Don't Visit Tam Coc, Vietnam Without Knowing These 10 Basics

Tam Coc, Vietnam, has earned prestigious recognition from Forbes magazine as one of the 23 best tourist destinations of 2023! Additionally, TripAdvisor travelers have ranked this enchanting region as the 7th friendliest destination in the world. What makes Tam Coc so exceptional and deserving of such high praise? Read on to discover the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality that make Tam Coc a must-visit destination.

Written by Jade NGUYEN, (local expert) Updated on 05-11-2024

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1. What Is Tam Coc and Where Is It Located?

Tam Coc, often referred to as the "Halong Bay on Land," is a stunning destination within the Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh, Vietnam.

Covering 10,000 hectares across Hoa Lu, Gia Vien, Nho Quan districts, and Ninh Binh City, the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex includes the Trang An Eco-tourist Site, Tam Coc-Bich Dong Landscape, and Hoa Lu Ancient Citadel.

Trang An Eco-tourist Site features spectacular limestone karst peaks, valleys (some submerged), and steep cliffs, making it an outdoor geological museum. The site includes 48 grottoes and caves interspersed with 31 valleys, each offering unique beauty. With around 500 species of flora, 73 species of birds, and 41 other animal species, Trang An is renowned for its diverse ecosystem and exceptional natural beauty.

This area is located about 65 miles (approximately a 2-hour drive) from Hanoi, near the southern edge of the Red River Delta, features a breathtaking landscape with majestic rock formations rising above lush rice fields and tranquil streams.

Tam Coc, meaning "three caves" and also known as Xuyen Thuy, comprises Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave. These caves were formed by the Ngo Dong River carving its way through the mountains. (In Vietnamese, "Ca" means 1st, "Hai" means 2nd, and "Ba" means 3rd.)

• Ca Cave: This cave is 127 meters long, passing through a large mountain with an entrance over 20 meters wide. The cave has a cool climate and features numerous stalactites hanging down in various shapes and forms.

• Hai Cave: Located nearly 1 kilometer from Ca Cave, Hai Cave is 60 meters long with a ceiling adorned with many unusual stalactites.
• Ba Cave: Situated near Hai Cave, Ba Cave is 50 meters long. Its ceiling resembles a stone arch and is lower compared to the other two caves.

Trang An incorporates a footcave-enclosed depression (cockpit) landscape that is considered by experts to be the best example of its kind in the world. Covering 6,226 hectares, it is surrounded by a buffer zone of 6,026 hectares of mostly rural land with rice paddy fields.

2. What Is the Difference Between Tam Coc and Halong Bay?

Halong Bay is a maritime bay located in the northeast of Vietnam (Quang Ninh province), part of the Pacific Ocean. It is renowned for its thousands of limestone peaks that majestically emerge from the sea, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape. These peaks are often covered in lush vegetation, adding to the bay's mystical allure. Exploring Halong Bay is typically done via cruises that last 1 to 2 days, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty of the area.

During these cruises, travelers can participate in a variety of activities such as swimming in the emerald waters, kayaking through hidden lagoons and caves, visiting floating fishing villages, and enjoying the spectacular sunset over the bay. The cruises often include overnight stays on board, providing a unique and memorable experience of sleeping amid the serene waters and towering limestone formations.

In contrast, Tam Coc is situated on dry land in the Red River delta, within Ninh Binh province. It features sugarloaf-shaped rock formations that rise dramatically above expansive rice fields and meandering streams. This picturesque setting is often likened to a terrestrial version of Halong Bay, hence its nickname "Halong Bay on Land."

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Visiting Tam Coc involves taking shorter, hand-rowed boat rides, typically lasting about 2 hours. These small boats, usually operated by local villagers, gently glide along the Ngo Dong River, providing a peaceful and intimate exploration of the region's natural beauty. After the boat ride, it is often possible to enjoy relaxing bike rides through the surrounding nature, adding an extra dimension to the experience.

>>> 🗺️ For a detailed overview of these stunning locations, explore our  Vietnam Tourist Map. 

3. How to Get to Tam Coc?

Tam Coc is located approximately a 2-hour drive south of Hanoi, covering a distance of about 100 km. It is also approximately a 3-hour drive southwest from maritime Halong Bay.

Here is a summary of the transportation options:

• Hanoi, the capital of the country: 2 hours by road, 3 hours by evening train

You can purchase a train ticket to Ninh Binh at Hanoi Railway Station. The journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Railway Station takes a bit over 2 hours. From there, Tam Coc is located approximately 5 km away, and you can reach it by taking a taxi or a motorbike taxi from Ninh Binh Town. 

