10 things to do in Tam Coc: Explore the beauty of Ninh Binh

Tam Coc, often referred to as "Ha Long Bay on land", is one of the most breathtaking and attractive destinations in Northern Vietnam. Located in Ninh Binh Province, it is known for its lush landscapes, limestone cliffs, caves, and tranquil river cruises. Below are the top things to do in Tam Coc that will make your visit unforgettable.

1. Float through the emerald-turquoise Tam Coc water

The classic Tam Coc experience begins on the Ngo Dong River in a small sampan rowed by the locals. Your boat will slip past carpets of rice and lotus patches before gliding into cave mouths where the air turns cool and the river echoes against stone. This is one of the most popular and basic modes of getting around the valley, but it never feels ordinary. The scenery does the heavy lifting while you lean back, relax, and trade small chats with your sailor about harvests, weather, and how the waterways change with the seasons.

2. Roaming through the countryside

Cycling is the simplest way to explore beyond the river - choose a pedal-bike for a classic feel or an E-bike for a longer loop with less effort. Roads are mostly flat and peaceful, with rice fields on both sides and limestone karsts in the distance. A common route links Tam Coc village, Thai Vi Temple, and Bich Dong Pagoda with plenty of short stops. Ideally, you should start after sunrise or mid-afternoon to avoid heat and strong glare. Ride single-file, keep to the right, and be patient at narrow bridges.

3. Meet exotic birds in Thung Nham

Thung Nham Bird Park is ideal for an easy wildlife viewing. As you glide through the water on your boat, look upwardfor swarms of white birds (often egrets and herons, locally called “white cranes”). Late afternoon usually brings the most activity and better lighting for photos. Move quietly, bring water, and wear light clothing, and remember, the best moments happen when you slow down and let the place decide the pace.

4. Enrich your soul with cultural and spiritual experience

Ninh Binh’s temples and pagodas add context to the landscape and help you better understand local traditions. Expect modest dress rules (shoulders and knees covered), quiet grounds, and incense-filled halls. Plan your visits to each of these sites so that you can spend some time reading the stories and observing local practice:

Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bai Dinh is the largest pagoda complex in the area, with long corridors lined by Buddha statues and several large halls. The complex sits on hills, so be ready for light walking and stairs. Views stretch across valleys, especially on clear days. Allow 1.5–2 hours if you want to see the main halls and explore the courtyards at a relaxed pace.

Bich Dong Pagoda

Bich Dong is set against a mountainside with three levels connected by short stairways. Each level offers a small hall and a viewpoint toward lotus ponds and fields. The climb is short but uneven in places, so wear firm footwear to avoid unwanted injuries. It will only take around 30 minutes to fully discover this beautiful pagoda, so make sure not to miss it!

Thai Vi Temple

Thai Vi is smaller and calmer, located near rice fields not far from Tam Coc village. The temple is linked to the Tran Dynasty and features stone gates and a shaded courtyard. It’s an easy stop on a cycling loop and rarely crowded. Plan 20–30 minutes for a respectful visit and short rest.

And many more sacred destinations for you to stop by

Some commonly visited sacred sites include Am Tien Pagoda (Tuyet Tinh Coc), Nhat Tru Pagoda (One Pillar Pagoda of Hoa Lu), Non Nuoc Pagoda on Non Nuoc Mountain, and Thien Ton Cave Pagoda. Despite being small and less commonly known, these sites still hold a lot of spiritual value for the locals. Expect simple courtyards, cave shrines, and short stairways. Keep your voice low, avoid flash, and consider a small donation.

5. Spice your trip up with some hiking

Hiking adds a new feeling to your list of things to do in Tam Coc. Mua Cave (Hang Mua) is the best-known climb with about 500 stone steps to the Ngoa Long peak and a sweeping river view. Other simple trails include the ridge paths around the Mua area, the Non Nuoc Mountain steps in Ninh Binh city, and short hill paths around Am Tien (Tuyet Tinh Coc). Remember to wear shoes with good grip, bring water, and avoid the midday heat. Even if the hike may turn out exhausting, the reward will always be the same: a sense of the landscape that is both immense and intimate, stretching far yet close enough to touch.

