a must-see highlight of the area! Once you park in the designated area, you will cross a pond filled with lily pads and under a stunningly beautiful ancient gate. Come early if you want to capture some photos here as it is a popular spot for photographs.

As you continue up the stairs, you will come upon a temple. Continue around the back to go through a dark cave filled with bats and then up another set of stairs to a lovely viewpoint. It’s an interesting pagoda, but the highlight is the gate entrance at the very beginning. Be sure to dress respectfully here (although most tourists don’t seem to follow the rules).

Hang Múa Temple/Mua Caves

There are a few caves in this area so it is generally referred to as “Mua Caves” which is a bit confusing as the real draw is on the top of a mountain. You’ll climb a steep and challenging 500 stairs up the side of Hang Múa peak in order to reach the temple at the top. You’ll be huffing and puffing once you reach the top but trust us, it’s worth it.

Not only are the views of the valley below absolutely breathtaking, but there is an impressive dragon statue at the top that is the perfect spot for a few photos. But be careful, the rocks are jagged and slippery and the drop-offs are no joke. Tennis shoes would be a good choice for this hike as the stairs are a bit uneven as well. Be sure to climb the stairs to the other pagoda across the way as it attracts fewer crowds and offers equally stunning views.

Hang Mua has become quite “instafamous” and thus attracts a lot of visitors all trying to take a photo in the same spot.  Go early to avoid the crowds and be able to take photos without having to jockey for position. Sunrise is a great time to be at Hang Mua to beat both the crowds and the heat.

Hoa Lư Temple

The Hoa Lư Ancient Capital is about 10 miles north of Tam Coc and easily accessible by motorbike. The setting is spectacular although there isn’t much remaining of the capital which dates back to the 11th century. There are two surviving temples that have been restored, one was dedicated to the Dinh dynasty and the other to monarch Le Dai Hanh. The temples are dark and boding inside, with dark red and black lacquered pillars and gated offering areas.

While the peaceful area is nice to wander around while admiring the ancient gates and temples, it’s not necessarily awe-inspiring. If you plan on doing the boat ride in Trang An, it’s worth a stop as it is nearby. And if you come for the day with a tour group from Hanoi it will most certainly be on the route.

Bái Đính Temple

The Bái Đính Temple is an enormous complex of Buddhist temples located about 14 miles outside of Tam Coc. The entire area is over 1,300 acres making it the largest pagoda in SE Asia. In fact, just getting from the parking lot to the front gate is no easy feat. Most people opt to take the electric shuttles to and from the entrance.

You’ll start at the bottom of the hillside and make your way up to the top. You’ll climb a seemingly endless stairwell lined with large stone Buddha statues, most of which have entertaining expressions. You can see the smooth, shiny areas on each where they’ve been rubbed for good luck. The complex houses some 5,000 Buddha statues in total!

Near the top, the temples begin to come into view. The newest of which was started in 2003 and completed in 2010. The temples boast giant shiny gold Buddha statues and intricate latticework hanging from the ceilings. This is a popular place for religious Vietnamese to visit and it hosts a large festival on the 6th day of the first lunar month.

3. Enjoy the Spectacular Landscape

Thung nham bird garden.

When you enter the Thung Nham Bird Garden you might be a bit confused as to why exactly you’re there. Sure it’s pretty peaceful and serene but where are all the birds? Keep going and follow the signs for the bird viewing area. It’s a long walk, probably a mile and a half to get there, but fairly flat until the end. Plus you’ll pass by a few interesting bamboo bridges along the way. You’ll climb up to a lookout at the end of the hike and be rewarded with a lovely view of the lake below and hundreds of birds perched in the trees surrounding it. It’s quite a remarkable sight.

If a 3-mile round trip walk doesn’t sound appealing to you, you can also take a boat ride out to the bird area for an additional fee. You’ll be more likely to see a lot of birds if you visit in the early morning or late afternoon.

Other Things to do Around Tam Coc and Ninh Binh

• Cúc Phương National Park – Vietnam’s first national park and largest nature preserve.
• Van Long Wetland Reserve – Much quieter location for a boat ride with more wildlife but less stunning scenery than Tam Coc or Trang An.
• Phát Diệm Cathedral – This catholic church is a strange mixture of European Gothic and Vietnamese architecture including a pagoda-style roof. It’s an interesting place for a brief visit, but it is about 45 minutes from Tam Coc by motorbike.
• Thai VI Temple – A small Buddhist temple near the town of Tam Coc. The scenery on the walk/bike ride to the temple is much more impressive than the temple itself.

Want to book a Tam Coc Day Tour online? We always prefer to find our own way in a new country and tend to shy away from group tours. But if you prefer to have a guide to show you around Ninh Binh, you can book an Hoa Lu and Tam Coc Day Tour  online.

Book a Tam Coc Day Tour

We hope you have a wonderful time exploring Tam Coc and Ninh Binh!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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16 thoughts on “the top 3 things to do in ninh binh and tam coc, vietnam (plus travel tips)”.

Hey Hey Wheatleys! New to your blog but I was referred to it by a friend who was in Vietnam last year. Thanks for sharing your experiences! We are going to Hanoi and surrounding areas next month! Quick question… You reference a way to get directly from Halong to Ninh Binh without going through Hanoi. We are doing a 2d/1n cruise out of Tuan Chau terminal and then we are planning to head to Mua Mt. that evening. Do you happen to have more info on this? I have found it challenging to find transportation information… and what I have found is crazy expensive.. Are there buses hanging out waiting to take people places? or is it something we should arrange ahead of time? Is there an economical way to do this? From Ninh Binh we head to BaVi and then to Sapa. Any transportation info that you can throw my way would be very appreciated! Alternatively, do you also know if we can just hitch on to a tour for the transportation and then jump off and do our own thing? Thanks in advance!

Hey Becca & James, Woah, that so exciting that someone referred you to our blog! Thanks for taking the time to read our post!>

Yeah, you can directly from Halong Bay to Ninh Binh. The easiest way is to book a direct transfer though it will cost around $70-90 most likely for a private car. I assume that is what you are referring to as crazy expensive.

The other less expensive and more adventurous option is to take the local bus. First you’ll need to get from the Tuan Chau Terminal to Bai Chay Bus Station in Halong – this is about a 10km drive and is best handled by taxi or Grab (download the app and buy a SIM card when you get to Vietnam!). Once you’re at Bai Chai Bus Station you should be able to find a bus headed towards Ninh Binh.

If you have already booked your Halong Bay cruise then I would recommend getting in touch with your cruise boat operator and asking them what they recommend. They might even be able to drop you off in Hai Phong on their way back to Hanoi – that would put you about an hour closer to Ninh Binh and you could catch a bus from there.

In regards to BaVi – we have never been there so I can’t recommend any transportation tips. And finally for Hanoi to Sapa the best bus operator by a mile is Sapa Express ( https://sapaexpress.com/en ) their buses and service are way better than the competition. I wouldn’t travel to Sapa by any other means!

Email us ([email protected]) if you have any more questions!

Hi Wheatleys,

The pictures look so stunning. I visited Ninh Binh few months ago and still want to come back. It had to be the tranquil scenery and the people here. I’ll come back during May – June to see the golden rice fields in Tam Coc.

Thank you for your post 🙂

Hey, great blog, thanks for all the information, the level of detail is excellent. You could improve entries like this by not referencing (or doing) ‘customary’ tipping, a practice that simply does not exist in Vietnam or in Vietnamese culture, and is a gesture native to your own homeland, not the country you have been lucky enough to visit.

Hey John – we’re with you! We agree that it’s not a great practice to bring your own tipping customs to another country (including not tipping in the US because you don’t tip in your home country). But unfortunately, there are now some places in Vietnam where tipping absolutely IS expected so we mention that in our articles. These are usually higher-end restaurants, hotels, and bars that are frequented by expats.

Great post, can you share your opinion on the Linh Coc boat ride vs Trang An or Tam Coc??

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Tam Coc and Beyond – The Perfect Day Trip From Hanoi

Known as Ha Long Bay on Land, Tam Coc and its surroundings is a place of natural wonders. Adorned with sunken rice fields, glorious karst and the scenic Ngo Dong River, the area offers many things to see and do for all kinds of visitors.

Located in Ninh Binh Province, northern Vietnam, only a short distance from Hanoi, both Tam Coc and the surrounding area make it a nice day trip. But in our experience, it’s worth visiting for longer than just a day trip.

Bookings: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means that if you choose to make a booking, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank You!

Top Things to Do in Tam Coc

Tam Coc translates as three caves and is mostly known for its tiered Bitch Dong Pagoda and boat tours rowed by feet. But there’s much more to this scenic place hiding in one of the most spectacular corners of northern Vietnam.

Explore Tam Coc by Bike or Motorbike

Renting a bike or a motorbike anywhere in Vietnam is one of the best ways to explore and Tam Coc village is no exception.

Whizzing through the local areas and seeing the scenic landscape in the distance is a great thing to do in Tam Coc. The village is pretty flat so it's easy to sightsee on a bike. Just beware of stray dogs when driving or walking through some narrow local streets.

We rented a motorbike at our hotel for 200,000 VND ($8.57) plus petrol for 50,000 VND ($2.14) and had a great time exploring the surroundings.

Take a Tam Coc Boat Tour

Tam Coc boat tour along the Ngo Dong is perhaps, one of the most popular Tam Coc activities among visitors.

If you’ve just arrived in town, the best thing you can do is head for the scenic Tam Coc lake. From here you can catch a boat called sampan and get taken along the river, through the rice fields and caves for a spectacular day out.

The locals here row their boats with their feet which is a big attraction alongside the scenic landscape.

Visit the Famous Tam Coc Bich Dong Pagoda

There are several ancient temples near Tam Coc that you can visit by yourself or with a tour, but if you are here for just one day, visit the 3-tiered Bich Dong Pagoda.

Located near the Ngu Nhac Mountain, the stunning Tam Coc Bich Dong Pagoda dates back to 1428. The most spectacular part of visiting the pagoda is the entrance and the location itself.

Connected to the mainland by a stone bridge across the emerald-green lake, the Buddha worshipping temple looks like something out of an Eastern fairytale.

The entrance into the pagoda is especially stunning with an ornate arch greeting you at the foot of the shrine. Surrounded by lush greenery, Bich Dong pagoda consists of three tiers - Ha (lower), Trung (middle) and Thuong (top).

At the middle pagoda, squeeze through the left side of the pagoda to reach the Dark Cave. But take extra care due to wet steps leading towards the Upper Pagoda. Bring a torchlight if you have one or use your smartphone to light up the steps. It was pitch black on our visit.

We highly recommend visiting this scenic Tam Coc viewpoint. It might be a little challenging to reach the summit, but the views from the top pagoda will be worth it.

The entrance to the Tam Coc Pagoda is free, but you might be approached by locals telling you otherwise and asking to pay up.

There’s a parking space for bikes and motorbikes at the foot of the bridge to pagoda and costs around 10,000 VND ($0.43) per bike. But then again, the locals might ask for more.

Explore the Imperial Hoa Lu City and its Temples

With stunning scenery for a backdrop, Hoa Lu in Ninh Binh is one of the most visited places in the area. It’s hardly surprising since it’s located just 90 km from Hanoi , making it the perfect day trip for many visitors to Vietnam.

Throughout the 10th and 11th centuries, Hoa Lu was home to the first two imperial dynasties of Vietnam. The Dinh dynasty was established by King Dinh Tien Hoang and the Early Le dynasty - by King Le Dai Hanh.

Hence the names of the two main temples in the imperial city: King Dinh and King Le temples. Located within a short distance from each other, they worship the imperial kings that the temples were built for.

King Dinh Temple is located on the grounds of the former royal palace citadel while the King Le temple is located at the foot of Ma Yen mountain. If you have time and will to climb some more, the summit of the mountain offers beautiful panoramic views of Hoa Lu.

Other attractions in Hoa Lu include the First Column Pagoda (Nhat Tru) that holds artefacts from the 10th and 11th century and the legendary Thien Ton Cave decorated in motifs of the Ly Dynasty.

Near Nhat Tru, there’s a small temple dedicated to Dinh Tien Hoang's daughter who was imprisoned for running away from the imperial city and later sent to Nhat Tru Pagoda to serve as a nun. She later tragically killed herself.

Go See the Bai Dinh Pagoda Complex

If you have enough time, visit Bai Dinh Pagoda just outside Ninh Binh. Home to hundreds of Buddha statues of all shapes and sizes, the temple complex is the largest Buddhist pilgrimage site in Vietnam. Look out for the impressive 10-meter high Buddha statue cast out of bronze.

The site is a combination of old and new, with the latest temples completed in 2010. You’ll find the original Bai Dinh Pagoda some 800 meters away from the new structure.

If you don’t enjoy crowds, avoid the lunar festival at the temple which is hosted between February - March. Though, with local rituals and local food stalls, it could be quite a unique experience during your visit.

Explore Trang An Caves with a Boat Tour

If Ha Long Bay is known far and wide by many, the dramatic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An complex, known as Ha Long Bay on Land is yet to be discovered by the masses.

Just like the breathtaking boat tours from the scenic Tam Coc village, Trang An boat tours take you on a spectacular ride through towering limestone karsts, green valleys and spooky caves. Here, at times, you might need to duck slightly so not to scrape the cave’s ceiling.

Bring a hat, snacks, plenty of water and sunscreen to protect yourself from the fierce sun. Also, if you burn easily, pack a long-sleeve shirt or a shawl.

Discover the Thung Nham Garden

Located close to Tam Coc Garden Hotel and Tam Coc Garden Bungalows, the Thung Nham bird garden is another Tam Coc attraction worth checking out if you are staying in the area for more than one day.

The park is beautifully landscaped with a path leading to the viewing platform. Boat tours here offer a bird-watching opportunity in more remote locations for a more close-up experience.

Climb the Tam Coc Mua Cave

If you’re after panoramic Tam Coc viewpoints, head for the Mua Cave. Only 5 km north from Ninh Binh, the Hang Mua Cave boasts spectacular 360-degree panoramic views from the top.

To reach the Mua Cave summit, follow the steep manmade stone staircase zigzagging up the soaring karst. Prepare for a gruelling climb though - it’s 500 steps to the mountaintop also called the Dragon Mountain due to the stone dragon snaking along the ridge of the karst.

As you climb the steps and before or after you reach the peak, explore other paths too leading to more fantastic panoramic views of rice fields and the Ngo Dong River and a pagoda sticking out on the karst’s rugged cliff.

To get to the foot of the mountain, you can either hike, cycle or hire a motorbike. Parking is available and should cost 10,000 VND ($0.43) per vehicle. Entrance fee per person: 100,000 VND ($4.27).

Take a Day Trip to Tam Coc from Hanoi

Taking a day trip to Tam Coc from Hanoi is easy. You can easily organise it yourself by getting a train from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and then a taxi to Tam Coc.

Top Tip: To plan your trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, use the super friendly 12GoAsia website and find the best ticket for you. We used their services throughout our Vietnam travels and beyond and only had a great experience. The best part is that you don’t need to print your tickets. Just show them on your smartphone when boarding the train.

To eliminate all the hassle and to get the most out of your day trip to Tam Coc from Hanoi, join one of the organised tours . Most of the tours from Hanoi include the above-mentioned attractions.

From a visit to Hoa Lu, Mua Cave, Bai Dinh, Tam Coco Bitch Dong Pagoda to a boat trip along the stunning Ngo Dong River, everything will be organised to a tee. You won’t need to worry about transportation or any other logistics.

Stop at Ninh Binh

If you are not staying in Ninh Binh, you could take a quick bike trip to see the town. Although it looks like the town is trying to get back on its feet with lots of construction taking place, we felt quite overwhelmed on our arrival.

There's not much to do or see in Ninh Binh as during the American War the area was completely flattened by the heavy bombing. Still, if you have time and transportation, you might find it interesting to explore the town.

Tam Coc Travel Tips

How far is Tam Coc from Hanoi

Tam Coc is located around 90km south from Hanoi which is extremely convenient if you can only spare one day to explore the area.

How far is Tam Coc from Ninh Binh

Tam Coc is located around 7 km from Ninh Binh and can be easily reached by taxi, bike or motorbike. Or on foot, if you are on a tight budget.

How much is a taxi from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc

A taxi from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc is around 100,000 VND ($4.28) per taxi ride. It seems to be a standard taxi price from and to the village, but some drivers may try and charge you more.

Getting to Tam Coc Village

Hanoi to tam coc.

The easiest way to get to Tam Coc from Hanoi is to catch a train to Ninh Binh and then grab a taxi from here. Depending on the train, the total journey time varies between 1.30 h to 2.15 minutes. To book your train in advance, use the efficient and super-friendly 12Go.Asia website.

Getting to Tam Coc from Cat Ba Island

In case you are planning to travel to Tam Coc or Ninh Binh from Cat Ba Island , you’ll need to catch a high-speed boat from Cat Ba to Haiphong and then take a bus to Ninh Binh. From here, grab a local taxi to Tam Coc.

High-Speed Boat from Cat Ba to Haiphong

To get to Hai Phong, you can get a public fast boat at the Cat Ba town harbour. Tickets cost 180,000 VND ($7.71) per person and you can buy them just before departing. We tried buying them beforehand, unsuccessfully.

The choppy ride to Hai Phong takes around an hour.

Catch a Bus from Hai Phong to Ninh Binh

The bus to Ninh Binh leaves from Niem Nghia Bus Station. We bought our bus tickets for 140,000 VND ($6) per person when we arrived at the station.

The journey from Haiphong to Ninh Binh takes around three hours but beware that the local sleeper buses aren't the most comfortable (if you have long legs).

Catching a taxi from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc

Once you are in Ninh Binh, it's best to catch a taxi to Tam Coc village. Taxis are readily available and cost around 100,000 VND ($4.28) per ride.

Where to Stay in Tam Coc

There are plenty of places to stay in Ninh Binh , but if you want to stay in Tam Coc village or nearby, we can recommend the Tuấn Ngọc Hotel .

Run by a local Vietnamese family, the hotel is a hidden gem, away from the busy main street. We enjoyed our stay here so much that we extended it for a couple of more days. We especially loved the terrace where we could do a bit of work.

The room, complete with crisp clean sheets, was very spacious and clean. We also had a little balcony in our room overlooking the neighbour's garden and the rocky karsts.

At 402,000 VND ($18) per night with breakfast included it was a great base from which to explore the wonders of Tam Coc and beyond. For more options, try out trusted partners, Booking.com .

Trang An or Tam Coc: Which Boat Tour in Ninh Binh Vietnam is Best

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: October 4, 2023

Categories Vietnam

Ninh Binh, Vietnam is known for its stunning river boat tours and often referred to as the Ha Long Bay on Land . The waterways in the area take you along limestone cliffs, colorful rice paddies, and through narrow caves. There are two different boat tours, Trang An and Tam Coc , each offering a similar yet unique passage through the river. 

In this guide, we will dive into the similarities and differences between the Trang An and Tam Coc Boat Tours.

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure policy .

Difference Between The Trang An & Tom Coc River Boat Tours

Trang An Boat Tour

• Boats must have 3-4 passengers
• Guide rows with his/her hands
• Travel under up to 9 caves & 3 ancient temples
• Paddle past the famous scene from Kong Skull Island
• 3 different routes to choose from
• Tours are a loop rather than out & back (always new scenery)
• Can get off and walk in/around ancient pagodas
• Smaller & longer caves
• Cleaner water
• Snacks for purchase at some of the temples
• No “professional” photographer
• UNESCO World Heritage Site

Tam Coc Boat Tour

• Boat can go with just a group of 2 (but can also hold 4 passengers)
• Guide rows with his/her feet
• Travel under 3 caves
• Paddle below the famous Mua Cave Viewpoint
• Tour goes through beautiful rice fields
• The boat tours offer only 1 route (out & back)
• Larger but shorter caves
• Dirtier water
• Snacks are sold after the last cave via local people on boats
• “Professional” photographers on the water (can purchase your photo at the end of the tour)

Overall, we liked the Trang An boat tour best. But it was our first boat tour, so this might have a little something to do with why we enjoyed it better. 

How To Get To The Trang An Boat Tour

There are a few different options for getting to the Trang An Boat Tour, such as car, taxi, pedal bike, or motorbike. 

There is a parking lot across the street from the Trang An Boat Tours. Cost for parking is 15k ($0.63 USD) for a scooter (motorbike) and 10k ($0.42 USD) per bicycle. Make sure you take your ticket and keep it with you, because you will need to show it again when you leave the parking area with your scooter or bike. 

If you are traveling from Hanoi or nearby city, use the website 12goasia to find a bus, train, or taxi ride into Ninh Binh.

Different Routes For The Trang An Boat Tour

There are three different routes to choose from when taking the Trang An Boat Tour. Each offers a loop route so you are always experiencing new scenery and only going through each cave once.

Here are the details for the 3 different Trang An Boat Tour routes:

• Trinh Temple
• Nau Ruou Cave
• Tran Temple
• Ba Giot Cave
• Son Duong Cave
• Khong Palace (aka: Bao Hieu Temple)
• Quy Hau Cave
• Summary: Tour with the most caves, not for claustrophobic tourists
• Thanh Cao Son Temple
• Thanh Truot Cave
• Suoi Tien Temple
• Dia Linh Mountain
• Kim Quy Mountain
• Vu Lam Royal Steps Temple
• Kong Skull Island Movie Set
• Summary: Good happy medium of everything: scenic, caves, temples. Most popular route.
• Summary: Goes through the longest cave (Dot Cave) with an amazing stalactite system, technically the shortest but most scenic route.

Route 1 is technically the longest route and will take the longest amount of time. Route 2 is slightly shorter, and Route 3 is technically the shortest route. All claim to be 3 hrs long, but it all depends on how much time you spend off the boat at each pagoda. 

Jake and I typically just got off to check out each spiritual place, took some photos, walked around, then got back on the boat. Ultimately making the tour shorter and only taking about 2 hours rather than the suggested 3 hours.

Price For The Trang An Boat Tour:

The ticket price is the same no matter which Trang An route you choose. The cost is 250k VND ($10.50 USD) for adults, and 120k VND ($5 USD) for children. But any children under 1 m (3’ 3”) ride free.

Before heading to the boat launching area, you must first purchase your ticket from the ticket booth across the street first. Once you purchase your ticket, you can head to the underground tunnel toward the boat wharf. Here there will be a ticket checkpoint. 

Once your ticket is scanned, head toward the river to find a tour guide (aka boat rower).  There will be someone directing you to the right boat depending on the route you choose. You might have to wait for other passengers if you are traveling in a group of fewer than 4.

What To Expect On The Trang An Boat Tour

The boat fits up to 4 passengers, therefore, you are likely to be sharing the boat with strangers. Each boat won’t leave with just one or two passengers, so you might have to wait for another traveler or two before the boat takes off. Or you can purchase four tickets (1m VND ($42 USD)) to have a private boat tour.

We found the tour guides to not speak much English, so we didn’t really learn much along our tour.

At each temple you will be dropped off to explore the area. It is important to remember your boat number, because you won’t be getting back on the boat in the same place. Once you are finished exploring the temple, you will walk to the pick up location and find your boat # with the same boat rower. 

When going through the caves, there are lights in place so it won’t be completely dark. You will likely need to duck in certain areas so you won’t hit your head. So people with mobility issues may have trouble.

There are additional paddles in the small boats. You don’t need to row, but it can be helpful and take some of the workload off the boat rower. 

At the end of the tour, you can choose to tip your boat rower or not. It is not customary in Vietnam, but it can be a nice gesture. 

How To Get To The Tam Coc Boat Tour

The Tam Coc boat tour is situated right in the city center. Therefore, if you are staying in Tam Coc, you can likely walk to the boat tour. But if you are staying in Trang An or a nearby city, you can get here via car, taxi, or motorbike. 

There are a handful of places you can park your bike or scooter in the city. We parked our scooter here , right next to this public restroom and near the Tam Coc Boat Tours. We paid 10k VND ($.42 USD). 

It was covered parking and there was an attendant standing right outside the area. It didn’t seem super official, but it was cheap and we just took the gamble. Everything ended up being fine and our bike was there when we got back! (Refer to the map above for direct links to parking, ticket booth, and boat launch point).

If you are traveling from Hanoi or other nearby city, use the site 12goasia to find direct routes via bus, taxi, or train.

Route For The Tam Coc Boat Tour

There is only one route for the Tam Coc Boat Tours, which is out and back. The tour starts from the city, down the Ngo Dong River. It passes through 3 caves, which you will pass through again on your way back.

Price For The Tam Coc Boat Tour

There is an extra cost of 120k VND ($5 USD) per person for sightseeing tickets in the Tam Coc area. Children under 1.4m (4’6″) are 60k VND ($2.5 USD), children under 3 are free.

There is an additional cost if you want to go on the Tam Coc boat trip. It’s an additional 150k VND ($6.30 USD) per boat. So for a couple, the total cost would be 120k VND x 2 (sightseeing entrance fee) + 150k VND (for the boat) = 390k VND ($16.50 USD). 

We are not really clear on why there is a separate sightseeing fee, but you need to pay both to go on the boat tour.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket booth right in front of the Ngo Dong River (you will see TONS of boats lined up ready to take tourists). Do note, they only take cash, but there are many ATMs within walking distance from the ticket booth.

What To Expect On The Tam Coc Boat Tour

Foreign tourists can have their own private tour with just 2 passengers. Vietnamese People will need 3-4 passengers for each boat.

The Tam Coc boat ride is out and back and travels through 3 caves. There is only one route to choose.

There are lights in the cave, but you might need to duck in certain areas so you won’t hit your head. 

At the last cave, there will likely be local people offering snacks for purchase. After passing under the last cave, you will turn around and head back. 

Again, our tour guide did not speak fluent English, so it was hard to communicate, and we didn’t learn much along the tour.

The Tam Coc Boat Tour is more about the scenery and rowing through the stunning rice fields. So you won’t experience the same spiritual places like you do on the Trang An Boat Tour. 

When Is The Best Season For Ninh Binh Boat Tours: Trang An or Tam Coc

The best time to visit Ninh Binh for the Trang An or Tam Coc boat tour is from late May to early July to experience the colorful rice paddies. This is considered harvest season, so you can witness the yellow fields. You can also witness the colorful rice fields in October as well (but will likely be a beautiful green). 

Winter (November-May) is Ninh Binh’s dry season. So this can also be a good time to visit Ninh Binh. But the rice fields won’t be in full swing, and you will often see the farmers out there replanting in the paddy fields.

We visited mid-January and the temperatures were in the 40’s-50’s which we found pretty chilly out on the water. The rice fields were also pretty brown and not vibrant yellow or green.

The months of August and September should be avoided because of heavy rainfall and storm season. 

Best Time Of Day To Do Ninh Binh Boat Tours

Also, if you want to avoid the crowds, you should do the boat tour in the early morning . This avoids many of the large tours leaving from Hanoi and you will likely have more of the river/temples to yourself. 

We did our Trang An boat tour in the afternoon and poorly timed our tour with a large group who were very loud and took away from the serene nature you are surrounded by. So ideally, we would have done the tour in the morning if we were to do it again.

What To Bring On The Trang An or Tam Coc Boat Tours:

• Snacks (boat tours are 2-3 hrs/ snacks are available for purchase near the last cave on the Tam Coc tour or at the temples for the Trang An Tours)
• Layers (we visited in January and it was cold!)
• Good Shoes (you climb in and out of the boat, so I’d suggest tennis shoes/no flip flops)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Umbrella (can be both good for rain or shade from the sun)

Ninh Binh Boat Tours From Hanoi (Epic Day Trips & Multi-Day Tours)

If you want to take the hard part out of coordinating your own trip to Ninh Binh, then consider going with a tour operator instead.

Day Trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi: (Best Value)

This tour leaves from Hanoi and provides a full day of adventures in Ninh Binh. There are 6 different attractions you can choose from: Hoa Lu ancient capital, Mua Cave, Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and Trang An. There are different itineraries to choose from, so prices may fluctuate. The tour returns back to Hanoi at the end of the day. (Transportation, lunch, & entrance fees included) .

Luxury Ninh Binh Day Trip from Hanoi : (Best Day Trip Option)

This tour starts from Hanoi, and brings you to Ninh Binh. Groups are no larger than 9 people maximum. First, you meet with a local family to explore Vietnamese culture. Then, head to the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda where you will learn about the history of Buddhism. Then you head out on the Tam Coc River Tour, followed by a bike ride through the rice paddies and villages. Followed by a hike up to Mua Cave. The trip returns back to Hanoi at the end of the day. (Transportation, entrance fees & lunch included)

Unique Multi-Day Trip Including Hanoi, Ninh Binh & Ha Long Bay:

If you are short on time and want to see the best sights in Northern Vietnam, these multi-day tours could be a great option.

Hanoi: 3-Day Luxury Ninh Binh & HaLong Bay 5-Star Cruise :

This cruise picks guests up in Hanoi and heads to Ninh Binh to visit the ancient city of Hoa Lu (aka Ninh Binh), climb to the Hang Mua viewpoint, and take the scenic Trang An Boat Tour. Then the next day you head to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise. Finally, head back to Hanoi. (Transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, & all meals (except dinner in Ninh Binh) included)

5-Day Hanoi – Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise – Ninh Binh Tour :

This unique 5-day tour starts off with a pick-up from the Hanoi airport and provides transportation to the city center. Day 2 is a Hanoi City Tour exploring the unique attractions in the city. Day 3 you head to Ninh Binh where you explore Bai Dinh Temple Complex, a ride on the Trang An boat tour, followed by a hike up the Mua Caves Lookout. On Day 4, you head to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise. Then, the following day, head back to Hanoi. (Transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, & all meals included)

Check Out Our Video on Both Trang An & Tam Coc Boat Tours

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Is Trang An or Tam Coc Boat Tour Better?

We were lucky enough to go on both the Trang An and Tam Coc boat tours to compare the two. Personally, we really enjoyed both tours with the stunning scenery, so you really can’t go wrong with either. But there are a few differences that make each tour stand out in different ways. 

Both tours took around 2 hours, but they can be extended depending on the temples you explore. Or anywhere you stop to walk around. So some tourists can expect their tours to be anywhere from 2-3 hrs long.

Pros & Cons of the Trang An Boat Tour

The Trang An Boat Tour is technically more expensive by 110k VND ($5 USD). Which in USD is really not much of a game changer in price. But it can be a little harder to get to since there are no hotels or hostels located near the boat wharf. And you will likely be paying for a taxi or for bike/scooter parking, which can add to the overall price. 

The Trang An Boat Tour is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Which means it is in a protected area and you are less exposed to scammers.

A bonus to the Trang An Boat Tour is the 3 different routes to choose from. If you love caves, then route 1 is best for you. If you want a happy medium between scenery, temples, and caves, then route 2 is perfect for you. And lastly, if you want to experience the longest cave in Trang An, then route 3 is a unique experience for you. 

Don’t think too harshly about the route decision, as they are all a loop and meander along beautiful landscapes of limestone mountains, unique caves, and visit spiritual places. 

One drawback is the boat having to be full with 3-4 passengers. While pairing with another couple wasn’t a huge deal, we always had to switch between front and middle seats. So if you are big into photography, having people sit in front of you could be annoying. And when you get off at the temples, you might be waiting for the other pair to get back to the boat or vice versa (which can be added stress).

Pros & Cons of the Tam Coc Boat Tour

The Tam Coc tour, like mentioned above, is cheaper by 110k VND ($5 USD). Another bonus is the location in the city. If you ride a train or bus into Ninh Binh, you are likely to be dropped off in the city here and won’t need to pay for parking. 

The Tam Coc boat trip meanders through the rice paddies and offers beautiful natural landscapes. You can also see the Mua Caves Viewpoint along the ride, which is just a cool sight to see. 

Another bonus for the Tam Coc boat ride is that foreign travelers can have their own private boat. So we were able to have the boat driver stop wherever we wanted for photos or for literally anything.

But the Tam Coc Boat Tours is not located in a World Heritage Site, so it does have more exposure to pushy vendors and scammers. There was an instance when the local people had us stop for snacks before the last cave.

We politely declined, but once we made it back through, we decided to just support the locals by getting a little snack of fresh pineapple. The ladies tried to get us to buy our boat rower a soda and chips, but we just asked if he would rather that or tip him cash at the end (he wanted the cash). 

Coming from the United States, tipping doesn’t really make us feel uncomfortable. But if you are from a country that doesn’t tip, the Tam Coc tour definitely made us feel a little more pressured to tip our tour guide. (Some Google Reviews have stated some people felt very uncomfortable, and at times they were asked for more money halfway along the trip).

Overall, if I had to choose just one, I would choose the Trang An Boat Tour. I personally like loop adventures and enjoyed the scenery on this tour more. But if you are only in Ninh Binh for a short time and staying in the Tam Coc area, I’d probably just do the Tam Coc for convenience.

Save This ‘Trang An vs Tam Coc Boat Tour Comparison’ For Your Planning

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Exploring the Beauty of Tam Coc: A Guide to a Bike Tour, Boat Ride, and Must-See Attractions 2024

Are you planning a trip to vietnam and looking for a unique and beautiful destination to visit tam coc is the ideal destination. it is, a scenic region in the ninh binh province known for its stunning limestone cliffs, tranquil waters, and historical sites. in this guide, we'll explore the best ways to experience tam coc, including a bike tour, boat ride, and must-see attractions., hanoi to tam coc.

Hanoi to Tam Coc is a popular travel route in Vietnam. Because of the ease of transportation, many tourists make the journey to experience the beauty of Tam Coc. The distance between the two destinations is approximately 100 kilometers, and there are several ways to travel between them. One of the most popular ways to get from Hanoi to Tam Coc is by taking a private car, taxi, or limousine bus which takes about two hours. Another option is to take a local bus, which is more affordable but can take longer and involve transfers. No matter which mode of transportation you choose, the journey from Hanoi to Tam Coc is worth it. 

Tam Coc Bike Tour

One of the best ways to experience Tam Coc is by taking a bike tour. This physical activity allows tourists to take in the local culture up close and enjoy the picturesque scenery. 

There are several recommended bike tour routes in Tam Coc. One of the most popular routes takes tourists through the countryside and past local villages, where they can see farmers tending to their rice paddies and water buffalo grazing in fields. Another popular route takes tourists through Tam Coc's breathtaking limestone cliffs, where they can enjoy the stunning views and fresh air.

Tips to have a successful Tam Coc bike tour:

If you're planning to take a bike tour in Tam Coc, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. 

Firstly, It is recommended to take a bike tour early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat of the day. The duration from April to July is summertime in Vietnam. 

It's also important to bring plenty of water and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. You should wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are appropriate for physical activity and the weather. 

Checking your bike before starting your Tam Coc bike tour is also important to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Make sure to check the brakes, gears, tires, and overall condition of the bike. It's also a good idea to adjust the seat height to ensure maximum comfort and efficiency while riding. If you're renting a bike, choose a reputable rental shop. 

Always stay alert for traffic and follow the rules of the road. 

Finally, take breaks along the way to rest and capture the beautiful scenery. 

Things to See in Tam Coc

Tam Coc is home to several must-see attractions that tourists should not miss. Here are some of the top attractions in Tam Coc:

• Tam Coc Cave System: Take a sampan boat ride through caves and enjoy the views of the surrounding limestone cliffs. 
• Bich Dong Pagoda: Visit this complex of temples and pagodas with stunning views of the countryside.
• Thung Nang (Sunshine Valley): Visit this tranquil valley with towering limestone cliffs and peaceful waters.
• Mua Cave: Climb to the top of this cave to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Tam Coc.
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Visit this historical site with ancient ruins and temples.

Tam Coc Boat Ride

No trip to Tam Coc is complete without taking a boat ride. The boat ride allows tourists to experience the peacefulness of the water and the beauty of the surrounding cliffs. 

There are a few tips to keep in mind when taking a Tam Coc boat trip:

• Always wear life jackets during your journey. During the boat trip, it's important to stay seated and follow the instructions of the boat operator. The boat ride through the caves can be narrow and dark, so it's crucial to remain calm and avoid sudden movements. 
• It's also a good idea to bring a camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery, but make sure to hold onto it securely.
• If you're taking a boat trip during peak season, it can be crowded and noisy. To avoid crowds, consider taking a boat trip early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This will also provide a cooler and more pleasant experience during the hot summer months.
• Finally, it's important to respect the natural environment and avoid littering. The Tam Coc area is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, and visitors should take care to preserve its natural beauty for future generations.

Tam Coc boat tour price

• Boat dock location: Van Lam, Tam Coc, Ninh Binh
• Boat tour ticket price:  

You can purchase your ticket at the Van Lam dock. For adults, the price is 120,000 VND/person, while for children (maximum height 1.4m) it's 60,000 VND/person. Children under 3 years old can get a free ticket.

Boat rental fee: To explore Tam Coc by boat, the cost is approximately 150,000 VND (equivalent to 7 USD) per boat.

• Duration: The boat ride usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Opening hours: The boat ride service is available from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• A maximum number of people per boat: Each boat can accommodate up to 4 people.

How much to tip Tam Coc boat ride? 

The majority of Tam Coc boat rowers are women or elderly people. They are expected to have them after the boat trip. There is no fixed amount for this, it's up to you. However, the expected range for tipping is from 50,000 VND to 200,000 VND (approximately $2-$8).

Suggestion for a day tour in Tam Coc - Ninh Binh 

This following schedule brings you to famous attractions and local experience 

Hoa Lu- Mua Cave- Tam Coc - Bike- Bich Dong Pagoda

Tour Highlight:

• Visit the ancient Dinh King temple in the Hoa Lu ancient capital
• Visit Mua Cave and climb up 500 steps on Lying Dragon Mountain to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view
• Enjoy a set menu lunch with Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant
• Enjoy the sampan boat trip on the Ngo Dong River at Tam Coc
• Cycle through the rice fields and villages
• Visit the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda

Tam Coc is a unique and beautiful destination that every tourist should consider visiting when traveling to Vietnam. With its picturesque scenery, historical sites, and local culture, there's something for everyone in Tam Coc. Whether taking a bike tour, boat ride, or exploring the must-see attractions, tourists are sure to have an unforgettable experience in Tam Coc. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of Tam Coc!

Read : Top Things to Do in Tam Coc Rice Field - Ninh Binh

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Home » Vietnam Motorbike Tours » Vietnam North-West Motorbike Tours » Scenic Vietnam Motorcycle Tour From Hanoi to Long Coc, Da Bac, Pu Luong, Ninh Binh

Scenic Vietnam Motorcycle Tour From Hanoi to Long Coc, Da Bac, Pu Luong, Ninh Binh

Destinations: Hanoi - Long Coc - Da Bac - Pu Luong - Ninh Binh

Price: Contact Duration: 4 Days

Highlights:

This 4-day Scenic Vietnam Motorcycle Tour from Hanoi to Da Bac, Pu Luong, Hoa Lu & Tam Coc via Long Coc tea Hill brings you an unforgettable experience about the beautiful landscapes of Hoa Binh – Thanh Hoa – Phu Tho & Ninh Binh provinces cum great local foods as well as the warm hospitality of local people. You’ll ride on epic weaving roads to get over challenging sharp curves, steep passes to explore remote villages and meet different hill tribes

* Brief Itinerary:

Day 1: Hanoi Motorbike Tour via Long Coc Tea Plantation – Da Bac (HB)

Day 2: Da Bac Motorbike Tour to Da Bia – Boat trip to Ba Khan – Lung Van – Pu Luong

Day 3: Pu Luong Motorbike Tour to Tam Coc

Day 4: Tam Coc Motorbike Tour to Hoa Lu – Hang Mua – Hanoi

Starting your motorbike tour from your hotel by leaving the crowded Hanoi along the dyke of Red River is a great experience to see the daily life of the locals in the villages outside of city. We’ll be following some back-roads to go through villages, rice fields, gardens … until reaching Son Tay town where we will have a coffee break before heading to another adventure level of the day.

We then will keep riding to Long Coc Tea Hills being located in Tan Son district in the northern province of Phu Tho, the Long Coc tea hills are regarded as one of the nation’s most beautiful tea hills. Coming there, you can enjoy a stroll among the tea hills whilst immersing themselves within the area’s tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. High clouds and layers of fog create a vibrant orange sunrise over Long Coc tea hill in the northern midland province of Phu Tho, which has been a popular destination for photography aficionados. Of course, there would be some small dirt tracks to challenge you a bit for funs.

After having lunch at local restaurant near Xuan Son National Park, we continue the ride on weaving roads to Ke village belonging to Hien Luong commune and Da Bac Dist of Hoa Binh province which is nestled right on the edge of Hoa Binh reservoir and being surrounded by high mountains. This is the home to ethnic minorities of Muong & Thai who are mostly staying at the traditional houses on stilts and living on fishing & growing rices on the terraces. All traditional houses are peacefully leaning on the mountains & facing to the lake make this place so adorable & deserved to relax.

If time permits, you will take a short ride to conquer some dirt tracks to visit nearby villages or just do a boat around Hoa Binh lake on Da River

Overnight at homestay or local lodge

Day 2: Da Bac Motorbike Tour to Da Bia – Boat trip to Ba Khan – Pu Luong

After the breakfast, you will ride to Da Bia village – 25km away from your accommodation which is a perfect venue for travelers wanting to explore the wild nature and authentic indigenous culture. Of course, Untouched natural scenery, homestay in old stilt houses and delicious food are among irresistible charms for to Da Bia. To get to Da Bia, you ride through many villages, admiring the scenery of the picturesque within the romantic area of Hoa Binh lake. From there, you start the boat journey with your bikes across the lake to Ba Khan where we can start another adventure ride to go back Pu Luong Nature Reserve. En route, we take chances to see more peaceful villages along cum traditional stilt houses of Muong ethnic people overlooking to the lake, which is very airy and cool.

After having lunch in Tan Lac, We continue following a venturing short-cut named ĐT440 via Lung Van (1200m above the sea level) known as the rooftop of the ethnic Muong people where you can see cloud flying over the mountains. This winding road from Tan Lac to Pu Luong Nature Reserve is really a challenge for all riders due to sharp curves, steep passes and dangers are always hiding elsewhere invisibly then you must be very vigilant & fucussing on the road.