*Note: Check train routes and schedules via dsvn.vn

• Halong Bay: 3 hours by car

You can take a bus or minivan via the QL10 highway, which connects Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, Thai Binh, Nam Dinh, and Ninh Binh. Pickup is from your hotel or a designated location in Halong Bay. The journey includes a short break in Hai Phong and offers scenic views of rice fields and villages. You will be dropped off in Tam Coc, where you can book a boat tour.

• Pu Luong Nature Reserve: 3 hours by car

The driving distance from Tam Coc to Puluong Retreat, Pu Luong, is 128 km, taking about 2 hours and 11 minutes. You can either hire a private car or take a bus for the journey.

• Hue, the former imperial city in the central region: an overnight train journey

The railway from Hue Station to Ninh Binh Station is about 454 kilometers. Three trains, SE6, SE8, and SE20 (part of the Reunification Express), run this route daily, taking approximately 12.5 hours each way.

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>>> Read More: Vietnam Train Travel

4. What Are Must-Visited Sites and Must-Do Activities?

4.1 Taking a boat ride on the river

You will have the chance to admire the colossal artwork depicting a flute-playing shepherd boy riding his buffalo amidst the picturesque rice fields. The Tam Coc boat tour offers a serene, non-motorized journey through the picturesque Tam Coc countryside, lasting about 1.5 to 2 hours. Boat tours depart from the Tam Coc Van Lam Pier, where you can purchase tickets at the office located under the shelter.

• Tam Coc entrance fees: 120,000 VND for adults, 60,000 VND for children under 1.4 meters tall, and free for children under 3 years old.
• Boat ticket fees: 150,000 VND per boat, accommodating up to 4 Vietnamese tourists or 2 foreign tourists per boat.
• Open: 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM

You'll have the time to explore all three caves of Tam Coc during this boat tour:

• Ca Cave: Known as the largest and longest cave, Hang Ca boasts a height of 20 meters and stretches over 127 meters. The cave features numerous stalactites and stalagmites forming unique shapes. According to local tale, an old sage with white hair once fished here. Even today, from a distance, Hang Ca resembles a sage's home. The cave's cool atmosphere and beautiful stalactites captivate visitors.

• Hai Cave: Located about 1 km after Hang Ca, Hang Hai is over 60 meters long. Though smaller than Hang Ca, the experience of boating through the cave and admiring the sparkling stalactites is sure to delight you. The climate and scenery inside the cave are similar to Hang Ca.
• Ba Cave: Hang Ba differs from the other two caves with its lower ceiling. When visiting Hang Ba, you can enjoy the stunning natural scenery of Tam Coc, Ninh Binh.

If you're considering a trip to Vietnam to explore its captivating sights, we're here to provide you with Vietnam essential travel advice

4.2 Bich Dong Pagoda

From the Tam Coc boat pier, drive east for nearly 3 km to reach Bich Dong Pagoda, a historic three-tiered cave pagoda. Fondly called 'Nam Thien De Nhi Dong,' meaning the second most beautiful cave in the South, it is only surpassed by Huong Tich Cave in Huong Son. The location of this pagoda was selected in 1428 by two monks who were captivated by the scenic view of the river and mountains. Later, King Le Canh Hung honored the stunning pagoda and its landscape with a poem. Bich Dong, meaning 'Green Grotto' or 'Pearl Grotto,' reflects its magnificent natural beauty.

Part of the Tam Coc Bich Dong complex, Bich Dong Pagoda is an ancient temple built on the limestone mountains of Truong Yen in 1428, early in the Later Le Dynasty.

Today, the pagoda still houses a large bell cast during the reign of King Le Thai To and the tomb towers of the monks who contributed to its construction.

4.3 Explore Hang Mua

One of the highlights of Tam Coc is the climbing Hang Mua Peak to appreciate the beautiful scenery. The Ngo Dong River which snakes in a carved out area of Tam Coc, the lande of Halong Bay and its ricefields is a sight worth seeing after climbing close to five hundred steps.

A little shrine devoted to the Goddess of Mercy, Quan Am, as well as a dragon that looks after Tam Coc can also be spotted. Thirty minutes is enough to climb it, so carry some good shoes, a bottle of water and a sun hat with you.

4.4 Cycling Through the Stunning Landscapes of Tam Coc

For outdoor enthusiasts, Tam Coc is a cycling paradise with flat, easy terrain. Ride through scenic rice fields, dramatic karst hills, charming Red River Delta villages, temples, and pagodas.

Top cycling routes in Tam Coc:

• Thung Nang and Bich Dong Pagoda

Begin at Tam Coc Pier, following a serene path through rice fields and karst caves. Head to Thung Nang for expansive, sunlit views, and end at Bich Dong Pagoda, a peaceful, historic three-tiered pagoda on the hillside.

