Tam Coc – Bich Dong – Thung Nham

Overview

Escape the city and explore the natural and cultural highlights of Ninh Binh, a region known for limestone mountains, peaceful rivers, cave pagodas, and rich biodiversity. This full-day experience combines the most scenic and tranquil parts of the area, offering a perfect balance of nature, light activity, and cultural discovery.

The journey takes you through Tam Coc, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land”, followed by a visit to the cave pagodas of Bich Dong and the serene ecological reserve of Thung Nham Bird Valley. Along the way, enjoy a relaxed lunch with local specialties in a countryside setting. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a scenic, immersive, and well-paced day trip from Hanoi.

Highlights

• Sampan boat ride in Tam Coc along rice fields and limestone karsts
  
• Explore Bich Dong Pagoda, a unique cave pagoda complex built into the mountain
  
• Discover Thung Nham Bird Valley, home to caves, wetlands, and bird habitats
  
• Optional cycling activity through local villages and countryside
  
• Enjoy a local lunch featuring regional specialties
  
• Scenic landscapes and peaceful rural atmosphere throughout the day
  

Detailed Itinerary

The itinerary and sequence may vary slightly depending on weather, traffic, and local conditions. All core experiences remain unchanged.

Begin the day with pick-up in Hanoi and travel south toward Ninh Binh, passing through the Red River Delta countryside.

Arrive in Tam Coc and board a traditional sampan boat for a peaceful journey along the Ngo Dong River. Glide through rice paddies, towering limestone formations, and a system of natural caves, offering one of Ninh Binh’s most iconic landscapes.

After the boat ride, enjoy a short cycling experience through nearby villages and countryside roads, offering a closer look at local life. This activity is optional; guests may also relax at the restaurant area, enjoy the scenery, or take photographs.

Pause for lunch with local specialties in a private countryside setting. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Continue to Bich Dong Pagoda, one of Ninh Binh’s most attractive landmarks. Built into a limestone mountain, the pagoda complex consists of three levels — lower, middle, and upper pagodas — gradually ascending into the hillside and offering beautiful views of the surrounding area.

In the afternoon, visit Thung Nham Ecotourism Area. Explore caves such as Hang But (Buddha Cave) by small sampan, admire stalactites and stalagmites, and stroll through tropical fruit orchards. Later, enjoy a quiet boat ride through Thung Chim (Bird Valley), where numerous bird species return to nest, creating an ideal opportunity for nature observation and photography.

At the end of the day, relax on the return journey to Hanoi, arriving in the early evening.

Inclusions

• Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Hanoi round-trip transfer by private limousine or car
  
• English-speaking local guide
  
• Tam Coc boat ride (shared boat)
  
• Boat exploration at Thung Nham Bird Valley (shared boat)
  
• Entrance fees as per itinerary
  
• Set-menu lunch with local specialties
  
• Optional cycling activity
  
• Bottled water (one per way)
  
• Free use of Vietnamese conical hat and raincoat during the trip
  
• Free Wi-Fi on the vehicle (subject to availability)
  

Exclusions

• VAT
  
• Beverages not included in the meal
  
• Tips for guide and driver (optional)
  
• Personal expenses
  
• Services not mentioned above
  
• Surcharges during public holidays
  

Tour Notes & Policy

• Programs and routes may be adjusted without prior notice due to weather or local conditions.
  
• Tour prices may change if entrance fees in Ninh Binh are adjusted.
  
• On weekends or special occasions, vehicles may stop at the nearest suitable point outside Hanoi Old Quarter due to pedestrian zones.
  
• Cycling is an optional activity offered for added enjoyment and is not mandatory. Guests who prefer not to cycle may relax or explore the surrounding area.
  
• Cycling is not recommended for guests who cannot ride a bicycle or for very young children. Please check bicycles carefully and inform the guide immediately if any issue is noticed.
  

Children Policy

• Children 1–4 years old: Free of charge for the first child sharing seating with two adults; the second child is charged 75% of the adult rate
  
• Children 5–8 years old: 75% of the adult rate
• Children 9 years and above: 100% of the adult rate