The Green Sea of Tam Cốc

This UNESCO World Heritage area, also known as Halong Bay on land, stretches along the Ngo Dong River and is flanked by views of majestic karst cliffs, limestone caves, grottoes, and vibrant green rice fields. Tam Cốc literally translates to “three caves,” referring to the Ca, Hai and Ba caves carved by centuries of flowing water. Locals often refer to the surrounding fields as the Green Sea, a poetic nod to the way the wind ripples through the endless rice paddies like waves on water, especially breathtaking during the spring harvest season.

Locals use their feet to row the long narrow boats, traditionally called sampan

Exploration of the surrounding caves has revealed archaeological traces of ancient human inhabitants over a continuous period of more than 30,000 years, spanning the Neolithic and Bronze Ages to the present day. These findings illustrate the long term occupation of the surrounding mountains by hunter-gatherers and their remarkable adaptability to dramatic environmental shifts, particularly the repeated inundation of the landscape by the sea following the last ice age. Tools, burial sites and remnants of early dwellings offer insight into how these early communities evolved, not only surviving but thriving amid changing coastlines and climates.

The area rose to prominence in the 10th century during the reign of Emperor Đinh Bộ Lĩnh, who established his capital in nearby Hoa Lư. The region’s towering karsts and winding caves served as natural fortresses, perfect for defense, royal retreats and spiritual sanctuary. Nearly 600 years ago, Buddhist monks built the Bích Động Pagoda into the face of one such mountain, blending architecture with the natural landscape. Its chambers and surrounding peaks have silently witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, centuries of conflict and peace and the enduring devotion of monks who continue to seek solitude and enlightenment within its sacred caves.

Bích Động Pagoda is one of the most iconic spiritual landmarks in northern Vietnam, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Green Sea" is a stunning complex of three pagodas built into limestone mountains. Originally constructed in 1428 and expanded in 1705, the pagoda blends harmoniously with the surrounding natural landscape. The complex is divided into three levels: the Lower Pagoda, the Middle Pagoda set within a cave and the Upper Pagoda at the summit, offering breathtaking views of the karst formations and rice fields below. The pagoda has long been a spiritual site, with its serene environment drawing pilgrims and visitors seeking both reflection and a connection to nature. Its timeless beauty has inspired countless poets and artists and its rich history continues to make it a prominent symbol of Vietnam's cultural and spiritual heritage.

The caves of Trang An (Hang Ca, Hang Giua & Hang Chateau) were formed over thousands of years by erosion from the Ngo Dong River. About 4 kilometers upstream is the mythical Arroyo de las Hadas, or "Stream of the Fairies," where local legend says fairies once frolicked with fish in the crystal clear waters. In 2014, Trang An was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognised for its natural beauty, rich cultural history and ecological significance.

Perched atop Ngu Nhac Mountain, the Bích Động pagoda complex was built in 1428

Location : Pier Van Lam, Ninh Binh Province  

How to get there : Tam Coc is about a three hour drive south of the capital, Hanoi and 7 kilometres west of the city of Ninh Binh. It usually included on itinieries as a day trip from Hanoi to Ning Binh (and costs about $40 AUD/admission to all attractions & lunch is included). Trains and buses are available from the capital and cost between $4-$8 USD. A taxi or motorbike will need to be arranged on arrival to get around the area.

Attraction Info : Single boat trips costs 150,000 vnd for adults and 60,000 vnd for children (or about $20 USD per boat) and they operate between 7:00am and 3:30pm daily. The cruise covers approximately 3 kilometres and takes around 2 hours return. As with every attraction in Asia, consider visiting early morning or late afternoon when things are quieter and the weather is cool.  It’s HIGHLY recommend to bring a hat (or purchase a conical for 1 USD), as the sun is brutal and there is no shade on the boats. The best time to visit the area is from mid April to early June during the rice harvest season.

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