• Thung Nham Bird Sanctuary

This 6 km route includes a stop at Bich Dong Pagoda on the way to Thung Nham Bird Sanctuary, offering stunning views of Tam Coc.

• Hoa Lu via Hang Mua Peak

Cycle to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu (968-1010), with a stop at Hang Mua Peak for panoramic views. Extend the journey to nearby Trang An for more breathtaking scenery. This 20 km route is ideal for both nature and culture lovers.

5. When Are the Best Times to Visit?

The best time to explore Tam Coc is undoubtedly from spring to summer, which spans from February to October, coinciding with the rice field season. During this period, the rice fields stretch as far as the eye can see, enveloping the karst peaks in lush greenery.

>>>> Also read: Best Time to Visit North Vietnam

The months of June and September, when the rice is harvested, offer the most spectacular landscapes. The surroundings are adorned in a vibrant and mesmerizing yellow hue, and the air is filled with the sweet fragrance of ripe rice fields, creating an unforgettable and serene ambiance.

Summer is also when the lotus flowers bloom, adding to the stunning scenery with rolling rice fields and majestic lotus blossoms gracefully floating on the water. The rest of the year is also a favorable time for excursions, as the region experiences fewer crowds, yet the landscapes retain their splendor.

6. How Long Does It Take to Visit?

Exploring Tam Coc requires at least a full day to fully enjoy its offerings. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a one-day visit:

• Morning: Start with a boat excursion through the Tam Coc area, which will take you through serene rivers, lush rice fields, and stunning karst landscapes.
• Afternoon: Take a relaxing bicycle ride through the countryside, visiting local villages and rice paddies.
• Late Afternoon: Climb Mount Mua for panoramic views of Tam Coc and the Ngo Dong River, providing a breathtaking perspective of the area.

Mount Mua, which promises breathtaking panoramic views of Tam Coc and the Ngo Dong River, often considered one of the most beautiful and poetic spots in the area.

In addition to exploring Tam Coc, comprehensive tours often include visits to Hoa Lu, the ancient imperial capital that thrived during the Dinh and Le dynasties from 990 to 1010. This destination offers a journey back in time, allowing you to delve into the history and cultural richness of Vietnam.

These sites will enhance your visit to Tam Coc, offering deeper exploration into the region's nature and culture.

>>> Other than just Tam Coc, you can also come to Pu Luong Nature Reserve to observe the untouched beauty of nature. 

7. Trang An or Tam Coc: Which one is worth visitng?

If you're wondering, "Tam Coc or Trang An, which one should I choose?" the answer will depend on your preferences and the time you have. Tam Coc is part of the Tam Coc - Bich Dong Landscape Complex, known for its activities and attractions within a picturesque setting.

Trang An, however, offers a different experience with larger mountains, more caves, and lush vegetation. It’s also rich in archaeological sites, making it significant historically. Film fans will enjoy visiting a location where the fantasy blockbuster Kong: Skull Island was shot.

However, due to its beauty, Trang An can attract quite a crowd. If you prefer a tranquil setting, Tam Coc may be the better choice. While smaller in scale, it has its own charm, particularly with its karst landscapes and rice paddies, which are especially stunning during planting and harvesting seasons.

8. How to Combine Tam Coc With Halong Bay?

Due to its geographical location, Tam Coc, Halong Bay, and the capital of Hanoi together form a popular tourist triangle. Travelers visiting Hanoi often start their journey in the Vietnamese capital before exploring these two scenic bays. It is advisable to allocate at least one day and one night to explore Tam Coc before proceeding by bus or private car to Halong Bay, where you can embark on a two-day, one-night cruise aboard a traditional junk—a route commonly chosen by travelers.

Additionally, it is possible to reach Halong Bay by local bus, though departure and arrival times, as well as locations, can be unpredictable. For a more leisurely and worry-free trip, opting for a private car transfer is advisable.

You can also enhance your itinerary by including visits to Mai Chau and Pu Luong, two valleys and nature reserves located just a three-hour drive west of Tam Coc. In this scenario, the journey can commence in Hanoi, followed by a continuation to Pu Luong, where you can organize hikes through forests and rice terraces. Afterward, you can descend to Tam Coc, ultimately concluding the northern circuit with a relaxing cruise on Halong Bay.

This type of itinerary is highly favored by travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, as it combines the most remarkable sites of Northern Vietnam. (For more information, please check out our Northern Vietnam Tours.)

9. Where to Stay in Tam Coc?

Tam Coc, part of the Trang An Landscape Complex, along with the nearby regions of Trang An and Van Long, offers various accommodation options that preserve their rural charm.

Budget-Friendly:

• Small Bungalow-Style Homestays: Operated by local families, these provide a cozy and authentic experience, with rates ranging from $25 to $35 per night.

