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)