Hue: Perfume River Cruise With Thien Mu Pagoda & Tombs

Tucked away in the heart of Vietnam, Hue’s Perfume River Cruise with Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs tour offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. From a serene dragon boat ride to the awe-inspiring architectural marvels, this small-group experience promises an immersive journey through Hue’s storied past. With convenient hotel pickup and an expert guide, travelers can dive deeper into the region’s fascinating history, leaving them eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• This small-group tour offers a 4-4.5 hour exploration of Hue, including a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River and visits to Thien Mu Pagoda and two UNESCO-listed tombs.
• The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, a live English-speaking guide, and an opportunity to learn about Hue’s rich cultural heritage.
• The 30-minute Perfume River cruise offers scenic views and a chance to witness daily life along the riverbanks, enhancing the overall exploration experience.
• The tour visits the Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest structure in Hue, as well as the UNESCO-listed tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.
• Practical considerations include a modest dress code, comfortable shoes, and respect for cultural sites during the visits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Hue: Perfume River Cruise with Thien Mu Pagoda & Tombs is a small-group tour that takes visitors on a 4 to 4.5-hour journey through Hue’s cultural highlights.

Visitors embark on a 4-to-4.5-hour journey through Hue’s cultural highlights on this small-group tour.

Priced from $28.46 per person, the tour includes a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, visits to the historic Thien Mu Pagoda and the UNESCO-listed tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.

A live English-speaking guide provides commentary throughout. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.

The tour accommodates modest dress and may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Hue.

You’ll board a traditional dragon boat for a 30-minute cruise along the Perfume River.

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

Next, you’ll travel by car to explore:

• Minh Mang Tomb, the mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Khai Dinh Tomb, the mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh, notable for its architectural significance

After visiting the tombs, you’ll return to your hotel in Hue, concluding the 4-4.5 hour tour.

Highlights

One of the highlights of this tour is the traditional dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River.

Gliding along the tranquil waters, visitors can soak in the scenic beauty of Hue’s landscape.

Another highlight is the visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest religious structure in Hue, dating back to the 17th century.

Guests can explore the pagoda’s striking architecture and learn about its historical significance.

The tour also takes visitors to the Minh Mang Tomb and Khai Dinh Tomb, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites renowned for their impressive design and preservation.

Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off add to the convenience of this comprehensive tour.

Perfume River Cruise

Although the Perfume River is the focal point of this tour, the experience begins with a 30-minute dragon boat cruise along its tranquil waters.

The leisurely ride offers:

A leisurely ride offering magnificent river views, glimpses of daily life, and a chance to appreciate the region’s rich cultural heritage.

• Magnificent views of the river and surrounding landscapes

• An opportunity to witness daily life along the riverbanks

• A chance to appreciate the region’s rich cultural heritage

This traditional mode of transportation allows visitors to enjoy the serene ambiance of the Perfume River, setting the stage for the exploration of Hue’s renowned historical sites to follow.

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Thien Mu Pagoda

After the tranquil river cruise, the tour takes visitors to Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest religious structure in Hue.

Built in the 17th century, the pagoda is an iconic symbol of the city. Visitors can explore the seven-story octagonal tower and admire the beautiful architecture.

The pagoda also houses a historic car, which was driven by a monk who famously protested the Vietnamese government in 1963. Guests have 30 minutes to wander the grounds and learn about the site’s rich history and cultural significance before continuing on to the imperial tombs.

Minh Mang Tomb

From Thien Mu Pagoda, the tour continues by car for a 20-minute journey to the Minh Mang Tomb.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, known for its:

• Stunning architecture blending Vietnamese and Chinese influences

• Serene gardens and lakes surrounding the complex

• Impressive preservation of the original 19th-century design

Visitors can explore the elaborate temple halls, pavilions, and unique structures that make the Minh Mang Tomb a testament to the grandeur of the Nguyen dynasty.

The tomb’s beauty and historical significance make it a must-see for those exploring Hue’s imperial past.

Khai Dinh Tomb

After visiting the Minh Mang Tomb, the tour proceeds by car for a 20-minute journey to the Khai Dinh Tomb.

This mausoleum is the final resting place of Emperor Khai Dinh, who ruled in the early 20th century. The tomb is renowned for its unique architectural style, which blends Vietnamese and European elements.

The Khai Dinh Tomb, the final resting place of the early 20th-century emperor, boasts a distinctive blend of Vietnamese and European architectural elements.

Visitors will have an hour to explore the site, admiring the intricate carvings, mosaics, and tiles that adorn the complex.

The Khai Dinh Tomb is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam’s imperial past.

Practical Considerations

Although the Hue: Perfume River Cruise tour offers a rundown of Hue’s cultural highlights, there are a few practical considerations visitors should keep in mind.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as some sites may involve stairs or uneven terrain.

Plus, a modest dress code is required, with short skirts not allowed. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat and sunscreen, and be prepared for varying weather conditions while respecting the cultural sites visited.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any policies or restrictions regarding outside food and beverages.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there is an option for a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours can be arranged for an additional fee, providing a more personalized experience with a private guide and flexible itinerary.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer student or senior discounts. However, group discounts may be available for larger parties. It’s best to check with the tour operator directly to inquire about any special pricing options.

Can I Take Photos/Videos During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photos and videos during the tour. The tour operator encourages participants to capture the scenic views and cultural sites along the way, as long as they respect the rules and customs of the visited locations.

Is There a Bathroom Available on the Boat?

Unfortunately, there are no bathrooms available on the boat during the tour. However, there will be opportunities to use restroom facilities at the sites visited on the tour itinerary, such as Thien Mu Pagoda and the tomb complexes.

The Sum Up

The Hue: Perfume River Cruise with Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs tour offers a captivating journey through Vietnam’s cultural heritage. The scenic river cruise, historic pagoda, and impressive tombs provide a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s rich history. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, this small-group tour is an excellent way to explore the enchanting city of Hue.

You can check availability for your dates here: