As you venture through the verdant countryside, Bich Dong Pagoda emerges like a beacon of peace. With its timeless beauty and serene ambiance, this enchanting pagoda is more than just a temple—it’s a sacred oasis where the soul finds solace and the spirit is rejuvenated.
Join us to uncover the charm of Bich Dong Pagoda—a hidden gem in Ninh Binh, blending culture, history, and nature.
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About the Bich Dong Pagoda
Bich Dong Pagoda is a Buddhist temple complex nestled in the scenic landscape of Ninh Binh, Vietnam. The pagoda is renowned for its tranquil ambiance, cultural significance and breathtaking views.
Situated amidst lush greenery and limestone karsts, the pagoda comprises three levels built into a mountainside, with the lower levels featuring a natural cave adorned with ancient statues and altars.
Dating back to the 15th century, Bich Dong Pagoda holds significant historical and cultural value. The most interesting aspects of this Pagoda are its intricate architecture, serene cave, and ornate carvings. As you explore, embrace the spiritual atmosphere while indulging in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
At Bich Dong Pagoda, you will be greeted by a scenic entrance gate that serves as a prelude to the serene beauty within. While this spot is the most photographed area at the Pagoda and likely one of the main reasons you’re eager to visit, there’s much more to explore beyond the gate!
How to Get to Bich Dong Pagoda
Bich Dong Pagoda is situated a mere 3km from the Tam Coc area, close to Ninh Binh. Its convenient location allows for easy access by bicycle, motorbike, or even on foot.
The surroundings of the temple are breathtakingly beautiful, offering an ideal setting for jogging or leisurely strolls. Here is the precise location of Bich Dong Pagoda:
Bich Dong Pagoda Entrance Fee
There is no entrance fee to visit Bich Dong Pagoda.
While entry to the pagoda complex is free, visitors have the option to leave a donation.
🅿️ PARKING: If you’re driving or cycling to the pagoda, you can park for free along the road. However, when you arrive at the entrance, locals may offer their private parking spaces for a small fee, usually around 10,000 VND ($0.40 USD). If you prefer to avoid this fee, consider parking at a distance from the entrance.
Opening Times
Bich Dong Pagoda is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
What to See at Bich Dong Pagoda
Despite its relatively small size, Bich Dong Pagoda offers a wealth of sights to explore. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect at the complex:
Mountain Gate
The “Mountain Gate” at Bich Dong Pagoda is the main entrance to the complex. It features traditional Vietnamese architectural design with ornate carvings. Passing through, visitors are welcomed into a serene setting surrounded by lush greenery and limestone karsts, setting the stage for the spiritual and cultural experience within.
Ha Pagoda (Lower Pagoda)
The architecture of the Ha Pagoda, nestled within the Bich Dong Pagoda complex, is distinguished by its floor plan inspired by the Chinese character “Dinh”. Comprising five rooms beneath an expansive roof divided into eight smaller sections, the pagoda exudes a sense of grandeur.
Notably, stone was employed in the construction of the fence, gables, and upper temple, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship inherent in Vietnamese temple architecture.
Trung Pagoda (Middle Pagoda)
Similar to Ha Pagoda, Trung Pagoda also incorporates the “Dinh” floor shape. However, Trung Pagoda stands out with its two-story roof and a three-room upper temple, accompanied by a front courtyard, all oriented towards the west. What distinguishes Trung Pagoda is its unique amalgamation of traditional Vietnamese pagoda features, including tile roofs and walls embracing rocky cliffs, creating an enigmatic atmosphere within the mountain cave surroundings.
Thuong Pagoda (Upper Pagoda)
The highest Pagoda at Bich Dong, Thuong Pagoda can be reached after climbing 40 steep stone steps. This remarkable structure comprises two rooms: an outer room, adorned with a forecourt and a stone altar, and an inner sanctum housing a shrine dedicated to Bodhisattva.
Bich Dong Dark Cave
Just behind Trung Pagoda lies Dark Cave, accessible via short staircase. At the top you can see the notable bronze bell, forged by monks Tri Kien and Tri The in 1707. As you approach the cave’s mouth, you’ll be greeted by an array of Buddha statues, lending an air of mystique to the surroundings. Venture further into the cave, and you’ll be enthralled by the intricate paintings adorning its walls, their embossed imagery adding to the cave’s enchanting ambiance.
Dress Code at Bich Dong Pagoda
When visiting Bich Dong Pagoda, a religious site, it’s essential to dress and act appropriately. Clear signs onsite remind visitors of the expected attire and behavior.
Avoid wearing tank tops and shorts. Both men and women should ensure their shoulders are covered. While skirts are acceptable, they should extend below the knees.
Additionally, it’s advised not to speak loudly, run, or engage in other disruptive activities, as indicated by the signs.
Where to stay near Bich Dong Pagoda
Bich Dong Pagoda is easily accessible from Tam Coc area, and it’s a short drive from Ninh Binh. The area is rich of beautiful accommodations, offering probably one of the best selections in Vietnam.
Here are the best accommodations in the area:
ON A BUDGET: The Banana Tree Hostel (top choice for backpackers!) | Tam Coc Golden Sky Homestay | Tam Coc Tropical Homestay
MID-RANGE: An’s Eco Garden Resort | Tam Coc Windy Fields (top choice for couples) | Hang Lan Bungalow
LUXURY: Tam Coc Garden Resort | Nham Village Resort