Introduction – Bich Dong Pagoda in Ninh Binh
Just 2 km from Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda is one of the most peaceful and picturesque spots in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. Built into a limestone mountain surrounded by lotus ponds, this 15th-century cave pagoda blends nature, history, and spirituality in perfect harmony.
Visitors can climb through three ancient temples — Ha, Trung, and Thuong — each revealing stunning valley views and tranquil Buddhist shrines carved into the rock.
Whether you come to enjoy the view, take photos of the red bridge, or simply feel the mountain breeze, Bich Dong Pagoda offers a calm retreat and an authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s spiritual soul.
Quick Facts – Bich Dong pagoda, Ninh Binh
- Location: Ngu Nhac Mountain, Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh.
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM daily (some sources report until 5:00 PM)
- Entrance fee: Free to visit the pagoda itself
- Parking fee: Around 10,000 VND for motorbikes and 30,000 VND for cars
- Steps to the top: Approximately 40 stone steps to reach the Upper Pagoda
- Best visit time: Early morning or late afternoon for soft light and fewer crowds
- Dress code: Shoulders and knees covered (temple etiquette)
- Other tips: No flash photography in caves, walk carefully on stone stairs, and keep quiet inside shrines.
Why visit Bich Dong Pagoda?
Bich Dong Pagoda is more than just a temple — it’s where spirituality, nature, and timeless heritage blend in perfect harmony. Nestled amid Ninh Binh’s limestone cliffs and lush valleys, this “hidden gem” enchants visitors with its peaceful aura and cinematic beauty.
Here’s why travelers fall in love with it:
🌿 Harmonious landscapes: Karst mountains, lotus lakes, and ancient pagoda roofs reflect in poetic symmetry.
🏯 Three-tier pagodas & ancient paths: Climb winding stone steps to discover Lower, Middle, and Upper sanctuaries tucked into caves.
🌌 Sacred caves: Intriguing stone formations, serene Buddha statues, and quiet meditation corners invite reflection.
🌾 Panoramic vistas: The upper pagoda unveils sweeping rice-field and valley views — pure tranquility.
🌸 Magnolia season (March): Delicate pink-white blossoms transform the grounds into a living painting.
🕊️ Peaceful escape: Quieter than Bai Dinh pagoda, perfectly paired with Tam Coc or Mua Cave on a day trip.
✨ A perfect harmony of nature, culture, and peace — that’s why Bich Dong captures every traveler’s heart.
💡 Pro Tip: Many travelers combine Bich Dong with Bai Dinh Pagoda for a full-day spiritual route — blending cave temples, ancient relics, and peaceful countryside charm.
Visiting Bich Dong Pagoda — What You’ll Experience?
Tucked between limestone cliffs and tranquil lotus ponds, Bich Dong Pagoda is one of Ninh Binh’s most peaceful treasures. Built in 1428 under King Le Thai To, this centuries-old complex invites travelers to step into a world where nature and spirituality blend in perfect harmony.
The Iconic Lotus Pond & Stone Bridge
- Your journey begins at the postcard-perfect lotus pond. In summer (May–July), hundreds of pink lotus flowers bloom across the water-a symbol of purity rising from the mud. Crossing the small stone bridge, you’ll feel as if you’re entering another realm of quiet beauty and sacred calm.
Ha Pagoda (Lower Temple)
- At the base of the mountain, Ha Pagoda welcomes visitors with carved wooden doors, ancient stone walls, and the gentle scent of incense. Locals often stop here to pray for peace and prosperity — a moment worth sharing in.
Trung Pagoda (Middle Temple)
- Climb about 80 stone steps to reach Trung Pagoda, nestled halfway up the limestone cliff. Partly built into the rock, it offers shade, birdsong, and sweeping valley views that make every step worthwhile.
Thuong Pagoda (Upper Temple) & The Viewpoint
- Another short climb leads to the final stop — Thuong Pagoda, perched high on the mountain. From here, gaze out over Ninh Binh’s karst peaks, winding rivers, and endless rice fields. It’s a view that stays with you long after you leave.
Xuyen Thuy Cave
- Hidden behind the upper pagoda is Xuyen Thuy Cave, a mysterious 350-meter tunnel running through the mountain. Its cool air, ancient carvings, and natural rock formations make it an intriguing end to your visit.
As you descend, take a moment to look back. The reflection of the pagoda in the lotus pond below is a quiet reminder of why Bich Dong remains a timeless highlight of any Ninh Binh adventure.
Practical information for visitors
How to get to Bich Dong pagoda in Ninh Binh?
Nestled just 2 km from Tam Coc Wharf, Bich Dong Pagoda is easily reachable by bicycle, motorbike, or car. Here’s how to make your journey both smooth and scenic:
🚴 From Tam Coc
- Cycling (Recommended): Glide along serene village roads lined with lush rice paddies – the top visitor pick for a peaceful 10–15 minute ride.
- By Motorbike: Rent in Tam Coc or Ninh Bình city for a thrilling 5–7 minute zip. Easy parking at the gate (fee ~10,000–20,000 VND).
- Walking: Stroll a scenic 30-minute path – perfect for photographers capturing local charm and vibrant scenery.
🚗 From Ninh Binh City
- Hop in a Taxi or Grab for a Quick Ride: Just 8–10 km away, zipping there takes only 15–30 minutes and costs a budget-friendly 80,000–100,000 VND – hassle-free travel at its best!
🚍 From Hanoi
- For day-trippers craving convenience, join a guided Ninh Bình day tour to Tam Coc and Bich Dong pagoda the easiest way to enjoy seamless transport and captivating stories along the scenic route!
👉 Check options here → Ninh Binh Day Tour from Hanoi
👉 Or plan your own → How to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh
Best time to visit & Photography Tips
The best time to visit Bich Dong Pagoda is during dry months (November–April).
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Visit early morning (7:30–9:30 AM) or late afternoon (4:00–5:00 PM) for ideal light.
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During lotus season (May–July), the pond at the entrance blooms beautifully — a must-see photo spot.
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Bring a tripod if you enjoy cave photography.
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Wear light, breathable clothes but bring a shawl for temple visits.
👉 Read next: Ninh Binh Weather – What’s the best time to visit? Learn how each season transforms landscapes, photos, and travel vibes.
Famous Attractions & Activities Nearby Bich Dong Pagoda
Exploring Bich Dong Pagoda is just the beginning — Ninh Binh offers plenty of nearby gems worth your time. Each spot is only a short drive or bike ride away, making it easy to spend a full day discovering the area’s charm.
- Tam Coc – “Halong Bay on Land”: Take a boat trip along the Ngo Dong River through rice fields and limestone caves — a must-do for first-time visitors.
- Mua Cave Viewpoint: Climb 486 steps for breathtaking panoramic views over Tam Coc and Ninh Binh’s karst peaks — best at sunrise or sunset.
- Thung Nham Bird Park: A tranquil eco-park with caves, lotus ponds, and flocks of birds returning at dusk. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
- Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex (UNESCO Site): A maze of caves, temples, and emerald waterways recognized by UNESCO for its natural and cultural harmony.
- Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Step back in time at Vietnam’s first royal capital, with restored temples honoring ancient kings.
- Thach Bich – Sun Valley & Thai Vi Temple: Cycle through peaceful countryside paths to hidden temples and scenic valleys — ideal for slow travelers.
- Vietnamese Ancient Village – Co Vien Lau: Discover traditional wooden houses and local antiques that tell stories of old Vietnam.
🧭 Planning your Ninh Binh trip? Don’t miss our local guide to Top Things to Do in Ninh Binh — temples, caves, boat rides & hidden spots locals love.
Suggested Itineraries – Combine Bich Dong Pagoda with Nearby Attractions
Visiting Bich Dong Pagoda takes around 1.5 hours, so you can easily combine it with nearby highlights to create a perfect Ninh Binh day.
🌅 Half-Day Plan (Ideal for slow travelers)
- Morning: Start with a peaceful Tam Coc Boat Ride through limestone caves.
- Midday: Cycle to Bich Dong Pagoda, climb to the upper temple for panoramic views. Lunch: Enjoy local dishes like goat meat or burned rice (com chay) at a nearby restaurant.
🌄 Full-Day Plan (For adventure seekers)
- Morning: Visit Trang An Scenic Landscape , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Noon: Lunch in Tam Coc village.
- Afternoon: Explore Bich Dong Pagoda, then hike up to the Mua Cave Viewpoint for a breathtaking sunset.
Best Bich Dong Pagoda Tours & Day Trips
✅ Prefer a guided experience or don’t want to worry about transport?
Here are the most recommended Bich Dong Pagoda tours from Hanoi and Ninh Binh — combining scenic boat rides, limestone caves, local cuisine, and the spiritual charm of this ancient pagoda.
Each itinerary is designed for small groups, with English-speaking guides and comfortable transfers.
From Hanoi — Tam Coc, Bich Dong & Mua Cave Luxury Day Tour
✅ Perfect for first-time visitors who want a seamless, all-inclusive experience.
- Depart from Hanoi in a luxury limousine and explore three of Ninh Binh’s must-sees in one day — the serene Tam Coc boat ride, the ancient Bich Dong Pagoda, and the breathtaking Mua Cave Viewpoint for golden-hour photos.
✅ Small group • Buffet lunch • English-speaking guide • All tickets included
👉 View full itinerary & Check availability
From Hanoi — Trang An, Mua Cave & Bich Dong Pagoda Tour
🌿 Discover Ninh Binh’s UNESCO wonders and hidden temples in one day.
- Enjoy a peaceful boat journey through Trang An’s limestone caves, hike to the top of Mua Cave, and unwind at the tranquil Bich Dong Pagoda surrounded by lush greenery and lotus ponds.
🚐 Limousine Dcar transfer • Buffet lunch • English guide • Photo stops included
💡 Ideal for: Travelers seeking a UNESCO-certified route and a more immersive journey from Hanoi.
From Ninh Binh — Bich Dong, Hoa Lu & Trang An Local Tour
✅ Designed for those already staying in Ninh Binh.
- Start your morning at Bich Dong Pagoda, explore the ancient capital Hoa Lu, and finish with a relaxing Trang An boat tour or a scenic climb to Mua Cave for sunset.
✅ Local guide • Lunch included • Easy half-day itinerary from Tam Coc
💡 Why it’s special: Flexible departure, ideal for those who prefer exploring from Ninh Binh town.
Why book with us?
🌸 Locally operated — all guides are Ninh Binh residents
🚐 Premium limousines for small groups only (max 10 guests)
🍱 Authentic lunch & no hidden fees
⭐ 4.8/5 average rating from 1,000+ travelers
📞 Plan your visit now
Whether you’re staying in Hanoi or Ninh Binh, our team can customize your Bich Dong Pagoda tour to fit your schedule and interests.
Message us directly for real-time support and the best price: 📲 WhatsApp / Hotline: +84 974 805 797 | +84 915 815 535
💬 Still not sure which itinerary fits your travel style? Compare routes, durations, and prices in our full guide:
Visitor Tips — Bich Dong Pagoda
👕 Dress modestly (cover shoulders & knees).
👟 Wear comfy shoes — many stone steps.
🌅 Go early for cool weather & best photos.
🧘♀️ Stay quiet, respect temple rules.
🚫 Don’t litter or pick flowers.
🔦 Bring a small flashlight for dark caves.
💰 Carry small cash for donations.
FAQs
How much time should I spend here?
- Generally 1–1.5 hours is enough to visit all levels at a relaxed pace.
How many steps to climb?
- Around 120–150 stone steps to reach the upper pagoda and cave passages.
Is Bich Dong free or ticketed?
- It’s often included in the Tam Coc/Bich Dong combo ticket (~120,000 VND), but check locally.
Suitable for children / elderly?
- Yes — the climb is moderate. Elderly or less-fit may skip upper levels.
Best route to experience Bich Dong & surroundings?
- Begin in Tam Coc in morning, visit Bich Dong midday, then head to Mua Cave or Thung Nham later.
Plan Your Bich Dong Experience
Bich Dong Pagoda is a serene highlight in any Ninh Binh journey. Whether you’re spending a half-day or full day, you’ll walk through cave-temple levels, enjoy sweeping vistas, and soak in peaceful surroundings.
