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

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, holds a treasure trove of cultural and historical wonders. One of the most captivating experiences is the dragon boat trip along the Perfume River, where visitors can discover the enchanting Thien Mu Pagoda and the majestic royal tombs. This guided excursion not only immerses travelers in the region’s rich heritage but also offers a chance to savor the local cuisine and witness the seamless blend of natural beauty and architectural masterpieces. As the boat glides through the serene waters, one can’t help but wonder what other secrets this enchanting destination holds.

Key Points

• Explore the Perfume River on a 5-hour dragon boat tour from Hue, visiting Thien Mu Pagoda and royal tombs like Minh Mang and Khai Dinh.
• Enjoy a guided tour of Thien Mu Pagoda and explore the intricate architecture and design of the Minh Mang and Khai Dinh tombs.
• Savor a lunch of local Hue cuisine, including dishes like Bún Thịt Nướng and Bánh Bèo, as part of the tour package.
• The tour is limited to 10 participants and available in English and Vietnamese, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Included in the package are transportation, entrance fees, bottled water, and travel insurance, ensuring a hassle-free and immersive cultural experience.

Tour Overview

Although the price may vary, this five-hour dragon boat tour from Hue offers visitors an opportunity to explore the Perfume River and visit the renowned Thien Mu Pagoda and royal tombs.

The tour is limited to 10 participants and is available in English and Vietnamese. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and travelers can reserve their spot without paying upfront.

The itinerary includes a 30-minute boat ride to Thien Mu Pagoda, followed by visits to the Minh Mang and Khai Dinh tombs.

Lunch featuring local Hue cuisine is included, as are all entrance fees, transportation, and travel insurance.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a pickup from the hotel in Hue, followed by a 30-minute dragon boat ride along the Perfume River to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda.

After a 45-minute guided tour of the pagoda, the boat journey continues for 1.5 hours to the Minh Mang Tomb, where participants enjoy a 1-hour guided exploration of the impressive architectural site.

An optional 1-hour visit to the Khai Dinh Tomb, blending Western and Eastern styles, is also included.

The tour concludes with a 1-hour lunch featuring Hue’s local cuisine, followed by a car transfer back to the hotel in Hue.

Boat Journey

The tour begins with a 30-minute dragon boat ride along the Perfume River to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda.

After exploring this historic site, the journey continues with a 1.5-hour boat trip to the Minh Mang Tomb.

This architectural marvel offers a glimpse into the past:

1. Intricate carvings and sculptures adorn the tomb’s entrance.
2. Visitors can admire the blend of Vietnamese and Chinese influences in the design.
3. The serene setting of the tomb, surrounded by lush gardens, creates a peaceful atmosphere.
4. Knowledgeable guides provide insight into the history and significance of this royal resting place.

The boat cruise allows travelers to soak in the scenic beauty of the region while learning about Hue’s rich cultural heritage.

Sightseeing

After the serene boat journey, visitors explore the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic religious site. A 45-minute guided tour of the pagoda provides insights into its significance and architectural features.

Next, visitors journey to the Minh Mang Tomb, renowned for its striking design. During the 1-hour guided tour, they’ll learn about the tomb’s history and the emperor it commemorates.

For those interested, an optional 1-hour visit to the Khai Dinh Tomb showcases a unique blend of Western and Eastern styles. Throughout the sightseeing, guests can enjoy the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

Lunch

Wrapping up the sightseeing, guests indulge in a 1-hour meal showcasing Hue’s renowned local cuisine.

The lunch features a variety of dishes that capture the region’s culinary heritage:

• Bún Thịt Nướng: Grilled pork served over vermicelli noodles
• Bánh Bèo: Delicate steamed rice cakes topped with savory garnishes
• Nem Lụi: Fragrant lemongrass-infused pork skewers
• Chè: A sweet dessert soup made with various beans and tropical fruits

Accompanied by a refreshing beverage, the meal provides a flavorful conclusion to the day’s explorations, leaving guests satisfied and appreciative of Hue’s vibrant food culture.

Return

With the sightseeing tour complete, guests are chauffeured back to their hotel in Hue.

The comfortable car transfer provides a convenient end to the day’s adventures. Along the way, travelers can reflect on the highlights of the tour, from the serene Perfume River cruise to the architectural wonders of the royal tombs.

The included transportation ensures a seamless experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the cultural exploration without worrying about logistics.

As the tour concludes, travelers are left with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Hue’s rich history and traditions.

Highlights

This dragon boat tour offers a captivating glimpse into Hue’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Highlights include:

• A scenic 30-minute dragon boat ride along the serene Perfume River, providing a unique perspective of the city.

• A guided tour of the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic religious site overlooking the river.

• Exploration of the elaborate Minh Mang Tomb, renowned for its impressive architectural design.

• An optional visit to the Khai Dinh Tomb, which blends Western and Eastern styles in a striking display.

Throughout the experience, travelers can savor local culinary delights during a 1-hour lunch, showcasing the renowned flavors of Hue.

Inclusions

The tour package includes a dragon boat and car transfers, ensuring a seamless journey.

An English-speaking guide accompanies the group, providing informative commentary throughout the excursion.

Lunch featuring Hue’s local cuisine is included, allowing travelers to savor the flavors of the region.

All entrance fees to the sites are covered, so there’s no need to worry about additional costs.

Bottled water and wet tissues are provided for comfort, and a beverage is included with the meal.

The tour also provides travel insurance, offering added peace of mind.

With these comprehensive inclusions, the Hue Dragon Boat Trip delivers a well-rounded and convenient experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Customers can customize the tour itinerary within reason, subject to availability and guide approval. Some flexibility exists to modify sightseeing, dining, or transportation to better suit individual preferences.

How Can I Request Vegetarian or Special Dietary Options for Lunch?

To request vegetarian or special dietary options for lunch, simply inform the tour operator when booking the tour. They’ll be happy to accommodate any dietary requirements and ensure a suitable meal is provided during the lunch stop.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

There is no minimum number of participants required for this tour. The group size is limited to 10 participants, so you can book this tour even if you’re traveling solo or with just a few friends.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment or Are There Any Restrictions?

Guests are welcome to bring their own camera equipment to capture the scenic sights during the tour. However, it’s prohibited to make noise or create a disturbance with the equipment.

What Is the Maximum Luggage/Bag Size Allowed on the Boat?

The tour company allows participants to bring their own camera equipment. However, the maximum luggage or bag size permitted on the boat is not specified in the provided information.

Recap

This experience offers a captivating journey through Hue’s rich history and cultural heritage. Travelers will embark on a scenic dragon boat ride along the Perfume River, explore the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, and marvel at the architectural wonders of the Minh Mang and Khai Dinh Tombs. With knowledgeable guides and delectable local cuisine, this tour provides an immersive and unforgettable glimpse into the enchanting Hue.