Top Things to Do in Tam Coc Ninh Binh Vietnam
06/12/2022 589 Views
Tam Coc has many limestone mountains and is well known for the name “Ha Long Bay on land”, so if you have already visited Ha Long Bay, this place can give you a whole new experience that you never had before. Read along to explore more about the Top Things To Do in Tam Coc.
Top Things to Do in Tam Coc Ninh Binh Vietnam
Tam Coc has many limestone mountains and is well known for the name “Ha Long Bay on land”, so if you have already visited Ha Long Bay, this place can give you a whole new experience that you never had before. Read along to explore more about the Top Things To Do in Tam Coc.
For as small as they may seem, there are some truly unique and amazing things to do in Ninh Binh and Tam Coc. Whether you’re interested in hiking to the tallest viewpoint, paddling through caves, or soaking up the culture at the ancient capital, there’s a little something for everyone.
The province is home to breathtaking limestone formations that shoot up out of rice paddies and broad rivers. The town of Tam Coc is surrounded by mountains on three sides, with some homestays nestled right up against the stark cliffs. You can explore the region by car, bike, and boat.
Our original plan for traveling through Vietnam had us skipping right over them, but some mishaps landed us there anyway. We’re glad they did because Ninh Binh turned out to be one of the most beautiful places we visited.
Here are seven awesome things to do in Ninh Binh and Tam Coc that you definitely should not pass on.
Tam Coc is located in Ninh Binh province which is only 1.5 hours drive from Hanoi, it is a fascinating and peaceful place with ancient features and a natural landscape. Let's discover things you can do when visiting this famous destination.
During harvesting season, you can easily meet friendly local people rowing with a full stack of rice on their boat; making the view even more interesting to see. Not to mention, you will be amazed also by the skills of boat riders. They can row the boat in any direction with their feet, through a low-roof cave or narrow waterways, which must be quite challenging to do. It is said that almost everyone in this area can rowboat, even with their feet.
It’s not a big complex of pagodas so you can make a quick visit from the foot of Bich Dong Pagoda to reach the very top. When you reach the Upper Pagoda, you will be welcomed with a gorgeous view out of the valley of the stretching mountains and enormous rice fields.
The temples were built in honor of the emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, their sons, and empress Duong Van Nga, who was married first to Dinh Tien Hoang and then to Le Dai Hanh. Hoa Lu is a beautiful spot to soak in some ancient Vietnamese history and admire the stunning natural scenery surrounding the citadel.
You don’t have to pay the entrance fee when visiting here however, the complex is gigantic and it’s a very long way from the gate to the actual temples so you may consider taking a ride on the golf buggies. Bai Dinh Pagoda was recognized as a cultural and historical heritage site in 1997 and since then became the largest tourist attraction in Vietnam.
You will come to the first incredible viewpoint with a spectacular sight of the Ngo Dong River below that cuts its way around the towering mountains and landscape view of rice fields. Continue the hike up a little further till you reach the top of Mua Cave and to the second viewpoint that offers you 360-degree views of the countryside. 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
There are 486 steps to climb up to the top, doesn’t sound so bad right? However, it would be very tiring if you walked up during the day as no shade protects you from the heat. So the ideal time to visit is to go in the early morning or late in the afternoon when the sun starts to set, so you can avoid the hot weather and large crowd of tourists.
To see the bird, you have to walk to the bird-watching area and pass by a bamboo bridge. You can also take a boat ride out to the bird area for an additional fee. Around 4-5 pm is when the birds fly back to their nest, it is also giving you a chance to see a lot of birds.
Tam Coc is a wonderful destination if you prefer a getaway-from-the-city trip, it offers more than just a scenic destination as there are a lot of things to do in Tam Coc and you will fall in love with this place for sure. Thinking about traveling by booking Ninh Binh - Tam Coc tour and exploring the North of Vietnam? Check out our itineraries to visit this beautiful destination.
See more for guides:
>> Top 17 best places to visit in Ninh Binh
>> Cuc Phuong National Park
>> Van Long nature reserve
See more for tours:
>> Hoa Lu Tam Coc Tour
>> Cuc Phuong national park tour
>> Vietnam tour 2 weeks
For as small as they may seem, there are some truly unique and amazing things to do in Ninh Binh and Tam Coc. Whether you’re interested in hiking to the tallest viewpoint, paddling through caves, or soaking up the culture at the ancient capital, there’s a little something for everyone.
