Travel Plan
Tam Coc

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · NINH BINH

Tam Coc

Rowers, often using their feet, guide small boats along a river through rice fields and three caves.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
2 hours
Entry
Paid (boat ticket)
Best time
May–June for golden rice
Area
Tam Coc

Rowers using their feet guide boats through three caves.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh

  • Pier: Boats leave from Tam Coc village pier.
  • Duration: About 2 hours there and back.
  • From Hanoi: About 2 hours by road.

The story of Tam Coc

Tam Coc means 'three caves'. The Ngo Dong River runs through them, and the low ceilings make you duck as the boat slides inside.

Local rowers are famous for paddling with their feet. In late May and June the rice fields along the river turn gold, and the scene of boats among the cliffs is one of the most famous in Vietnam.

Best time to visit

Best season

Late May to June for golden rice.

Best time of day

Early morning, before the heat.

After harvest

In summer the fields are bare for a while.

Tips before you go

  • Best when the rice is green or golden (May–June).
  • Ignore floating vendors if you do not want to buy.
  • Cycle to Bich Dong Pagoda afterwards.

Best hotels near Tam Coc

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh

Resort with gardens and pools.

See prices

Tam Coc Garden Resort

Bungalows facing rice fields.

See prices

Hotels in Tam Coc

Homestays and boutique stays.

See prices
All hotels near Tam Coc

What's around Tam Coc

  • Bich Dong Pagoda3 km by bike.
  • Hang Mua viewpoint10 minutes away.
  • Tam Coc villageCafés and bike rental.
  • Thai Vi TempleOld temple near the river.

Questions travellers ask

Why do rowers use their feet?

It's a local tradition that lets them rest their arms.

How long is the boat trip?

About 2 hours.

When is the rice golden?

Late May to June.

More in Ninh Binh

Trang An boat tour

Trang An boat tour

Read the guide
Hang Mua viewpoint

Hang Mua viewpoint

Read the guide
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Travel Plan · Tam Coc Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us