Bich Dong Pagoda: Ninh Binh’s Sacred Green Grotto & Sustainable Eco-Tours with Legend Travel Group

Ninh Binh Province, 90 km southeast of Hanoi in Vietnam’s Red River Delta, is famed for its karst landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and rich cultural heritage, often dubbed “Halong Bay on Land.” Now a unified province encompassing former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, Ninh Binh blends natural splendor with spiritual depth. Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled in Ninh Hai Ward (formerly Hoa Lu District), 7 km from Ninh Binh City, is a serene 15th-century temple complex built into Ngu Nhac Mountain, earning its name “Green Grotto” (Bich = Green, Dong = Grotto). Part of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, it attracts over 100,000 visitors annually with its three-tiered pagodas, hidden caves, and panoramic valley views. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers eco-friendly tours to Bich Dong, bookable via links around this guide. Immerse yourself in spiritual tranquility—reserve your tour today

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Vietnam and Southeast Asia experiences with expert English-speaking guides, eco-conscious practices, and tailored itineraries. Our Ninh Binh tours pair Bich Dong Pagoda with eco-adventures like Tam Coc boat rides and cycling through rice paddies, ensuring a culturally immersive journey. Committed to sustainability, we support local communities, use low-impact transport like electric vehicles, and align with Ninh Binh’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we prioritize your satisfaction. Discover our curated tours to explore Bich Dong responsibly—book via the links on this page!

Bich Dong Pagoda, located in Dam Khe Village, Ninh Hai Ward, Ninh Binh Province, is a sacred Buddhist complex within the Trang An UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1428 during the Le Dynasty, it comprises three pagodas—Lower (Ha), Middle (Trung), and Upper (Thuong)—stacked across Ngu Nhac Mountain, connected by stone steps and a cave passage. Named “Nam Thien De Nhi Dong” (Second Most Beautiful Cave of the South) by Lord Trinh Sam in 1773, it features ancient greenstone architecture, lotus ponds, and sweeping views of rice paddies. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, entry costs $4.67 (100,000 VND) per adult for the Tam Coc-Bich Dong tourism complex, including boat access. Its proximity to Tam Coc (2 km) and Hoa Lu Ancient Capital (10 km) makes it a cultural highlight.

Administrative Update

Ninh Binh Province has merged with former Ha Nam and Nam Dinh provinces, with Ninh Binh City as its hub. District-level units, like Hoa Lu District, are now wards or communes (e.g., Ninh Hai Ward). This change does not affect tourism, and Bich Dong Pagoda retains its identity in Ninh Hai Ward. Ninh Binh aims to become Hoa Lu City, a “Millennium Heritage Urban Area,” enhancing its cultural tourism appeal.

Founded by monks Tri Kien and Tri The in 1428, Bich Dong Pagoda was expanded under the Le Dynasty, with King Le Hien Tong funding renovations in 1705. Its three-tiered structure—Lower Pagoda at the base, Middle Pagoda within a cave, and Upper Pagoda atop the mountain—reflects Buddhist cosmology. The cave, adorned with stalactites and Buddha statues, was named “Green Grotto” for its lush surroundings. Historically tied to the Tran Dynasty’s Vu Lam Palace, it served as a spiritual retreat. Today, it hosts festivals during Lunar New Year (January–February) and autumn (August–September), drawing pilgrims and tourists. Its serene setting and sustainable tourism practices, like local-guided tours, make it a cultural beacon in Ninh Binh.

Lower Pagoda (Ha Pagoda)

• Description: At the mountain’s base, this pagoda features a five-room shrine with greenstone carvings and a lotus pond, offering a peaceful introduction to the complex.

• Highlights: “A serene starting point” (Vietnam Tourism).

• Tip: Pause at the stone bridge for photos; respect worship areas.

Middle Pagoda (Trung Pagoda)

• Description: Reached via 120 stone steps, this pagoda is carved into a cave with stalactites and Buddha statues, blending natural and spiritual elements.

• Highlights: “A mystical cave sanctuary” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Use a flashlight to admire cave details; maintain silence.

Upper Pagoda (Thuong Pagoda)

• Description: After climbing 40 more steps, this pagoda offers panoramic views of rice paddies, lotus ponds, and Ninh Hai’s karsts, ideal for reflection.

• Highlights: “Breathtaking valley vistas” (Legendtravelgroup.com).

• Tip: Visit at sunset for golden-hour views; wear sturdy shoes.

1. Tour the Three-Tiered Pagoda Complex
   Climb 160 stone steps to explore Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagodas, marveling at ancient architecture and cave shrines. Guided tours provide historical insights.

   • Cost: Entry $4.67 (100,000 VND); guided tours $7–$15 (175,000–375,000 VND).