The province is home to breathtaking limestone formations that shoot up out of rice paddies and broad rivers. The town of Tam Coc is surrounded by mountains on three sides, with some homestays nestled right up against the stark cliffs. You can explore the region by car, bike, and boat.
Our original plan for traveling through Vietnam had us skipping right over them, but some mishaps landed us there anyway. We’re glad they did because Ninh Binh turned out to be one of the most beautiful places we visited.
Here are seven awesome things to do in Ninh Binh and Tam Coc that you definitely should not pass on.
Tam Coc is located in Ninh Binh province which is only 1.5 hours drive from Hanoi, it is a fascinating and peaceful place with ancient features and a natural landscape. Let's discover things you can do when visiting this famous destination.
Road from Hanoi to Tam Coc Ninh Binh
One of the highlights of visiting Tam Coc is riding a small boat along the Ngo Dong River. The winding river runs alongside the towering limestone peaks and the flooded rice paddies which are vibrant green in spring and glamorous yellow in autumn, a 2-hour trip on the river is an absolute scenic ride.1. Boat riding along Ngo Dong River
You will have a chance to enjoy the splendid landscape which includes three original caves from thousands of years (Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave). The first Cave you will visit is Ca Cave and it’s the longest cave (127m). Inside the cave is a marvelous sight of stalactites hanging from above. The next stop on the boat ride is Hai Cave and Ba Cave respectively.During harvesting season, you can easily meet friendly local people rowing with a full stack of rice on their boat; making the view even more interesting to see. Not to mention, you will be amazed also by the skills of boat riders. They can row the boat in any direction with their feet, through a low-roof cave or narrow waterways, which must be quite challenging to do. It is said that almost everyone in this area can rowboat, even with their feet.
2. Visit Temples and Pagodas
When traveling to Ninh Binh in general and Tam Coc in particular, it’s perfect to pair the boat ride along Ngo Dong River with a visit to some local attractions nearby. These landmarks are religious and sacred places, especially for local people so remember to dress appropriately and respectfully when you visit.a. Bich Dong Pagoda
Not too far from Tam Coc wharf, about 2km (1.2 miles), there is a pagoda built into a side of a cliff called Bich Dong Pagoda. It is composed of 3 structured pagodas (Low, Middle, and Upper) and surrounded by vast greenery. The entrance to Bich Dong Pagoda is small yet enchanted and the most photogenic of this location. It’s better to keep in mind that Bich Dong Pagoda is a popular spot among travelers for taking stunning photos so you should come early to avoid big group tours or other travelers.It’s not a big complex of pagodas so you can make a quick visit from the foot of Bich Dong Pagoda to reach the very top. When you reach the Upper Pagoda, you will be welcomed with a gorgeous view out of the valley of the stretching mountains and enormous rice fields.
b. Hoa Lu Temple
Hoa Lu was once the ancient capital of Vietnam dating back to the 11th century. Located approximately 16km (10 miles) north of Tam Coc, this area has a beautiful setting and tranquil spot to soak in some ancient Vietnamese history and admire the stunning natural scenery surrounding the citadel. The temples were built in honor of the emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, their sons, and empress Duong Van Nga, who was married first to Dinh Tien Hoang and then to Le Dai Hanh.The temples were built in honor of the emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, their sons, and empress Duong Van Nga, who was married first to Dinh Tien Hoang and then to Le Dai Hanh. Hoa Lu is a beautiful spot to soak in some ancient Vietnamese history and admire the stunning natural scenery surrounding the citadel.
c. Bai Dinh Pagoda
Bai Dinh Pagoda is a huge complex of Buddhist Temples situated about 14 miles outside of Tam Coc. The entire area is over 100 hectares making it the largest pagoda in Southeast Asia. The Bai Dinh Pagoda stands an impressive 13-story tall with a panoramic view at the top and 500 Arhat statues made of stone that stand higher than a human’s head.You don’t have to pay the entrance fee when visiting here however, the complex is gigantic and it’s a very long way from the gate to the actual temples so you may consider taking a ride on the golf buggies. Bai Dinh Pagoda was recognized as a cultural and historical heritage site in 1997 and since then became the largest tourist attraction in Vietnam.
