1 Day Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Bich Dong Deluxe Group Tour

Overview

This Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, Bich Dong Day Tour offers a small group experience to explore the popular sites of Ninh Binh Province, a region known for its Northern Vietnam attractions. On this full-day tour from Hanoi, you’ll visit three stunning locations: the historic ancient capital of Hoa Lu, the breathtaking landscapes of Tam Coc, and the serene Bich Dong Pagoda. As Ninh Binh quickly becomes a must-visit destination in Vietnam, Swallow Travel ensures you experience its highlights on the Tam Coc Bich Dong Day Tour.

Highlights:

• Delving into the history of Hoa Lu, the former seat of power for two ancient Vietnamese kings
• Savoring a local lunch with renowned regional dishes
• Drifting peacefully down the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc
• Cycling through the picturesque Northern Vietnam countryside
• Enjoying traditional Vietnamese music

Itinerary

HOA LU ANCIENT CAPITAL – TAM COC – BICH DONG PAGODA (L)

07:30-08:00: Our tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. After about an hour on the highway, we’ll take a 20-minute break.

10:00: Arrive at Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam from the 11th century. Here, you can explore the temples built in honor of Emperors Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh, as well as Queen Duong Van Nga, who was married first to Dinh Tien Hoang and later to Le Dai Hanh.

11:30: Cycle to Bich Dong Pagoda, a complex of three pagodas. The Lower Pagoda is located at the base, from where 100 steps lead to the Middle Pagoda. A shorter but steep ascent takes you to the Upper Pagoda. Inside each cave temple, looming statues peer from the haze of burning incense. Ride along country lanes to enjoy the stunning limestone mountains and the agricultural lifestyle of the small villages.

12:30: Cycle back to the restaurant and have lunch at a local eatery, an excellent place to taste Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy local specialties, including goat meat dishes.

14:00: Depart for Tam Coc, Ninh Binh’s most popular attraction. Cycle 0.5 km to Tam Coc and embark on a 2-hour rowing boat trip to explore the cave complex: Sang Cave, Toi Cave, and Ba Giot Cave. Admire the beauty of the karst formations as you pass along their base and row into one of the many caves carved through the limestone amidst rice fields.

16:30: Return to a local house and enjoy a 30-minute Vietnamese folk music show featuring talented artists performing with traditional instruments like the “dan bau” (monochord), “dan nhi” (2-string zither), “dan day” (plucked lute), and flute. Learn more about the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people. You’ll also have a chance to enjoy a sunset party with fruit, green tea, and traditional candy.

17:00: The driver will pick you up for the return trip to Hanoi.

19:30: Drop off at your hotel. The service ends.

Note

Package Includes:

• Pick-up and drop-off services by A/C vehicle
• Entrance fees and boat fees as mentioned in the itinerary
• Complimentary bottled water on the bus
• Cycling tour to visit Bich Dong Pagoda
• English-speaking tour guide
• Lunch at a local restaurant

Package Excludes:

• Airfare, visa arrangements, and international travel insurance
• Beverages, tips (optional), and other personal expenses
• Any other services not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions

Important Note: For Lunar New Year, a 20% surcharge will apply to each booking during the Tet Holiday.