6. Uncover the time relics in caves

The karst system around Tam Coc offers several accessible caves beyond the boat route. Buffalo Cave (Hang Trau) has rustic chambers and textured rock, best with a headlamp and firm shoes. Galaxy Grotto (Dong Thien Ha) is known for mineral flecks that sparkle when light hits the ceiling, and boat sections may be available depending on water levels. Other options include Vai Gioi Cave, Tien Ca (Mermaid) Cave, and Am Tien Cave, which add variety to a half-day plan. Always follow local guidance, watch your head, and avoid touching formations.

7. Try out delicious local cuisine

Goat meat.

Goat meat is Ninh Binh's signature food, often served grilled, steamed with herbs, or stir-fried. The texture is tender when cooked properly, and herbal dips add the perfect flavor to the meat. Pair it with local greens and rice for an easy set meal.

Rice crust.

Com chay (rice crust) is a crisp rice cake topped with a savory sauce, often including pork, onions, and scallions. It works as a shared appetizer or side dish. A good dish of rice crust will stay crunchy under the sauce without turning soggy.

Roasted ricefield crabs with betal leaves.

This local favorite stir-fries small rice-field crabs with wild betel leaves, garlic, and a light spice mix. The crabs are roasted for crunch, then tossed, so the leaves perfume the meat and roe—great with steamed rice or cơm cháy. Portions are modest; eat slowly and watch for small shells. Ask about spice level and seasonal availability, and skip if you have shellfish allergies.

Fermented pork roll.

Nem chua (fermented pork roll) is a tangy, lightly cured pork roll served in small portions. It pairs well with lime, chili, and fresh herbs. The taste is bright and slightly sour, which refreshes the palate between richer dishes. Make sure you’re comfortable with fermented foods before ordering.

8. Discover the vast, majestic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Hoa Lu served as Vietnam’s political and spiritual center in the 10th and early 11th centuries under the Dinh and early Le dynasties. Today, visitors can explore the Dinh Tien Hoang and Le Dai Hanh temples, stone gates, and courtyards framed by limestone walls. The setting shows how terrain acted as a natural fortress and why the capital was placed here.

9. Enjoy the beautiful sunset on your kayak

Kayaking is available with select operators in the wider scenic complexes (for example, parts of Trang An or wetlands close to Tam Coc) subject to local rules and water levels. Sunset paddles offer the full spectrum of the sky’s color shift, but it also fades very quick so make sure you don't arrive too late to the scene. Wear a life jacket, secure your phone, and keep distance from rowboats and bird roosts.

10. Other activities and attractions you can do around Tam Coc

If you have another half-day, add a nature reserve or ethical wildlife visit to round out your plan. These options work well with an early start in Tam Coc or as a second-day plan. Always remember to check transport times and last-entry hours in advance.

10.1 Cuc Phuong National Park.

Cuc Phuong is Vietnam’s oldest national park, located about an hour from Tam Coc. You should expect rainforest trails, ancient trees, seasonal butterflies, and a primate rescue center focused on animal conservation. A trip earlier in the day will give you cooler air and more sound of the animals. Don't forget to bring insect repellent, drinking water, and sturdy shoes.

10.2 Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary.

The Ninh Binh Bear Sanctuary provides long-term care for rescued bears in spacious, green enclosures. Visits are structured and educational, showing how welfare and tourism can align. Book ahead if possible and plan for travel time from Tam Coc. Your entrance helps fund ongoing animal care.

10.3 Trang An scenic landscape complex

A UNESCO World Heritage area about 6–7 km from Tam Coc, Trang An offers boat circuits through long cave tunnels, quiet valleys, and small temples (e.g., Trinh Temple). Compared with Tam Coc, the routes are longer with more caves and wider waterways, so make sure you plan 2–3 hours for the full experience.

Tam Coc is a destination that blends culture, nature, and history in one valley. Whether you’ve got a single day or a slow weekend, it will still be enough to capture the spirit of Ninh Binh — river by river, temple by temple, bite by bite. Ready to go? Use the list of things to do in Tam Coc above to plan ahead of your trip and have an experience of a lifetime!