History, culture & what to see
Bich La Ancient Village has a history stretching back over 500 years and is located in Trieu Phong District, just southeast of Dong Ha. Like many traditional villages in Vietnam, its layout reflects harmony with nature—featuring large banyan trees, ancient wells, rice fields, and a communal house where villagers gather during important events.
At the heart of the village is Bich La Temple (Đình Bích La), a place of worship and community life that becomes especially lively during the Bich La Market Festival, held every year on the second day of the Lunar New Year. This festival draws locals and pilgrims from surrounding provinces for prayer, traditional games, and cultural rituals.
There isn’t much to “do” in a tourist sense—no guided tours or ticketed attractions—but the village offers a quiet, authentic window into rural life in central Vietnam. If you’re interested in history, local traditions, or just want a peaceful countryside stop, Bich La is a simple yet meaningful place to explore.
Visiting Bich La Village
Bich La Village is located about 10 kilometers southeast of Dong Ha, just off Highway 1, making it easy to reach by car or motorbike. It’s a simple detour during a DMZ day tour or a scenic transfer between Hue and Phong Nha.
There’s no entrance fee and no formal tourism setup—visitors are free to wander the village paths, see the temple, and take in the rural scenery at their own pace. If your visit happens to coincide with the Bich La Market Festival (on the 2nd day of Lunar New Year), you’ll experience the village at its most vibrant.
On its own, Bich La isn’t a must-see, but it fits nicely into a broader cultural itinerary. Combine it with nearby sights like the La Vang Sanctuary or the Quang Tri Citadel for a more complete picture of the region’s history and local life.
