Green Pearl Pagoda
Bích Động Pagoda
Green Pearl Pagoda
Bích Động Pagoda
An ancient temple complex inside limestone cliffs, recognized as a national heritage of Vietnam.
Ninh Binh
Buddhist temple
History and architecture
Bích Động Pagoda, which literally means "Green Pearl Grotto," is a unique Buddhist complex founded in 1428. The temple is literally integrated into the natural caves of a limestone mountain, creating a harmonious combination of architecture and nature. This place is deservedly called the "second most beautiful cave in Vietnam," and the structure itself is located in a "lotus" formed by five surrounding mountain peaks.
- Visit duration
2–3 hours
- Average budget
from $5–10
- Admission
Free
- Best months
May — June
- Spoken languages
Vietnamese, English
What you need to know
The complex consists of three temples located at different levels of the mountain:
Lower Pagoda (Hạ):
located at the foot, distinguished by stone columns 3-4 meters high.
Middle Pagoda (Trung):
hidden inside a cave halfway up the ascent (about 120 steps), housing an ancient bell from 1707.
Upper Pagoda (Thượng):
located at the top, offering a panoramic view of the picturesque surroundings.
In 2014, the pagoda became part of the UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Tràng An - Tam Cốc landscape complex. Around the sanctuary, you can see dozens of ancient graves of monks who protected this place for 600 years.
The most impressive scenery can be seen in late May to early June, when the lotus ponds at the foot of the mountain are in full bloom. Visiting early in the morning (07:00–08:00) is recommended to avoid the heat and crowds.
On site
- How to get there
3 km from Tam Coc pier
- Cash
Parking fee
- Dress code
Shoulders and knees covered
- Footwear
Sports shoes (many steps)