Comfortable Hotels:

• Nam Hoa Hotel: Offers comfortable accommodations with a budget of $40 to $60 per night.
• La Belle Vie Hotel: Another option for a comfortable stay within the same budget range.

Luxury Stays:

• Tam Coc Garden: A boutique hotel offering a luxurious experience, with rates ranging from $80 to $150 per night.
• Aravinda Resort: Provides high-end accommodations within the same price range, ensuring a delightful and relaxing stay.

These options cater to various budgets and preferences, ensuring a memorable visit to the beautiful Trang An Landscape Complex.

10. What to See in 2 Days in Tam Coc?

Actually, the Tam Coc tour only takes one day, but if your curiosity isn't fully satisfied, there are many other places around Tam Coc to explore, including landscapes, culture, local life, and architecture. Therefore, spending a total of two days and one night to visit these areas near Tam Coc isn’t a bad idea.

10.1 Thien Huong Cave

Thien Huong Cave lies along the road from Ngo Dong Tam Coc River to Thai Vi Temple. About 15 meters higher than the ground, it is a dried and bright cave. It is 20 meters wide, 40 meters deep, and about 60 meters high.

A sight to see in the area around Ninh Binh is the Thien Huong Cave-a place that engraves lifetime memories on one's mind. It houses a sacred shrine dedicated to Tran Thi Dung, who helped lay the first foundational stone in the development of sericulture in Vietnam. The serenity within, with diffused nature light and carvings, makes a visit to this cave a lifetime experience for anyone in search of history, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes combined.

10.2 Hoa Lu Citadel

Hoa Lu Citadel beautifully combines ancient ruins with natural scenery. Entering the Imperial Citadel, you cross a stone bridge and pass through a harmonious portico, leading to a spacious square framed by limestone rocks and rice fields. On the right lies Hoa Lu’s city center, while the left and front are graced by Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh Temples—magnificent examples of Vietnamese feudal architecture.

The area also includes the expansive Bai Dinh Pagoda complex and tranquil green rivers with boat trips. Adventurous visitors can hike up Mua Cave for panoramic views of the rice fields and karst mountains, making Hoa Lu ideal for both history buffs and nature lovers.

10.3 Thung Nham Bird Park

With over 45 bird species listed in the Red Book and landscapes that seem straight out of a fairytale, Thung Nham Bird Park is a natural wonder awaiting discovery.

Located 7 km from Tam Coc, or about a 20-minute drive from the center, Thung Nham Ecotourism Area draws visitors to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh, with activities like fishing, flooded forest sightseeing, cave exploration, and bird watching. At Thung Nham Bird Park, visitors can take a boat to see vibrant birds soaring freely

Practical Travel Tips

ATMs

Yes, there are ATMs available in the area!

• Tam Coc: You can find a BIDV Bank on the main street and an ATM in front of the Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel.
• Trang An: There is a BIDV ATM at the boat dock. However, ATMs aren't always readily accessible, so it's wise to carry some cash with you.

Health and Safety Tips

• Stay Hydrated: The weather can be hot and humid, so drink plenty of water.
• Sun Protection: The sun in Tam Coc can be strong. Wear sunscreen (high SPF), a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially near water, so carry insect repellent.
• Travel Insurance: It's always a good idea to have travel insurance in case of any unexpected incidents.

How to avoid scams

• To avoid scams in Tam Coc, prioritize increasing your awareness by reading travel blogs and reviews about Ninh Binh to understand common scams.
• Opt for well-established and reputable tour operators, such as Kampá Tour for activities like boat tours, cycling tours, or guided hikes.
• When purchasing goods or services such as souvenirs, transportation, or tours, negotiate prices confidently. Always agree on a price upfront to prevent potential overcharging.
• Support local restaurants and shops whenever possible to benefit the community and avoid tourist traps.
• If you encounter a scam or suspect fraudulent activity, report it promptly to local authorities or your accommodation. Your actions can protect others from falling victim to the same scam.

Additional Tips

• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local dishes such as goat meat, rice crust, and Ninh Binh eel vermicelli.
• Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and pagodas. Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals.
• Language: Learning a few basic phrases in Vietnamese can go a long way in making your interactions smoother. You can check out our quick guide on how to say "hello" in Vietnamese!
• Environmental Responsibility: Be mindful of your environmental impact. Avoid single-use plastics, and dispose of your waste properly.

In conclusion

Tam Coc is a mesmerizing destination offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and tranquility. Whether you explore its waterways, cycle through its rice fields, or relax in charming accommodations, Tam Coc promises an unforgettable journey.

Source: UNESCO, ninhbinh.gov, vietnamtourism.gov.vn, vietnamplus

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