Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, offers a captivating journey through its rich history and breathtaking landscapes. The Perfume River Cruise provides a unique opportunity to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the majestic Thien Mu Pagoda and the UNESCO-listed tombs of the Nguyen dynasty. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour allows visitors to enjoy Hue’s enchanting beauty and uncover the stories that have shaped its remarkable past. What secrets might these ancient sites reveal?
Key Points
- This tour offers a 4-4.5 hour experience exploring Hue’s iconic landmarks, including a 30-minute dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River.
- Visitors get to discover the Thien Mu Pagoda, the tallest religious monument in Vietnam, and admire its panoramic river views.
- The tour also includes visits to the UNESCO-recognized Minh Mang Tomb and Khai Dinh Tomb, showcasing Vietnam’s rich dynastic heritage.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve-now-pay-later option is offered to secure spots.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, making the tour convenient for travelers.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The "Hue: Perfume River Cruise with Thien Mu Pagoda & Tombs" tour is priced from $28.46 per person and lasts 4 to 4.5 hours.
Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also offers a reserve now and pay later option to secure their spot without paying upfront.
Departing from Hue, the excursion includes a 30-minute dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, visits to Thien Mu Pagoda, Minh Mang Tomb, and Khai Dinh Tomb, along with hotel pickup and drop-off.
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Itinerary and Activities
As part of the tour, visitors will begin with a 30-minute dragon boat cruise along the scenic Perfume River.
After the cruise, they’ll visit the historic Thien Mu Pagoda for 30 minutes.
After the cruise, visitors will spend 30 minutes exploring the historic Thien Mu Pagoda.
Next, they’ll travel to the Minh Mang Tomb, spending 61 minutes exploring the mausoleum.
The tour then moves on to the Khai Dinh Tomb, where visitors will spend an hour admiring the site.
Finally, the tour ends with a drop-off back at the hotel in Hue.
Thien Mu Pagoda: Hue’s Iconic Landmark
Towering over the banks of the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda stands as Hue’s most iconic landmark.
This 7-story octagonal tower, dating back to the 17th century, is the tallest religious monument in Vietnam. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the river.
The pagoda’s main temple houses a rare ài đồng – a bronze bell cast in 1710. Surrounding the pagoda are well-manicured gardens and other smaller temples.
As one of Hue’s top attractions, a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich Buddhist heritage and the city’s imperial past.
Exploring the Minh Mang Tomb
Minh Mang Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the architectural grandeur and cultural significance of Vietnam’s imperial past.
Visitors travel 20 minutes from Hue to reach this mausoleum, which honors the second Nguyen emperor. The tomb complex features ornate pavilions, shrines, and a manicured garden landscape.
The tomb complex features ornate pavilions, shrines, and a manicured garden landscape, honoring the second Nguyen emperor just 20 minutes from Hue.
Visitors spend around an hour exploring the grounds and admiring the intricate carvings, delicate tile work, and impressive architecture.
With an entrance fee of 150,000 VND, the Minh Mang Tomb offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s dynastic history and the enduring legacy of its former rulers.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Regal Khai Dinh Tomb
After exploring the grandeur of the Minh Mang Tomb, visitors continue their journey to the Khai Dinh Tomb, another UNESCO World Heritage Site located just 20 minutes from Hue.
The Khai Dinh Tomb is a unique blend of Vietnamese and European architectural styles, reflecting the emperor’s progressive vision.
Visitors will be captivated by:
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The opulent throne room adorned with mosaic dragons and phoenixes.
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The tomb’s intricate details, including the beautifully carved dragons, ancient steles, and imperial murals.
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The breathtaking view overlooking the surrounding hills and valleys.
This regal tomb offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past.
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Cruising the Serene Perfume River
The Perfume River cruise provides visitors with a serene and tranquil experience as they glide along the waterway in a traditional dragon boat.
Riding along the river, travelers can admire the lush, verdant landscape and historic pagodas that line the riverbanks.
The 30-minute cruise offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Hue.
This leisurely boat ride is a highlight of the tour, complementing the visits to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and the regal tombs of the Nguyen emperors.
Inclusions, Exclusions, and Important Information
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a 30-minute dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, and guided visits to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the regal Minh Mang Tomb, and the ornate Khai Dinh Tomb.
However, it excludes food, drinks, and entrance fees to the tombs, which cost 150,000 VND each.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Visitors should wear modest clothing, comfortable shoes, and bring a hat and sunscreen.
An English-speaking guide is available, and a small group option is offered for a more personalized experience.
Planning Your Hue Adventure
When planning your Hue adventure, be sure to make the most of your time by booking the Perfume River Cruise with Thien Mu Pagoda and Tombs.
This 4-4.5 hour tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic views. Cruise the iconic Perfume River, visit the centuries-old Thien Mu Pagoda, and explore the grand imperial tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.
With hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, you can sit back and enjoy the experience. Remember to dress modestly and bring comfortable shoes.
Don’t miss this chance to learn about Hue’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
While the tour itinerary is pre-set, customers can typically request modifications to suit their preferences, such as adjusting visit durations or adding/removing sites within the overall tour length and pricing. The tour operator may accommodate these requests if feasible.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for This Tour?
While no package deals are mentioned, you can save by booking early. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility. Check for any seasonal or group discounts that may be available.
What Are the Restroom Facilities Like During the Tour?
The tour includes restroom breaks at the major sites visited, such as Thien Mu Pagoda and the imperial tombs. Basic but clean restroom facilities are available at these locations to accommodate guests during the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Cruise?
No, passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the boat cruise. The tour includes the dragon boat cruise, but food and drinks are not provided. Guests should plan to purchase any desired refreshments before or after the cruise.
Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites Visited During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed at the sites visited during the tour, but visitors should be respectful and follow any specific rules or restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour guide for guidance on photography at each location.
Recap
Enjoy the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hue with the Perfume River Cruise. From the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda to the UNESCO-listed tombs, this comprehensive tour offers a seamless and enriching experience. Convenient hotel transfers ensure a hassle-free journey, allowing you to fully savor the enchanting beauty of this former imperial capital.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Hue Vietnam
- Hue City Tour Half Day by Private Car & Dragon Boat Option
- Hue: Private Dragon Boat, Thien Mu Pagoda, & Royal Tomb Tour
- Hue: Royal Tombs & Pagoda Tour By Dragon Boat & Private Car
- Hue: Half-Day City Tour by Car and Dragon Boat
- Hue City Tour and Dragon Boat Trip Small Group From Hue
- Hue: Folk Song on Perfume River Dragon Boat
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- Hue Imperial Private Tour via Hai Van Pass Train Experience
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