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Bich Dong Pagoda

Bich Dong Pagoda is a breathtaking spiritual and historical pagoda of Ninh Binh. Often referred to as the “Second Most Beautiful Cave in Vietnam,” this complex offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, ancient architecture, and a tranquil atmosphere.

Where is Bich Dong pagoda

Bich Dong Pagoda is situated in Ninh Hai commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province. It is approximately 100 kilometers south of Hanoi and lies near the famous Tam Coc-Bich Dong tourist area. The pagoda is perched on the Ngu Nhac Mountain, surrounded by verdant rice paddies and limestone karsts, offering a picturesque backdrop that enchants every visitor.

How to Get There

By bus or car (2 hours from Hanoi to Ninh Binh)
5km from Tam Coc Boat Wharf

Entrance Fee and Opening Hours

Bich Dong Pagoda welcomes visitors daily. The opening hours are from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The entrance fee is quite modest, usually around 20,000 VND (approximately 1 USD)

Pagoda Architecture

Bich Dong means “Emerald Green Grotto,” a name reflecting the lush greenery and serene surroundings of the pagoda. Initially constructed in 1428 during the reign of Ly Thai To, Bich Dong Pagoda is located on the Truong Yen limestone mountain range in Hoa Lu District.

In 1705, two Buddhist monks named Tri Kien and Tri The discovered the cave, which was concealed by dense vines and vegetation. They decided to rebuild the site, creating a three-layered pagoda complex.

Ha Pagoda (Lower Pagoda)

The Ha Pagoda is the first structure you encounter as you begin your ascent. It is situated at the foot of the mountain and is easily accessible. The pagoda consists of five rooms with a two-tiered roof, featuring eight smaller roofs. Its broad eaves are supported by six stone steps. The 4-meter stone pillars within the pagoda are monolithic, crafted from single pieces of stone without any joints. jj

Trung Pagoda (Middle Pagoda)

From Ha Pagoda, climb 120 S-shaped steps to reach the midpoint of the mountain where Chua Trung, or Trung Pagoda, is situated. This second pagoda is divided into two sections: one part is outside, while the other part is inside a cave.

It features a two-tier roof, a three-room upper temple, and a forecourt, all facing west. Notable treasures within the pagoda include a bronze bell with intricate engravings and three large stone statues of Amitabha Buddha, Van Thu Bodhisattva, and Thi Kinh Bodhisattva. The highlight of Trung Pagoda is the main altar inside the cave.

Thuong Pagoda (Upper Pagoda)

Continuing your journey up the mountain , you will reach Thuong Pagoda, the highest of the three. Chua Thuong, or Thuong Pagoda, is perched at the mountain’s summit. It comprises two small temples: the left one dedicated to the local earth god and the right one to the mountain god.

Visitors must climb 40 stone steps along the mountainside, passing through Dark Cave, which features images of fairies, Buddhas, young boys, flying dragons, and swimming turtles

The Surrounding Scenery

One of the most captivating aspects of visiting Bich Dong Pagoda is the stunning natural scenery that envelops the area. The complex is surrounded by towering limestone mountains, verdant rice fields, and tranquil waterways. Visitors often combine their trip to Bich Dong Pagoda with a boat ride in Tam Coc, where they can drift along the Ngo Dong River, passing through caves and enjoying the idyllic countryside views.