Excursion to Tam Coc, Bich Dong & the Ninh Binh Countryside
Escape the bustle of Hanoi and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Ninh Binh Province, where towering limestone karsts, quiet villages, and ancient pagodas create a timeless landscape.
Your day begins with a scenic drive through the Red River Delta, arriving in Tam Coc, a peaceful river valley known for its dramatic karst scenery. Board a traditional sampan boat, rowed by a local guide, and drift gently along the Ngo Dong River, passing through three natural caves – Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba with their mystical rock formations and echoing stillness. Between cave passages, admire seasonal rice fields and the lush riverside scenery.
After your boat journey, enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of tea or a short walk through a nearby village before sitting down to a traditional Vietnamese lunch. Local specialties such as grilled goat, crispy rice (Cơm Cháy), and fresh garden vegetables highlight the regional cuisine.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely bicycle ride through the surrounding countryside. Pedal along quiet lanes past lotus ponds, rice paddies, and friendly locals tending to their farms. The ride leads to the Bich Dong Pagoda, an atmospheric 15th-century temple complex built into the limestone cliffs. Explore its three-tiered shrines Ha, Trung, and Thuong – connected by stone staircases and nestled amid tropical greenery.
After a fulfilling day of gentle adventure and cultural discovery, you’ll return to Hanoi with unforgettable memories of Ninh Binh’s serene beauty.
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