Nestled just outside Hanoi, the "Thay Pagoda – Duong Lam Ancient Village 1 Day Private Trip" offers a chance to take in Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. From the serene beauty of Thay Pagoda to the captivating history of Duong Lam Ancient Village, this guided excursion promises an enriching experience for those seeking to uncover the country’s timeless traditions. With private transportation, expert local guides, and a delicious lunch, the journey provides a well-rounded glimpse into the heart of Vietnamese culture.
Key Points

- The tour visits Thay Pagoda, a unique architectural blend of pre-Buddhist and post-Saint styles, and Duong Lam Ancient Village, a living museum of Vietnam’s rural past.
- Participants can explore the features of Thay Pagoda, including the Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagoda, as well as the 36 carved wooden panel holes.
- The tour includes traditional elements of Duong Lam, such as the village gate, banyan tree, and communal house, providing a glimpse into Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
- The tour is a 7-hour private excursion starting from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with a set menu lunch at a local homestay included in the price.
- Based on customer feedback, the tour has an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with the guide, transportation, and highlights described as beautiful, tranquil, and charming.
Trip Overview

The tour, named "Thay Pagoda – Duong Lam Ancient Village 1 Day Private Trip," offers a comprehensive exploration of two captivating destinations.
Priced from $101.48 per person, the 7-hour excursion welcomes up to 10 participants and caters to English and Vietnamese speakers.
With a flexible cancellation policy, travelers can secure a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary highlights visits to the unique Thay Pagoda and the historic Duong Lam Ancient Village, concluding with a local cuisine lunch and a return to Hanoi by 5:00 PM.
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Itinerary Highlights

Beginning at the Old Quarter, the tour takes participants on a journey to discover the captivating Thay Pagoda and the historic Duong Lam Ancient Village. At the Thay Pagoda, visitors will be in awe of its unique pre-Buddhist, post-Saint architectural style, featuring the Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagoda, and the 36 carved wooden panel holes. The tour then ventures to Duong Lam, the first ancient village in Vietnam to receive National Historical and Cultural Monument status, where traditional Vietnamese village elements, such as the village gate, banyan tree, and communal house, are still intact.
| Thay Pagoda | Duong Lam Ancient Village |
| — | — |
| Unique architecture | First ancient village to receive national status |
| Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagoda | Retains traditional Vietnamese features |
| 36 carved wooden panel holes | Village gate, banyan tree, communal house |
| Tranquil atmosphere | Herringbone road structure |
Cultural Insights

What makes the Thay Pagoda so noteworthy is its dedication to Tu Dao Hanh, a monk from the Ly Dynasty. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, the pagoda’s unique architecture blends pre-Buddhist and post-Saint styles.
It consists of three distinct parts – the Lower, Middle, and Upper Pagoda. One of the pagoda’s most distinctive features is its 36 carved wooden panel holes, which create a serene and contemplative ambiance.
Likewise, the Duong Lam Ancient Village is a captivating destination. As the first ancient village in Vietnam to receive National Historical and Cultural Monument status, it retains traditional Vietnamese village features, including a village gate, banyan tree, and communal house.
Inclusion

What’s included in this tour?
The package includes private transportation, with vehicles ranging from 7 to 29 seats to accommodate small or larger groups.
All entrance fees and electric car rides are covered. Guests will enjoy a set menu lunch at a local homestay.
An expert tour guide will provide insights throughout the journey. Travelers will also receive a complimentary bottle of water.
Tips, value-added tax, and drinks during meals are included as well.
The tour price remains the same regardless of holidays, such as Lunar New Year, Christmas, or New Year.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback

Based on 1 review, travelers have awarded this tour a perfect 5 out of 5 stars. Reviewers praised the tour’s highlights, describing the Thay Pagoda as beautiful and tranquil, and the Duong Lam Ancient Village as charming. The guide was also noted as knowledgeable, and the transportation as smooth. This private day trip seems to provide a unique experience outside Hanoi’s main attractions.
| Tour Aspect | Reviewer Rating |
|————-|—————–|
| Overall | 5/5 |
| Highlights | Excellent |
| Guide | Knowledgeable |
| Transport | Smooth |
| Value | Highly Recommend|
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Unique Architecture of Thay Pagoda

The Thay Pagoda‘s unique architectural style blends pre-Buddhist and post-Saint influences, creating a distinctive structure unlike many other pagodas in Vietnam.
The pagoda consists of three levels – Lower, Middle, and Upper – each with its own distinct features.
Wooden panels with 36 carved patterns adorn the pagoda’s walls, adding to its visual appeal.
The overall design is a harmonious combination of traditional Vietnamese elements and the influences of Tu Dao Hanh, the revered monk who commissioned the pagoda’s construction during the Ly Dynasty.
This architectural masterpiece is a testament to Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
Discovering Duong Lam Ancient Village

After exploring the captivating architecture of Thay Pagoda, the tour takes visitors to uncover the charms of Duong Lam Ancient Village.
As the first ancient village in Vietnam to receive National Historical and Cultural Monument status, Duong Lam retains its traditional Vietnamese village features.
Visitors can wander through the herringbone road structure, admire the well-preserved ancient houses, and visit the Mong Phu communal house built in 1684.
The tranquil atmosphere and glimpse into Vietnam’s rural past make Duong Lam a highlight of the day trip.
Exploring this living museum provides a unique cultural experience.
Transportation and Logistics
Though the tour starts at the Old Quarter in Hanoi, private transportation is provided throughout the day trip. Participants will be picked up by a comfortable 7-to-29 seat vehicle and driven to the Thay Pagoda.
After exploring the pagoda, the group will continue to the Duong Lam Ancient Village. An electric car is used to traverse the narrow village streets.
Following the village visit, the group will enjoy a set menu lunch at a local homestay. At the end of the day, the private transportation will bring everyone back to their Hanoi hotels by 5:00 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your preferences. Travelers can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary, activities, and schedule to create a personalized experience that meets their interests and needs.
What Should I Bring for the Tour?
Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and any necessary personal items. It’s also a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater in case of cooler temperatures during the day.
Is There Any Additional Cost During the Tour?
No, there are no additional costs during the tour. The price includes all transportation, entrance fees, lunch, a tour guide, bottled water, and any tips or taxes. Customers only need to pay for personal expenses and drinks beyond the included set menu.
How Many Hours Will the Tour Take?
The tour will take 7 hours. It begins at the Old Quarter and includes visits to Thay Pagoda and Duong Lam Ancient Village, with a local cuisine lunch at a homestay, before returning to the hotel by 5:00 PM.
Is This Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is suitable for children, as it’s a 7-hour private trip with a manageable group size and includes cultural activities like visiting a pagoda and ancient village that can engage younger participants. The tour provides a fun and educational experience for families.
The Sum Up
This captivating 7-hour excursion from Hanoi offers an enriching cultural experience. Visitors can explore the serene Thay Pagoda, renowned for its unique architecture, and discover the historic Duong Lam Ancient Village, Vietnam’s first ancient village with National Historical and Cultural Monument status. With private transportation, expert guides, and a delicious local lunch included, this trip promises an immersive journey into Vietnam’s rich heritage.
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