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Bai Dinh Pagoda

Bái Đính Pagoda is one of the largest complex of pagoda in Southeast Asia, has become a beacon for both devout Buddhists and curious travelers alike. As a popular tourist destination, Bái Đính offers visitors a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern grandeur.

Bai Dinh Pagoda could be included in a one day trip to explore Ninh Binh, for a glimpse or a longer visit when you stay overnight in Ninh Binh.

Where is Bai Dinh pagoda?

Bái Đính Pagoda is located in Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Viễn District, Ninh Bình Province, approximately 95 kilometers south of Hanoi, 5km from Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and 15km from Ninh Binh city.

For transportation, visitors have several options:

Tour Groups: Many organized tours include Bái Đính Pagoda in their itineraries, providing hassle-free transportation.
Taxis : Grab or GoViet are available, but be aware that finding a return ride can be challenging due to the pagoda’s remote location.
Self-Drive Motorbike: Renting a motorcycle offers flexibility, but ensure you’re comfortable navigating Vietnamese roads.

For those preferring public transportation, buses run regularly from pick up point in Hanoi city center to Ninh Bình city, from where you can take a taxi or motorbike taxi (xe om) to the pagoda. Alternatively, you can take a train from Hanoi to Ninh Bình and arrange local transportation from there.

Entrance fee

Guest	Ticket Price
Adult	– Entrance ticket: 50.000 VND – Electric car ticket: 30.000 VND
Children above 1.2 meters tall	– Entrance ticket: 50.000 VND – Electric car ticket: 30.000 VND
Children under 1.2 meters tall	Free of charge

The pagoda is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

Historical Background of the Old Bai Dinh Pagoda

The Bái Đính Pagoda complex actually consists of two distinct sites: the ancient, original pagoda and the newer, more expansive complex. While most visitors are drawn to the grandeur of the new Bái Đính Pagoda, it’s important to note that the site’s spiritual significance dates back much further.

The history of Bái Đính Pagoda is deeply rooted in Vietnamese Buddhism. The original pagoda, known as the Old Bái Đính Pagoda, dates back to the 11th century during the Lý Dynasty. Legend has it that the site was chosen by the Indian monk Khâu Đà La, who recognized its spiritual significance. The old pagoda, nestled in a limestone cave, has been a place of worship for centuries and is still an active site for pilgrims and monks.

In 2003, construction began on the New Bái Đính Pagoda complex, which was completed in 2010. This modern expansion aimed to create a grand Buddhist center that could accommodate the growing number of visitors while preserving the spiritual essence of the original site. The new complex has since become a symbol of Vietnam’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing modernity.

Architectural Marvels

The New Bái Đính Pagoda complex is a masterpiece of contemporary Vietnamese architecture, blending traditional design elements with modern construction techniques. The complex spans an impressive 700 hectares, making it the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam.

One of the most striking features is the Tam Thế Hall, which houses three enormous bronze Buddha statues, each weighing 50 tons and standing 12 meters tall. The nearby Bell Tower is equally impressive, housing a 36-ton bronze bell, the largest in Vietnam. The main temple, Phật Điện, is a grand structure adorned with intricate carvings and houses a 10-meter high bronze Buddha statue weighing 100 tons.

The complex also boasts the Bảo Tháp, a 13-story stone tower standing 99 meters tall, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Throughout the grounds, visitors will find 500 intricately carved Arhat statues, each with unique facial expressions and poses.

What to Experience

A visit to Bái Đính Pagoda offers a multitude of spiritual and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the vast temple grounds, observing monks in prayer and participating in rituals if they wish. The serene atmosphere provides an excellent opportunity for quiet contemplation or meditation.

During festivals, particularly the Bái Đính Pagoda Festival held in the first lunar month, the complex comes alive with traditional performances, rituals, and ceremonies. This is an excellent time to witness Vietnamese Buddhist culture in full swing.

Guided tours are available for those seeking a deeper understanding of the pagoda’s history and significance. These tours often include visits to both the old and new complexes, providing a comprehensive view of Bái Đính’s evolution.

Tips for Visitors

When visiting Bái Đính Pagoda, it’s important to dress modestly out of respect for the sacred site. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the complex is ast and involves a fair amount of walking.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but visitors should be respectful and avoid using flash or disturbing worshippers. It’s always best to ask permission before photographing monks or rituals.
An interesting feature of the complex is the distance between the parking area and the main entrance. The parking lot is situated about 4 km from the Tam Quan gate of Bái Đính Pagoda. To bridge this gap, most visitors opt for the convenient electric tram service, which costs approximately 30,000 VND each way.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the site, tour guide services are available. Expect to pay around 300,000 VND for a guide in the new temple area, or 500,000 VND for a comprehensive tour of both the new and old temples.

Additional costs to keep in mind include:

Toilet facilities: 2,000 VND per use
Climbing the iconic Bái Đính Pagoda Tower: Approximately 50,000 VND

For a more comprehensive experience of Ninh Bình province, consider combining your visit to Bái Đính with other nearby attractions. The Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site.The ancient capital of Hoa Lư and the picturesque Tam Cốc-Bích Động area are also within easy reach and make for excellent additions to your itinerary.