   • Highlights: “A spiritual and scenic ascent” (Vietnam Tourism).

   • Tip: Allow 1–1.5 hours; start early to avoid heat. Included in our Bich Dong Spiritual Tour ($75–$95).

2. Photography and Valley Views
   Capture Bich Dong’s lotus pond, stone bridge, and Upper Pagoda’s sweeping views of rice paddies and karsts, especially vibrant during harvest (May–June).

   • Cost: Free with entry.

   • Highlights: “A photographer’s paradise” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

   • Tip: Shoot at sunrise (7:00–8:00 AM) for soft light; bring a wide-angle lens. Included in our Sunset Photography Tour ($70–$90).

3. Cycle from Tam Coc to Bich Dong
   Bike 2 km from Tam Coc pier to Bich Dong, passing rice fields and lotus ponds, for an eco-friendly journey through Ninh Hai’s countryside.

   • Cost: Bike rental $2.50/day (62,500 VND); guided cycling $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

   • Highlights: “A tranquil rural ride” (Legendtravelgroup.com).

   • Tip: Cycle early morning; wear sunscreen. Included in our Ninh Binh Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95).

4. Join Lunar New Year and Autumn Festivals
   Experience Bich Dong’s vibrant festivals (January–February and August–September), featuring lotus lantern releases, Buddhist rituals, and local performances.

   • Cost: Free; donations $0.60–$1.20 (15,000–30,000 VND).

   • Highlights: “A cultural spectacle” (Vietnam Tourism).

   • Tip: Book tours 3–4 weeks ahead for festivals; arrive early (7:00 AM). Included in our Ninh Binh Festival Tour ($85–$110).

5. Savor Ninh Binh Cuisine
   Taste local specialties like thịt dê (mountain goat), cơm cháy (crispy rice), and nem chua (fermented pork) at eateries near Tam Coc (e.g., Ninh Hai Restaurant, 1 km away).

   • Cost: $3–$15 per meal; drinks $0.60–$4.

   • Highlights: “Authentic regional flavors” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

   • Tip: Try cơm cháy with goat dipping sauce. Included in our Ninh Binh Foodie & Spiritual Combo($100–$135).

6. Explore Nearby Attractions
   Combine with Tam Coc (2 km, $7 boat tour), Trang An (4 km, $9–$12 boat tour), Hoa Lu Ancient Capital (10 km, $1.50 entry), or Mua Cave (5 km, $5 entry) for a full itinerary.

   • Cost: Varies; combo tours $20–$45.

   • Highlights: “A comprehensive Ninh Binh experience” (Vietnam Tourism).

   • Tip: Cycle to Tam Coc; book combo tours for savings. Included in our Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure($135–$175).

• Entrance Fee: $4.67/adult (100,000 VND, includes Tam Coc-Bich Dong complex); children under 15 $2.34 (50,000 VND); free for children under 6.

• Activities: Guided tours $7–$15; cycling $2.50–$15; donations $0.60–$1.20; tips $1–$2; photography free.

• Transport (Hanoi to Bich Dong, 95 km, round-trip):

  • Bus: $10–$14 (250,000–350,000 VND) + $6–$10 taxi.

  • Train: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND) + $6–$10 taxi.

  • Private Car/Taxi: $70–$110 (1,750,000–2,750,000 VND).

  • Motorbike: $7–$12 rental + $10 fuel.

  • Guided Tour: $75–$175.

• Transport (Ninh Binh City to Bich Dong, 7 km): Motorbike $7–$12/day; bicycle $1.50–$2.50/day; taxi/Grab $6–$10 round-trip.

• Dining: Meals at local eateries (e.g., Ninh Hai Restaurant) $3–$15; drinks $0.60–$4.

• Accommodation: Budget homestays (e.g., Tam Coc Banana Bungalow) $18–$50/night; mid-range (The Reed Hotel) $50–$120; luxury (Ninh Binh Legend Hotel) $120–$300.

• Total Daily Cost: $20–$100 (budget: $20–$40; mid-range: $40–$70; luxury: $70–$100).

• Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Ninh Binh City (Vietcombank, Agribank); book tours for eco-transfers.

From Hanoi (95 km, ~2 hours)

• Bus: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND) from Giap Bat/My Dinh to Ninh Binh (2 hours); taxi to Bich Dong ($3–$5, 10–15 minutes). Every 30 minutes (5:00 AM–11:00 PM).

• Train: $5–$9 (125,000–225,000 VND) from Hanoi Station to Ninh Binh Station (2 hours); taxi ($3–$5). Trains: SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, SE19.

• Private Car/Taxi: $35–$55 (875,000–1,375,000 VND) via Hanoi–Ninh Binh Expressway. Use Xanh SM electric taxis.

