Located in Kim Bang Ward, Ninh Binh Province, the Ba Danh Pagoda, a recognized national historical and scenic site, is famously linked to the Vietnamese saying: “As deserted as Ba Danh Pagoda.” This phrase not only evokes the peaceful, secluded atmosphere of the ancient pagoda but also stirs curiosity and draws visitors to experience its uniquely tranquil beauty.
According to village elders, the pagoda was once situated in a remote area, surrounded on three sides by vast rivers and dense forests teeming with wild animals. The only safe way to reach it was by rowing across the Day River, which was inconvenient and discouraged visitors. Today, with improved infrastructure and a solid bridge spanning the Day River, the pagoda is much more accessible and no longer as deserted as it once was.
Ba Danh Pagoda (formal name: Bao Son Tu) is one of the most ancient and sacred pagodas in Kim Bang Ward. In addition to Buddhist deities and Taoist gods, the pagoda also venerates the village goddess Ba Danh—honored as Phap Vu Nhuan Hoa Phong, one of the Four Dharma Goddesses in Vietnamese folk beliefs. The original pagoda was modestly built with bamboo and thatch. During the reign of King Le Hy Tong (1676–1680), it was reconstructed into a more solid structure. Over centuries, through numerous renovations, the complex now consists of 40 compartments and auxiliary buildings such as the three-entrance gate, left and right chambers, main hall, Mother Goddess shrine, ancestral house, and monks’ quarters. It also houses many rare antiquities and ancient manuscripts. A highlight of the pagoda’s sculptural artistry is the harmonious design of the altar and statue of the Goddess in the rear sanctuary. The statue, seated in meditation on a glossy black throne, features a serene, kind, and feminine face—strikingly lifelike and approachable, unlike the often mystical appearance of other sacred statues.
Visitors to Ba Danh Pagoda are not only immersed in its spiritual and religious significance but also in its peaceful natural surroundings. The wide path leading to the pagoda is shaded by lush green trees. In front of the pagoda’s main gate is a scenic water landing and a centuries-old banyan tree with expansive foliage—an ideal “check-in” spot favored by many tourists. Inside the gate, guests are welcomed by a vibrant garden of rare and beautiful flowers in decorative pots. Within the pagoda grounds is a large orchard with a variety of seasonal fruit trees, including heavily laden doquao (cannonball trees).
A short 100-meter walk west of the pagoda brings visitors to Mount Ngoc, which reflects gracefully onto the dreamy Day River. The mountain features fascinating rock formations with various shapes and indentations, along with a rich array of vegetation. It is also home to a thousand-year-old banyan tree. From the summit, one can feel completely detached from the bustle of everyday life, embracing the purity and stillness of nature—of trees, water, sky, and mountains.
In recent years, Ba Danh Pagoda has become less isolated. Many young people now choose it as a destination for travel, pre-wedding photo shoots, and graduation pictures. With its ancient architecture, poetic and peaceful landscape, and the sacred aura of the Holy Goddess, Ba Danh Pagoda is sure to become one of the most attractive destinations in Ninh Binh Province—and a treasured highlight of Kim Bang Ward in particular.