Seokguram Grotto
873-243 Bulguk-ro, Jinhyeon-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
The 8th-century Seokguram Grotto is a remarkable Buddhist temple located in South Korea’s Gyeongju National Park. The temple houses an ornately carved statue of Buddha and is renowned for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must for anyone interested in Buddhist culture and history.
You can visit the Seokguram Grotto independently, but if you have limited time in Gyeongju, you may want to consider a private or group excursion to the temple and its surrounding attractions; these include Bulguksa Temple, Cheonmachong Tomb, and Cheomseongdae Observatory. Most organized tours include round-trip transportation from the city center to ease the hassle of arranging transportation between each location.
The temple is located on the top of a mountain and requires a steep uphill walk to reach, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the hike.
Visitors are required to wear socks and remove their shoes before entering the temple.
There are no food or drink vendors on-site, so pack snacks and water accordingly.
Visitors are reminded to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing as a sign of respect for the temple's culture and traditions.
Seokguram Grotto is located on Toham Mountain, approximately 9.3 miles (15 kilometers) northeast of Gyeongju’s city center. Visitors can reach the temple by taking a taxi, public bus, or by joining a guided tour. Buses regularly depart from the Gyeongju Intercity Bus Terminal. The hike from the site’s entrance to the grotto takes around 30 minutes and involves a steep uphill climb. Alternatively, visitors can take a scenic 2-mile (3-kilometer) hiking path directly from the nearby Bulguksa Temple.
The Seokguram Grotto is open daily from early morning to early evening. To preserve the temple, only a limited number of visitors are allowed to enter at a time. It is recommended to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and secure a spot. The temple is particularly beautiful during the spring and fall when the cherry blossoms and foliage are in full bloom.
Discover more of Gyeongju’s historical and natural wonders on Namsan Mountain. Popular with locals and foreigners alike, it offers various hiking trails with different difficulty levels. Depending on their chosen route, hikers can see several Silla historical sites and artifacts located along the trails. You can explore the mountain independently or with a guide for a more enriching sightseeing experience.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!