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Tam Coc – Bich Dong is a beautiful place in Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam. It is famous for its stunning limestone hills and river cruises. Often called ‘Ha Long Bay on land,’ it is a great spot for nature lovers as well as adventurers.
The name “Tam Coc” translates to “Three Caves,” referring to the three natural caves found here. Bich Dong, on the other hand, means “Jade Grotto,” named after a beautiful cave temple complex. These caves and temples have been important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists for many years, with their origins dating back to the 18th century.
Tam Coc – Bich Dong during the golden rice season
The name “Tam Coc” translates to “Three Caves,” which consist of Ca Cave, Hai Cave, and Ba Cave. All three caves were formed by the Ngo Dong River cutting through the mountains.
Inside view of a natural cave at the Tam Coc scenic spot, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
The temple was established in 1428, during the early years of the Later Le Dynasty, as a small mountaintop temple. Visitors should make a stop at this spiritually mystical temple to explore its ancient and venerable architecture, deeply rooted in the folklore of ancient Vietnam.
Entrance to Bich Dong Pagoda
This is the place of worship for the Tran Dynasty kings, including Tran Thai Tong, Tran Thanh Tong, and the legendary generals Tran Hung Dao and Tran Quang Khai, as well as Queen Tran Thi Dung.
Main gate leading inside Thai Vi Temple
With a height of nearly 60 meters, a length of 40 meters, and a width of 20 meters, the cave’s arch resembles a large bell, embracing and sheltering the temple dedicated to the National Mother Goddess Tran Thi Dung. This is a dry and well-lit cave, situated on the hillside at an elevation of approximately 15 meters above ground level.
Inside Thien Huong Cave
One of the main attractions in Tam Coc is taking a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River. Local rowers use their feet to propel the boats, allowing you to relax and take in the stunning karst landscapes and limestone formations.
Tourists in rowboats at Tam Coc
Rowboat docking spot
The journey from Hanoi to Tam Coc - Bich Dong is approximately 100 km and usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and your chosen mode of transport.
In Vietnam, the term “limousine” refers to luxury 9-seater transit vans equipped with large leather seats, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. This option is highly recommended as it offers convenient door-to-door service, with pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and drop-off directly in Tam Coc.
Prices typically range from 220,000 to 350,000 VND (USD 9–15). Tickets can be booked easily through apps like Vexere or websites such as 12Go Asia.
Traveling by train is a safe and comfortable option that also provides scenic views of the Vietnamese countryside. Trains run from Hanoi Railway Station to Ninh Binh Station, with ticket prices ranging from 120,000 to 250,000 VND.
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The cave system in Ninh Binh
Since the station is located in Ninh Binh City, you will need to take a taxi or Grab for about 15 minutes (approximately 100,000 VND) to reach Tam Coc after arrival.
A group day tour is a convenient choice if you only have one day available and prefer not to plan the details yourself. These tours typically include transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and the services of a guide.
It is not mandatory, but it is highly expected and culturally customary. These rowers work incredibly hard for about two hours in the sun.
Suggested tip: 100,000 VND ($4 USD) per boat is a nice amount and an appreciated gesture.
Tam Coc: More "rustic" and authentic. You see local farmers, goats, and the iconic foot-rowing. It feels more integrated with local village life.
Trang An: A UNESCO site that is more "organized" and polished. It has more temples, larger caves, and the rowers use their hands. It can feel a bit more like a "theme park" compared to the raw beauty of Tam Coc.
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No, entry is free. However, you will encounter locals at the entrance gate who will insist you pay for parking (usually 10,000–20,000 VND).
If you are staying at a nearby homestay, just walk or bike there to avoid the parking "negotiation"
Yes. The boats have large umbrellas, and the scenery is actually quite mystical and "moody" in the mist. However, the climb up to Mua Cave (the viewpoint) becomes very slippery and dangerous in the rain, so skip the climb if the weather is bad.
There are a few ATMs in the main Tam Coc village area (Agribank or Vietcombank), but they can occasionally run out of cash or reject international cards.
Pro-tip: Always withdraw enough VND in Hanoi before you head down to Ninh Binh just to be safe.
Intriguing and picturesque, Tam Coc – Bich Dong stands as a testament to the natural beauty and cultural charm of Ninh Binh, Vietnam. Explore this enchanting destination, where scenic rowboat journeys and cave discoveries await. Tam Coc–Bich Dong is a place where nature and history unite to create lasting memories.
Find out more about how this land of heritage charms visitors with our collection of Ninh Binh tours!
