Things To Do In Bai Dinh Pagoda: Highlights, Price, Time and Activities
Discover the best things to do in Bai Dinh Pagoda Ninh Binh, Vietnam’s largest Buddhist complex. Learn about highlights, entrance fees, opening hours, and useful travel tips.
Bai Dinh Pagada covers a large area
Located in Ninh Binh Province, Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of Vietnam’s most magnificent spiritual destinations. Famous for its massive scale, record-breaking structures, and peaceful mountain scenery, it attracts millions of domestic and international visitors each year.
Whether you’re interested in Buddhist architecture, local culture, or breathtaking views, Bai Dinh Pagoda promises a truly unforgettable journey.
In this guide, Aloha Vietnam Travel shares everything you need to know — from Bai Dinh Pagoda highlights, entrance fees, and opening hours to the most interesting activities during your visit.
Overview of Bai Dinh Pagoda
You can easily reach to Bai Dinh Pagoda
Situated in Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Vien District, Bai Dinh Pagoda lies about 95 km south of Hanoi (approximately 2 hours by car). The entire complex covers over 700 hectares, divided into two parts:
- Ancient Bai Dinh Pagoda – more than 1,000 years old, built inside limestone caves.
- New Bai Dinh Pagoda – constructed in 2003, home to monumental statues and modern architecture.
The site holds several Asian and Vietnamese records, including:
- The largest bronze Buddha statue in Asia.
- The tallest Stupa Tower in Southeast Asia.
- The longest Arhat corridor (500 stone statues).
- The largest outdoor bronze Maitreya statue in Vietnam.
Location and tourist map of Bai Dinh Pagoda
See the location on the Google Map
Tourists' map of Bai Dinh Pagoda
Bai Dinh Pagoda Entrance Fee and Opening Hours
How long to visit Bai Dinh Pagoda? - At least half a day
Ticket Type Price (VND/person)
- Entrance: Free
- Electric car (one way): 30,000đ
- Bao Thap Tower: 50,000đ
- Parking (motorbike/car): 15,000 / 40,000đ
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
Tip: The pagoda complex is vast, so taking the electric car is highly recommended to save time and energy.
Best time to visit Bai Dinh Pagoda
Festival in Bau Dinh Pagoda in Spring (in Tet Holiday)
The best time to visit Bai Dinh Pagoda is from January to March, during Vietnam’s spring season. The weather is mild and clear, and visitors can also witness the Bai Dinh Festival, which begins on the 6th day of the Lunar New Year.
If you prefer tranquillity, plan your trip on weekdays or visit early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience.
How to Get to Bai Dinh Pagoda from Hanoi
There are several convenient ways to reach Bai Dinh Pagoda from Hanoi:
Bai Dinh Pagoda is also a great night attraction in Ninh Binh
- Private car or guided tour: The most comfortable option (~2 hours).
- Motorbike: Ideal for adventurous travellers who love scenic routes.
- Public bus: Take a bus from Giap Bat Station to Ninh Binh City, then a taxi to the site.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Trang An, Mua Cave, or Hoa Lu Ancient Capital for a perfect Ninh Binh day tour.
Read more: Trang An Boat Tour Route 1: What to See and Tips
How to get around Bai Dinh Pagoda
Electric car to go around
The complex is quite large, and walking is a popular way to explore the area. As you walk, you can take in the calm surroundings, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and discover various temples and structures within the complex.
Besides, Bai Dinh Pagoda offers electric bus services to transport travellers around the area. These electric cars are convenient, especially for those who may have difficulty walking long distances or for those looking to save time. It is highly recommended to use the electric bus to move amongst different places and walk to explore each particular place.
What to see in Bai Dinh Pagoda
1. Walk Through the Grand Tam Quan Gate
A story can be stated here at the three entrance gates
The Three-Entrance Gate marks the start of your spiritual journey. Built with traditional Vietnamese wooden architecture and tiled roofs, it offers scenic views of mountains and temples beyond.
2. Visit the Bell Tower
Bell Tower looks great, you can climb there to reach the bell
The 22-meter-high Bell Tower houses Vietnam’s largest bronze bell (36 tons). When it rings, the sound echoes across the valley, creating a serene, sacred atmosphere.
3. Explore the Arhat Corridor
500 Arhat statues in different faces present different lives
Stretching nearly 3 kilometres, this corridor features 500 Arhat statues, each uniquely carved from stone with distinct facial expressions. Walking here feels peaceful and inspiring.
4. Discover the Sacred Pearl Well (Gieng Ngoc)
The Sacred Pearl Well brings luck and prosperity
This ancient well, built over a millennium ago, was once used by monks for purification. Locals believe its water brings luck and prosperity.
5. Admire the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara Hall
Go inside the pagoda and learn how local people pray
Inside this grand hall stands an 80-ton bronze statue of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara (Quan Am). With multiple hands and eyes, the statue symbolises mercy and compassion for all beings.
6. Climb the Bao Thap (Stupa Tower)
Bao Thap should be visited with an extra fee
Standing 100 meters tall, the 13-story Bao Thap Tower is one of the pagoda’s main highlights. Visitors can take the elevator to the top to enjoy panoramic views of the complex and the Trang An Landscape.
7. Visit the Maitreya Buddha Statue
Maitreya Buddha Statue
The 80-ton bronze Maitreya statue, representing happiness and hope, sits on the highest hill of the complex. It’s also the largest outdoor bronze Maitreya statue in Southeast Asia.
8. Explore the Ancient Bai Dinh Pagoda
Ancient Bai Dinh Pagoda located behind the new one
The ancient section is located about 800 meters away, hidden inside limestone caves. It features old Buddha statues, stone altars, and ancient carvings, perfect for those seeking a quiet, spiritual retreat.
9. Experience Bai Dinh Pagoda at Night
The top night activities in Ninh Binh - Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda
When the sun sets, the pagoda is illuminated by golden lights. The reflections on the lake and the peaceful ambience make the site incredibly photogenic and serene.
Recommended Bai Dinh Pagoda Tours
If you’re short on time, joining a guided tour is the most efficient way to explore the area.
Bai Dinh – Trang An Day Tour from Hanoi:
Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda in the morning, then enjoy a scenic boat trip through Trang An’s caves in the afternoon.
2-Day Ninh Binh Tour (Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Bai Dinh – Trang An):
A great choice for travellers who want to combine culture, history, and nature.
Our happy guests love Bai Dinh Pagoda
Useful Travel Tips When Visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda
Check the dress code when entering temples and pagodas in Vietnam
- Dress respectfully (avoid sleeveless shirts and short skirts).
- Wear comfortable shoes — expect lots of walking.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Avoid littering or touching statues.
- Visit early to avoid crowds and heat.
Bai Dinh Pagoda is not just a Buddhist site; it’s a masterpiece of architecture and spirituality surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Whether you visit to pray, admire the view, or explore Vietnamese culture, this pagoda offers one of the most meaningful experiences in Ninh Binh.
Plan your trip today and join an unforgettable journey with Aloha Vietnam Travel & Guide
to explore Bai Dinh Pagoda, Trang An, and other hidden gems of Ninh Binh.
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