Tam Dao Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Tam Dao, Vietnam with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Tam Dao

Tam Dao is a charming mountain town located in Northern Vietnam. The town is famous for its lush green forests, stunning mountain landscapes, and cool climate, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Tam Dao is a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers with its impressive hiking and biking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, and scenic views. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a week-long adventure, Tam Dao is a must-visit destination in Vietnam.

List of Places to Visit in Tam Dao

When planning your trip to Tam Dao, make sure you include these must-visit attractions on your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tay Thien Pagoda: Known as the “Second Dalat” of Vietnam, this pagoda is one of the most important cultural sites in Tam Dao.
  • Tam Dao Church: A beautiful church built in the early 20th century by French colonizers that still holds regular masses today.

Natural Attractions of Tam Dao: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Silver Waterfall: A stunning waterfall that cascades down from a height of 200 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  • Tam Dao National Park: The national park is famous for its dense forests, stunning mountain landscapes, and diverse wildlife, including rare species such as the white-cheeked langur and pygmy slow loris.
  • Tay Thien Forest: An ancient forest that is considered a sacred site by Vietnamese Buddhists with numerous scenic trails and hidden temples.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tam Dao

Tam Dao boasts a range of hiking and biking trails that wind through its lush forests and mountain landscapes. Some of the best trails include:

  • Tam Dao Summit Trail: A challenging but rewarding trail that takes you to the top of Tam Dao Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the region.
  • Kim Son Trail: A scenic route that winds through stunning waterfalls, hidden temples, and lush green forests.
  • Nui Ba Vi Trail: A challenging trail that takes you to the peak of Nui Ba Vi Mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Best Things to Do in Tam Dao: Activities and Tours

Whether you are an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, Tam Dao has something to offer everyone. Some of the best things to do in Tam Dao include:

  • Trekking and Hiking: Tam Dao is a paradise for trekkers and hikers with its stunning trails, scenic views, and diverse wildlife.
  • Cycling: Explore the charming town and its surrounding countryside on a bicycle.
  • Waterfall Adventures: Indulge in the natural beauty of Tam Dao and visit the stunning Silver Waterfall or hike through the Tay Thien Forest trail.
  • Cultural Sightseeing: Visit the Tay Thien Pagoda or Tam Dao Church to immerse yourself in the local culture and history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tam Dao

To get the most out of your trip to Tam Dao, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival, check-in at your hotel, and explore Tam Dao town
Day 2 Trek to the top of Tam Dao Mountain
Day 3 Visit the Silver Waterfall and Tay Thien Forest
Day 4 Visit Tay Thien Pagoda and explore Tam Dao church
Day 5 Cycle through scenic countryside and waterfalls
Day 6 Enjoy leisure time in town and indulge in local cuisine
Day 7 Departure from Tam Dao

Food and Drink Scene of Tam Dao

The local cuisine of Tam Dao has a unique blend of Vietnamese and French influences, thanks to the French colonization of the region in the past. Some of the must-try dishes in Tam Dao include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bánh cuốn Tây Đằng: A local delicacy made of steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, and onions.
  • Chả Tam Đảo: A pork terrine that is a specialty of Tam Dao town.
  • Bánh mì Tam Đảo: A French-style baguette filled with pork, pate, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: Tam Dao is famous for its high-quality green tea, which is grown on the hillsides of the mountains.
  • Mộc Câu Wine: A traditional rice wine that is infused with the leaves of the Moc Cau plant and has a unique herbal aroma.

Where to Stay in Tam Dao: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tam Dao has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Tam Dao include:

  • Flamingo Dai Lai Resort: A luxurious resort hotel set on the scenic Dai Lai Lake.
  • Tam Dao Golf & Resort: Offering upscale accommodations and an 18-hole golf course.
  • Moon Garden Homestay: Stay in a traditional Vietnamese style homestay situated on the mountains with stunning views.

What to Buy in Tam Dao: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Tam Dao is famous for its high-quality tea and handcrafted souvenirs. Some of the best things to buy in Tam Dao include:

  • Green Tea: High-quality green tea grown on the hills of Tam Dao
  • Handmade Crafts: Traditional handicrafts such as baskets, hats, and embroidery.
  • Tam Dao Essential Oils: Acclaimed essential oils made from local herbs and fruits

Local Culture and Customs of Tam Dao

Tam Dao has a rich and vibrant local culture that is heavily influenced by Buddhism. Visitors should dress modestly when visiting religious sites and follow local customs and etiquette.

Best Time to Visit Tam Dao

The best time to visit Tam Dao is from October to April when the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tam Dao

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting religious sites.
  • Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites and cultural events.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Vietnamese to communicate with locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Touch or feed wildlife.
  • Take photos of local people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tam Dao

Tam Dao is a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, travelers should take precautions, such as not leaving their belongings unattended.

Health in Tam Dao

It is recommended to drink bottled water and avoid tap water in Tam Dao. Travelers should also take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. It’s important to have a medical kit that has over-the-counter medicines such as anti-inflammatory tablets, antihistamines, and hand sanitizers.

Getting to Tam Dao: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tam Dao

The closest international airport to Tam Dao is Noi Bai International Airport, located in Hanoi, which is approximately 2 hours drive away.

Bus Stations Near Tam Dao

There are several bus companies operating to Tam Dao, with departures from Hanoi. Some of the budget bus companies include Tam Dao Minh Thanh, and Huong Son.

Other Options

Taxi services are available from Hanoi to Tam Dao. It is recommended to negotiate the price before your journey.

How to Get Around in Tam Dao

Walking is the best way to explore Tam Dao town on a leisurely pace. Visitors interested in hiking or biking can rent bicycles or trekking gear at the local rental shops. It is also easy to hire a taxi for your convenience.

Where to Go Next from Tam Dao: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tam Dao is a convenient base to explore other nearby destinations in Northern Vietnam. Some of the best places to visit include:

  • Hanoi: The capital city of Vietnam is only a couple of hours drive from Tam Dao, offering a glimpse of the local culture and history.
  • Ninh Binh: Known as the “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is famous for its stunning landscapes and beautiful pagodas.
  • Sapa: A scenic mountain town known for its terraced rice fields, ethnic minority cultures, and stunning mountain views.

Conclusion

Tam Dao offers a picturesque destination for travelers looking to escape the heat and experience the refreshing mountain air. The town has something to offer for everyone, including natural beauty, adventure activities, local culture, and unique cuisine. A trip to Tam Dao would be a great addition to any Vietnam itinerary, with its promising nature of peacefulness and tranquility that would be an unforgettable experience.