Half Day Ninh Binh Tam Coc Bich Dong Private Tour with Boat Trip

Hanoi , Vietnam

Half Day Ninh Binh Tam Coc Bich Dong Private Tour with Boat Trip

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About this experience

Tam Coc – Bich Dong is a breathtaking landscape of limestone mountains, tranquil rice fields, and winding rivers. Visitors can take a traditional sampan boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, gliding through majestic caves. The scenery changes beautifully with each season — from golden rice in summer to blooming water lilies and lotus flowers floating on the river in autumn.
With a private tour, travelers can enjoy the most beautiful sights at the perfect time of day, when the light, colors, and atmosphere are at their best — offering an unforgettable and truly personal experience of Ninh Binh’s natural charm.
Nearby, Bich Dong Pagoda sits gracefully on a limestone mountain, surrounded by lush greenery and calm lotus ponds. The ancient pagoda complex, partly hidden in the cave, offers panoramic views of the valley and a serene spiritual atmosphere. Together, Tam Coc and Bich Dong create a perfect harmony of nature, culture, and peace — an unmissable gem of Ninh Binh.

Available options

Half Day Ninh Binh Tam Coc Bich Dong Private Tour with Boat Trip

Pickup included

What's included

Round-trip transportation by comfortable air-conditioned vehicle

All entrance fees

Bottled water

Vietnamese lunch at local restaurant

Detailed itinerary

Bich Dong Pagoda was built in the 15th century and expanded in the 18th century by two Buddhist monks. It sits halfway up a limestone mountain, overlooking peaceful rice fields and the Tam Coc river valley.

The complex includes three separate pagodas built at different levels of the mountain:
1. Ha Pagoda (Lower Pagoda) – at the foot of the mountain.
2. Trung Pagoda (Middle Pagoda) – halfway up, reached by climbing stone steps.
3. Thuong Pagoda (Upper Pagoda) – near the top, inside a cave, offering panoramic views of the valley below.

Stop 2

Tam Coc is a peaceful countryside area surrounded by limestone mountains, lush rice fields, and calm rivers. Visitors explore it mainly by small sampan boats rowed by local women, often using their feet to paddle, which is a unique and impressive sight.

As the boat drifts along the Ngo Dong River, travelers pass through three dark yet beautiful caves formed by water erosion — each decorated with hanging stalactites. The views are especially breathtaking during rice harvest season (May–June), when the fields turn golden yellow.

Thai Vi Temple is located just 1 km from Tam Coc boat pier, Thai Vi Temple is a peaceful and sacred site nestled among limestone mountains and rice fields. Visitors can easily reach it by walking (10–15 minutes), cycling (5 minutes), or even by boat as part of the Tam Coc route.

The temple was built during the 13th century to honor King Tran Thai Tong and other kings of the Tran Dynasty. What makes it special is its entirely stone architecture, crafted from beautiful green stone. The atmosphere is calm and spiritual, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and tranquil countryside.

It’s a perfect stop to experience the local culture, enjoy the quiet landscape, and learn about Vietnam’s royal history after a relaxing Tam Coc boat trip.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Travel insurance

Tips for guide and driver

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.