d. Mua Cave
Traveling in Tam Coc, You will wallow in a wonderful landscape of mountains, valleys, and rivers. These places are a must if you want to have the best view and surround yourself with verdant nature.You will come to the first incredible viewpoint with a spectacular sight of the Ngo Dong River below that cuts its way around the towering mountains and landscape view of rice fields. Continue the hike up a little further till you reach the top of Mua Cave and to the second viewpoint that offers you 360-degree views of the countryside. 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
There are 486 steps to climb up to the top, doesn’t sound so bad right? However, it would be very tiring if you walked up during the day as no shade protects you from the heat. So the ideal time to visit is to go in the early morning or late in the afternoon when the sun starts to set, so you can avoid the hot weather and large crowd of tourists.
e. Thung Nham Bird Park
Be immersed in the wild and nature, enjoy a fresh atmosphere and quietly listen to the birds singing, Thung Nham is a beautiful site and known to be home to various species of birds that can let you do that. The Thung Nham Bird Park is surrounded by tropical forest strips on limestone mountains and numerous valleys and caves.To see the bird, you have to walk to the bird-watching area and pass by a bamboo bridge. You can also take a boat ride out to the bird area for an additional fee. Around 4-5 pm is when the birds fly back to their nest, it is also giving you a chance to see a lot of birds.
Tam Coc is a wonderful destination if you prefer a getaway-from-the-city trip, it offers more than just a scenic destination as there are a lot of things to do in Tam Coc and you will fall in love with this place for sure. Thinking about traveling by booking Ninh Binh - Tam Coc tour and exploring the North of Vietnam? Check out our itineraries to visit this beautiful destination.
See more for guides:
>> Top 17 best places to visit in Ninh Binh
>> Cuc Phuong National Park
>> Van Long nature reserve
See more for tours:
>> Hoa Lu Tam Coc Tour
>> Cuc Phuong national park tour
>> Vietnam tour 2 weeks
ONLY WITH US : 100 % MONEY BACK GUARANTEE within 10 days from the date of booking if not satisfied.
For further information, or simply a free quote, please contact us at any time via our email: info@galatourist.com, our experienced consultants will reply to you within 48 hours.Sincerely yours & see you soon!
GALATOURIST since 2005.
Related Articles
Coronavirus situation by traveller in Vietnam on February 4, 2020
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, which cause illnesses ranging from a simple cold (some seasonal viruses are coronaviruses) to more severe conditions such as MERS or SARS. The virus identified in Wuhan in December 2019 is a novel coronavirus. It was named 2019-nCoV.
Top 29 best places to visit in Hanoi Vietnam
As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi still retains its leisurely pace in a quiet atmosphere compared to the more bustling Ho Chi Minh City. However, Hanoi deserves to be the capital of Vietnam thanks to its typical culture accumulated along the passage of time which defines best what Vietnam is. The article will show you 29 best places to visit in Hanoi for your choices.
Admire the majestic but charming beauty of Dai Yem Waterfall in Moc Chau
Located in the heart of Moc Chau, Vietnam, Dai Yem Waterfall is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Known for its breathtaking beauty and tranquil surroundings, this hidden gem is the perfect escape from the bustling city life. If you're wondering what to do in Moc Chau, Vietnam, a trip to Dai Yem Waterfall should be at the top of your list. In this article, we'll explore the best ways to experience this natural wonder and share tips for making the most of your visit. Stay tuned to the Vietnam travel blog by Galatourist for more insights!
Activities in Ha Giang Viet Nam: Meo Vac Town what to do
Meo Vac, located in Ha Giang, Vietnam, is a stunning location renowned for its imposing limestone cliffs, magnificent scenery, and diverse ethnic cultures. Meo Vac, which is tucked away in the untamed mountains of northern Vietnam, gives daring visitors the chance to take in the breathtaking scenery and the lively local way of life. Here are the suggestions for Meo Vac Town what to do.
Ha Giang 1 day tour: What to do for a day tour in Ha Giang Loop
Are you up for an exciting journey through the best-kept secret in Vietnam? When you come on our Ha Giang 1-Day Tour in Ha Giang Loop, you can expect to be astounded by the stunning scenery and fascinating cultural experiences that lie ahead of you.
