Bich Dong Pagoda: Serenity Among the Karsts of Ninh Binh

Alright, so if you find yourself exploring Vietnam's "Ha Long Bay on Land," one thing you absolutely have to do is visit the Bich Dong Pagoda.

Honestly, the journey to get there is half the adventure. Just rent a bike in Tam Coc and cruise through the countryside. You'll pedal past these incredible green rice fields and through tiny villages, getting a real peek into the quiet, everyday life of the locals. The whole vibe is just so peaceful and authentic. Trust me, between its fascinating history and magical setting, the pagoda itself will completely take your breath away.

Written by Oliver PHUNG (Local expert)Updated on 21-06-2025

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Table of contents

The History of Bich Dong Pagoda
A Temple in Three Phases: The Unique Structure of Bich Dong
Best Time to Visit
Practical advice
Getting There
What to Wear
Top Attractions Near Bich Dong Pagoda

The History of Bich Dong Pagoda

Originally founded in 1428 as a small temple, Bich Dong Pagoda was perched atop a mountain in a secluded, natural setting. In 1705, its history took a pivotal turn when two monks, Trí Kiên and Trí Thể, stumbled upon the site. Captivated by its serene beauty, they dedicated themselves to restoring it. Their work included casting a large bell in 1707, which still hangs in the Tối (Dark) Cave today, and engraving a commemorative stone stele in 1709.

Later, in 1774, the visiting Lord Trịnh Sâm was so charmed by the magnificent landscape that he gave the site its modern name: "Bich Dong", meaning "Jade Grotto", a tribute to the lush, vibrant greenery of the area.

*The entrance to Bích Động Pagoda is worthy of a painting.*

Over the centuries, the pagoda has weathered significant changes while carefully preserving its historical and spiritual character. Now more than 600 years old, it stands as a key feature of the Tràng An Landscape Complex, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2014. Bich Dong Pagoda remains a must-see destination for visitors, who come to admire not only its stunning architecture but also its harmonious integration with the surrounding nature.

*The pagoda's moss-covered portal bears witness to centuries of history*

A Temple in Three Phases: The Unique Structure of Bich Dong

Bich Dong Pagoda is uniquely constructed to reflect the Chinese character for "three" (三), pronounced 'Tam' in Vietnamese. The complex consists of three distinct pagodas built in ascending order up the mountainside, each possessing its own charm in a harmonious fusion of spiritual architecture and nature.

The Lower Pagoda: Located on level ground at the foot of the mountain, this is the first stop on a visitor's journey.
The Middle Pagoda: Nestled inside a natural cave halfway up the mountainside, this pagoda offers a quiet and mysterious atmosphere.
The Upper Pagoda: Situated at the very peak, it rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding region.

With its peaceful ambiance and natural beauty, the complex is an ideal setting for meditation and reflection. The ancient, moss-covered trees and majestic mountainside temples immerse visitors in a sacred space. A visit in the spring is especially rewarding, offering splendid views of the golden Tam Cốc rice fields, all complemented by the crisp, fresh air of Ninh Bình.

In addition to exploring the three main temples, you can participate in traditional activities like offering incense or praying for peace. You can also simply sit by the lake to soak in the tranquil scenery. Be sure to browse the nearby stalls selling souvenirs and Buddhist artifacts to find a meaningful memento of your pilgrimage.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March): The landscape comes alive as vibrant red kapok flowers burst into bloom, creating a spectacular scene that is a favorite among photographers.
Summer (May – June): Fragrant lotus flowers blanket the ponds, cultivating a serene and deeply spiritual atmosphere.
Fall (September): The surrounding rice paddies turn a brilliant gold, offering stunning views of the idyllic countryside.
Winter (December): The scenery takes on a unique tranquility with misty skies. The absence of crowds makes this the perfect time for a quiet, contemplative visit.

*In February and March, the kapok trees in bloom set the entrance to the Bích Động Pagoda ablaze bright red.*

*With its bright red flowers, the kapok tree is one of the typical images of spring in northern Vietnam.*

👉A Helpful Tip:

During the summer rainy season (typically June and July), water levels in front of the pagoda can rise dramatically, sometimes flooding the main entrance path. This leads to a unique experience: you may actually get to reach the pagoda by taking a small boat!

*Unusual entrance to Bích Động during the rainy season.*

Practical advice

Getting There

Renting a bike is a popular and convenient way to explore the area. The ride from the center of Tam Cốc to the pagoda takes approximately 30 minutes.

What to Wear

Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes, as your visit will involve walking and climbing stairs. Since this is a sacred religious site, please dress respectfully by making sure your shoulders and knees are covered.

*On the bike route to the Bích Động Pagoda, you come across peaceful and enchanting landscapes like this one.*

Top Attractions Near Bich Dong Pagoda

Your exploration of Ninh Bình's beauty can continue long after you depart from Bich Dong Pagoda. The surrounding area is rich with remarkable destinations, many within a 10 km (about 6-mile) radius, inviting you to further discover the region's charm.

Consider these noteworthy sites for your itinerary:

Tam Cốc: A short 3 km journey brings you to one of Ninh Bình's most celebrated landscapes, famously known as “Ha Long Bay on Land.” A gentle boat ride on the Ngô Đồng River will carry you through a panorama of stunning limestone karsts and lush rice paddies.
Thung Nham Bird Garden: For those seeking nature and tranquility, Thung Nham, located 6 km away, offers an escape into a serene, unspoiled environment. It is a perfect setting for bird watching, exploring caves, or simply unwinding in a peaceful atmosphere.
Hang Múa (Mua Caves): About 8 km away, Hang Múa presents a rewarding challenge for active visitors and photographers. The ascent of 500 stone steps culminates in an unforgettable, panoramic vista over the entire Tam Cốc valley.
Thái Vi Temple: Delve into history at this historic temple, approximately 7 km away. Dedicated to the kings of the Trần Dynasty and set against a backdrop of majestic limestone mountains, Thái Vi offers a moment for solemn and serene reflection.

Conclusion,

Bich Dong Pagoda is more than just a temple; it is a sanctuary for finding inner peace. It offers a rare convergence of profound history, ancient architecture, and magnificent natural scenery, making it an essential destination for any traveler seeking a deep connection between culture, spirituality, and nature. No visit to Ninh Bình is truly complete without experiencing the enduring beauty of one of Vietnam's most historic pagodas.