Bich Dong Pagoda is situated at just 3 km away from Tam Coc, Ninh Binh Province. What I loved about it was that there were not many tourists and the place had such a peaceful atmosphere. This pagoda is definitely worth seeing if you are in the Ninh Binh Province for more than two days.
You can easily link your visit to Bich Dong Pagoda with other tourist attractions in Ninh Binh area such as Hang Mua Peak or Tam Coc boat tour.
About Bich Dong Pagoda
The Bich Dong Pagoda was built by 2 Buddhist monks: Tri Kien and Tri The. When entering the pagoda, you will have to pass over a stone bridge and go through a beautifully decorated gate. Once you pass through the Bich Dong Pagoda gate you will find yourself in an oasis of tranquility. Take your time to admire and explore the place.
Bich Dong Pagoda is not an usual one since it consists of 3 separate layered pagodas: Ha, Trung and Thuong. These three pagodas are built in ascending order and to reach them you must climb some steep stairs but trust me, the view is well worth it. The steps are located on the left side of the first pagoda – Ha.
Ha Pagoda is the first one you will see and it is used as a Buddha shrine. Once you will enter the pagoda, you will be welcomed by statues and incense.
Climbing a few stairs will get you to the second pagoda. Trung Pagoda is divided into two areas. Half of the pagoda is situated outside and half is situated inside the cave.
To reach the third and last pagoda, Thuong, you will have to go through the Dark Cave. Don’t get discouraged by all the steep stairs since the view will be worth it!
Entrance fee
Be aware that there is no entrance fee for the Bich Dong Pagoda even though some local people will try to convince you to pay a certain amount of money.
Where to stay in Ninh Binh
I’ve been searching for the best accommodation in Ninh Binh. Below are the best hotels, for every budget:
- Budget – Tam Coc Craft Homestay – great location, big & comfortable rooms, very clean
- Mid-budget – Hidden Charm Hotel & Resort – amazing pool with a view, good location, spacious rooms, breakfast included
- Luxury – Aravinda Resort – amazing location near the limestone mountains, luxurious rooms, super-friendly staff, excellent breakfast
How to get to Bich Dong Pagoda
By bike or motorbike – recommended
If you are staying in the area of Tam Coc, the best option would be to go to the Bich Dong Pagoda by bike. Usually, you can rent a bike from your accommodation. If not, try asking at a few hotels. If you are staying a little bit further, you can rent a motorbike for about 150,000 VND per day. The road from Tam Coc to Bich Dong Pagoda is absolutely stunning. Therefore, don’t hesitate to make a few stops along the way to admire the rice fields and the mountains.
Caution – avoid getting scammed at the parking point – The people in charge of the parking at Bich Dong Pagoda will usually try to ask for more money than it actually costs. Do not accept to pay more than 10,000 VND for one vehicle (bike or motorbike). Also, if you don’t want to pay the price, you can always park a little bit further away.By taxi
You can easily find taxis in Tam Coc or Ninh Binh. The price depends on your starting point but should not be higher than 15,000 VND/ km.
By organized tour
If you want a hustle free experience, you can choose an organized tour to visit the Bich Dong Pagoda. However, at the moment there aren’t any tours that only focus on this pagoda. All tours combine more attractions. Below are a few suggestions:
Bich Dong Pagoda is a Ninh Binh Province must see if you are spending more than two days in the area. I really liked this place and the road leading to it. If you want to soak in a little part of the Vietnamese culture, I would definitely recommend visiting it!
May the travel bug bite you!
More nearby attractions:
- Ninh Binh must see attractions – click here
- Hang Mua Peak – a view to remember in Ninh Binh – click here
- Tam Coc boat tour – a relaxing ride in Ninh Binh – click here
- Thai Vi Temple – a peaceful place in Ninh Binh – click here
- Trang An boat tour – Ninh Binh – click here
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Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.
She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here.
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