Hue: Dragon Boat Trip to Visit Thien Mu Pagoda & Royal Tombs

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, boasts a rich cultural heritage that captivates visitors from around the world. One of the must-do experiences in this enchanting city is the "Hue: Dragon Boat Trip to Visit Thien Mu Pagoda & Royal Tombs." This 5-hour journey promises to immerse participants in the city’s storied past, from the serene Perfume River to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and the intricate royal tombs. With an experienced guide by their side, travelers can expect to savor local cuisine, uncover the secrets of Vietnam’s imperial legacy, and be surrounded by the region’s breathtaking natural beauty. Prepare to embark on a captivating exploration that will leave you eager to discover more about Hue‘s rich cultural tapestry.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Hue Vietnam.

Key Points

• This 5-hour tour in Hue, Vietnam offers a dragon boat cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda and guided visits to the Minh Mang and Khai Dinh Royal Tombs.
• The tour is priced at $106.80 per person and is limited to 10 participants, with a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
• Highlights include insights into Hue’s cultural heritage, showcasing the architectural and historical significance of the key attractions.
• The tour includes transportation, an experienced English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a local cuisine lunch.
• Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and avoid prohibited items such as short skirts and alcohol.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Hue: Dragon Boat Trip to Visit Thien Mu Pagoda & Royal Tombs," is priced from $106.80 per person.

It lasts 5 hours and is limited to 10 participants, with English and Vietnamese as the available languages.

Cancelation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and no upfront payment is required to reserve a spot.

The itinerary includes a dragon boat cruise to Thien Mu Pagoda, exploration of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh Tombs, and a local Hue cuisine lunch.

Key attractions are the historic Thien Mu Pagoda, the majestic Minh Mang Tomb, and the unique Khai Dinh Tomb.

The tour includes transfers, guide, entrance fees, and travel insurance.

Itinerary Highlights

The itinerary begins with pickup from the hotel in Hue and transfer to the Toa Kham boat station.

Guests then embark on a 30-minute dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River to the historic Thien Mu Pagoda, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour and sightseeing.

The journey continues to the majestic Minh Mang Tomb, where visitors spend 1.5 hours exploring the site.

Next, they travel by car to the Khai Dinh Tomb, known for its unique blend of Western and Eastern styles, for another guided tour and sightseeing.

The experience concludes with a 1-hour lunch featuring Hue’s local cuisine before returning to Hue.

Key Attractions

Thien Mu Pagoda stands as a historic religious site, known for its architectural and cultural significance. This iconic seven-story pagoda overlooks the Perfume River and offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Nearby, the Minh Mang Tomb is celebrated for its majestic design, featuring intricate pavilions and ornate gardens that showcase the grandeur of Vietnam’s imperial legacy.

In contrast, the Khai Dinh Tomb blends Western and Eastern influences, resulting in a unique and visually striking mausoleum.

These three key attractions provide a comprehensive understanding of Hue’s diverse cultural landscape, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s illustrious past.

Inclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive set of amenities to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will enjoy a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda and the royal tombs. An experienced English-speaking guide will provide insightful commentary throughout the tour.

Lunch featuring Hue’s local cuisine is included, as well as entrance fees to all sites. Bottled water, wet tissues, and beverages during the meal are provided.

The tour also includes travel insurance, ensuring a worry-free experience. With these inclusions, guests can fully enjoy the historical and cultural wonders of Hue without additional expenses.

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Important Information

Certain groups may not be suitable for this tour. The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals over 95 years of age. Participants should wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, and sunscreen. It is also recommended to carry some cash. Certain items are prohibited on the tour, including short skirts, alcohol, drugs, noise-making devices, and fire-making equipment.

Recommended Items	Prohibited Items
Comfortable shoes	Short skirts
Sunglasses	Alcohol
Sun hat	Drugs
Camera	Noise-making devices
Sunscreen	Fire-making equipment
Cash

Pickup and Boat Cruise

Your Hue adventure begins with a hotel pickup, where a comfortable transfer takes you to the Toa Kham boat station.

There, you’ll embark on a serene dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, taking in the tranquil scenery as you make your way to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda:

• The boat glides effortlessly, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city.
• The pagoda’s towering silhouette comes into view, standing as a testament to Hue’s rich cultural heritage.
• The 30-minute journey allows you to fully learn about the picturesque waterways and prepare for the exploration ahead.

Thien Mu Pagoda Visit

The dragon boat docks at the Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic religious site that stands as a revered icon of Hue’s cultural legacy.

Guests disembark and follow the English-speaking guide on a tour of the impressive seven-story pagoda. The guide provides insights into the pagoda’s rich history and significance, explaining that it was built in the 17th century as a symbol of Hue’s royal dynasty.

Visitors have the opportunity to admire the pagoda’s intricate architecture and explore the surrounding gardens and courtyards.

This stop on the itinerary offers a glimpse into Hue’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions and the enduring influence of Buddhism in the region.

Royal Tomb Exploration

After exploring the historic Thien Mu Pagoda, the dragon boat continues its journey along the Perfume River towards the Royal Tombs.

The first stop is the majestic Minh Mang Tomb, known for its impressive architecture that blends Chinese and Vietnamese elements. The guided tour allows visitors to admire the ornate pavilions, temples, and lakes adorning the vast complex.

Next, the boat docks at the Khai Dinh Tomb, showcasing a unique fusion of Western and Eastern styles. Intricate carvings, mosaic tiles, and a grand staircase leading to the emperor’s mausoleum captivate the senses.

Throughout the exploration, the guide provides insights into the rich history and significance of these regal final resting places.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Bringing your own food and drinks is generally not permitted on the tour. The tour includes lunch featuring Hue’s local cuisine and bottled water, which are provided as part of the tour package. Outside food and beverages are typically not allowed.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Families?

The tour is suitable for families and children. The provider limits group size to 10 participants, making it an intimate experience. Children can join, but the tour may not be suitable for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?

For this tour, it’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, and sunscreen. Cash is also advised as no special equipment or gear is required.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Booking?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a "Reserve now & pay later" policy, allowing you to book your spot without any upfront payment.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers for This Tour?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, but there don’t appear to be any additional discounts or special offers available for this tour based on the information provided.

Recap

This captivating 5-hour journey through Hue’s cultural heritage offers a unique opportunity to explore the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, discover the intricate royal tombs, and take in Vietnam’s imperial past. With a serene dragon boat cruise, local cuisine, and an experienced guide, this tour promises an unforgettable experience amidst stunning landscapes along the Perfume River.

You can check if your dates are available here: