Seokguram Grotto 석굴암
Gyeongju · Bulguksa, Seokguram & Bomun · Sights
High on Mount Toham, this stone grotto houses a serene seated Buddha and is another UNESCO site, often paired with Bulguksa. The statue is viewed through a glass screen, and photography inside is not allowed, so the experience is calm and slightly ceremonial rather than a photo stop. The forest path from the parking lot takes about 15 minutes, and on clear days you can see toward the sea.
Entry is charged, and prices and hours may change; check on site for any English information. Visitors often go at sunrise or early morning when the light is soft. Weather can be cooler and windier at the top than in town.
From the Bulguksa parking area, take bus 12 (about 15 minutes) or a taxi; then walk about 15 minutes. By car, use the paid lot. (Show a driver: 석굴암)
Show this Korean name to your taxi driver or match it to signs: 석굴암
- Best time to visit
- Morning is best, paired with Bulguksa, and autumn foliage is outstanding on clear days.
- Pair it with
- Bulguksa Temple is just downhill, and Cafe Arae Heon and Yusujeong Ssambap (Bulguksa Main Branch) are good stops afterward.
- Great for
- Parents
- Local tip
- The Buddha sits behind glass and photos are not allowed inside. Reach it by bus 12 from the Bulguksa parking area, or by taxi, then walk the forest path.