Vietnam : Tam Coc–Bich Dong

Open Time : Open 24 Hours

Entry : Free

Address : Tam Cốc – Bích Động - Ninh Bình, Việt Nam, Ninh Hải, Hoa Lư District, Ninh Bình, Vietnam

Why to visit Tam Coc–Bich Dong

Tam Coc–Bich Dong, situated at the Ninh Binh Province, is known as the "Halong Bay on land" due to its dramatic limestone karsts and cave scenery as it relates to rivers. The landscape area is an attractive tourism destination for travelers looking for adventure and serenity.

What makes Tam Coc–Bich Dong Special?

  • Spectacular Limestone Peaks: Gigantic limestone ranges rise majestically from the rice paddies, creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape.
  • Boat trip through Tam Coc Cave: Visitors explore the caves while on a boat trip through the Tam Coc caves, a unique experience as boats glide through such narrow caves cut out of the karst mountains.
  • Bich Dong Pagoda: A historical pagoda set against the dramatic backdrop of limestone mountains while providing a glimpse into Vietnamese Buddhist culture.

Things to Do in Tam Coc – Bich Dong

  • Tam Coc Caves Boat Tour: See the three caves of Tam Coc on a wooden boat as it glides under towering limestone walls.
  • Bich Dong Pagoda: Walk around the three-level pagoda, situated on a hillside and providing views over the countryside.
  • Cycle Through Rice Paddies: Hire a bicycle and follow quiet paths along the lush green rice fields and villages.
  • Hike to Mua Cave: For a panoramic view of the Tam Coc Valley, hike up to the top of Mua Cave, a popular spot for photography.

Nearby Tourist Spots

  • Hoa Lu Ancient Capital (10 km)
  • Trang An Landscape Complex (15 km)
  • Bai Dinh Pagoda (25 km)

Unknown Facts About Tam Coc – Bich Dong

  • The name "Tam Coc" translates to "Three Caves," referring to the three caves through which the boat rides pass, each offering a unique experience.
  • The surrounding area of Tam Coc also has biodiversity coming in the form of various birds and wildlife living in caves and surrounding waters.
  • Tam Coc is of significant importance in Vietnamese history because the center of the Dinh and Le dynasties was Hoa Lu ancient capital.
  • Limestone formations in Tam Coc are estimated to have originated more than 250 million years ago.

Entry Fee

VND 120,000–150,000 per person for boat rides.

Timings

Open 24 hours

Average Duration

2–3 hours to explore Tam Coc and Bich Dong Pagoda.

Distance

  • From Ninh Binh City: 7 km (15 minutes by car).
  • From Hanoi: 100 km (2–2.5 hours by car)

FAQ on Tam Coc–Bich Dong

What is Tam Coc in Vietnam?

Tam Coc, meaning "Three Caves", is a scenic area in Ninh Binh, Vietnam, known for its limestone karst formations, rice fields, and boat rides along the Ngo Dong River.

Is Ninh Binh and Tam Coc the same?

No, Ninh Binh is a province, while Tam Coc is a specific attraction within Ninh Binh, famous for its caves, river, and karst landscapes.

How much does Tam Coc cost?

The boat tour costs around 250,000 VND per boat (for up to 2 passengers) plus entrance fees of about 120,000 VND per person. Prices may vary slightly.

When to visit Tam Coc?

The best time to visit Tam Coc is from late May to early June, when the rice fields turn golden, or from September to November, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Special Tip

To make the most of your visit, take a boat ride in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and a peaceful atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes for hiking to Mua Cave, and bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

By LAIBA ARIF

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