The Enchanting Beauty of Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong
Tam Coc – “Halong Bay on Land” on Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong
Imagine floating down the Ngo Dong River on a wooden boat, surrounded by limestone karsts and rich greenery. Tam Coc, or “Three Caves," is a feature in every Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc – Bich Dong. A tour here will take one through three remarkable caves:
- The biggest, Hang Ca, welcomes you with its cool, mysterious interior and impressive stalactites.
- Hai Hang boasts unique shapes carved through time and is a peaceful retreat into nature.
- Hang Ba is the smallest but most tranquil of all, completing the trio’s trio with its quiet charm.
You will be enchanted as you float through these caves: the reflections of the karst mountains in the calm waters and the vibrant colors of the rice fields that line the riverbanks. Depending on the time of year, the colors change into a breathtaking vision: golden rice fields between May and June, lotus blooms in June and July. It is no wonder that Tam Coc has gained the nickname “Halong Bay on Land," which makes it one of the sites that should not be missed during Ninh Binh tours.
Bich Dong – “The Second Most Beautiful Cave Under the Sky"
Bich Dong (Sours: rebrn)
Only a short trip from Tam Coc, Bich Dong is a spiritual and architectural wonder place. It has been referred to as the “Second Most Beautiful Cave Under the Sky," an iconic site that has become the cornerstone of Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong. It is complex, comprising three pagodas: Lower, Middle, and Upper, ingeniously integrated into the side of the mountain and melting into the natural surroundings.
- The Lower Pagoda serenely greets you as you approach.
- Going higher, the Middle Pagoda would be a serene, historical moment surrounded by ancient carvings and natural beauty.
- On the summit is the Upper Pagoda, from which almost breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lush countryside unfold, rendering the onlooker speechless.
Beyond the architecture, it is at least as important historically and culturally: a site of worship and mediation over centuries. Its characteristic blending of nature and what man can build makes Bich Dong the highlight of all Ninh Binh tours.
Detailed Itinerary: Delightful Ninh Binh Tours to Visit Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Day 1: Discover the Natural Beauty of Tam Coc and the Spiritual Bich Dong
Tam Coc (Sours: www.booking)
7:30 AM: Start from Hanoi. Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in the Old Quarter. Embark on a 2-hour drive with interesting stories thrown in about Ninh Binh’s history and its must-visit attractions.
9:30 AM: Arrive in Tam Coc. Take a refreshing cup of traditional Vietnamese tea and some snacks to energize for the day’s adventure.
10:00 AM: The scenic boat tour along the Ngo Dong River, highlights all Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong. Travel through three wonderful caves of Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba sitting while local rowers get you across. Limestone karsts and lush rice paddies, along with serene surroundings, are common scenes here.
12:00 PM: Photo stop at a peaceful countryside with typical rural Vietnam scenes.
12:30 PM: Enjoy a sumptuous Vietnamese lunch at a nearby restaurant. The menu will include local delicacies such as crispy rice, com chay, goat meat, and a variety of fresh vegetables.
2:00 PM: Bich Dong Pagoda, also known as “Second Most Beautiful Cave Under the Sky," was called by the Chinese. Some three-tiered pagodas were built into the side of a limestone mountain. Its spiritual significance should be discussed, and on top, panoramic views unfold from the Upper Pagoda.
3:30 PM: Cooking class with a local family to learn the secret of making Vietnamese spring rolls, tasting them along with other traditional dishes.
5:30 PM: Arrive at a comfortable resort or homestay in the middle of the tranquility of rice fields and karst mountain surroundings. Free time to roam around or to relax.
7:00 PM: Dinner at homestay and optional cultural performance by traditional music or water puppetry.
9:00 PM: Sleep to recharge for the next day.
Day 2: Adventure and History in Ninh Binh on Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong
Van Lam Craft Village (Sours: izitour)
7:30 AM: Have a good, substantial breakfast. Typically Vietnamese foods for the meal, such as pho or banh cuon, will be accompanied by aromatic local coffee.
8:30 AM: Drive to Hang Mua, also known as Mua Cave, an outstanding lookout in Ninh Binh. Climb the 486 stone steps to the top of the mountain for a moment of panoramic views of the Tam Coc area with the meandering river and diverse colors of landscapes.
12:00 PM: Lunch Savour is a local lunch that includes fresh dishes made for the season.
1:30 PM: Transfer to Van Lam Craft Village, famous for its rich embroidery work. Get introduced to local artisans and acquire unique souvenir items in their memory.
3:00 PM: Take a tour of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which represents the first imperial capital of Vietnam. Take an effortless walk and explore ancient temples built for King Dinh and King Le and thereby learn a little bit about the Dinh and Le Dynasties’ history.
4:30 PM: Finally, conclude your tour with a short stop at a local shop for regional specialties like crispy rice, goat jerky, or Kim Son wine.
6:30 PM: Get back to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi at about 8:30 PM. Drop off at your hotel, ending your Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong.
Included Services:
- Round-trip transportation by a modern, air-conditioned vehicle.
- Experienced English-speaking guide.
- Boat ride in Tam Coc.
- All entrance fees: Bich Dong Pagoda, Hang Mua, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital.
- 1-night Accommodation at Resort or Homestay.
- Meals: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner.
- Cooking class experience.
Excluded Services on Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong:
- Personal expenses: drinks, shopping, etc.
