Exploring Ninh Binh & Tam Coc by bike

Set off on a tranquil bike ride along a secluded trail, passing rice fields away from the usual tourist crowds. The path offers breathtaking views of the picturesque limestone mountains. Stop at Dancing Cave and take a short hike to the summit of Hang Mua for a panoramic view of Tam Coc.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant before driving approximately 3km to Bich Dong Pagoda – an ancient three-tiered cave pagoda. Accessible only by steep stone steps, the climb is rewarded with a charming pagoda and breathtaking views from the top. Proceed to explore the remnants of the once-majestic citadel of Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of the Dinh and Le dynasties dating back to the 11th century. A climb of around 200 steps unveils a bird’s-eye view of the countryside.

Round off the day with a short drive to Bai Dinh Pagoda, a Buddhist complex on the hillside. This is a great spot to watch the sunset, with limestone formations and vast rice paddy fields in the distance.

What you’ll do

Cycle through secluded trails and rice paddies set against limestone karsts
Visit Dancing Cave and climb Hang Múa (500 steps) for panoramic views over Tam Cốc
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, then ride to Bích Động Pagoda
Explore the ancient three-tiered cave pagoda reached via steep stone steps
Continue to Hoa Lư’s 11th-century citadel and end the day with sunset at Bai Đính Pagoda