Hue: Royal Tombs, Pagoda, Perfume River by Dragon Boat & Car

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, holds a rich cultural heritage that continues to captivate visitors. This tour offers a chance to explore the city’s renowned royal tombs, the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, and a serene cruise along the Perfume River. From the intricate designs of the UNESCO-listed sites to the enchanting atmosphere of the incense village, this excursion promises an immersive experience that unveils Hue’s timeless allure. What secrets will this historic city reveal?

Key Points

• This tour offers a comprehensive experience to explore the historical and cultural highlights of Hue, including a cruise on the Perfume River and visits to royal tombs and Thien Mu Pagoda.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, private transportation, an English-speaking driver, and travel insurance, ensuring a convenient and seamless experience.
• Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Minh Mang Tomb, the intricate Khai Dinh Tomb, and the tranquil Tu Duc Tomb, each showcasing the architectural and cultural heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty.
• The tour also includes a visit to Thuy Xuan Incense Village, where visitors can learn about the traditional incense-making craft and enjoy the pungent aroma.
• The optional visit to the Imperial City provides an additional opportunity to delve deeper into Hue’s imperial past and witness the grandeur of the former capital.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The "Hue: Royal Tombs, Pagoda, Perfume River by Dragon Boat & Car" tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Hue’s rich cultural heritage.

Priced at just $18 per person, this 4-5 hour excursion allows guests to cruise the Perfume River, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, and tour the iconic royal tombs of Minh Mang, Khai Dinh, and Tu Duc.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, an English-speaking driver, and travel insurance. Guests can also opt to add a visit to the Imperial City for an additional $8.

With a flexible cancellation policy and the ability to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience in Hue.

Itinerary Highlights

A 30-minute relaxing cruise on the Perfume River kicks off the tour, allowing visitors to admire the Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hue dating back to the 17th century. The itinerary then takes guests to explore the royal tombs, including:

| Tomb | Key Features |

|——————|———————————————————————|

| Minh Mang Tomb | UNESCO World Heritage Site known for stunning architecture |

| Khai Dinh Tomb | Famous for its intricate design blending Eastern and Western styles |

| Tu Duc Tomb | A tranquil site built for poetry and hunting during the emperor’s reign |

The tour also includes a visit to Thuy Xuan Incense Village to learn about the local incense-making craft and immerse in the cultural experience.

Dragon Boat Cruise

A 30-minute relaxing cruise takes visitors along the Perfume River, where they can admire the Thien Mu Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hue dating back to the 17th century.

This iconic pagoda, featuring a seven-story tower, stands as a symbol of Hue’s rich cultural heritage.

The tranquil boat ride offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city, allowing travelers to enjoy the serene natural surroundings and catch glimpses of local life along the riverbanks.

The dragon boat cruise provides a picturesque introduction to Hue’s renowned landmarks and scenic landscapes.

Tomb of Minh Mang

Situated about 12 kilometers from the city center, the Tomb of Minh Mang stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning architectural design.

Constructed between 1840-1843, the tomb features a series of symmetrical structures, pavillions, and courtyards. One highlight is the Main Temple, an impressive structure with its roof decorated with ceramic tiles and ornate carvings.

Visitors can explore the tomb’s tranquil gardens and admire the harmonious blend of Vietnamese and Chinese influences in the architecture.

The Tomb of Minh Mang offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tomb of Khai Dinh

The Tomb of Khai Dinh, located just 10 kilometers from the city center, stands as a unique fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles.

The tomb’s intricate design features:

• Ornate decorations with dragons, phoenix, and imperial symbols

• A mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French colonial influences

• Elaborate mosaic work made from glass, ceramic, and porcelain

• Breathtaking views from the top of the tomb, overlooking the surrounding landscapes

This eclectic monument offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and the legacy of its imperial past.

Tomb of Tu Duc

Although situated in a tranquil setting, the Tomb of Tu Duc stands as a testament to the grandeur and complexity of Vietnam’s imperial past.

Built during the emperor’s reign, this site served as a retreat for poetry and hunting. The tomb’s architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

Visitors can explore the ornate structures, pavilions, and lakes that make up this expansive complex. The Tomb of Tu Duc offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of Vietnam’s most significant historical figures, providing a captivating cultural experience.

Thuy Xuan Incense Village

Beyond the serenity of the Tomb of Tu Duc, the tour continues to the Thuy Xuan Incense Village.

Here, visitors enjoy the local incense-making tradition, learning about:

Visitors enjoy the local incense-making tradition, learning about the intricate process of hand-rolling fragrant sticks.

• The intricate process of hand-rolling incense sticks

• Bundles of dried fragrant tree bark and leaves

• Villagers meticulously shaping the raw materials

• The pungent aroma that permeates the air

This cultural experience allows guests to gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry behind the creation of these aromatic sticks, an integral part of Vietnamese spiritual practices.

Inclusions and Additional Options

The Hue: Royal Tombs, Pagoda, Perfume River by Dragon Boat & Car tour includes a range of amenities to ensure a seamless and comprehensive experience.

Travelers enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, a private dragon boat and car, an English-speaking driver, and bottled water.

For those seeking a more immersive tour, the option to add a visit to the Imperial City is available for an additional $8. Entrance fees to the royal tombs and Imperial City are paid separately in cash.

The tour also provides travel insurance, though meals, drinks not mentioned, and tips are excluded from the package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary to your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing you to add or modify activities like visiting the Imperial City to tailor the experience to your interests.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Royal Tombs?

The best time to visit the royal tombs is during the dry season, typically from March to August. The weather is pleasant, and the sites are less crowded, allowing for a more enjoyable and comfortable experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

Currently, the tour is offering a discounted price of $18 per person, down from the original $20 price. Plus, the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, providing booking flexibility.

Are Audio Guides or Multilingual Tour Guides Available?

The tour doesn’t offer audio guides, but it does provide an English-speaking driver. Multilingual tour guides are available for an additional fee when booking the private tour option.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography During the Tour?

There are generally no restrictions on photography or videography during the tour. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting other guests or impeding the flow of the tour. Checking with the tour guide about any specific guidelines is recommended.

Recap

Exploring Hue’s captivating history and culture, this tour immerses visitors in the city’s UNESCO-recognized royal tombs, the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, and a serene Perfume River cruise. Guests will discover the intricate artistry of Thuy Xuan Incense Village, learning about local traditions along the way. This comprehensive excursion offers a well-rounded experience of Hue’s rich heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: