About 3 km east of Tam Coc pier, Ninh Binh province, Bich Dong pagoda (Jade caves) is nestled in a mysterious and peaceful atmosphere between natural caves and majestic mountains. Bich Dong, nicknamed “Nam thien de nhi dong” (the second most beautiful cave in Vietnam) is a must-see during a trip to Ninh Binh.
According to the legend, Bich Dong was a small pagoda which is located on the top of the mountain since the previous Le Dynasty. Then in 1705, two senior monks, Tri Kien and Tri The built 3 pagodas on 3 levels called Ha, Trung and Thuong pagodas according to their position.
Bich Dong Pagoda has its original name of “Bach Ngoc Thach Son Dong” which means – a beautiful stone pagoda as pure as jade. In 1774, Lord Trinh Sam visited this pagoda and named it Bich Dong – “cave of jade”.
Visiting Bich Dong pagoda, you will discover the 3 pagodas Ha (lower), Trung (middle) and Thuong (upper) by climbing stone steps. You will be amazed by the unique architecture in a solemn and peaceful setting.
Located at the foot of the mountain, Ha Pagoda is reserved for the worship of the Buddha – Buddha of the Present, the Past and the Future. Ha Pagoda consists of 5 parts and 8 curved roofs, a typical architecture of North Vietnamese pagodas. The trusses, cross beams and spars are made of ironwood; the 4 meter high stone pillars are all monolithic. To reach this pagoda, you will cross a stone bridge over a lotus pond which is particularly beautiful in summer.
From Trung Pagoda, up 120 steps, you will find Trung Pagoda which is located on a cliff in the shape of a dragon’s mouth. The pagoda still preserves the bronze bell with sophisticated engravings, the three huge stone statues of Amitabha Buddha, Van Thu Bodhisattva and Thi Kinh Bodhisattva. You continue with 21 steps to reach the Dark Cave which is considered as a natural pagoda. Inside the cave are images of Buddha, fairies, little boys, dragon, turtle, elephant and tiger.
The highest is the Thuong pagoda, dedicated to the worship of the Goddess of Mercy. From this pagoda, you will have a panoramic view of the whole site of Tam Coc-Bich Dong and its picturesque landscapes.
With the authentic beauty, hidden in the mountains and the secular trees, the Bich Dong pagoda is a destination to make during your stay in Ninh Binh.
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