Am Tien Pagoda Cave (Tuyệt Tình Cốc)

Lake and Pagoda in Ninh Binh (Tam Coc)

Am Tien Pagoda Cave

Am Tien Pagoda Cave, also known as Tuyet Tinh Coc or “Fairy’s Place,” is situated on Ma Yen Mountain (Dragon Cave Mountain) in Yen Ha village, Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province. It lies approximately 400 meters east of the Dinh Tien Hoang Temple, on the route towards Trang An, near the ancient Hoa Lu Citadel. The area surrounding the pagoda is a stunning, flooded valley encircled by towering cliffs. According to local legend, King Dinh once raised tigers here and sent condemned prisoners into the valley, offering them a chance at freedom if they managed to escape.

To reach Am Tien Pagoda, visitors pass through a gate and follow a path leading to a tranquil lake, home to lotuses, water lilies, perch, and turtles. The water is remarkably clear, allowing one to see the moss-covered lakebed. The pagoda itself sits atop a cliff, accessible by climbing over 205 stone steps. The cave’s unique dragon-mouth shape, with stalactites resembling rice trees, money trees, Buddha’s hand fruit, and lotus flowers, adds to its charm. From the pagoda, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear lake, evoking a sense of peace and historical reverence. With its serene and mystical atmosphere, Am Tien Pagoda Cave is often referred to as a “fairyland” and was recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Relic in 1998.


The Am Tien Pagoda Cave (Tuyệt Tình Cốc) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ninh Binh (Tam Coc)!

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