Where is Bai Dinh Temple? What records does the temple hold in Vietnam?

From ancient times, Buddhism has been deeply rooted and flourished in Vietnam. That's why there are many unique and sacred architectural works in our country. Whether Buddhist or not, almost everyone has visited and explored temple spaces at least once, right? Among countless temple structures today, Bai Dinh Temple in Ninh Binh stands out as particularly unique and holds numerous records in the region and continent. Let's discover the fascinating aspects hidden within this temple through the following article with Mytour!

Introduction to the history and scale of Bai Dinh Temple

With a history spanning over 1000 years, the feudal dynasties of Dinh, Early Le, and Ly all valued Buddhism, leading to the construction of many spiritual landmarks. Among them, Bai Dinh Temple sits atop the picturesque Trang An mountain range. While its origins date back to the Dinh dynasty, the architectural elements and ancient artifacts within bear the distinctive mark of the Ly period.

Admire the beauty of the sacred temple nestled amidst majestic mountains and lush greenery.

The temple sits on a land believed to be imbued with mystical powers according to Vietnamese folklore. It's regarded as the birthplace of Kings, Saints, and Deities. Mount Bai Dinh Temple witnessed significant historical events such as the sky worship ceremony of Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and the flag worship ceremony of King Quang Trung before the decisive victory over the Qing invaders. In 1997, the temple was recognized as a national historical-cultural-revolutionary relic, attracting numerous tourists and Buddhists ever since.

Today, Bai Dinh Temple consists of an ancient temple area and a modern temple area. The ancient temple, with over 1000 years of architectural history, still retains its ancient and majestic beauty. Meanwhile, the modern temple, constructed in 2003, boasts a grandiose design while preserving the traditional essence of the temple.

Distinctive Ethnic Architecture of Bai Dinh Temple

The temple complex not only holds spiritual significance but also stands out with its unique architecture. Perched on the high mountainside, Bai Dinh Temple rises amidst the clouds, overlooking the serene blue lake and rugged mountains. It serves as the western gateway to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Stepping into the temple, visitors will feel the serene and spacious atmosphere. They can leisurely stroll through the corridor of Arhat statues and admire the small garden with Bodhi trees imported from India.

The ancient Bai Dinh Temple exudes grandeur and magnificence from an external perspective.

Bai Dinh Temple is not only a religious site but also a renowned ecotourism and spiritual destination with 8 records recognized in Vietnam and Asia, including:

• The heaviest and tallest statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in Asia
• The largest gilded bronze Triple Gem statues in Vietnam
• The largest bronze statue of Maitreya Buddha in Southeast Asia
• The longest corridor of Arhat statues in Vietnam
• The largest Bodhi tree garden in Vietnam

This is an enticing destination for journeys exploring unique architectural and spiritual beauty. When visiting Bai Dinh Temple, travelers can combine it with exploring the scenic Trang An landscape. Additionally, there are supporting services available such as electric car rental or purchasing tickets to visit related tourist attractions with corresponding costs.

Costs and Services at Bai Dinh Temple

Once you've performed religious rituals like burning incense and praying at Bai Dinh Temple, don't miss the opportunity to participate in nearby exploration activities. With the vast temple grounds and connection to the Trang An landscape, you can combine and utilize related services with the following costs:

Electric car rental

• Cost: 30,000 VND/way.
• A convenient option for moving around the Bai Dinh Temple area and exploring its corners comfortably.

Ferry Ticket Price

• Cost: 150,000 VND/person.
• Experience the uniqueness of taking a ferry trip to explore the famous Trang An scenic landscape, where majestic nature blends with cultural heritage.

Electric Car Ticket

• Cost: 60,000 VND/person.
• Especially useful for comfortable transportation within the temple complex, allowing you to easily enjoy the scenery and save time.

Moving by electric car makes the journey easier and faster.

Bao Thap Tour Ticket

• Cost: 50,000 VND/person.
• An additional exploration experience by visiting Bao Thap, where cultural and historical relics of Bai Dinh Temple are preserved.

Guided Tour Price

• Cost: 300,000 VND/tour.
• If you desire professional guidance, this service will help you better understand the history, architecture, and unique features of the temple.

The provided expenses and services offer opportunities for travelers to fully explore the cultural and spiritual beauty of the temple as well as the surrounding area.

Transportation and Accommodation Options for Temple Visit

If you're planning to visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, it's essential to know how to get there and choose suitable accommodations. Below are some insights gathered and shared by Mytour.

Transportation Options near the Pagoda

Bai Dinh Pagoda is located in Gia Sinh commune, Gia Vien district, Ninh Binh province, about 12km from the center of Ninh Binh city and approximately 100km from Hanoi capital. With this prime location, travelers have various transportation options to reach the site for exploration.

For those coming from afar, options like airplanes, trains, or coaches are available to reach Bai Dinh Pagoda. Especially, booking tickets through the Mytour app can provide attractive discounts. For locals or nearby visitors, using personal vehicles or renting transportation services are also convenient and flexible choices.

Book cheap flight tickets through Vietnam Booking to save costs for your trip.

Accommodation Options at Bai Dinh Pagoda

Within the pagoda's compound is Bai Dinh Guesthouse, featuring ancient and luxurious architecture. This place offers a serene space for distant travelers to rest. Additionally, you can search and book hotels located near the pagoda for convenient leisure and activities.

Activities and Attractions Inside the Pagoda

Exploring Bai Dinh Pagoda promises to bring you fascinating experiences. Let's take a look at some exciting activities and attractions hidden within this temple.

Sanctuary of Saint Nguyen

The Sanctuary of Saint Nguyen is a temple with a unique structure, combining both ancient and contemporary architectural styles. It is dedicated to Master Nguyen Minh Khong, a renowned monk and scholar of Dong Son civilization. He discovered beautiful caves and built temples to honor the Buddha.

Light Cave, Dark Cave

Within the Bai Dinh Pagoda complex lies a cave stretching about 25m deep and 15m wide, yet still illuminated by natural light. Inside the cave, there is a statue of the Buddha, and as you reach the end, you will encounter the sacred shrine of Mountain Deity. Amidst the rocks, there is a natural well that keeps the air cool. This place is also dedicated to worshiping the mother and ancestral spirits.

The Buddha statues are solemnly arranged within the cave.

Sanctuary Cave

During your visit to Bai Dinh Pagoda, don't forget to explore the Dark Cave, where the saintly Mother Lieu Hanh is worshipped – revered for both her divine and human qualities. The Dark Cave consists of 7 interconnected smaller caves. In the middle of the cave, there is a stalactite called the “Heavenly Pillar”. Inside the cave, you may also hear strange sounds like a symphony from the stone instruments.

Mountain Deity Shrine

The shrine is built against the mountain with a corridor separating it from the valley in front. In history, Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang built three shrines to worship the deities guarding the three city gates, and the Mountain Deity guards the western gate.

Pearl Well

The Pearl Well at Bai Dinh Pagoda has an interesting historical story. It is said that the Zen master Nguyen Minh Khong used water from this well to make medicine for the king and the people. When you look down from above, you will be mesmerized by a jade green water surface, surrounded by lush trees and a vast courtyard.

The Ngoc Well has a history spanning over 1000 years, incredibly precious and deserving of pride.

Admire Record-Breaking Structures

During your tour of Bai Dinh Pagoda, you cannot overlook the record-breaking structures. The largest bronze bell in Vietnam, weighing 36 tons, adorned with intricate artistic carvings. The largest Thich Ca Buddha statue in Asia, standing at 9.5 meters tall and weighing 100 tons, embellishing the Main Hall of the pagoda, imparting grandeur and splendor to the surroundings.

Main Hall - Expressing Aspirations and Wishes

If you wish to convey your aspirations and wishes, seek out the Main Hall. Here, you'll have the opportunity to meet and express your gratitude before the Buddha. The surrounding area of the hall is a serene and solemn space with a lotus pond at its center.

Some Important Notes Before Visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda

To have the best sightseeing experience at the Bai Dinh ancient pagoda complex, scheduling your visit between the 1st and 3rd lunar months would be the right choice. During this time, Bai Dinh Pagoda holds a Festival on the 6th day of the 1st lunar month. It's an opportunity for those who enjoy sightseeing and participating in the festive atmosphere. You can also choose to visit on any regular day if you want to avoid the crowds.

The dragon and lion dance performances during the festival are beloved by many tourists.

Moreover, as Bai Dinh Pagoda is a sacred place, paying attention to some important things is crucial:

• Attire: Choose the most formal and comfortable clothing to move around the temple area.

• Personal safety: During festivals, Bai Dinh Pagoda is crowded, so you need to be vigilant and cautious due to the high incidence of theft.

• Weather conditions: You should carry a spare umbrella to prevent sudden weather changes.

Bai Dinh Pagoda is not only a large architectural structure but also an important spiritual symbol. With its special achievements and values, this is a place that everyone should experience at least once in their life. Whether you are a Buddhist or a tourist, near or far, Mytour will accompany you on this wonderful journey. Contact us now via hotline Mytour to book your tour quickly!