Duong Lam Ancient Village offers a captivating window into Vietnam’s rich heritage. Nestled just outside Hanoi, this 1,200-year-old agricultural settlement invites visitors to explore its narrow alleys, traditional laterite houses, and historical sites like the Mong Phu commune house and Mia Pagoda. Through a guided private tour, guests can enjoy local customs, savor a home-cooked Vietnamese lunch, and even try their hand at crafting rice straw puppets. With an experienced English-speaking host, this day trip promises an authentic and engaging insight into Vietnam’s enduring rural traditions. What else might one discover in this well-preserved ancient village?
Key Points
- Explore a 1,200-year-old agricultural settlement in Duong Lam Ancient Village with a private guided tour, including walking, biking, and cultural activities.
- Discover the architectural heritage and historical significance of Duong Lam, a laterite museum with 400-year-old houses and key sites like Mong Phu commune house and Mia Pagoda.
- Enjoy a home-cooked Vietnamese lunch in a 400-year-old house and engage in traditional crafts like making rice straw puppets and Che Lam during the tour.
- Benefit from private transportation, entrance fees, and other inclusions in the tour package, ensuring a comfortable and immersive cultural experience.
- Adhere to guidelines and restrictions, such as no alcohol or drugs, to ensure a safe and memorable tour of the historic Duong Lam village.
Tour Overview and Details
Offering a comprehensive private day tour, the Duong Lam Ancient Village experience explores this unique 1,200-year-old agricultural settlement.
Priced from Kč2,468 per person, the tour lasts a full day and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can expect a private group experience with a live English-speaking guide. The tour is available with a reserve now, pay later option.
Highlights include a walking tour through the village’s narrow alleys, traditional laterite houses, and brick pathways, as well as a bicycle excursion to learn about local farming practices and visit national hero temples.
Location and Historical Significance
Duong Lam Ancient Village, a unique laterite museum, boasts houses over 400 years old. This agricultural village has a rich history spanning 1,200 years. Visitors can explore the key sites, including the Mong Phu commune house from the mid-16th century and the Mia Pagoda from the 15th century, which houses 287 statues of Buddha and the Eight Vajra Deities.
| Site | Date |
|---|---|
| Mong Phu commune house | Mid-16th century |
| Mia Pagoda | 15th century |
| Statues at Mia Pagoda | 287, including Buddha and Eight Vajra Deities |
The village’s long history and well-preserved architecture make it a unique cultural treasure and a must-visit destination for those interested in Vietnam’s rich past.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a 1.5-hour drive from Hanoi to the ancient village of Duong Lam.
Once there, guests will embark on a walking tour to explore the narrow alleys, traditional laterite houses, and brick pathways.
They’ll enjoy a home-cooked Vietnamese lunch, including the local specialty Che Lam cake, in a 400-year-old house.
The itinerary also includes a bicycle excursion through the surrounding fields, where visitors can learn about local farming practices and visit temples dedicated to national heroes.
Before returning to Hanoi, guests can engage in local crafts like making rice straw puppets and Che Lam.
Inclusions and Amenities
Included in the tour is private car transfer to and from the village, ensuring a seamless journey. Entrance fees to all attractions are covered, and bicycle rental is available for exploring the picturesque surroundings. Bottled water is provided throughout the day to keep you hydrated.
| Inclusions | Amenities |
|---|---|
| Private car transfer | Bottled water |
| Entrance fees | Bicycle rental |
| Lunch at 400-year-old house | Local cuisine experience |
| Hands-on craft experience | Tips and personal expenses |
While tips and personal expenses are not included, the tour offers a comprehensive package to immerse visitors in the rich history and culture of Duong Lam Ancient Village.
Restricted Items and Important Information
Certain items are prohibited during the tour, and visitors should take note of a few important guidelines.
For instance, the consumption of alcohol and drugs is strictly forbidden. Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for individuals over 95 years of age.
Visitors are encouraged to engage in local crafts, such as making rice straw puppets and Che Lam, at a local family’s residence before returning to Hanoi.
These hands-on activities provide a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of Duong Lam Ancient Village.
Adhering to these restrictions and guidelines ensures a safe and memorable experience for all participants.
Departure and Transfer
From Hanoi, the tour begins with a 1.5-hour drive to the Duong Lam Ancient Village.
This private day tour provides round-trip transportation, so travelers can sit back and enjoy the scenic countryside views as they make their way to the historic site.
Upon arrival, the group will be met by a live English-speaking guide who’ll lead them on a walking exploration of the ancient village’s narrow alleys, traditional laterite houses, and brick pathways.
The private car transfer ensures a comfortable and efficient journey, allowing participants to make the most of their time discovering the rich cultural heritage of Duong Lam.
Local Cuisine and Dining
One of the highlights of the Duong Lam Ancient Village tour is the home-cooked Vietnamese lunch served in a 400-year-old house.
Guests will savor a selection of traditional Vietnamese dishes, including favorites like pho and banh mi.
The lunch also features the local specialty, Che Lam, a sweet dessert made from sticky rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar.
Dining in a historic home provides an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the village’s centuries-old architecture and way of life.
The meal is a delicious and authentic introduction to the culinary traditions of Duong Lam.
Engaging With Traditional Crafts
As part of the Duong Lam Ancient Village tour, visitors can engage with traditional crafts at a local family’s residence before returning to Hanoi.
This unique experience allows travelers to:
- Make traditional rice straw puppets, a long-standing artform in the village
- Learn how to create Che Lam, a local delicacy made from sticky rice, coconut, and pandan leaves
- Observe the intricate process of these handmade crafts from skilled artisans
- Take home a personal memento, such as a rice straw puppet or a box of Che Lam, to commemorate their visit
This hands-on activity provides a genuine culture and a chance to connect with the local community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Interests?
Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary to suit your interests. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the schedule and activities based on your preferences and needs.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is not primarily wheelchair accessible. Certain areas within the village, like the narrow alleys and uneven brick pathways, may pose challenges for wheelchair users. However, the tour provider can accommodate requests for modified itineraries or transportation when informed in advance.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?
Travelers don’t need any special equipment or gear for this tour. The tour provides a private car, bicycle rental, and all necessary equipment. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to explore the ancient village’s narrow alleys and brick pathways.
Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Nearby Attractions?
Yes, you can extend the tour to visit nearby attractions. The tour provider likely offers additional options to explore nearby historical sites or natural landscapes. Check with them about customizing the itinerary to suit your interests.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
The tour provider occasionally offers discounts or special offers for this tour, such as group booking rates or seasonal promotions. Customers should check the provider’s website or inquire directly for the latest available deals.
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Recap
The Duong Lam Ancient Village Private Day Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic village, savor traditional cuisine, and engage in hands-on crafts, all while guided by a knowledgeable host. This tour provides a comprehensive and authentic experience, allowing travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the area’s longstanding traditions and agricultural practices.