Kazichene to Rila Monastery

Kazichene to Rila Monastery

The Rila Monastery is one of the most important cultural and historical monuments in Bulgaria. It is located in the Rila Mountains, about 120 km southeast of Sofia. The monastery was founded in the 10th century by the hermit Ivan Rilski. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries, but it has always remained an important center of Bulgarian Orthodoxy.

---

Language

The official language of Bulgaria is Bulgarian. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, including the Rila Monastery.

---

Currency

The official currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian lev (BGN). It is recommended to exchange your currency before you travel to Bulgaria, as it can be difficult to find exchange bureaus in rural areas.

---

Distance

The distance from Kazichene to the Rila Monastery is about 120 km. The drive takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

---

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach the Rila Monastery from Kazichene:

• By car: The drive takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. There is a parking lot at the monastery.
• By bus: There are several buses that run from Sofia to the Rila Monastery. The journey takes about 3 hours.
• By train: There is a train that runs from Sofia to Dupnitsa. From Dupnitsa, you can take a bus to the Rila Monastery. The journey takes about 4 hours.

---

Expenses

The cost of your trip to the Rila Monastery will depend on your mode of transportation and your budget. Here are some approximate costs:

• By car: The cost of petrol will vary depending on the size of your car and the distance you are travelling. However, you can expect to pay around 20 BGN (10 EUR) for a one-way trip.
• By bus: The cost of a bus ticket from Sofia to the Rila Monastery is around 10 BGN (5 EUR). The journey takes about 3 hours.
• By train: The cost of a train ticket from Sofia to Dupnitsa is around 15 BGN (7 EUR). The journey takes about 2 hours. From Dupnitsa, you can take a bus to the Rila Monastery. The cost of the bus ticket is around 5 BGN (2 EUR). The journey takes about 1 hour.

---

Best time to go

The best time to visit the Rila Monastery is during the spring or autumn, when the weather is mild. However, the monastery is open all year round.

---

What to Eat

There are several restaurants and cafes in the Rila Monastery. You can find traditional Bulgarian dishes, as well as international cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Banitsa: A pastry filled with cheese, eggs, and yogurt.
• Shopska salad: A salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers.
• Kebapche: Grilled minced meat.
• Tarator: A cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, and garlic.

---

Where to Go

In addition to the monastery itself, there are several other things to see and do in the Rila Mountains. Some of the most popular attractions include:

• The Seven Rila Lakes: A group of seven glacial lakes located in the Rila Mountains.
• The Rila National Park: A national park that covers the Rila Mountains. The park is home to a variety of plants and animals, including bears, wolves, and deer.
• The Malyovitsa Peak: The highest peak in the Rila Mountains.

---

FAQ

How long does it take to get to the Rila Monastery from Kazichene?

The drive takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

How much does it cost to visit the Rila Monastery?

There is no entrance fee to visit the Rila Monastery. However, you may have to pay for parking or transportation.

Can I stay overnight at the Rila Monastery?

Yes, there is a guesthouse at the Rila Monastery. You can book a room in advance or on arrival.

What is the dress code for visiting the Rila Monastery?

It is recommended to dress modestly when visiting the Rila Monastery. This means covering your shoulders and knees.

Can I take photos inside the Rila Monastery?

Yes, you can take photos inside the Rila Monastery. However, it is not allowed to take photos of the monks or nuns.