Framed by a lotus pond and ancient stone bridge, Bich Dong ("Green Pearl Grotto") is a serene 15th-century pagoda complex built in three levels up the face of a limestone cliff.
Founded in 1428 and expanded in the 18th century, Bich Dong Pagoda is one of the most atmospheric spiritual sites in Vietnam. Visitors cross an arched stone gateway over a tranquil lotus pond to reach the foot of Ngu Nhac Mountain.
The pagoda is arranged vertically in three tiers — Ha Pagoda (Lower), Trung Pagoda (Middle, half-tucked inside a mountain cave), and Thuong Pagoda (Upper) — connected by shaded stone steps cut through the rock and dark natural cave chambers.
On our Flagship Ninh Binh Full-Day Jeep Tour, you ride an open-air vintage Jeep along quiet country lanes directly to Bich Dong Pagoda.
Highlights of Bich Dong Pagoda
- Iconic stone bridge & gateway overlooking a lotus pond
- Three-level mountain architecture: Ha, Trung & Thuong Pagodas
- Natural dark cave passageways with ancient Buddhist shrines
- Peaceful countryside setting reached by open-air Jeep
Things to do
Cross the lotus pond bridge
One of Ninh Binh’s most photogenic entrances, framed by limestone cliffs.
Climb through the Dark Cave to Upper Pagoda
Follow the stone steps past Trung Pagoda through the cool cave chamber to Thuong Pagoda for valley views.
Plan your visit
How to get there
Located 3 km from Tam Coc along a scenic rural road — a highlight of our 2-hour Countryside Jeep Adventure.
Best time to visit
Morning (around 09:00–11:00) when the temple grounds are quiet and cool.
Local tips
Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees to enter the sanctuary.
Map
Questions about Bich Dong Pagoda
Which tour visits Bich Dong Pagoda?
Our #1 Flagship tour — "From Hanoi: Ninh Binh Full-Day Jeep Tour: Countryside, Tam Coc, Hang Mua, Bich Dong" — visits both Bich Dong Pagoda and Thai Vi Temple during the 2-hour open-air Jeep adventure.
