Departure date: Everyday
Destination: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Duration: 1 day
Tour price: US $89 per person
Full day: Hoa Lu - Tam Coc
You will be collected at 08:00 from your hotel, and you will begin your journey to Ninh Binh (approximately 2 hours driving). As you leave behind the city, you will notice a change in the landscape, houses and high rises giving way to the beautiful roadside scenery. On arrival in Ninh Binh City, you will pay a visit to Hoa Lu – the ancient capital of Vietnam. Here you will visit two temples dedicated to the two kings: King Dinh and King Le. These temples showcase the unique architecture of ancient Vietnam.
Next, you will go to Tam Coc where you will have lunch at a nice restaurant with many local delicacies. Then you will board a small sampan to visit Tam Coc which translates “three caves.” The two and a half hour boat trip takes you along the glassy river surrounded by majestic limestone cliffs and mysterious caves, as well as past rural scenes of rice paddies and deserted green fields. Tam Coc really has it all. The fresh air and stunning views make for a peaceful yet invigorating experience. The journey will also be packed full of fantastic photo opportunities.
Time permitting, you can also visit the nearby Bich Dong Pagoda and climb up the mountain to take in the wonderful view of the Bich Dong and Tam Coc which sit below. You will return to Hanoi in the late afternoon.
Optional: Bike ride through the countryside to Tam Coc (4 km).