Tam Coc Bich Dong

The river threading fields and karst · Duong Do · Pexels License

Sampans rowed with the feet down the Ngo Dong river, through three caves under the karst.

Tam Coc means three caves, and that is exactly what the boat takes you through: the Ngo Dong river runs between limestone walls and then passes in turn under Hang Ca, Hang Hai and Hang Ba — in places the roof drops low enough that you have to duck. On both sides rice fills the valley, changing colour with the season: vivid green in May, blazing gold at the end of May and start of June when it ripens. What people remember most is usually how the boat is rowed — the rower grips the oars between both feet and rows with the legs, hands free. Bich Dong nearby is a three-tier pagoda built against the cliff face; climb to the upper tier for the whole valley.

Visitor information

When is the best time to visit Tam Coc Bich Dong?

Late May to early June, when the rice ripens

How much does it cost to visit Tam Coc Bich Dong?

Entry and boat about 250,000d (indicative)

How long do you need at Tam Coc Bich Dong?

Half a day

What are the opening hours of Tam Coc Bich Dong?

07:00 - 16:00

Did you know

Tam Coc means three caves: Hang Ca, Hang Hai and Hang Ba on the Ngo Dong river.
The rowers here have a distinctive technique of rowing with their feet.
The rice on both banks ripens around the end of May and start of June.
Bich Dong pagoda nearby is built in three tiers against a limestone cliff.

Travel tips

The ripe rice at the end of May and start of June is both the most beautiful and the busiest time.
The boat fare is included in the ticket; the tip for the rower is voluntary — agree it clearly in advance.

Source: https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tam_C%E1%BB%91c_%E2%80%93_B%C3%ADch_%C4%90%E1%BB%99ng

Updated: 2026-08-16