[2025 Hoa Lu District Attraction] Travel Guide for Bich Dong Pagoda (Updated Jun)

The ancient temple of Bitong was built in 1705 when King Li Dutong was on the throne. At that time, there were two monks named Sanjian and Sande, who were from Huangdong and Nanding respectively. The two met by fate and became brothers. When they came to Bidong Mountain, they found that it was a place with beautiful terrain and a pagoda. The two monks decided to rebuild the old temple into three new temples: divided into upper pagoda, middle pagoda and lower pagoda, and use them for spiritual practice. Bitong Ancient Temple is an ancient temple built on a limestone hillside in Chang'an. It belongs to Chang'an Scenic Area and is one of Ninh Binh's famous attractions. This ancient temple has a touch of nostalgia and the style of ancient traditional architecture. It is one of the holy places that many people stop by to pay homage to the Buddha when exploring Ninh Binh. #local游

To do: * Trang An boat tour - more organized than Tam Coc, with friendlier boat rowers/paddlers (less likely to pressure you for tips or push you to buy souvenirs from them) * Hang Mua - panoramic views + beautiful lotus bloom in season Note: only cash is accepted here * Bich Dong Pagoda - free entrance and located near Tam Coc pier * Bai Dinh Pagoda - largest pagoda complex in Vietnam. The place is massive - you’ll need to take an electric car to explore the different sections. Note: It’s soooooo far from Trang An Boat Tour. (No GrabBike is available here, only taxis. You can join tours or rent a bike/motorcycle. Walking is an option, too.)

Bích Động Pagoda was initially constructed in 1428 but disappeared into the jungle in the turmoil of war and unrest. It was rediscovered in the early 18th century by two traveling monks spreading the word of Buddha throughout the countryside.

The road to Bich Dong Pagoda (Chua Bich Dong) feels like walking through a painting. As you follow the quiet country road, the limestone peaks gradually come closer, and a river flows leisurely between the fields. When you reach the temple, the serene pagoda nestled in the cave and the traditional wooden buildings blend perfectly with nature. At sunset, the nearby village takes on a different appearance, bathed in golden sunlight. The houses lined along the river, the sparkling waves, and the sight of residents rowing their boats back home look warm and peaceful. This scenery, which makes you stop your motorcycle and gaze for a long time, is so beautiful that it cannot be fully captured in a photograph. Bich Dong Pagoda and its surroundings are not just a place to visit, but a spot where you can truly feel the charm of Vietnam, where nature and daily life are harmoniously intertwined.

#traveldiaries Ninh Binh stole my heart with its serene beauty. Exploring Bich Pagoda, I felt a deep sense of peace amidst the stunning architecture and lush surroundings. The lotus fields were a vibrant splash of color, evoking a feeling of tranquility. At Hang Mua Cave, the panoramic views left me breathless. 🪷 This hidden gem offers a slow-paced life that feels like a breath of fresh air. If you’re seeking calm and natural beauty, Ninh Binh is a must-visit! 🇻🇳🍃⛰️ Ninh Binh is only 1 hour from Hanoi and I suggest to stay there atleast for 1 night! It’s totally worth it! 💯 ✨FOLLOW ME FOR MORE TRAVEL RECOS✨ #ninhbinh #vietnam #southeastasia #travelcontentcreator #travelinfluencer #hanoi

Visiting Bich Dong Pagoda in Ninh Binh was a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience. Nestled among lush green mountains and surrounded by tranquil lotus ponds, the pagoda felt like a hidden gem. The journey began with a stone bridge leading to the entrance, where the beautiful mix of natural scenery and ancient architecture immediately caught my attention. As I climbed through the three-tiered pagoda, the views from each level became more stunning, offering panoramic glimpses of the limestone peaks and valleys below. The serene atmosphere inside the temple made it a perfect place to reflect and soak in the beauty of Ninh Binh. #summerdestinations #vietnam

#vietnamtrip ### 🏞️ **Explore the Natural Wonders of Ninh Binh!** 🏞️ Ninh Binh, often referred to as the "Ha Long Bay on land," is a stunning destination in northern Vietnam that offers breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a peaceful escape from the bustling cities. 🌿✨ **Majestic Landscapes 🌄:** Ninh Binh is renowned for its dramatic karst limestone mountains, lush green valleys, and winding rivers. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular, providing endless opportunities for photography and exploration. The best way to experience this beauty is through a boat tour along the Tam Coc or Trang An river, where you can float through caves and between towering cliffs. **Cultural Heritage 🏛️:** The region is steeped in history and culture. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, which served as the political and cultural center of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Explore the impressive temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties, and learn about the rich history of the area. **Pagodas and Temples 🕍:** Ninh Binh is home to several important religious sites. The Bai Dinh Pagoda complex, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, is a must-visit. It features massive statues, intricate carvings, and stunning architecture set against a backdrop of verdant hills. The Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled in a mountain cave, offers a serene and spiritual experience. **Local Cuisine 🍲:** Ninh Binh offers a unique culinary experience with local specialties that reflect the region's agricultural roots. Don't miss trying dishes like "com chay" (crispy rice crust) and "goat meat," which are prepared using traditional recipes and fresh local ingredients. **Cycling and Trekking 🚴♂️:** The flat terrain and scenic routes make Ninh Binh perfect for cycling and trekking. Rent a bike and explore the countryside, ride through charming villages, rice paddies, and along scenic riverbanks. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and local life. In summary, Ninh Binh is a gem that combines natural splendor, rich history, and cultural depth. Whether you're an adventurer, a history buff, or someone seeking peace and beauty, Ninh Binh promises an unforgettable experience. 🌟🏞️🛶 #beachlife #flowerlover #themepark #songkran2024 #cherryblossom2024 #vietnam #familytrip

#vietnamtrip Visiting Bich Dong Pagoda in Vietnam was a truly enchanting experience. Nestled into a mountainside, this ancient three-tiered pagoda exudes peace and tranquility. As I wandered through the cluster of cave temples, I felt a deep connection to the region's rich history and culture. The stunning surroundings, complete with a serene water lily-covered lake, added to the sense of calm and contemplation. Watching the sunset over the pagoda's tiered roofs was a particular highlight, casting a golden glow over the entire scene. If you're seeking a serene and culturally immersive experience, Bich Dong Pagoda is a must-visit destination in Vietnam.

#thingstodo A beautiful pagoda complex with caves and is free to visit . This is an easy walk or bike ride from Tam Coc. The bottom area has temples with interesting posters that explain beliefs around karmic repercussions for specific behaviours. You can climb up stairs into a cave and enjoy the shrines inside. It’s really quite lovely. Just outside the complex is another staircase up a hill. This will take you passed a family dwelling with a rice paddy and grazing goats. The family has a private cave they give tours to - it’s by donation and we made a point of being generous. The grandmother turned on the lights of the cave and showed us the unique structures - one looks like a giant woman. The cave has lots of fossils and some sections of the wall are actually ancient coral. You can walk a path around the rice paddy, but eventually the path ends. If you push on you’ll find yourself walking through very tall grasses and some very muddy spots. Worth doing just be prepared for what’s to come. The goats were adorable, they are very human habituated and the babies like to be pet. There are a couple of little restaurants,, spots to purchase water, and tourist kitsch just outside the entrance. They also sell big beautiful water lilies to leave at the shrines as an offering.