• Motorbike: $7–$12/day + $5 fuel; 2–2.5 hours via National Highway 1A.

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($75–$175) include eco-transfers and guided visits.

From Ninh Binh City (7 km, ~10–30 minutes)

• Motorbike: $7–$12/day; 10–15 minutes via National Highway 1A to Ninh Hai.

• Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day; 20–30 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND); 10 minutes.

• Guided Tour: Our half-day tours ($75–$95) include transfers.

From Tam Coc (2 km, ~5–15 minutes)

• Bicycle: $1.50–$2.50/day; 10–15 minutes.

• Motorbike: $7–$12/day; 5–10 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND); 5 minutes.

Route Tip: From Ninh Binh City, take National Highway 1A to Tam Coc, then follow signs to Bich Dong Pagoda. Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: $0.65/motorbike (15,000 VND).

• Spring (January–March): Cool (15–25°C), ideal for festivals like Lunar New Year (January–February) with lotus lantern releases. Book 3–4 weeks ahead for festival tours.

• Autumn (August–October): Mild (20–30°C), vibrant during autumn festivals; rice paddies turn golden in September.

• Dry Season (November–April): Pleasant (15–25°C), perfect for climbing and photography.

• Rainy Season (May–October): Hot (25–35°C), showers; budget-friendly with 20–35% discounts. Morning visits (7:00–10:00 AM) avoid rain; bring an umbrella.

• Tip: Spring and autumn offer vibrant festivals; early visits ensure cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance for dry season or festivals via Legend Travel Group, Baolau.com, or IZITOUR (+84 382 536 266). Confirm hours (7:00 AM–6:00 PM).

• Dress Code: Wear modest clothing (long pants, covered shoulders); sturdy shoes for 160 steps; remove hats in pagodas. Cover cloths provided.

• Pack Smart: Sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, flashlight for Middle Pagoda cave, umbrella for drizzles, camera (no flash in pagodas).

• Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$100/day; use VND; ATMs in Ninh Binh City. Confirm ticket prices to avoid overcharges.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables; watch uneven stone steps; follow temple etiquette. Festival days may be crowded; visit early.

• Sustainability: Dispose of waste properly; avoid touching carvings; choose bicycles or electric taxis. Our tours support Ninh Binh’s green goals.

• Cultural Respect: Maintain silence in worship areas; ask permission before photographing rituals; offer donations respectfully. Tip guides ($1–$5, 25,000–125,000 VND).

• Navigation: Follow signs from Tam Coc to Bich Dong; allow 1–2 hours for pagoda exploration and nearby cycling.

Our eco-friendly tours immerse you in Bich Dong’s spiritual and natural splendor, paired with Ninh Binh’s highlights:

• Bich Dong Spiritual Tour ($75–$95/person): Bich Dong Pagoda visit ($4.67 entry), Thai Vi Temple (free), lunch at Ninh Hai Restaurant ($3–$15). Includes transfers from Hanoi/Ninh Binh.

• Ninh Binh Heritage Adventure ($135–$175/person): Bich Dong, Tam Coc boat tour ($7), Hoa Lu Ancient Capital ($1.50). Includes meals and eco-transfers.

• Ninh Binh Cultural Bike Tour ($75–$95/person): Bich Dong, cycling to Thung Nang ($2.50 bike rental), Trang An boat tour ($9–$12). Includes transfers and lunch.

• Ninh Binh Foodie & Spiritual Combo ($100–$135/person): Thịt dê, cơm cháy ($3–$15), Bich Dong, Mua Cave ($5). Includes transfers and meals.

• Ninh Binh Explorer ($380–$600/person, 3–4 days): Bich Dong, Trang An, Cuc Phuong National Park ($3), homestays ($18–$50/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include guides, transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page!

Bich Dong Pagoda in Ninh Binh’s Ninh Hai Ward is a sacred haven, blending 15th-century Buddhist architecture with the natural beauty of Ngu Nhac Mountain’s caves and karst-framed valleys. Its three-tiered pagodas, serene lotus ponds, and vibrant festivals offer a profound cultural and spiritual experience. As part of the Trang An UNESCO site, it’s a beacon of sustainable tourism, supporting local communities through eco-friendly visits. Legend Travel Group’s Ninh Binh Tours guide you through this green grotto, ensuring a sustainable Ninh Binh Travel experience paired with Ninh Binh’s historical sites and culinary delights like cơm cháy. Don’t miss this sacred haven—browse our featured tours and book your Bich Dong adventure today!
Ready to ascend Ninh Binh’s sacred pagoda? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Vietnam’s cultural and natural splendor!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.