Bich Dong Pagoda
Three pagodas carved from a mountain.
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Introduction
Bich Dong Pagoda (Chùa Bích Động) is a historic three-tiered pagoda complex built into a limestone mountain in Ninh Binh. Part of the Trang An UNESCO World Heritage Landscape Complex, its significance lies in its harmonious integration of Buddhist architecture with natural caves and grottoes. The site consists of three distinct pagodas set at different elevations, earning it the historic title of "Nam Thien De Nhi Dong", or the second most beautiful cave-pagoda in Vietnam.
Ha Pagoda
Located at the foot of the mountain, this is the first pagoda you will encounter after crossing a stone bridge over a large lotus pond. It features a five-room structure with stone pillars and detailed wooden rafters. This pagoda serves as the main hall for Buddhist ceremonies.
Trung Pagoda
After a climb of about 120 stone steps, you reach the Trung Pagoda, which is uniquely situated within a cave. Half of the structure is built outside, while the other half extends deep into the grotto. Inside, you'll find intricate statues and a pervasive sense of tranquility, with natural light filtering into the cave entrance.
Thuong Pagoda
The final ascent leads to the small Thuong Pagoda at the mountain's summit. This is the highest point of the complex, offering expansive views of the surrounding rice paddies and karst landscape. The effort to reach this upper temple is rewarded with a peaceful atmosphere and a commanding perspective of the region.
Getting there
From Tam Coc town center to Bich Dong Pagoda (approx. 2 km):
🚗 Taxi: 5-10 mins | 40,000 - 60,000 VND ~ $1.60 - $2.40 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 5-10 mins | 30,000 - 50,000 VND ~ $1.20 - $2.00 USD
🛵 Motorbike: 5 mins
🚶 Walking: 25-30 mins
🚲 Bicycle: 10-15 mins (A very popular and recommended option)
⚠️ The route from Tam Coc to Bich Dong is flat, scenic, and ideal for cycling or walking. Many homestays and hotels in the area offer bicycle rentals for a low daily rate.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Notes: Hours may be more flexible as it's an open religious site, but visiting within this timeframe is recommended.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Parking Fee: Approximately 10,000 VND (~$0.40 USD) for motorbikes.
- Notes: There is no official ticket booth for entry. The fee is only for parking your vehicle at the designated area near the entrance.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- The best time of year is during the dry season from November to April. For photography, visit between May and early June when the rice fields are a vibrant green, or from September to October when they turn golden. Arrive early in the morning (before 10 AM) to avoid the largest tour groups.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Allow approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to explore all three pagodas at a comfortable pace and take in the views from the top.
Tips from locals
Local tips
👗 This is an active religious site, so respectful attire is required. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered before entering the pagoda grounds. You may be denied entry to the inner prayer areas if dressed inappropriately.
📸 The iconic photo spot is the stone archway at the entrance, framing the pagoda with the lotus pond in front. The best time to see the lotuses in full bloom is during the summer months of June and July.
👟 Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip. The stone steps leading up to the Trung and Thuong pagodas are uneven and can become quite slippery, especially after rain.
💡 Consider visiting just before or after a Tam Coc boat tour. The pagoda is located only 2 km from the Tam Coc boat pier, making it a logical and efficient addition to your itinerary for that day.
Be aware
🅿️ Be prepared for a small parking fee, which is standard. However, be clear on the price before leaving your bike or motorbike to avoid any confusion or overcharging when you return. The fee should be around 10,000 VND.
🤝 While the monks at the pagoda are welcoming, you may encounter individuals near the entrance offering unsolicited "guide" services or trying to sell items. A polite but firm "no, thank you" ("không, cảm ơn") is usually sufficient.
🛶 Be aware that aggressive selling is more commonly reported by tourists at the nearby Tam Coc boat pier, not at the pagoda itself. If you are combining the two, be prepared for vendors on the river trying to sell you items.
FAQs
Is Bich Dong Pagoda free to enter?
Yes, entry into the pagoda complex is completely free. You only need to pay a small fee for parking your motorbike or bicycle.
What is the dress code?
You must dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees, as it is an active place of worship.
How long does it take to see the whole complex?
A typical visit takes between 1 and 1.5 hours to climb to the top pagoda and explore all three levels at a relaxed pace.
How many steps are there to the top?
There are approximately 100 stone steps to reach the highest pagoda, Thuong Pagoda.
Can I visit Bich Dong Pagoda on a Tam Coc boat tour?
The pagoda is not part of the boat tour itself. It is a separate attraction on land, but it is located very close to the Tam Coc boat pier, so most visitors see both on the same day.
What does "Bich Dong" mean?
"Bích Động" translates to "Jade Grotto", a name given to it in the 18th century for its beautiful, jade-like stone caves.
Is the climb to the top difficult?
The climb is of moderate difficulty. It is not long, but the ancient stone steps can be steep and uneven, requiring careful footing.
When is the best time to see the lotus pond in bloom?
The lotus flowers at the entrance are typically in full bloom during the summer, from June to July.
Is the pagoda accessible for people with mobility issues?
The lower pagoda (Ha Pagoda) is easily accessible on flat ground. However, reaching the middle and upper pagodas requires climbing many steep stone steps and is not wheelchair accessible.
Is it better to visit in the morning or afternoon?
Early morning is ideal to experience the pagoda in peace and with fewer crowds. The site often gets busier in the late morning and afternoon with tour buses.
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