En route, we can get by Hieu Waterfall before approaching your homestay in Pu Luong by the end of the day, time to rest & relax

Overnight at the village (Homestay)

Day 3: Pu Luong Motorbike Tour to Tam Coc (B, L, D)

You will ride to Kho Muong village Perched in the nucleus of the Pu Luong nature reserve, this village will surprise you with the preserved beauty of a peaceful and picturesque setting where rural life continues to be lulled by the rhythm of the seasons. Seen from above, the visitor will be dazzled by a bewitching hilly landscape. At the foot of the mountains, wooden houses on stilts with thatched roofs, fields of rice, cassava, and corn, appear in an absolute tranquillity of this rural setting. A haven of peace will make you forget any fatigue of the journey.

Then you will ride to Ninh Binh with a boat trip on Tam Coc for about 2 hours. You will have a chance to mix with the daily local life, river, limestone mountains, and rice fields.

Overnight in Tam Coc

Day 4: Tam Coc Motorbike Tour to Hoa Lu – Hang Mua – Hanoi  (B, L)

This morning you will explore Hoa Lu– the ancient capital of Vietnam from 986-1010. Our local guide will tell you interesting information about the first feudal government of Vietnam. Then you will visit Mua Cave, where you can admire the fabulous panoramic view of Tam Coc and Ninh Binh. You will challenge yourself to conquer 486 mountain steps to reach the top point of Ngoa Long mountain.

Lunch with local delicacies and riding back to Hanoi

End of the trip

Inclusions :

• Motorbike(s)
• Driving gears
• Gasoline on tour
• English speaking guide
• Mechanic (only for group from 6 passengers)
• Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary (based on twin or/and triple shared)
• Homestay permission
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
• Entrance fees & Sightseeing fees
• Fruits and Coffee on tour

Exclusions :

• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses
• Damages to motorbike

Booking Form:

Faqs about vietnam motorbike tours.

What's the best time of year to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam is spring (February to April) and autumn (August to October). The temperatures are more moderate and rainfall is lighter. In spring, March and April have the lowest rainfall across all destinations and temperatures are pleasant, though still cool in the far north.

Can Australian license drive in Vietnam ?

You must have a valid Vietnamese driver’s license to drive in Vietnam . including for motorcycle 50cc or more . International Driver’s Permits issued in Australia are not recognized in Vietnam.

Is a UK driving Licence valid in Vietnam?

Long term UK residents of Vietnam can qualify for a Vietnamese driving licence when they are in possession of a diplomatic ID, temporary residence card or residence card validity for 3 months or more and also a valid UK driving licence or UK issued International Driver's Permit

Can Canadians drive in Vietnam ?

It is strongly recommended that Canadians consider carefully whether they should drive motor vehicles or motorcycles in Vietnam as unfamiliarity with local driving conditions may result in serious injury, or a heavy compensation payment(s) or imprisonment as a result of any accident

Is it safe to ride a motorcycle in Vietnam ?

it’s always dangerous if you ignore our advices but quite safe if you respect to our local rules. Actually there simply are no rules. Stick to the basics… ride on the right side of the road, keep your eyes on the road and be alert. People often say “when you’re in ROME, just do like Romans do”. Riding a motorbike in Vietnam is different from driving in Europe or North America, so even if you stick to the rules, 99% chance the locals next to you won't. So be alert and stay safe! Wear a helmet. ... Honk at least 1000 times a minute, you cannot go riding around Vietnam without honking

How do I get a Vietnamese motorbike license?

You can just obtain our Vietnamese driving license once you’re long-term officials working & living in Vietnam under the business visa within 6 months or more. But if you are just regular travelers having short-term tourist visa, this seems to be impossible.

How can I ride motorbikes legally in Vietnam?

You must be holding our appropriate Vietnamese driving licenses or International Driver’s Licenses

Can I ride motorcycle with car License?

it’s totally unacceptable but you must have appropriate driving licenses under our Vietnamese traffic laws.

How long does it take to ride a motorbike across Vietnam?

Minimum you take at least 12 days to ride from North to South or vice versa along the coast & on Ho Chi Minh trail.

How much does it cost to rent a bike in Vietnam ?

We’re not used to renting out bikes only but organizing private guided tours, however, in some typical circumstances, we can rent out manual dirt bikes at the cost of US$ 18/bike/day, US$ 28/bike/day and US$ 50/bike/day for the bikes of 125cc, 150cc & 250cc respectively.

Can I rent a motorbike in Vietnam ?

Of course, you can do this but must show up your appropriate legal documents (Vietnamese driving licenses or IDP, validated Visa in Vietnam & copy of your passport).

Can foreigners buy & ride motorbikes in Vietnam?

Yes, you can totally buy & possess a motorbike legally as many other Vietnamese people as long as you act in the laws correctly. Foreigners living in Vietnam can have their national driving license translated to Vietnamese and will be granted a Vietnamese license without passing any exam. ... The cost to obtain the A1 license should not be more than USD 50 with an agent. In case you want to ride a “real” bike, a genuine A2 is required..

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Vietnam Dirt Bike Tour to Ta Xua, Ngoc Chien, Moc Chau 4-Day

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Tam Coc On Bike, Vietnam

Thetraveljunkie.org – This beautiful road between Bich Dong and Tam Coc Lake is one of the most amazing places we have ever seen on bike. With limestone outcrops amid serene rice paddies, Tam Coc is best appreciated on a languorous bike ride, with the soundtrack of the birds singing against the winds.

There’s not a better way to start the morning than riding a bike and enjoying nature.

A bike and Tam Coc’s exquisite light, then your day is absolutely perfect.

If you need somewhere to spend a few hours in the morning, we’d recommend take a bike, Tam Coc boat tour and Thung Nang boat tour.

Stay tuned for more of our adventures in Vietnam.

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Bich Dong Pagoda in Tam Coc: The Ultimate Guide

 In Ninh Binh, also called the “Halong bay on land”, the breathtakingly beautiful Bich Dong Pagoda is situated among rice paddies and karst formations, in stunning natural decor. Located an hour south of Hanoi and a short bike trip from Tam Coc, this centuries-old relic is a captivating part of Vietnam’s spiritual and cultural heritage, a place that has drawn travelers for centuries. In this post, we’ll explore the history, beauty, and culture of the Bich Dong Pagoda in Vietnam!

where is the Bich Dong Pagoda in Vietnam

The entrance of the Bich dong Pagoda in Tam Coc

The Bich Dong Pagoda, sometimes also referred to as “Tam Cốc Bích động”, and not to be confused with the nearby Bai Dinh Pagoda is a beautiful three-tiered pagoda complex built in the Ngu Nhac mountains near the tourist town of Tam Coc . 

It is next to the Trang An Scenic Landscape complex boat tour and the Mua caves and viewpoint one of the top attractions in the area around Tam Coc. The pagoda complex itself is serene and wonderfully located, with nice views over the surrounding area from the top.

However, this has also become a very popular Instagram location so you’ll probably have to share it with a lot of other travelers! It’s especially hard to take a photo of the lovely gat, where people are practically standing in line to have their picture taken. 

Aside from that, the Bich Dong Pagoda is absolutely worth a visit!

Bich dong Pagoda history

Bich Dong Pagoda, Tam Coc

The first mention in history of the Bich Dong Pagoda dates back hundreds of years ago. There’s a large amount of contradictory information online about when the first layer of the pagoda was actually built. Some sources stick very persistently to the year 1428 but let’s say it was built around 600 years ago.

A few hundred years later, in the 18th century, two monks, Tri Kien and Tri Khe, found the hidden temple and decided to renovate and expand it to the three tiers that it is today. 

The three tiers of the bich dong pagoda

As mentioned before, the pagoda consists of three tiers. The first one was built around 600 years ago while the middle tier and the top tier have been built in the 18th century. the three tiers are named Ha pagoda (Lower pagoda), Trung Pagoda (Middle pagoda) and Thuong Pagoda (Upper pagoda).

tam coc-bich dong

The Ha Pagoda is the first pagoda you’ll see after walking over the lovely bridge and through the entrance gate. Take a short walk to reach a peaceful courtyard that is surrounded by a few buildings and an outdoor seating area. You can find the pagoda perched against the rocks by taking a few steps up.

This wood and stone-built pagoda has five chambers and a two-story roof and is shaped like the Chinese word “Dinh” (工). Inside you can find several buddha statues and a lot of burning incense. 

Trung Pagoda

After you have finished exploring Ha pagoda, look for a stone 120-step staircase to your left which will lead you to the second level Trung Pagoda. This was my favorite level of the Bich Dong Pagoda because it boasts some scenic views over the surrounding area.

Bich Dong Pagoda – second level

The Trung Pagoda is also somewhat special because it is divided into two areas. One section of the pagoda is located outside and the other section is located inside a cave. Just like Ha pagoda, it is built out of stone and wood. Inside the cave, you can see a three centuries old bronze bell. 

Thuong Pagoda

When you walk through the cave and take the stone steps up, you’ll arrive at the top pagoda, called Thuong Pagoda. The pagoda located here on the top is really small. Next to it is also a small shrine with a Buddha statue. 

To my surprise, there was a security guy here, overlooking the premises. My boyfriend and I were trying to make a little joke about stealing the money that was donated to the Buddha statue but he couldn’t laugh about it and looked really offended. The Vietnamese can be really humorous people, but apparently not inside a pagoda! 

What you need to know before visiting the bich dong pagoda

Cave inside the Bich dong Pagoda

Aside from the regular things like taking enough water , and wearing sunscreen and a hat when it’s 30 degrees Celsius outside, here are two important things to know before visiting the Bich Dong Pagoda.

parking your vehicle

Scamming with parking is a well-known thing in Vietnam and it is no different here at the Bich Dong Pagoda. When you arrive with your motorbike or bicycle you’ll probably be directed to a parking space on the right-hand side from the stone bridge that leads to the entrance of the Bich Dong Pagoda.

They will give you a ticket and charge you for parking your vehicle, but there isn’t any fixed price on the ticket. This is already alarming and indicated that this is no official parking space because an official parking space would surely mention the price on the ticket. 

I and my boyfriend refrained from parking our bicycles in the parking space and drove back to the street where a few restaurants are located and parked our bikes there and chained them up with our locks. Why would we pay for a parking space that we don’t actually need?

However, the guy got really upset and was making eyes at our bicycles when we entered the pagoda. After five minutes inside, we got so scared that he would tamper with our bicycles that we went out again to check if they were still okay. 

They were, but, if you want my advice: don’t drive your bicycle or motorbike all the way to the entrance gate but park them near the restaurants and walk from there. 

Also, if you are offered free bikes at your guesthouse, ask them for locks. That way, you don’t need to park them is a so-called “secured” space. 

Pagodas are sacred places and therefore, as a conscious traveler , you must dress accordingly. Wear a T-shirt or scarf that covers your shoulders and make sure your skirt or pants are long enough to cover your knees. This is a common rule throughout Asia when you visit sacred places.

Tam Coc-Bich Dong

Often, when entering sacred places in South-East Asia, there are scarfs for rent or that can be used for free at the entrance. Unfortunately, this is not the case at the Bich Dong Pagoda so make sure you are dressed properly.

THE BEST TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VIETNAM

Here are the websites I personally use whenever I travel to Vietnam:

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com : For the best cheap guesthouses, homestays or small hotels

Hostelworld : To find the best hostels located in the cities

Homestay : For unique immersive homestays in the cities as well as in the Vietnamese countryside

12GO and Bookaway : The best transport websites for long-distance buses and train travel in Vietnam

GRAB : for taxi rides in cities and nearby attractions

Skyscanner : For affordable flights to Vietnam

Eatwith : Dine with locals inside their home for an immersive foodie experience

Withlocals : Experience cities in Vietnam with local people that show you around. This is a good idea if you want to stray off the beaten path!

Viator and Get Your Guide : For (vegan) food tours, street food tours, and tours in general

Get your Visa for Vietnam online through the Evisa website

If you’re looking for travel insurance, the one with the best benefits online is without a doubt Heymondo ! It’s very easy to ask for a quote on the website and if you book with this link you’ll get 5% off!

Get access to mobile data straight away when entering the country with a Vietnam E-sim or an Asialink E-sim when traveling through multiple countries.

Bich dong Pagoda opening hours and entrance fee

At first glance, it seems that the Bich Dong Pagoda can be accessed day and night because it’s very easy to cross the bridge and walk toward the gate. They do however lock it up at night. 

Bich dong pagoda opening hours

There are no fixed opening hours for the Bich Dong Pagoda which is quite frustrating. Reading reviews, I’ve noticed that people who wanted to visit after 5 P.M. found the gate already closed. Other visitors mentioned that they visited at 9 A.M. and had the place to themselves. 

It’s safe to say that going between 9 A.M. and 5 P.M. is a good choice. Too bad however that this means that the temple is not accessible to watch sunrise and sunset. 

Bich Dong Pagoda entrance fee

The entrance fee to visit the Bich Dong Pagoda is completely free. Do be aware that, aside from the parking scammers, there will also be individuals hanging around that will try to sell you fake entrance tickets. Don’t fall into that trap!

best time to visit the Bich Dong pagoda

I visited the Bich Dong Pagoda in late December. The temperature during the winter months is nice during the day, hovering around 20 degrees Celsius. It’s great weather to cycle around in the area but the only downside is that it stays very cloudy most days.

It is not advised to visit the area around Tam Coc during the summer months. During summer, there is a lot of rainfall and it’s the peak season for Vietnamese tourists so the pagoda will be packed with domestic travelers.

The best time to visit is probably March and April or October and November when it’s still sunny and relatively dry weather. 

Where to stay to visit the bich dong pagoda

Tam Coc, Ninh Binh province

The Bich Dong Pagoda is a part of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex and is close to Tam Coc, Trang An, and Ninh Binh City. The padoga can also easily be visited on a day trip from Hanoi but there are so many other attractions in the area like the Mua Caves, Trang An, and Van Long that it is absolutely worth it to stay in the area for a few days.

I spent two weeks in Trang An and Tam Coc and had a lovely time slow traveling in the area. Where you stay however is completely up to you. Here are some suggestions!

From Hanoi, you can choose to visit the Bich Dong Pagoda independently on a day trip or by taking an organized full-day tour that includes Bich Dong. 

If you want to visit the area independently, you’ll first have to take a train or bus to Ninh Binh city and take a taxi from there. You find and book buses and trains easily on the website of 12GoAsia .

If you check carefully, you will even see that there are a few buses that go all the way to the center of Tam Coc and drop you off near the lake. That is convenient because, from there, you can walk to the Bich Dong Pagoda in a little over half an hour.  

If you have little time on your hand, taking an organized tour might be a good idea. Here is the one I would suggest:

This tour includes a visit to the Bich Dong Pagoda but also a boat tour of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex.

This is a good choice because most tours that leave from Hanoi stop for a boat tour in Tam Coc. The Tam Coc boat tours however are a complete tourist trap in which you will be forced to buy overpriced drinks and food in the middle of your tour and you will be asked for huge tips from the boatmen before even arriving back at the dock. Don’t do this.

On the other hand, the boat tours at Trang An are run by a professional organization. It’s a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and the official site to visit to experience the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. 

Tam Coc is the best place to stay in the area to visit the Bich Dong Pagoda. It’s only a little over half an hour’s walk from the center of Tam Coc to the pagoda and Tam Coc has a nice variety of tourist facilities and lovely restaurants. 

Trang is another village in the vicinity of the Bich Dong pagoda. It is closer located to the Trang An boat wharf than Tam Coc and also a more convenient location if you want to visit sights that are further afield like the Van Long Wetland Reserve.

There is a decent amount of guesthouses and homestays in Trang An but don’t expect to find a lively atmosphere during the evening. There also aren’t that many actual restaurants. Most restaurants you’ll find are the restaurants of some guesthouses and homestays. 

A lot of travelers think that staying in the city of Ninh Binh is a better option and that there will be more facilities there for tourists. Having visited Ninh Binh, I can say for sure that there aren’t more tourist facilities there, neither better restaurant options nor a more lively vibe than in the countryside.

It is a pretty dusty city that completely lacks charm and it’s also further away from all the sights and attractions in the area. Staying in Trang An or Tam Coc is definitely the better option here. 

How to get to the bich dong pagoda

Cycling is the best way to get around the area

Getting to the Bich Dong pagoda is relatively easy no matter if you’re staying in Tam Coc, Trang An or Ninh Binh.

Cycling is the most convenient and also the most eco-friendly option to get around the area. In between the beautiful karst mountains, the whole terrain is flat so you won’t have to work up your sweat.

A lot of the guesthouses and homestays in Trang An and Tam Coc rent out bicycles for free or for a very small fee (50 000 VND).

While it’s too far to walk to the Bich Dong Pagoda from Trang An and Ninh Binh, it’s perfectly doable to just use your feet to get there. The trip is 2,8 kilometers and it takes you a little over half an hour to get there on foot. 

Renting a motorbike is another way to get around the area. It’s convenient but remember that riding a bicycle is a better choice ecologically.

Tam Coc is peaceful in itself but I found that the throngs of tourists driving motorbikes up and down the street in Tam Coc took that serenity away, especially on the main street. 

If you want to rent a motorbike for the day, this should cost you around 150 000 VND.

