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Tombs in Hue: Historic Final Resting Places

Discover the majestic Tombs in Hue, the historic final resting places of Vietnam’s Nguyen emperors. These architectural masterpieces reflect the grandeur and cultural heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty. Each tomb, with its unique design, offers a glimpse into the rich history of Vietnam. Explore these iconic sites with Vietnam Discovery Travel and immerse yourself in the beauty of Hue’s royal legacy.

Hue imperial tombs reflect the life and will of the emperors (Source: Collected)
Hue imperial tombs reflect the life and will of the emperors (Source: Collected)

1. Map of the Royal Tombs in Hue

Hue’s royal tombs are spread across the city’s outskirts, mainly along the banks of the Perfume River. Here’s a general map overview:

  • Duc Duc Tomb: Located southwest of Hue, near An Cuu Ward.
  • Tu Duc Tomb: Situated in the Duong Xuan Thuong village, about 5 km from Hue.
  • Dong Khanh Tomb: Found in Thuong Hai Village, near Tu Duc Tomb.
  • Thieu Tri Tomb: Positioned in the northwest, near the village of Cu Chanh.
  • Minh Mang Tomb: Located 12 km outside of Hue, on Cam Ke Mountain.
  • Khai Dinh Tomb: Set on Chau Chu Mountain, 10 km from Hue.
  • Gia Long Tomb: The farthest, located in the village of Dinh Mon, around 20 km from Hue.
A Hue tombs map (Source: Collected)
A Hue tombs map (Source: Collected)

2. Inside the 7 Royal Tombs in Hue

Explore inside the 7 Royal Tombs in Hue, where each tomb reflects the unique legacy of the Nguyen emperors. From the tranquil Tu Duc Tomb to the ornate Khai Dinh Tomb, discover the rich history, architecture, and cultural heritage of Vietnam’s ancient rulers in these majestic sites.

2.1. Duc Duc Tomb

  • Address: An Cuu Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam
  • Entrance Fee: 50,000 VND (~$2.20)
  • Overview: Duc Duc Tomb, though less grand than others, holds significant historical value. It is the burial site of Emperor Duc Duc and his son, Emperor Thanh Thai. The tomb’s simple architecture is a reflection of Emperor Duc Duc’s short and troubled reign.
Duc Duc Tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Duc Duc and his family (Source: Collected)
Duc Duc Tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Duc Duc and his family (Source: Collected)

2.2. Tu Duc Tomb

  • Address: Thuy Xuan Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam
  • Entrance Fee: 150,000 VND (~$6.50)
  • Overview: Known for its serene atmosphere, Tu Duc Tomb is one of the most beautiful royal mausoleums in Hue. Built during Emperor Tu Duc’s lifetime, it features a lake, pavilions, and temples set amidst lush greenery. The tomb’s architecture and landscaping are a testament to the emperor’s poetic soul.
The enchanting natural setting of Tu Duc Tomb (Source: Collected)
The enchanting natural setting of Tu Duc Tomb (Source: Collected)

2.3. Dong Khanh Tomb

  • Address: Thuong Hai Village, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam
  • Entrance Fee: 100,000 VND (~$4.30)
  • Overview: Dong Khanh Tomb, completed in 1917, is a blend of traditional Vietnamese and French colonial architectural styles. It houses the remains of Emperor Dong Khanh and is noted for its beautiful mosaics and serene setting.
Dong Khanh Tomb marks the beginning of European influences on traditional Vietnamese architecture (Source: Collected)
Dong Khanh Tomb marks the beginning of European influences on traditional Vietnamese architecture (Source: Collected)

2.4. Thieu Tri Tomb

  • Address: Cu Chanh Village, Thuy Bang Commune, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam
  • Entrance Fee: 50,000 VND (~$2.20)
  • Overview: Thieu Tri Tomb is unique among Hue’s royal tombs because it was built posthumously by Emperor Tu Duc for his father, Emperor Thieu Tri. The tomb is modest yet harmonious with the surrounding landscape, reflecting Thieu Tri’s peaceful and scholarly nature.
Visiting Thieu Tri Tomb is one of the things to do in Hue (Source: Collected)
Visiting Thieu Tri Tomb is one of the things to do in Hue (Source: Collected)

2.5. Minh Mang Tomb

  • Address: National Route 49, Cam Ke Mountain, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam
  • Entrance Fee: 150,000 VND (~$6.50)
  • Overview: Minh Mang Tomb is renowned for its traditional Vietnamese architectural design. The complex is symmetrically laid out with 40 structures, including palaces, temples, and pavilions, all harmoniously integrated with nature. It is one of the most visited tombs due to its beauty and historical significance.
Minh Mang Tomb is a prominent cultural and historical site in Hue (Source: Collected)
Minh Mang Tomb is a prominent cultural and historical site in Hue (Source: Collected)

2.6. Khai Dinh Tomb

  • Address: Chau Chu Mountain, Thuy Bang Commune, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam
  • Entrance Fee: 150,000 VND (~$6.50)
  • Overview: Khai Dinh Tomb is the most elaborate of all Hue’s royal tombs, blending Eastern and Western design elements. The tomb’s interior is adorned with intricate glass and porcelain mosaics, making it a fascinating site for visitors interested in art and architecture. Despite its smaller size, it is the most expensive tomb to visit due to its unique design.
Khai Dinh Tomb is one of the best tombs in Hue to admire (Source: Collected)
Khai Dinh Tomb is one of the best tombs in Hue to admire (Source: Collected)

2.7. Gia Long Tomb

  • Address: Dinh Mon Village, Huong Tho Commune, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam
  • Entrance Fee: 50,000 VND (~$2.20)
  • Overview: The tomb of Gia Long, the first emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, is located in a remote area, making it the least visited. However, its serene environment and historical importance make it worth the trip for history enthusiasts.
Tomb of King Gia Long as viewed from above Source: Collected)
Tomb of King Gia Long as viewed from above Source: Collected)

3. Important Notes for Visiting Hue Tombs

  • Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Hue’s tombs is from March to August when the weather is dry and pleasant. The monsoon season (September to December) can make visits challenging due to heavy rains and potential flooding.
  • Dress Code: Visitors should dress modestly out of respect for the cultural and historical significance of these sites. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, along with comfortable walking shoes.
  • Photography: While photography is allowed at most tombs, it is advisable to avoid using flash in areas with delicate artwork or where it is specifically prohibited.
  • Transport Tips: Renting a bicycle or motorbike is a popular way to explore the tombs at your own pace. For a more comfortable journey, consider hiring a taxi or joining a guided tour.
  • Ticket Packages: For travelers planning to visit multiple tombs, combination tickets are available that offer a discount compared to purchasing individual tickets.

Conclusion

Explore the majestic Tombs in Hue, where the Nguyen emperors of Vietnam rest in historic splendor. These royal tombs are not only the final resting places of the emperors but also architectural masterpieces that showcase the grandeur and cultural heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty. Each tomb, with its unique design and intricate details, offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s royal history. Whether you’re drawn to the serene landscapes or the intricate artistry, these tombs are a must-visit for anyone exploring Hue.

With Vietnam Discovery Travel, you can experience these iconic sites in a way that brings the past to life. Our expert guides will lead you through the rich history and stories behind each tomb, ensuring you get the most out of your visit. Planning your trip is easy—just reach out to us on WhatsApp for quick and convenient bookings, personalized tours, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable. Dive into the legacy of Vietnam’s emperors and uncover the timeless beauty of Hue’s royal tombs with Vietnam Discovery Travel.

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