Hue: Royal Tombs & Pagoda Tour By Dragon Boat & Private Car

Discover the captivating legacy of Vietnam’s imperial past on this immersive tour through Hue’s Royal Tombs and Pagoda. Cruise along the serene Perfume River by dragon boat before exploring the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a symbol of Buddhism in the region. Uncover the grandeur of the Tombs of Khai Dinh, Minh Mang, and Tu Duc, each offering a unique glimpse into the architectural and cultural significance of Hue’s imperial history. With the option to tailor your experience, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you eager to discover more.

Good To Know

• This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s imperial heritage, including a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River and visits to iconic sites like Thien Mu Pagoda and royal tombs.
• Visitors can optionally explore the tombs of Khai Dinh, Minh Mang, and Tu Duc, which showcase the architectural and cultural significance of Hue’s Nguyen dynasty.
• The tour provides insights into Hue’s history as a former imperial capital, with the Thien Mu Pagoda and royal tombs representing the region’s religious and political significance.
• The tour includes a stop at Thủy Xuân for a photo opportunity, allowing visitors to capture the scenic beauty of the region.
• Additional cultural activities, such as visiting the Hue Incense Village, can be included as optional add-ons to enhance the overall cultural experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour begins with a pickup from Hue and takes visitors on a dragon boat cruise along the picturesque Perfume River for around 40 minutes.

The tour begins with a dragon boat cruise along the picturesque Perfume River for around 40 minutes.

Next, the group visits the Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest religious structure in Hue, built in the 17th century.

Depending on the package, the tour may also include optional visits to the Tomb of Khai Dinh, the Tomb of Minh Mang, and the Tomb of Tu Duc, all known for their unique architectural styles.

The tour concludes with a stop in Thủy Xuân for a break and photo opportunity before returning to Hue.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a dragon boat cruise along the picturesque Perfume River, lasting around 40 minutes.

Next, visitors explore the Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s oldest religious structure built in the 17th century.

The tour then provides optional visits to:

1. Tomb of Khai Dinh – a 1-minute photo stop at this UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring unique Asian and European architectural styles.

2. Tomb of Minh Mang – a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful architecture.

3. Tomb of Tu Duc – located in a secluded valley, it served as a retreat for the emperor.

The tour concludes with a break and photo opportunity at Thủy Xuân before returning to Hue.

Cultural and Historical Significance

As one of Vietnam’s former imperial capitals, Hue boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage.

The Thien Mu Pagoda, dating back to the 17th century, is the oldest religious structure in the city.

The Tomb of Minh Mang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, impresses with its beautiful architectural design.

The Tomb of Minh Mang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, impresses with its beautiful architectural design.

Another UNESCO-recognized site, the Tomb of Khai Dinh, blends Asian and European styles.

The secluded Tomb of Tu Duc served as a retreat for the emperor.

These royal tombs and the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda offer glimpses into Hue’s illustrious past as the seat of Vietnam’s imperial power.

Thien Mu Pagoda

Constructed atop a hill overlooking the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda stands as the oldest religious structure in Hue.

This iconic seven-story octagonal tower, dating back to the 17th century, represents the philosophical and spiritual significance of Buddhism in Vietnamese culture.

The pagoda showcases:

1. Intricate architectural details, including ornate windows and curved roofs, reflecting the harmonious blend of Vietnamese and Chinese design elements.

2. A revered veneration of the Celestial Lady, a mythical figure who’s believed to have predicted the rise of the Nguyen dynasty.

3. A deep-rooted connection to the imperial past, as the pagoda served as a religious retreat for the Nguyen emperors.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tomb of Minh Mang

Located about 12 kilometers from Hue’s city center, the Tomb of Minh Mang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking architectural and natural beauty. This impressive imperial mausoleum, nestled in a lush forested valley, offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history and cultural heritage.

| Key Features | Description |

| — | — |

| Architecture | Blending Chinese and Vietnamese styles, the tomb’s structures feature intricate carvings, pavilions, and courtyards. |

| Landscaping | Surrounded by hills, lakes, and gardens, the serene setting creates a tranquil atmosphere for exploration. |

| Historical Significance | As the second emperor of the Nguyen dynasty, Minh Mang’s tomb reflects the grandeur and power of his reign. |

| Visitor Experience | Visitors can wander through the complex, admiring the stunning scenery and learning about the site’s cultural and historical significance.

Tomb of Khai Dinh

Situated just 10 kilometers from Hue’s city center, the Tomb of Khai Dinh is a unique fusion of Asian and European architectural styles, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This imperial mausoleum features:

1. A blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French elements, showcasing the diverse cultural influences during Khai Dinh’s reign.

2. Intricate decorations and ornate details, including mosaics, ceramic tiles, and bronze statues.

3. A combination of traditional Vietnamese design and modern Western influences, creating a one-of-a-kind architectural masterpiece.

The Tomb of Khai Dinh offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Hue’s rich history and the enduring legacy of its imperial dynasties.

Tomb of Tu Duc

The Tomb of Tu Duc, situated in a secluded valley just outside Hue, served as a personal retreat for the emperor during his lifetime. Covering an expansive 12 km², the complex features ornate pavilions, lakes, and gardens, offering a tranquil escape from the demands of imperial duties. Visitors can explore the grounds, witnessing the architectural fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese influences. A 1-hour sightseeing visit is included, providing ample time to take in the serene ambiance and admire the intricate details of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

| Architectural Style | Pavilions | Lakes | Gardens |

| — | — | — | — |

| Vietnamese | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |

| Chinese | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |

Additional Activities

Along With the main tour, visitors have the opportunity to participate in optional activities that further enhance their cultural experience in Hue.

These include:

1. Visit the Hue Incense Village, where guests can learn about and even partake in the intricate process of incense-making, a centuries-old tradition in this region.

2. For those interested in exploring the imperial legacy of Hue in greater depth, there’s an optional add-on to visit the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for an additional $8 (200,000 VND).

3. These supplementary activities provide a deeper immersion into Hue’s rich cultural heritage, allowing visitors to personalize their tour and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?

This tour doesn’t have a minimum number of participants. Customers can book the tour regardless of the group size, and enjoy the experience with just themselves or their companions.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?

Yes, you can typically customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. Many tour providers offer flexibility to adjust the tour stops and duration based on your interests, schedule, and needs. Just let the tour operator know your preferences.

What Type of Transportation Is Used for the Tour?

The tour uses a combination of transportation options. Travelers will take a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River and a private car for the land portions of the itinerary, providing a comfortable and convenient experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for children or seniors. However, the per-person price is already quite affordable, making it accessible for travelers of all ages. Group discounts may be available depending on the size of the party.

Can We Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour. However, some sites may have restrictions or additional fees for photography. It’s best to confirm with the guide upon arrival at each location.

The Sum Up

This Hue tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Exploring the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and the grandeur of the imperial tombs by dragon boat and private car provides an unforgettable experience. Visitors can discover the significance of these historic sites and witness the breathtaking natural beauty of the Perfume River region.

You can check availability for your dates here: