Explore Tam Coc & Bich Dong in Ninh Binh, Vietnam’s “Halong Bay on Land”! Discover boat tours, caves, costs, and sustainable eco-tours with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable adventure.
Photograph the vibrant allure of Ninh Binh’s landscapesNinh Binh Province, 90 km southeast of Hanoi in Vietnam’s Red River Delta, is renowned for its karst landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and cultural richness, often called “Halong Bay on Land.” Now a unified province encompassing former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, Ninh Binh captivates with its natural beauty. Tam Coc and Bich Dong Pagoda, located in Ninh Hai Ward (formerly Hoa Lu District), 7 km from Ninh Binh City, are iconic attractions within the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. Known for their limestone caves, serene waterways, and ancient pagodas, they attract over 1 million visitors annually. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers eco-friendly tours to Tam Coc and Bich Dong, bookable via links around this guide. Experience Ninh Binh’s enchanting landscapes—reserve your tour today
Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Vietnam and Southeast Asia experiences with expert English-speaking guides, eco-conscious practices, and tailored itineraries. Our Ninh Binh tours combine Tam Coc’s serene boat rides and Bich Dong’s spiritual pagodas with eco-adventures like cycling and tasting local cơm cháy (crispy rice), ensuring a culturally immersive journey. Committed to sustainability, we support local communities, use low-impact transport like electric vehicles, and align with Ninh Binh’s green initiatives, including the “Heart of Heritage” project. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we prioritize your satisfaction. Discover our curated tours to explore Tam Coc and Bich Dong responsibly—book via the links on this page!
Learn Ninh Binh’s heritage with expert insights (Source: Source: Internet)Tam Coc, meaning “Three Caves,” in Ninh Hai Ward, features a 2-hour boat tour along the Ngo Dong River, passing through Hang Ca (127 m), Hang Hai (60 m), and Hang Ba (50 m), limestone caves carved by the river. Surrounded by rice paddies and karsts, it’s a serene escape. Bich Dong Pagoda, 2 km away, is a 15th-century Buddhist complex on Ngu Nhac Mountain, with three pagodas: Lower (Ha), Middle (Trung), and Upper (Thuong). Named “Green Pearl Grotto” for its lush setting, it offers spiritual tranquility and panoramic views. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Tam Coc) and 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Bich Dong), the combined entry and boat tour fee is $7 (175,000 VND) per adult, supporting conservation. Their proximity to Trang An (4 km) and Hoa Lu (10 km) makes them ideal for a day trip.
Ninh Binh Province has merged with former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, with Ninh Binh City as its hub. District-level units, like Hoa Lu District, are now wards or communes (e.g., Ninh Hai Ward). This change does not affect tourism, and Tam Coc and Bich Dong remain in Ninh Hai Ward. Ninh Binh aims to become Hoa Lu City, a “Millennium Heritage Urban Area,” enhancing its cultural tourism appeal.
Capture the authentic charm of Ninh Binh’s culture (Source: Source: Internet)Tam Coc and Bich Dong are steeped in history, linked to the Tran Dynasty (1225–1400). Tam Coc’s waterways and karsts were part of a military base, Vu Lam Palace, used to repel Mongol invasions. Bich Dong Pagoda, built in 1428 under the Le Dynasty, features cave shrines and was praised by Nguyen Nghiem in 1773 for its scenic beauty. The area’s rice paddies reflect centuries-old farming traditions of the Kinh and Muong communities. Recognized as part of the Trang An UNESCO site, it preserves 30,000 years of human history, including prehistoric cave dwellings. Visiting supports sustainable tourism, funding local conservation and cultural preservation.
Begin your Ninh Binh Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Source: Internet)Take a Tam Coc Boat Tour
Embark on a 2-hour sampan ride from Van Lam Wharf, gliding through Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba caves, with locals rowing using their feet. Enjoy rice paddies (golden in May–June) and spot herons.
Cost: $7/adult (175,000 VND, shared boat for 2–4); children under 15 $3.50 (87,500 VND); tips $1–$2.
Highlights: “A tranquil masterpiece” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).
Tip: Book morning tours (7:00–9:00 AM) for calm waters; avoid buying overpriced souvenirs from rowers. Included in our Tam Coc Eco Boat Tour ($75–$95).
Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
Explore the three-tiered pagoda complex—Lower, Middle (in a cave), and Upper—on Ngu Nhac Mountain. Climb for valley views and admire 15th-century greenstone carvings.
Cost: Included in $7 Tam Coc ticket; donations $0.60–$1.20 (15,000–30,000 VND).
Highlights: “A spiritual haven” (Vietnam Tourism).
Tip: Dress modestly; visit during Lunar New Year for festivals. Included in our Bich Dong Spiritual Tour($75–$95).
Climb Mua Cave Viewpoint
Ascend 485 steps to Mua Cave Viewpoint (6 km from Tam Coc) for panoramic views of Tam Coc’s karsts and Ngo Dong River, with a dragon statue atop Ngoa Long Mountain.
Cost: $4.67/adult (100,000 VND).
Highlights: “Ninh Binh’s best vista” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).
Tip: Climb at sunrise (6:00 AM); wear grippy shoes. Included in our Mua Cave Scenic Tour ($75–$95).
Cycle Through the Countryside
Bike 2 km from Tam Coc to Bich Dong or explore Thung Nang and Thach Bich, passing lotus ponds and villages for an eco-friendly adventure.
Cost: Bike rental $2.50/day (62,500 VND); guided cycling $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Highlights: “A rural escape” (Vietnam Tourism).
Tip: Cycle early morning; use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Included in our Ninh Binh Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95).
Explore Thien Huong Cave
Visit this dry, 60-meter-high cave en route to Thai Vi Temple, featuring a shrine to Tran Thi Dung, who taught locals embroidery. It’s a 15-meter climb from the river.
Cost: Included in Tam Coc boat tour.
Highlights: “A hidden gem” (Legendtravelgroup.com).
Tip: Bring a flashlight; respect the shrine. Included in our Tam Coc Eco Boat Tour ($75–$95).
Visit Thai Vi Temple
Pay respects at this 13th-century temple, 1 km from Tam Coc, honoring Tran Dynasty kings, with intricate stone carvings and a karst backdrop.
Cost: Free; donations $0.60–$1.20.
Highlights: “A serene historical site” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Attend the Thai Vi Festival (March–April); cover shoulders. Included in our Ninh Binh Spiritual Tour ($85–$110).
Tour Co Vien Lau Ancient Houses
Discover 22 relocated Nguyen Dynasty houses at Co Vien Lau, 500 m from Tam Coc Wharf, showcasing Red River Delta architecture and antiques.
Cost: $2.33/adult (50,000 VND).
Highlights: “A cultural treasure” (Vietnam Tourism).
Tip: Join a guided tour for historical insights. Included in our Ninh Binh Cultural Village Tour ($85–$110).
Savor Ninh Binh Cuisine
Taste thịt dê (mountain goat), cơm cháy, and nem chua at eateries like Tam Coc Nature Lodge Restaurant (500 m from the wharf).
Cost: $3–$15/meal; drinks $0.60–$4.
Highlights: “Flavorful local specialties” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).
Tip: Try cơm cháy with goat sauce. Included in our Ninh Binh Foodie & Nature Combo ($100–$135).
Tam Coc Boat Tour & Bich Dong: $7/adult (175,000 VND); children under 15 $3.50 (87,500 VND).
Mua Cave Viewpoint: $4.67/adult (100,000 VND).
Co Vien Lau: $2.33/adult (50,000 VND).
Activities: Guided tours $5–$15; cycling $2.50–$15; homestays $10–$20/night; workshops $5–$10; donations $0.60–$1.20; tips $1–$2.
Transport (Hanoi to Tam Coc, 90 km, round-trip):
Bus: $10–$14 (250,000–350,000 VND) + $6–$10 taxi.
Train: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND) + $6–$10 taxi.
Private Car/Taxi: $70–$110 (1,750,000–2,750,000 VND).
Motorbike: $7–$12 rental + $10 fuel.
Guided Tour: $75–$175.
Transport (Ninh Binh City to Tam Coc, 7 km): Motorbike $7–$12/day; bicycle $1.50–$2.50/day; taxi/Grab $6–$10 round-trip.
Dining: Meals at local eateries $3–$15; drinks $0.60–$4.
Accommodation: Budget homestays (e.g., Tam Coc Banana Bungalow) $18–$50/night; mid-range (The Reed Hotel) $50–$120; luxury (Ninh Binh Legend Hotel) $120–$300.
Total Daily Cost: $20–$100 (budget: $20–$40; mid-range: $40–$70; luxury: $70–$100).
Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Ninh Binh City (Vietcombank); book tours for eco-transfers.
Bus: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND) from Giap Bat/My Dinh to Ninh Binh (2 hours); taxi to Tam Coc ($3–$5, 10–15 minutes). Every 30 minutes (5:00 AM–11:00 PM).
Train: $5–$9 (125,000–225,000 VND) from Hanoi Station to Ninh Binh Station (2 hours); taxi ($3–$5). Trains: SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, SE19.
Private Car/Taxi: $35–$55 (875,000–1,375,000 VND) via Hanoi–Ninh Binh Expressway. Use Xanh SM electric taxis.
Motorbike: $7–$12/day + $5 fuel; 2–2.5 hours via National Highway 1A.
Guided Tour: Our tours ($75–$175) include eco-transfers.
Motorbike: $7–$12/day; 10–15 minutes via National Highway 1A to Van Lam Wharf.
Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day; 20–30 minutes.
Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND); 10 minutes.
Guided Tour: Our half-day tours ($75–$95) include transfers.
Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day; 10–15 minutes along DT491C.
Motorbike: $7–$12/day; 5–10 minutes.
Walk: Free; 20–25 minutes along the Ngo Dong River dyke.
Taxi/Grab: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND); 5 minutes.
Route Tip: From Ninh Binh City, take National Highway 1A to Van Lam Wharf for Tam Coc; cycle or walk to Bich Dong. Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: $0.40/motorbike (10,000 VND).
Spring (February–April): Cool (15–25°C), ideal for boat tours and festivals like Thai Vi Temple Festival (March–April). Lush green paddies bloom. Book 2–3 weeks ahead.
Summer (May–June): Warm (25–35°C), with golden rice fields; perfect for photography. Lotus blooms enhance Bich Dong’s pond.
Dry Season (November–April): Pleasant (15–25°C), fewer showers, great for climbing Bich Dong’s steps.
Rainy Season (July–October): Hot (25–35°C), showers; budget-friendly with 20–35% discounts. Morning tours (7:00–10:00 AM) avoid rain; lotus ponds thrive.
Tip: May–June offers vibrant rice fields; early tours ensure cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Embrace the vibrant spirit of Ninh Binh Travel adventures (Source: Source: Internet)Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance for spring or festivals via Legend Travel Group, Baolau.com, or IZITOUR (+84 382 536 266). Confirm hours (Tam Coc: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM; Bich Dong: 7:00 AM–6:00 PM).
Dress Code: Wear light, breathable clothing for boat tours; modest attire for Bich Dong (long pants, covered shoulders); sturdy shoes for steps.
Pack Smart: Sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, waterproof phone case for boat rides, umbrella for drizzles, camera (no flash in pagodas), cash (VND) for tips.
Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$100/day; carry VND; ATMs in Ninh Binh City. Avoid overpaying for boat souvenirs; confirm prices.
Stay Safe: Secure valuables; follow rower instructions; watch uneven steps at Bich Dong. Avoid peak festival days for quieter visits.
Sustainability: Dispose of waste properly; avoid disturbing wildlife; choose bicycles or electric taxis. Our tours support local rowers and conservation.
Cultural Respect: Smile and engage politely with rowers; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; tip rowers ($1–$2).
Navigation: Start at Van Lam Wharf for Tam Coc; allow 4–5 hours for boat tours, Bich Dong, and nearby sites. Offline maps are essential.
Our eco-friendly tours immerse you in Tam Coc and Bich Dong’s natural and cultural splendor, paired with Ninh Binh’s highlights:
Tam Coc Eco Boat Tour ($75–$95/person): 2-hour Ngo Dong River boat tour ($7), Bich Dong Pagoda, lunch at Ninh Hai Restaurant ($3–$15). Includes transfers from Hanoi/Ninh Binh.
Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure ($135–$175/person): Tam Coc boat tour, Bich Dong, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital ($1.50). Includes meals and eco-transfers.
Ninh Binh Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95/person): Tam Coc boat tour, cycling to Bich Dong and Thung Nang ($2.50 bike rental), Trang An ($9–$12). Includes transfers and lunch.
Ninh Binh Foodie & Spiritual Combo ($100–$135/person): Thịt dê, cơm cháy ($3–$15), Tam Coc, Bich Dong, Mua Cave ($4.67). Includes transfers and meals.
Ninh Binh Explorer ($380–$600/person, 3–4 days): Tam Coc, Bich Dong, Trang An, Cuc Phuong National Park ($3), homestays ($18–$50/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include guides, transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page!
Tam Coc and Bich Dong in Ninh Binh’s Ninh Hai Ward are enchanting destinations, offering serene boat tours through limestone caves, ancient pagodas on misty mountains, and vibrant rice paddies that define “Halong Bay on Land.” From the foot-rowing tradition to Bich Dong’s spiritual serenity, they capture Vietnam’s natural and cultural essence. As part of the Trang An UNESCO site, they champion sustainable tourism, empowering local communities. Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours guide you through these scenic wonders, ensuring a sustainable Ninh Binh Travel experience blended with Ninh Binh’s historical sites and culinary treasures like thịt dê. Don’t miss this serene escape—browse our featured tours and book your Tam Coc-Bich Dong adventure today!
Ready to discover Ninh Binh’s scenic treasures? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Vietnam’s cultural and natural splendor!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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