7:30 am: Our guide will greet you at your hotel in Hanoi before we begin our scenic two-hour journey south to Tam Coc - Bich Dong in Ninh Binh Province. As we travel, enjoy the picturesque countryside views of lush green rice fields and traditional Vietnamese villages.
09:30 am: Arrive at Tam Coc & Begin the Boat Ride Upon arrival, we’ll head to Tam Coc Stream, known as Vietnam’s "Inland Ha Long Bay" for its dramatic limestone karst formations and lush landscapes. Embark on a peaceful two-hour boat ride along the river, passing through towering limestone mountains and scenic rice paddies. As we glide through the water, we’ll enter the famous three grottos (Ca, Hai, and Ba), where you’ll feel the cool air and marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites that sparkle like gemstones.
11:30 am: After the boat ride, we’ll stop at a riverside restaurant for a relaxing lunch, where you’ll enjoy a variety of local Vietnamese dishes, including specialties from the Ninh Binh region. This is a great opportunity to recharge and reflect on the beautiful landscapes you’ve witnessed.
01:00 pm: After lunch, we’ll take a short drive to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th and 11th centuries. Here, you’ll visit the temples of King Dinh and King Le, two prominent rulers from the Dinh and Le dynasties. Learn about the fascinating history and architecture of these ancient temples, set amidst picturesque mountain scenery. Next, we’ll make our way to the Bich Dong Pagoda, a beautiful structure built in the style of “three” in Han scripts, consisting of three separate temples built into the mountainside. As you explore the pagoda, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, with ancient trees and stone paths leading up to the temples.
04:00 pm: After visiting Hoa Lu and Bich Dong Pagoda, we’ll begin our journey back to Hanoi, with a scenic drive through the countryside.
06:30 pm: Arrival in Hanoi. Your full-day tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel in Hanoi, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Tam Coc’s natural beauty and the rich history of Hoa Lu.
