Hue : Dragon Boat Cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, holds a rich tapestry of history and culture. One captivating way to experience this is through the Dragon Boat Cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs. This half-day tour offers an enchanting journey along the Perfume River, culminating in visits to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and the impressive imperial tombs. As you learn about the tranquil surroundings, you’ll uncover the stories that have shaped Hue’s enduring legacy.

Key Points

• A 4-4.5 hour tour priced at $58.42 per person offering a 30-minute dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River and visits to Thien Mu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tomb, and Khai Dinh Tomb.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off but excludes entrance fees, food, and drinks, and is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Highlights include discovering the oldest pagoda in Hue, exploring the beautiful and well-preserved Minh Mang Tomb, and marveling at the unique architecture of Khai Dinh Tomb.
• The relaxing boat cruise along the Perfume River provides scenic surroundings and a calming atmosphere, with the boat captain providing commentary on the river’s history and pagoda significance.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, hats, and bring sunscreen.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a Dragon Boat Cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs, priced from $58.42 per person.

Set out on a Dragon Boat Cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs, with prices starting from $58.42 per person.

The duration is 4 to 4.5 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot and pay nothing today.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a 30-minute boat cruise, and visits to Thien Mu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tomb, and Khai Dinh Tomb.

Entrance fees and food/drinks are excluded. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and guests should wear comfortable shoes and avoid short skirts.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a pickup from Hue, followed by a 30-minute boat cruise on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda. Visitors will spend 30 minutes exploring the oldest pagoda in Hue, constructed in the 17th century. Next, they’ll travel by car for 15 minutes to Minh Mang Tomb, the mausoleum of the second emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After an hour there, the group will drive 15 minutes to Khai Dinh Tomb, the mausoleum of the twelfth emperor, also a UNESCO site. Finally, they’ll return to Hue in 30 minutes.

| Destination | Duration |

|————|———|

| Thien Mu Pagoda | 30 minutes |

| Minh Mang Tomb | 1 hour |

| Khai Dinh Tomb | 1 hour |

| Total Duration | 4 – 4.5 hours |

Highlights of the Tour

Visitors can discover Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest religious structure in Hue, and admire its architectural grandeur.

They’ll also visit Minh Mang Tomb, renowned for its beauty and preservation. The mausoleum’s intricate details and natural setting make it a highlight.

Lastly, travelers will marvel at Khai Dinh Tomb‘s unique architecture, a blending of Vietnamese and European styles. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features ornate decor and panoramic views.

The tour’s cultural and historical significance make it a must-do experience for anyone visiting Hue.

Inclusions and Exclusions

As part of the dragon boat cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a 30-minute boat cruise, and visits to Thien Mu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tomb, and Khai Dinh Tomb.

However, the tour doesn’t cover food, drinks, or entrance fees. Visitors must pay 150,000 VND each to enter Minh Mang Tomb and Khai Dinh Tomb.

The tour also isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and bring sunscreen. Skirts mustn’t be too short.

Itineraries are subject to change, so it’s best to double-check details before the tour.

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Important Information

This dragon boat cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat, camera, and sunscreen for their comfort and convenience.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat, camera, and sunscreen for your comfort and convenience during the tour.

Short skirts aren’t allowed during the tour, as visitors will be entering religious sites.

While the itinerary is carefully planned, it’s subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.

This tour provides an immersive experience exploring Hue’s iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and imperial tombs along the picturesque Perfume River.

Guests can expect a well-organized and informative journey through the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Boat Cruise Experience

After being picked up from their hotel, guests embark on a relaxing 30-minute boat cruise along the Perfume River to reach the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda.

Gliding on the tranquil waters, they take in the serene surroundings and picturesque landscapes. Along the way, the boat captain provides commentary about the river’s history and the significance of the pagoda.

The gentle rocking of the boat and the rhythmic strokes of the oars create a calming atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Hue’s natural environment.

Exploring Thien Mu Pagoda

Upon docking at the riverbank, guests disembark and ascend the stone steps leading to the entrance of Thien Mu Pagoda.

The 17th-century structure is the oldest religious monument in Hue. Visitors explore the five-story octagonal tower, marveling at its architecture and intricate decorations.

They discover the Heavenly Lady Monastery, which houses a rare 1963 Austin car that once belonged to the late Thich Quang Duc, a Buddhist monk who self-immolated to protest the South Vietnamese government.

Guests soak in the serene atmosphere, learning about the pagoda’s history and significance in Vietnamese Buddhism.

Visiting the Imperial Tombs

Next, the tour proceeds to the imperial tombs.

First, visitors explore the Minh Mang Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its beauty and preservation. They spend an hour admiring the mausoleum’s intricate architecture and gardens.

Then, the group travels to the Khai Dinh Tomb, another UNESCO-listed site known for its unique blend of Vietnamese and European styles. After an hour of exploration, the tour returns to Hue, concluding the day’s activities.

Throughout the imperial tomb visits, guests gain insights into Hue’s rich history and the legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Since You Asked

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children. There are some restrictions, like long walks and inappropriate attire. Parents should consider their child’s abilities and interest before booking this tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour does not include food and drinks, but you can bring your own. However, outside food and drinks are not allowed at the pagoda and tomb sites. Check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions.

Are There Any Additional Fees During the Tour?

The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, boat cruise, and visits to the pagoda and tombs. However, there are additional fees for entrance to the Minh Mang and Khai Dinh Tombs, which cost 150,000 VND per person each.

How Can I Communicate With the Tour Guide?

You can communicate with the tour guide during the tour. They’ll be available to answer your questions and provide information about the sights you’ll be visiting. Feel free to ask them anything you’d like to know.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows customers to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can book their spot and pay nothing today, taking advantage of the free cancellation option.

Final Words

This Dragon Boat Cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs in Hue provides a captivating half-day excursion for history enthusiasts. The scenic boat ride along the Perfume River, followed by visits to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and imperial tombs, offers a relaxing exploration of Hue’s rich cultural heritage. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, this tour is a convenient and immersive way to experience the enchanting sights of this UNESCO World Heritage city.

You can check if your dates are available here: