Bich Dong pagoda: Must-see cave temple in Ninh Binh

Bich Dong Pagoda is one of the most captivating cave temples in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. Nestled in limestone cliffs and lotus ponds, this ancient pagoda offers both natural beauty and spiritual charm. In this guide, we’ll explore its rich history, the highlights of Lower, Middle and Upper Pagodas and hidden caves.

To complete your trip, don’t miss nearby attractions such as the Tam Coc boat ride, Trang An scenic landscape and Mua Cave viewpoint, along with the historic Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and the tranquil Van Long Nature Reserve. Get ready to uncover why Bich Dong Pagoda and its surroundings are unmissable highlights of Vietnam travel.

Let Hanoi Voyages guide you through Bich Dong Pagoda, where ancient temples, hidden caves and peaceful views bring Vietnam’s history and beauty to life!

Bich Dong Pagoda: What you need to know

📍 Location: Nested in Ngu Nhac Mountain, Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province, about 100km south of Hanoi. 

⏰ Bich Dong Pagoda opening hours: The pagoda is open all day.

💸 Bich Dong Pagoda entry fee: Priced at VND 250,000 ($9.47) for adults and VND 120,000 ($4.55) for children.

Bich Dong Pagoda is a 15th-century temple complex nestled in the limestone mountains of Ninh Binh, surrounded by lotus ponds and dramatic cliffs. The site unfolds across three pagodas - Ha (Lower), Trung (Middle) and Thuong (Upper) - connected by mossy stone steps that lead visitors on a peaceful spiritual journey with panoramic views of Tam Coc. 

Once praised as “Nam Thiên Đệ Nhị Động” - the second most beautiful cave under the southern skies, after Huong Tich at Perfume Pagoda - it has long been a cultural treasure. Bich Dong Pagoda is also part of the UNESCO-listed Trang An Landscape Complex, making it both a spiritual sanctuary and a must-visit highlight of Ninh Binh travel.

History of Bich Dong Pagoda: Key insights for visitors

The story of Bich Dong Pagoda stretches back nearly six centuries. Originally built in 1428 during the reign of Emperor Ly Thai To, the pagoda was once a small shrine nestled in the heart of Ngu Nhac Mountain.

In 1705, two Buddhist monks, Tri Kien and Tri The, came across the site and decided to expand it into the impressive three-tiered structure visitors see today. These include the Lower Pagoda (Ha Pagoda) at the base of the mountain, the Middle Pagoda (Trung Pagoda) halfway up and the Upper Pagoda (Thuong Pagoda) at the peak, where worship and nature blend in perfect harmony.

The pagoda gained its current name in 1774, when Lord Trinh Sam of Dang Ngoai (Outer Land) visited and was deeply moved by the breathtaking scenery surrounding it. Struck by the beauty of the mountains, caves and lush greenery, he named it Bich Dong, meaning “Green Pearl Cave”.

Today, Bich Dong Pagoda stands not only as a sacred Buddhist site but also as a cultural landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich spiritual and historical heritage.

Best time to visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Bich Dong Pagoda is open to visitors all year round, so you can plan a trip whenever it fits your schedule. However, certain times of the year offer better weather and experiences.

• April to June – This is one of the most ideal periods to visit. The weather is warm, the rice fields around Tam Coc turn a beautiful green and yellow and the lotus ponds near the pagoda are in full bloom. It’s perfect for combining sightseeing with photography.

• October to December – These months bring cooler, more pleasant weather with less rainfall. The landscapes remain lush and the air is fresh, making it comfortable for climbing up to the Upper Pagoda and exploring the caves.

• January to March (Springtime) – For those who want to experience the spiritual side of Bich Dong Pagoda, spring is the best choice. During these months, the pagoda welcomes many pilgrims and hosts festive activities, creating a vibrant yet sacred atmosphere.

💡 Travel tip: If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler weather, softer light for photos and fewer crowds.

Top 5 must-see tourist attractions in Bich Dong Pagoda

Built into the mountainside, Bich Dong Pagoda is a three-tiered complex with Ha, Trung and Thuong Pagodas. Each structure features a roof with four gracefully curved corners, designed to resemble the tail feathers of a phoenix. Now, let’s explore the highlights of each area in detail.

Lower Pagoda (Ha Pagoda)

At the foot of the mountain stands Ha Pagoda, a two-story temple featuring five chambers and ten layered roofs. Built with ironwood trusses, beams and spars, the structure showcases traditional craftsmanship. A striking monolithic stone pillar, nearly four meters tall, adds to its grandeur. Inside, Buddha statues are placed on the main altar, where the curling incense smoke creates a deeply spiritual ambiance.

Middle Pagoda (Trung Pagoda)

Situated halfway up Ngu Nhac Mountain, Trung Pagoda awaits after a climb of about 120 steps from Ha Pagoda. Built in the traditional Vietnamese style, it is marked by tiled roofs and walls decorated with Chinese inscriptions. The structure is divided into two sections - one outside and the other set inside a mysterious cave. Here, visitors will find carvings of fairies, boys, dragons, turtles and Buddha figures, as well as a large bronze bell engraved with elaborate details that hangs in the dim light.

Upper Pagoda (Thuong Pagoda) 

Beyond Trung Pagoda, a climb of 40 rugged stone steps leads to Thuong Pagoda, perched at the mountain’s peak. The temple consists of two rooms: the first with a forecourt and stone altar, the second housing a sacred shrine to the Bodhisattva. Just beside it shimmers Cam Lo Pond, said to possess waters capable of curing every illness.

Xuyen Thuy Cave

Xuyen Thuy Cave is a remarkable semicircular cavern stretching about 350 meters across the Bich Dong massif from east to west. It averages 6 meters in width, widening up to 15 meters at its broadest point. Travelers can access both the cave and Bich Dong Pagoda by entering from the Hydrodynamic River at the back of the mountain, opposite the main road to the pagoda. 

Dark Cave Bich Dong 

Dark Cave, a short 21-step climb from Trung Pagoda, holds a bronze bell made in 1707 by monks Tri Kien and Tri The. Buddha statues line the entrance and the walls display embossed paintings that enhance its mystical charm.

Top attractions near Bich Dong Pagoda

Beyond Bich Dong Pagoda, Ninh Binh offers stunning landscapes, cultural sites and peaceful escapes that make your journey even more rewarding. Looking for your next destination after Bich Dong Pagoda?

Tam Coc limestone caves (Three Caves)

Just a few minutes from Bich Dong, Tam Coc is famous for its boat rides along the Ngo Dong River. As you glide through the water, you’ll pass golden rice fields and enter the “Three Caves,” where limestone cliffs rise dramatically around you. Often called “Halong Bay on land,” this is one of the most iconic experiences in Ninh Binh.

Trang An Landscape Complex

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trang An offers breathtaking boat tours through caves, rivers and karst mountains. The complex also includes ancient temples and filming locations from Kong: Skull Island. If you want a mix of nature and history, this is the perfect spot.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Step back in time at Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s capital in the 10th and 11th centuries. Here, you can explore historic temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le, while learning about the country’s early feudal dynasties. It’s an essential stop for history lovers.

Mua Cave Viewpoint (Hang Múa)

For the best panoramic views of Tam Coc and the surrounding karst landscape, climb the 500 steps up to Mua Cave Viewpoint. The climb is a workout, but the reward is stunning - especially at sunrise or sunset, when the light paints the valley below.

Van Long Nature Reserve

Known as the “preserved bay on land,” Van Long is a peaceful wetland area home to diverse wildlife, including the rare Delacour’s langur. A boat trip here is quieter than Tam Coc or Trang An, perfect for birdwatchers and those seeking a serene escape.

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Must-try local dishes when you visit Bich Dong Pagoda

Around Bich Dong Pagoda, you’ll find traditional dishes that capture the authentic taste of Ninh Binh.

👉 For more details, you can also refer: Top 5 must-try dishes in Ninh Binh

How to get to Bich Dong Pagoda

Reaching the Tam Coc – Bich Dong area is part of the adventure itself. Located just 110 kilometers from Hanoi, the journey can be made by train, bus, motorbike, or car. 

A ride from Hanoi to Ninh Binh takes only 2 to 2.5 hours - trains cost around VND 110,000 ($4.17), while buses range from VND 70,000 ($2.65) to 210,000 ($7.96). 

From Ninh Binh city, it’s a quick 10-minute drive to Tam Coc, the gateway to Bich Dong Pagoda. From there, you can rent a bicycle, hop on a motorbike, take a taxi, or simply walk and soak in the stunning rural scenery before arriving at the pagoda.

Essential travel tips for visiting Bich Dong Pagoda

To truly enjoy your visit to Bich Dong Pagoda, a few simple tips can make your journey smoother and more memorable. Here are some helpful recommendations for the best experience.

• Dress with respect – As a Buddhist temple, Bich Dong calls for modest clothing. Light, breathable outfits that cover your shoulders and knees are ideal.

• Wear comfortable shoes – The pagoda climbs up a limestone mountain with stone steps and cave paths, so sturdy and comfortable footwear will make your visit easier.

• Stay hydrated and prepared – Carry water, sunscreen and a hat. Exploring all three levels of the pagoda can be a mini hike, especially under the sun.

• Respect the sacred space – Keep quiet inside the shrines, avoid touching statues and give space to locals who come to pray.

• Capture the views – Don’t miss the scenic lotus pond at the entrance or the panoramic viewpoint from the Upper Pagoda, perfect spots for memorable photos.

Bich Dong Pagoda is more than just a temple - it’s a journey into history, nature and spirituality, all set in the heart of Ninh Binh. From mossy stone steps and hidden caves to panoramic views and peaceful lotus ponds, every corner tells a story worth discovering. 

Ready to make Bich Dong Pagoda an unforgettable part of your Vietnam adventure? With Hanoi Voyages, discover its spiritual charm through luxury, seamless and meaningful travel experiences!