Bich Dong Pagoda: A journey to the "Green Pearl" cave temple of Ninh Binh

Often hailed as the "Second-most Beautiful Cave in the Southern Sky", Bich Dong Pagoda offers a mesmerizing blend of ancient architecture and dramatic limestone nature. Built directly into a mountain cliff in the 15th century, this three-tiered temple invites visitors to climb through stone gates and dark caves to reach a summit with breathtaking valley views. A visit here is not just a sightseeing stop but a peaceful step back into Vietnam's feudal history and spiritual traditions.

About Bich Dong Pagoda

Located in the Truong Yen mountain range, just a few kilometers from the Tam Coc boat pier, Bich Dong Pagoda is a cultural gem dating back to 1428. Its name, which translates to "Green Pearl Grotto," was bestowed by Lord Trinh Sam in the 18th century, inspired by the lush greenery and the emerald water that surrounds the site. Unlike other temples that sit on flat ground, Bich Dong is unique because its three structures - the Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagodas - are built into the mountainside, utilizing natural caves as part of the shrines.

Where is it?

Bich Dong Pagoda is situated in Dam Khe Village, Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, roughly 3 kilometers from the Tam Coc boat wharf. It is easily accessible by bicycle, motorbike, or taxi. The route from Tam Coc is scenic and flat, winding through rice paddies and past towering limestone cliffs, making the journey there almost as beautiful as the destination itself.

When is the best time to visit Bich Dong Pagoda?

The pagoda is beautiful year-round, but the scenery is most vibrant during late May and early June when the lotus ponds at the entrance are in full bloom. For the most atmospheric experience, aim to arrive early in the morning, around 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. This timing allows you to capture the iconic photo of the stone bridge without crowds and enjoy the cool morning air before the midday heat sets in.

What makes Bich Dong Pagoda special?

The iconic stone bridge and gate

The first thing that captivates visitors is the stone bridge spanning a large lotus pond, leading to the majestic Three-Entrance Gate (Tam Quan). This is one of the most photographed spots in Ninh Binh, where the ancient gray stone gate contrasts beautifully with the green mountains and pink lotus flowers. Walking across this bridge feels like crossing a threshold from the mundane world into a sacred, quiet realm.

The Lower Pagoda (Ha Pagoda)

Located at the base of the mountain, the Lower Pagoda is built in the traditional architectural style with five compartments featuring massive stone pillars and wooden beams. The temple curves elegantly like a dragon's tail, housing statues of Buddha and reverence for the mountain spirits. It sits peacefully amidst century-old trees, offering a grounding start to your ascent.

The Middle Pagoda (Trung Pagoda)

To reach the Middle Pagoda, you must climb 120 stone steps that wind up the cliff face. unmatched by other sites, this pagoda is uniquely constructed half-outside and half-inside a cave, with the mountain itself forming the rear wall and roof of the temple. Above the roof, you can see the carved characters "Bich Dong," and the silence here is profound, broken only by the sound of wind and birds.

The Upper Pagoda (Thuong Pagoda)

The final leg of the journey involves climbing another 40 steep stone steps to reach the very peak of the mountain. The Upper Pagoda is a small, solitary shrine worshiping Guanyin Bodhisattva, offering a sense of total isolation and peace. From this vantage point, you are rewarded with a panoramic view of the entire Bic Dong area, with its scattered limestone peaks and checkered rice fields stretching to the horizon.

Extra tips for travellers

As Bich Dong is an active and sacred religious site, visiting requires a level of mindfulness and preparation.

Dress Modestly: This is the most critical rule; you must cover your shoulders and knees to show respect for the sanctity of the place. Avoid wearing tank tops, shorts above the knee, or revealing clothing, as this may cause offense to the monks and locals.

Wear Proper Shoes: The path involves climbing uneven, mossy stone steps that can be slippery, especially after rain. Leave the flip-flops at the hotel and wear sturdy walking shoes or sneakers with good grip to ensure a safe climb.

Mind Your Behavior: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, keeping your voice low and avoiding loud laughter within the temple grounds. When standing before altars, do not point your feet directly at the Buddha statues, and always ask for permission before photographing monks.

Bich Dong Pagoda is a rare destination where nature and spirituality are perfectly intertwined, offering a serene escape from the busier tourist hubs. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or a seeker of peace, the climb to the "Green Pearl" provides a deeply rewarding connection to Vietnam's heritage. If you still can't decide how to plan your trip, let our team from Custom Asia Travel help you tailor your memorable and worry-free trip with our local experts.