- Guide and driver tips.
Essential Tips for Your Ninh Binh Tours to Visit Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Ninh Binh (Sours: tuannguyentravel)
Best Times to Experience Ninh Binh Tours to Visit Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Tam Coc-Bich Dong is a place where the right time to visit becomes the key to enjoying its beauty. If you want to see cool weather and cultural festivities, then come between January and March in the vibrant spring season. If you like golden rice fields, the window of time from late May to early June is perfect for your journey. The tranquil and colorful environment would be better experienced during June or July of the year when the lotus fields are in full bloom. Every season contributes to the peculiar charm of Ninh Binh tours making each visit special.
Cultural Etiquette for Ninh Binh Tours to Visit Tam Coc – Bich Dong
To fully enjoy your Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong, you have to prepare the right things. Here is what we recommend:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: A visit to Tam Coc’s caves, Bich Dong Pagoda, and the steps up to Hang Mua requires a pair of comfortable shoes that can support the weight of your body.
- Sunscreen and a Hat: This will protect you from the sun, especially if you plan on visiting during summer.
- Camera or Smartphone: Landscapes of Tam Coc-Bich Dong are so stunning, that you will want to shoot these unforgettable moments.
Packing Essentials for Ninh Binh Tours to Visit Tam Coc – Bich Dong
Respect towards the local customs and traditions only adds depth to your whole experience and makes you welcome during Ninh Binh tours.
- Dress Modestly: One should dress in such a way that shoulders and knees are covered when visiting Bich Dong Pagoda and other sacred places as a respect for religious customs.
- Respect Local Customs: Be respectful among the locals, and as per your guide’s instructions, be non-interfering in villages or places of sanctity. A smile does a lot of magic to bridge friendships!
Must-Try Ninh Binh Specialties and Souvenirs
Local Delicacies: A Taste of Ninh Binh on Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong
Goat Meat Dishes: Goat meat dishes are famous in Ninh Binh and are prepared by grilling, stewing, or even salad to bring out its tenderness and flavor. The dishes are prepared either grilled, steamed, or as a salad to show the region’s expertise in cooking.
Price: From 150,000 to 300,000 VND per dish.
Where to Buy:
- Chinh Thu Goat Meat Restaurant (Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh).
- Ninh Binh Mountain Goat Specialty Restaurant (Trang An, Hoa Lu).
Crispy Rice (Com Chay): One of the favorite snacks and side dishes from golden, crispy rice, topped with saucy flavors, pork floss, or savory herbs. A satisfying crunchy treat.
Price: From 50,000 to 150,000 VND per pack.
Where to Buy:
- Khai Hoa Crispy Rice (465 Tran Hung Dao, Ninh Binh City).
- Rong Market (Van Giang, Thanh Binh, Ninh Binh).
Fermented Pork Roll (Nem Yen Mac): This traditional delicacy combines minced pork, rice, and seasonings wrapped in banana leaves. Its acid and savory flavors make the dish unforgettable for any Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong.
Fermented Pork Roll (Sours: vietnamonline)
Price: Around 85,000 VND per set.
Where to Buy:
- Nem Yen Mac Gia Truyen (Gia Vien, Ninh Binh)
- Clay Restaurant (Dong Thanh, Ninh Binh City).
Souvenirs: Treasures to Take Home on Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong
The embroidery in the traditional style on the fabric in Van Lam Craft Village is attractive because of the skillful and meticulous stitches of artisans, then get for yourself beautiful, finely embroidered works as gifts and keepsakes for your memory.
Price: From 200,000 to 1,000,000 VND, depending on the size and intricacy.
Where to Buy:
- Van Lam Embroidery Village (Ninh Hai, Hoa Lu, near Tam Coc).
Traditional ceramics and bamboo crafts from the most fragile pottery to the cutest bamboo things-all of are included in Ninh Binh’s crafts, reflecting the art of the region. Each of these timeless pieces will be a touch of Vietnamese culture in any house.
Price: From 100,000 to 500,000 VND.
Where to Buy:
- Dragon Market (Van Giang, Thanh Binh, Ninh Binh).
- Craft Village Shop (near Hoa Lu Ancient Capital).
Local Wines: Enjoy the local wines of Ninh Binh, Kim Son wine, and Lai Thanh rice wine, known for their strong taste and classic way of brewing. These local wines are a delightful way to remember your trip and make great gifts for friends and family.
Price: From 50,000 to 200,000 VND per bottle.
Where to Buy:
- Kim Son Wine Village (Kim Son, Ninh Binh).
- Binh Minh Restaurant (Trang An, Ninh Binh).
Conclusion
Your Ninh Binh tours to visit Tam Coc-Bich Dong is a journey that will create unforgettable moments in your mind, combining beautiful landscapes, cultural traditions, and relaxation. From tranquil boat trips to visiting ancient pagodas, each moment is specifically designed to leave long-lasting memories. Do not miss this lifetime opportunity for an adventure. Book now with Impress Travel and begin your journey into the heart of Vietnam today.
Hanoi Head Office
- 125 Hoang Ngan, Hanoi
- Tel: (+84) 912 379 189
- Email: hanoi@impresstravel.com
Saigon Office
- 155 Ben Van Don, Rivergate, 4 District, HCM
- Tel: (+84)961675566
- Email: saigon@impresstravel.com