Hue night acitivities with experiencing Hue Folk Songs on Perfume River
Hue's folk music offer one of the most captivating ways to discover the spirit of the city's cultural tapestry. Let's explore the enchanted evening pursuits this culturally diverse city has to offer.
Specialties Ninh Bình ? What to eat in Ninh Bình
Ninh Bình specialties can be an exemple for a trip of streetfood because the term "What to eat in Ninh Bình" is really curious for the touristes who traveled here
Hue Handcraft Discovery: Thuy Xuan Incense Stick-making Village (Thuỷ Xuân)
One of the most alluring Hue tourist attractions is Incense Villages like Thuy Xuan Incense Stick-making Village (Thuỷ Xuân). This is where you may capture a ton of gorgeous pictures and learn about the art of creating incense sticks. Hue has long been known for its rich cultural and historical past as well as its distinctive craft villages, the most well-known of which is Thuy Xuan Incense Village (Thuỷ Xuân) in Hue, which is said to contain the essence of this historic capital. With vibrant and eye-catching incense bundles, Thuy Xuan Village (Thủy Xuân) maintains a nostalgic charm that is alluring even though it isn't very busy or exciting.
Hue itinerary with traditional handcraft: Phu Cam Conical Hat Village
Hue conical hat or Phu Cam Village (Phú Cam) is not only elegant in shape but also subdued in colour. It appears to be piercing through light since it is so thin and light. If you plan for a Hue day tour and wonder about things to do for a day in Hue, Phu Cam Village is a highly recommended place to visit.
Best ways to get to Hue: From all parts of Vietnam for Hue itinerary
Located in the centre of Vietnam, between the well-known cities of Hanoi, Hoi An and many other Vietnam famous tourist destinations, is the lovely city of Hue. It's a must for travellers nationwide and a wonderful place to spend a Hue Vietnam tour. There are numerous ways to get Hue from all parts of Vietnam. From Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, Sai Gon, and Phu Quoc, you can easily travel to Hue and vice versa. Here is a comprehensive guide for the transport to Hue.
What to do in 3 days in Hue: Hue itinerary for culture lovers
You may explore the most fascinating Hue attractions in Hue Vietnam tour, take advantage of the nightlife, and eat a lot of the mouthwatering cuisine from Central Vietnam in just 3 days in Hue.
2 days in Hue itinerary: Comprehensively Hue what to do and see
Hue is located in central Vietnam, between the well-known cities of Hanoi and Hoi An. It's a must for travellers nationwide and a wonderful place to spend 2 days in Hue. It doesn't take long to view Hue attractions. Many people try to fit everything into one day, but for a more leisurely Hue Vietnam tour, 2 days in Hue are ideal. I suggest coming early on Day 1 and departing late on Day 2 to get the most out of your 2 days in Hue. Because of this, you’ll have plenty of time to view everything without feeling hurried.
Testimonials
The following are the real customer reviews about GalaTourist by video clips, email & feedback form, etc... please check it out!
Ms. Francesca Tronconi & Mr Vizzolini Davide (2pax) from Spain
Ms. Francesca Tronconi & Mr Vizzolini Davide from Spain, taked a Tour in Vietnam on 8.2018
Mrs & Mr. DUPUIS (2pax) from United States
Mrs & Mr. DUPUIS from US taked a vacation of THAILAND & CAMBODIA & VIETNAM 14 days on 3.2018
Mr. Jeffrey Szymanski (2pax) from United States
They taked a trip of Vietnam and Cambodia 11 days on 3.2018
Mrs Rosemary McGuinness (2pax) from Australia
Taking a trip of Vietnam & Cambodia 14 days on 26th mars 2018
Mrs Elena Maria Sanchez (2pax) from Spain
Mrs Elena Maria Sanchez from Spain taked a trip in Vietnam on 1.2016
Group Marissa (4pax) from United States
Group Marissa 4pax from USA taked a Trip in Vietnam on 2.2016
Mr Jerzy (2pax) from Canada
Mr Jerzy from Canada have traveled in Vietnam on 3.2016
Mr Ricardo Velasco (8pax) from Argentina
Sr Ricardo Velasco 8pax - Argentina taked a trip to Vietnam Cambodia Thailand on 2016.