If you don’t feel comfortable driving a bicycle or a motorbike you can opt to visit the Bich Dong Pagoda by taxi. Based on previous taxi experiences in South-East Asia, I wouldn’t recommend hailing a taxi on the street but rather arranging one through your accommodation so you will get a correct price. 

A lot of taxi scams happen in Sout-East Asia in which Western tourists get overcharged dramatically, so be careful. 

If you hire a private driver, it might be a good idea to visit a few other attractions in the area as well. When I was staying in Tam Coc I arranged a private driver to visit nearby Cuc Phuong National Park and the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary and the price for this private tour was 900 000 VND. 

Cuc Phuong is 45 kilometers away from Tam Coc so I assume that doing a private tour, incorporating sights in the more direct area in Tam Coc, will probably come a bit cheaper.

There are a dozen of tour agencies in the center of Tam Coc that arrange bus tickets and motorbikes but also local tours. You can book a tour at the agency directly or ask your accommodation if they work together with a local agent to arrange a tour. 

Where to stay near Tam Coc Bich dong

As said before, the best area to stay to visit the Bich Dong Pagoda is Tam Coc or Trang An. Trang An is the better option if you like a more local vibe. Tam Coc is the best choice if you like to have a lot of restaurant options and tourist facilities.

Here are my recommendations for staying in Trang An and Tam Coc:

• Trang An Moon Garden Homestay : this is the location where I stayed in Trang An. It’s a cute, compact homestay with a small pool that takes up most of the backyard garden. The room was very comfy, with one of the nicest bathrooms I’ve seen in Vietnam in this price category. There’s a kettle in the room to make tea and coffee which is always a nice bonus if you travel long-term. Breakfast is included but I found the pancakes to be a bit icky. 
• Ninh Binh Valley Montana Homestay : This is another homestay located in Trang An. I didn’t stay here but it was my favorite place to eat in Trang An. The outdoor area by the water is a great place to have dinner in the evening and the staff at Montana Valle is incredibly kind. They even gave us treats on Christmas day. The rooms look good too and they get some raving reviews on Booking . 
• Ninh Binh Valley Homestay : If you fancy sleeping at a spectacular remote location in between the limestone cliffs then the bungalows of this homestay are a perfect choice!
• Tam Coc Memories Homestay : This is the perfect place for young backpackers who like to play pool and have a beer by the beautifully designed pool with water that flows into a limestone cliff. The rooms at this homestay are immaculately clean and the beds are super comfy. I stayed here for a few nights but decided to look for a place with a calmer vibe a little further out of the center. 
• Mom’s homestay : Mom’s homestay can also be found online as Tuan Ngoc Hotel which is a little confusing. Nevertheless, this was my favorite place to stay in Tam Coc. This family-run hotel/homestay has a very nice pool and the family running the hotel is genuinely kind en incredibly helpful. The included breakfast is a la carte and they have motorbikes and bicycles on site for hire. 
• Tam Coc Ngo Dong homestay and vegan restaurant : This little homestay has the best vegan restaurant in Tam Coc. While there are a few plant-based eateries in Tam Coc, the floor at this homestay is the best we had in Tam Coc. Do be aware that the portions of some of the dishes can be quite small. The rooms were very clean and the fact that they looked out onto a wall didn’t seem to bother the guests.

More sights to visit near the Bich Dong Pagoda

Tam Coc and its surroundings is a wonderful region to explore and there are many more sights and attractions to explore in the area. I’ll list a few of them below but, for a more comprehensive guide, read my post about the 15 best things to do in Tam Coc . 

Mua viewpoint

Mua caves viewpoint, Ninh Binh, Vietnam

While the actual name of Mua Viewpoint is Mua Caves, the reason why people visit this attraction is not because of the caves. Visitors come here to climb the steep stairs to two amazing viewpoints from which you have a breathtaking panoramic view over Tam Coc and Ninh Binh.

Read my comprehensive guide to Hang Mua Viewpoint to find out everything you need to know about this attraction. 

Trang An Boat tour

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

As said before, don’t let yourself get scammed at the Tam Coc boat wharf but make your way to Trang An to discover the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. 

I’ve put together a guide with everything you need to know about taking a boat tour in Trang An . 

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve

Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve boosts the same scenic mountains and lunch vegetation as Trang An but is much more quieter. It’s located 17 kilometers from Trang An and is a great place to spot wildlife, especially the critically endangered Delacour’s langur.

You can read everything you need to know to visit Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve on the blog. 

Bear Sanctuary Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary

A lot of travelers are not aware of this, but on the way to Cuc Phuong National Park, lies the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary. This Sanctuary operates as a center that rescues Asiatic Black Bears and Moon Bears from Bear bile farming, a horrendous practice that unfortunately still exists in Vietnam.

Read my full guide to the Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary and learn how you can help to give the bears the forever home they deserve. 

What not to visit

As said before, The Tam Coc boat rides are a tourist trap and don’t visit the actual official UNESCO -protected World Heritage Site of Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. 

Aside from that, I was also very disappointed in visiting Thung Nham Bird Park. This park is advertised as an ecotourism destination and one of the best places in Vietnam to see birds. The entrance fee is high for Vietnamese standards and costs 150 000 VND/per person.  

I was willing to pay that because it is an eco-tourism area but when I entered the park I was shocked by what I found. This is not an eco-tourism destination that is focused on the wellness of the birds that live here, but an amusement park with a hotel and restaurants, and noisy tourist boats that go up and down the lakes. 

Bich Dong Pagoda: Final thoughts

There you go! I hope you enjoyed this Bich Dong Pagoda review. As you can see is the Bich Dong Pagoda absolutely worth a visit when you are traveling through the north of Vietnam.

I hope you enjoyed this guide! If you have any more questions, please leave them in the comments below or drop me a message through my contact page !

Also, don’t forget to check out my resources page with my favorite booking platforms and tips to start planning your trip. Additionally, have a look at my favorite travel gear if you want to pack more consciously!

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on them, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Fancy more Vietnam travel advice? Check out these Vietnam travel guides!

• Pu Luong, Vietnam: Things to Do, Where to Stay, and How to Get There
• Mai Chau, Vietnam: Everything You Need to Know
• A Traveler’s Guide to Vegan Food in Vietnam
• Cat Ba National Park: Everything You Need to Know
• 12 Excellent Vegan Restaurants in Hanoi
• Is Hanoi Safe to Visit? Things to Know!

• November 4, 2023

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Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and  yourself!

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1. Hoa Lu Tam Coc Cycling One day tour

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Tam Coc bicycle tours

Vietnam Cycling is a Hanoi based tour operator offering different bicycle tours to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh province in the northern Vietnam. There are such tours as day bicycle tours, two-day bicycle tours, three day bike tours which are arranged in and around Tam Coc. These bicycle are easy and fun since they are customized for group tours and family travel. These cycling tours can be divided into two categories as follows.

Tam Coc Easy Bicycle Tours

We call these bicycle tours are “easy” since there are about two hours cycling in Tam Coc and the bikes we use are classic push bikes. Customers will be transferred from Hanoi to Tam Coc by car. The drive takes about three hours. Upon their arrival in Tam Coc, they have a two-hour boat trip before starting their cycling adventure. The most popular biking trail in Tam Coc is the ride from Tam Coc to Dinh and Le temples, in Hoa Lu. This bicycle ride takes about two hours and you mostly cycle on flat, paved roads and through rural villages and rice fields.

Another biking trail you can do in Tam Coc is the ride from Tam Coc to Thai Vy temple, Bich Dong pagoda and the rural village is located next to the boat pier. This biking trail is shorter as it only takes one hour and a half.

The bikes we use for this bicycle tours are classic push bikes, Ashama or Thong Nhat. You take the bikes in Tam Coc, enjoy your bicycle tours. After the bicycle ride, you can either leave your bikes in Tam Coc or Hoa Lu. Our local team will take these back to our bike store in Tam Coc. Then you are transferred to Hanoi by the same car.

These easy bicycle tours are customized for group tours, family with children.

Tam Coc Active Bike Tours

The active bicycle tours are also provided in Tam Coc area. These can be one day, two day or three day cycling tours. Therefore, the difference of this option is the use of professional mountain bikes such as trek bikes at 24 speed drive train. There are about four to six hours cycling per day.

We need to bring these bikes from our bike store in Hanoi. Can enjoy the bicycle ride whenever you like while traveling from Hanoi to Tam Coc and vice versa. An more experienced biking guide is also required for these active bicycle tours. The guide need to know all the biking trails as well as the optional rest stops.

Please note the above Tam Coc bicycle tours are only some sample itineraries which can be further customized to exactly meet your needs and budget. If you have any question or comment, please do not hesitate to contact us .

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