Where is Tam Coc Vietnam?

Tam Coc Bich Dong is a small but beautiful village. Hanoi to Tam Coc distance, Tam Coc is located approximately 100 kilometers from Hanoi. The area is known for its intricate network of rivers and canals lined with limestone karsts and its stunning natural scenery. In Tam Coc, visitors can take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River to explore three caves – Hang Ca (First Cave) and Hang Hai (Second Cave), and Hang Ba (Third Cave). Hiking enthusiasts can also make their way up to the top of Bich Dong Pagoda, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

When should you travel to Tam Coc Bich Dong?

The best time to visit Tam Coc is during the dry season between March and October. This is when Hanoi’s temperature is most pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 17°C - 35°C (63°F - 95°F). The landscapes are also quite photogenic at this time of year, as the paddy fields are full of vibrant green and golden hues.

Directions from Hanoi to Tam Coc – Bich Dong

Roads from Hanoi to Ninh Binh:

Hanoi -> Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street -> Huyen Tran Cong Chua Bridge -> Highway 1A -> Phu Ly City (Ninh Binh)

Travelers making the trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh will first need to make their way to Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street. From there, they should hop onto the Huyen Tran Cong Chua Bridge that spans across the Red River, providing beautiful views of the surrounding hills and villages before heading onto Highway 1A. After a brief drive along this highway, travelers will find themselves in Phu Ly City, otherwise known as Ninh Binh. This route provides a scenic and stress-free journey for those looking to explore this popular destination. Along the trip, visitors are presented with stunning views of lush green fields, picturesque rivers, and plentiful citrus gardens - an eye-catching example of Vietnamese rural life.

Railways from Hanoi to Ninh Binh:

Hanoi railway station -> Hanoi – Ninh Binh Railway

Passengers traveling from Hanoi to Ninh Binh will marvel at the spectacular views throughout their journey by train. The railway offers convenient access as it runs through scenic areas, winding its way through small villages and lush valleys. An array of accommodations are available on board, ranging from sumptuous private cabins to budget seats. Whether you are journeying for business or pleasure, the combination of stunning vistas and comfortable amenities make traveling by Hanoi's railways a pleasurable experience.

Buses from Hanoi to Tam Coc:

The most convenient way to get from Hanoi to Tam Coc is by bus – many Hanoi-Tam Coc buses depart daily, with the journey taking around two hours each way. Alternatively, those wanting a unique experience can opt for a Hanoi-Tam Coc day trip, which includes roundtrip transportation and admission to popular attractions like Hoa Lu Temple and Tam Coc Boat Ride.

From Ninh Binh to Tam Coc Bich Dong

Ninh Binh city is your gateway to the idyllic Tam Coc Bich Dong tourist area - just a short journey away. Taxis and motorbike taxis are available for groups of up to 4 people, at an affordable price.

For adventurers with grand designs in mind that involve taking in multiple sites within Ninh Binh, there exists another option: rent a motorbike and painstakingly plan out hop-on/hop-off tours along captivating arcs between each attraction.

What to Do in Tam Coc? Top Beautiful Attractions to Visit in Tam Coc Bich Dong

Tam Coc Boat tour:

Tam Coc boat tours allow travelers to explore the river and caves of Tam Coc Bich Dong in a small boat, although the journey may also be made atop a motorcycle or bicycle.

Tam Coc Bich Dong's majestic beauty lies in its location within the Trang An - Tam Coc scenic complex, situated among Ngu Nhac Son and Dam Khe village of Ninh Hai commune. With this natural splendor, it was placed on both UNESCO's World Heritage list and Vietnam’s special national relic register — a true testament to its astounding visual grandeur.

Tam Coc Bich Dong is an awe-inspiring natural wonder covering 350.3 hectares and reminiscent of Trang An's breathtaking beauty. Cruise down the majestic Ngo Dong River in a boat, admiring three famous caves along the journey that add to Tam Coco's splendid landscape; with verdant mountains looming one after another over tranquil waters - creating a blissful harmony between nature and its inhabitants alike.

Thai Vi Temple

Visit the Thai Vi Temple, a 10th-century temple located in Hanoi's Tam Coc district. Admire its iconic roof bearing a resemblance to that of the Hanoi Opera House and explore its intricate interior featuring beautiful stone sculptures, carvings, and statues. Make sure to take some time out to appreciate this historic site and get a taste of Hanoi’s rich culture. 

Thien Huong Cave

Spend a day exploring the alluring Thien Huong Cave in Tam Coc. Hike through its lush jungle entrance and take in the surreal beauty of this remarkable cave system with spectacular stalagmites and stalactites, eerie caverns, and fascinating rock formations. Be sure to explore the various underground tunnels, walkways, and lakes inside the cave for an unforgettable experience. 

Bich Dong

Bich Dong, the "green cave," is a renowned attraction located 2 km from Tam Coc wharf. Its historical roots trace back to 1773 when Prime Minister Nguyen Nghiem christened this landmark Nam Thien De Nhi Dong, or the second most beautiful cave in southern Vietnam (behind Huong Tich Cave). Today Bich Dong stands as an esteemed member of its surrounding landscape known for its captivating beauty and rich history.

