Hue: Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda, & Royal Tomb Tour

Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, boasts a rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored. This private tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy the city’s history and natural beauty. From a serene dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River to guided visits to iconic landmarks like the Thien Mu Pagoda and royal tombs, this experience promises to transport visitors back in time and provide a deeper understanding of Hue’s enduring legacy. With expert guides leading the way, the tour promises an unforgettable journey through one of Vietnam’s most captivating destinations.

Good To Know

• This private tour in Hue offers a 20-minute dragon boat cruise, guided visits to Thien Mu Pagoda and three royal tombs.
• The tour is priced from $26.38 per person and has a duration of 2.5 to 5 hours, led by English-speaking guides.
• The dragon boat cruise provides panoramic views of Hue and a serene experience along the Perfume River.
• Thien Mu Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hue, featuring intricate architecture and the famous Austin car.
• The royal tombs, including Minh Mang, Khai Dinh, and Tu Duc, offer insights into Hue’s imperial past and architectural styles.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private dragon boat tour in Hue offers a comprehensive cultural experience along the picturesque Perfume River.

Priced from $26.38 per person, it lasts 2.5 to 5 hours and is led by English-speaking guides.

The tour includes a 20-minute dragon boat cruise, a guided visit to the historic Thien Mu Pagoda, and tours of three royal tombs.

Flexibility is a key feature, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Flexibility is a key feature, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and punctuality of transportation, making this an attractive option for exploring Hue’s top sights.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights a selection of Hue’s top cultural attractions. Guests will embark on a 20-minute dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, followed by a guided tour of the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda – the oldest Buddhist temple in Hue. The tour then visits three royal tombs:

| Tomb | Duration |

| — | — |

| Minh Mang Tomb | 45 minutes |

| Khai Dinh Tomb | 30 minutes (extra fee) |

| Tu Duc Tomb | 45 minutes (extra fee) |

These tomb sites offer a glimpse into the region’s imperial past and provide an enriching cultural experience for travelers.

Dragon Boat Cruise

Guests embark on a 20-minute private dragon boat cruise along the serene Perfume River, providing a tranquil and picturesque introduction to Hue’s waterways.

The traditional wooden boat glides effortlessly, offering panoramic views of the city’s iconic landscape. Passengers witness the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a towering seven-tiered monument, from the river’s perspective.

The gentle rocking of the boat and the peaceful ambiance create a serene and immersive experience, allowing travelers to disconnect from the bustle of the city and connect with Hue’s rich cultural heritage.

Thien Mu Pagoda

After the serene dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, the tour takes guests to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a towering seven-tiered monument and the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hue.

The guide leads a 30-minute tour, explaining the pagoda’s history and religious significance. Visitors can admire the intricate architecture, with its curved roofs and delicate carvings.

They’ll also see the Austin car that a monk once used to self-immolate in protest of the government’s religious policies. The tranquil grounds and views of the Perfume River add to the overall spiritual experience.

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Minh Mang Tomb

Next on the itinerary is the Minh Mang Tomb, one of the most impressive imperial mausoleums in Hue.

Guests will enjoy a 45-minute guided tour of this captivating site. Surrounded by lush greenery, the tomb features a harmonious blend of Chinese and Vietnamese architectural styles.

Visitors will marvel at the imposing stature of the main structure, the elaborate carvings, and the tranquil garden setting.

The knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the life and reign of Emperor Minh Mang, as well as the symbolic significance of the tomb’s design.

This stop offers a glimpse into Hue’s imperial past.

Khai Dinh Tomb

The Khai Dinh Tomb is the next stop on the tour.

This elaborate tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Khai Dinh, who ruled Vietnam from 1916 to 1925. The guided tour lasts 30 minutes and costs an additional fee.

The final resting place of Emperor Khai Dinh, who ruled Vietnam from 1916 to 1925. The guided tour lasts 30 minutes and costs an additional fee.

Visitors can admire the unique architectural style, which blends Vietnamese and European influences. The tomb features intricate details, including ceramic and glass mosaics, as well as bronze statues.

While not as expansive as other royal tombs, the Khai Dinh Tomb offers a fascinating glimpse into the extravagant tastes of the last Vietnamese emperor.

Tu Duc Tomb

The final stop on the tour is the magnificent Tu Duc Tomb. This impressive imperial mausoleum was built in the 19th century and served as the final resting place for Emperor Tu Duc.

Visitors can explore the elaborate gardens, temples, and pavilions that make up the expansive complex. The guided tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing insights into the tomb’s history and architectural features.

Though an additional fee is required, the Tu Duc Tomb offers a glimpse into Hue’s rich royal heritage and is a must-see for those interested in Vietnam’s imperial past.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by private car, a private dragon boat cruise, and a tour guide (depending on the option selected).

The tour excludes:

• Entry tickets to the Royal Tombs, which cost 150,000 VND per adult per tomb

• Combo tickets for the Imperial City and tombs, which cost 420,000 VND for 2 tombs or 530,000 VND for 3 tombs

• Food and drinks

• Tips and gratuities

Additional transportation options are available, with free pickup from the railway station and an additional $6 per person from Phu Bai Airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Any Special Dietary Requests for the Tour?

There are no food or drink options included in this tour. Customers can make their own arrangements for meals and snacks during the tour. The tour company does not accommodate special dietary requests.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Customers can request to add more time to explore the sites or add additional activities to the itinerary. Availability and pricing may vary.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Safety Equipment for the Boat Ride?

No, safety equipment like life jackets is provided for the dragon boat cruise. The tour operator ensures all necessary precautions are taken to keep passengers safe during the boat ride portion of the experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for students or seniors. However, the overall pricing is competitive, and travelers can save by booking the combo tickets for the Imperial City and tombs if they plan to visit multiple sites.

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit additional sites. Travelers can work with the tour operator to add extra stops or modify the itinerary to suit their interests and preferences at an additional cost.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a captivating glimpse into Hue’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience a serene dragon boat ride along the Perfume River, explore the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, and discover the captivating history of Hue’s imperial past through guided visits to three royal tombs. Led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, this tour provides a well-rounded experience blending history, architecture, and stunning natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: