Bich Dong Pagoda offers a serene retreat into Ninh Binh rich heritage, best enjoyed early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Highlights include the striking Middle Pagoda with its panoramic views, the historic Lower Pagoda, and the tranquil Xuyen Thuy Cave. This guide covers tips on exploring the pagodas at its most peaceful and crafted the perfect itinerary.
About Bich Dong Pagoda
The history of this historical pagoda
Built-in 1428 during the Le Dynasty, Bich Dong Pagoda was founded by two Buddhist monks, Nguyen Minh Khong and Nguyen Minh Nghiem. The name “Bich Dong” means “Green Pearl Grotto,” a title bestowed by King Tran Thai Tong who was captivated by its ethereal beauty. Through centuries, the pagoda has witnessed numerous historical events while maintaining its spiritual significance as a sacred Buddhist sanctuary.
The impressive architecture of the Bich Dong Pagoda
Unlike the grandiose modern architecture of Bai Dinh Pagoda, Bich Dong showcases a more intimate and authentic Vietnamese Buddhist design. The pagoda complex is uniquely integrated into the natural limestone mountain, creating a harmonious blend of human craftsmanship and nature. While Bai Dinh impresses with its scale and contemporary grandeur, Bich Dong charms visitors with its ancient stone carvings, traditional wood architecture, and seamless incorporation into the surrounding caves and cliffs.
Where is Bich Dong Pagoda? How to get there?
Bich Dong Pagoda lies 12 kilometers from Ninh Binh city center in the Tam Coc area. Most visitors begin their journey from Hanoi, which is well-connected to Ninh Binh through various transportation options.
Hanoi to Ninh Binh
- Bus: From Hanoi, you can catch regular buses at Giap Bat Bus Station, with trusted companies like Hoang Long or Queen Cafe operating every 30-45 minutes. The journey takes about 2.5 hours and costs 100,000-150,000 VND.
- Train: Train travel is another option, departing from Hanoi Railway Station with similar journey time and tickets ranging from 80,000-200,000 VND.
- Private car: For more comfort, private car services are available from hotels or travel agencies, taking 2 hours with prices starting at $50-60 for an SUV.
Getting to Bich Dong Pagoda
Once in Ninh Binh, reaching the pagoda is easy. A 20-minute taxi ride from the city center costs around 150,000-200,000 VND. For more flexibility, rent a motorbike for 150,000 VND per day to explore the area independently. If you’re staying in Tam Coc, the pagoda is just a pleasant 2-kilometer bicycle ride through rice fields and villages.
Bich Dong Pagoda Opening Hours & Entrance Fee
The pagoda welcomes visitors from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily. There’s no entrance fee, though donations are appreciated for the pagoda’s maintenance. Parking fees apply if you arrive by motorbike or car, typically around 10,000 VND for motorcycles and 30,000 VND for cars.
Ideal Time to Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
- Best time of the day to visit without the tourist crowd
Early morning, between 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, offers the most serene experience. The soft morning light creates perfect conditions for photography, and you’ll likely have the pagoda almost to yourself. Alternatively, visit after 4:00 PM when most tour groups have departed.
- Best season or month to see the lotus flower
The lotus season runs from May to July, with June being the peak month. During this period, the surrounding ponds burst into life with pink lotus blooms, creating a picturesque setting that adds to the pagoda’s mystical atmosphere.
Top 5 notable attractions of Bich Dong Pagoda Ninh Binh
1. Lower Pagoda (Ha Pagoda)
The journey begins at the Lower Pagoda, featuring an ornate gate adorned with Chinese characters and traditional Vietnamese architecture. This level houses the main prayer hall and serves as the welcoming point for visitors.
2. Middle Pagoda (Trung Pagoda)
Ascending 100 steps, you’ll reach the Middle Pagoda, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The architecture here showcases intricate wooden carvings and houses several valuable Buddhist artifacts.
3. Upper Pagoda (Thuong Pagoda)
The highest level rewards climbers with panoramic views of Tam Coc. This intimate space features a small shrine within a natural cave, creating a uniquely spiritual atmosphere.
4. Dark Cave Bich Dong
This mysterious cave contains ancient inscriptions and serves as a natural shrine. The cool, dim environment provides a contemplative space for meditation and reflection.
5. Xuyen Thuy Cave
A hidden gem featuring stalactites and stalagmites, this cave offers a glimpse into the geological history of the region while housing several Buddhist shrines.
Top Things to Do Near Bich Dong Pagoda
- Tam Coc Boat Tour: Offers a peaceful journey through limestone karsts and rice fields, best experienced early morning or late afternoon.
- Visiting Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex: Provides an alternative boating experience through cave systems and ancient temples.
- Exploring Mua Caves for Panoramic Views of Tam Coc: If you are adventurous, climbing Mua Cave’s 500 steps rewards you with breathtaking views of the Ninh Binh landscape.
How Long to Stay In Ninh Binh: Itinerary Including Bich Dong Pagoda
Day 1: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Trang An – Bich Dinh Pagoda
Start your morning with a drive from Hanoi, reaching Ninh Binh by late morning. Spend your afternoon exploring Trang An’s waterways, followed by a visit to the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda complex.
Day 2: Biking tour – Bich Dong Pagoda – Mua Cave – Hanoi
Begin your day cycling through local villages to reach Bich Dong Pagoda. After exploring the three-tiered complex, head to Mua Cave for sunset views before returning to Hanoi.
>>> Find more package details: Ninh Binh Private Tour 2 days
Frequently asked questions
- Is Bich Dong worth it?
Absolutely. Its authentic architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and stunning natural setting make it a must-visit destination in Ninh Binh.
- What to wear to Bich Dong Pagoda?
Modest clothing is essential. Wear comfortable shoes for climbing stairs, loose-fitting clothes that cover shoulders and knees, and bring a light jacket for cave exploration.
- Bich Dong or Bai Dinh pagoda? Which one is for authentic experience?
For an authentic experience, Bich Dong Pagoda is the clear choice. While Bai Dinh impresses with its size, Bich Dong offers a more intimate connection with Vietnamese Buddhist history and architecture.
- Photography tips for Bich Dong Pagoda
Capture the best shots during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon). Bring a wide-angle lens for architecture and a tripod for low-light cave photography. The view from the Upper Pagoda provides excellent landscape photography opportunities, especially during the lotus season.
Bich Dong Pagoda is more than a tourist stop; it’s a place of timeless beauty and cultural richness. With this guide, you’ll be prepared to explore it fully and make the most of its peaceful corners and unique sights. Plan ahead, arrive early, and let this ancient sanctuary reveal its quiet magic.