Xuyen Thuy Cave

Explore Hanoi’s Xuyen Thuy Cave, located in Tam Coc Hanoi. Hike through the jungle to reach this hidden gem and be sure to take a boat ride around its spectacular lake. Take a dip in its cool blue waters or wander along the riverbanks admiring its breathtaking natural beauty.

 Fairy Cave

The Fairy Cave, located in Tam Coc, is an amazing natural wonder. Hike through stunning scenery to reach the entrance and marvel at its unique rock formations including stalactites and stalagmites that have been shaped over thousands of years. Be sure to explore all the chambers within the cave for a truly unforgettable experience.

Linh Coc Pagoda

Located in Tam Coc Ninh Binh, Linh Coc Pagoda is a stunning example of Vietnamese temple architecture. Visit this sacred site and admire its intricately designed exterior, featuring detailed carvings and statues. The pagoda is dedicated to Maitreya Buddha, also known as the “Buddha of Future Happiness”. Take in the spiritual energy of this traditional Buddhist temple and be sure to visit its mysterious cave.

Bich Dong Pagoda

Discover the hidden beauty of Hanoi's Tam Coc district by visiting the Bich Dong Pagoda. Enjoy some time admiring its unique architecture, complete with three separate pagodas connected by a staircase that winds up the side of a hill. 

Once at the top, you will be able to enjoy breathtaking views of the Ngo Dong River and Tam Coc valley below. In addition to the pagoda, Bich Dong was also home to Hanoi’s first Huyen Tran temple and is a great destination for those wanting to explore Hanoi's cultural heritage. 

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: 

Step into a realm of rich history and culture with a visit to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. The ancient capital of Hoa Lu was the first and only feudal capital of Vietnam during the Dinh Dynasty (968-980). Experience the olden-day vibes as you stroll through this 10th-century enclave, admiring its ancient city walls, temples, and monuments. Unlock Vietnam's past at the legendary Dinh Dynasty capital that was once home to royalty centuries ago.

Mua Cave:

Experience the full beauty of Tam Coc by taking an invigorating hike to the top of Mua Cave. Climb to the summit of Mua Cave and be rewarded with breathtaking sights of Tam Coc's bucolic, rolling hills. From its peak, you will be treated to stunning panoramic vistas of this magical landscape and all that it has to offer. 

Thung Nham Bird Park:

Take a refreshing break at Hanoi's Thung Nham Bird Park. This vast park is a paradise for both birdwatchers and regular visitors, featuring an array of feathered wildlife from all over the world. Listen to the birds sing their beautiful melodies as you wander through this lush green space surrounded by rocky walls for an unforgettable experience.

What to eat when traveling to Tam Coc Bich Dong?

Ninh Binh Burnt Rice

Enjoy the unique local delicacy of Hanoi's Tam Coc region with a plate of Ninh Binh burnt rice. This flavorful dish is made from fried rice and topped with crispy pork, mushrooms, and vegetables.

Ninh Binh Mountain Goat Meat

For those who enjoy gamey flavors, Ninh Binh mountain goat meat is a must-try. The Hanoi region of Tam Coc produces some of the best quality goat meat in all of Vietnam. Enjoy this delicacy with fresh herbs and vegetables for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ninh Binh Mountain Snail

Indulge in the unique flavor of Hanoi's Tam Coc region with some Ninh Binh mountain snails. These juicy mollusks are cooked in a flavorful broth and served with noodles for an unforgettable dish.

A Reference Itinerary for 2 Day and 1 Night Trip from Hanoi to Tam Coc

Day 1: Hanoi to Tam Coc

• Start the day by taking a bus from Hanoi to Tam Coc, located approximately 128 kilometers away.

• Once you reach Tam Coc Hanoi, visit some of the area's natural attractions such as Linh Coc Pagoda, Bich Dong Pagoda, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Thach Bich-Sunny Valley, Thung Nham Bird Park, and more.

• For lunch, enjoy some of Hanoi's local cuisine such as Ninh Binh Burnt Rice, Tam Coc Frog Soup, or Ninh Binh Mountain Goat Meat.

• Visit the peaceful Trang An Grottoes, where you can take a boat ride and admire the stunning limestone cliffs.

• Overnight in Tam Coc Hanoi.

Day 2: Tam Coc Hanoi to Hanoi

• In the morning, explore some of Hanoi’s cultural heritage at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital or Thien Ha Cave.

• For lunch, sample some of Hanoi's local delicacies such as Ninh Binh mountain snails.

• After lunch, head to Hanoi and embark on one of the many day trips available from Hanoi.

• Overnight in Hanoi.

Conclusion :

At the end of your Hanoi Tam Coc bus journey from Hanoi to Tam Coc, you will have experienced some of Hanoi's most fascinating attractions and savored the unique flavors of Hanoi's local cuisine. From exploring ancient capital cities to taking leisurely boat rides through tranquil caves, your Hanoi Tam Coc trip is sure to be an unforgettable one. So, why not book your Hanoi Tam Coc bus tour today and start planning your dream Hanoi vacation? Start packing and get ready to explore the beauty of Hanoi and its surroundings. Bon voyage!