Gia Long Tomb
Discover the serene, expansive tomb of Emperor Gia Long, a peaceful escape blending history with lush natural landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Gia Long Tomb
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the serene, expansive tomb of Emperor Gia Long, a peaceful escape blending history with lush natural landscapes.
"So scenic, peaceful and beautiful, with a lot of hidden gems to discover."
🚲 Rent a Bike!
Essential for exploring the vast grounds and ponds. Only 10k VND!
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets very hot, especially in summer. Bring plenty of water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emperor Gia Long's Tomb
Central Mausoleum
The main tomb of the dynasty's founder, offering a glimpse into imperial burial traditions.
Scenic Ponds and Gardens
Surrounding the Mausoleum
Wander through tranquil ponds and lush landscapes, a peaceful escape with beautiful natural scenery.
Unique Stone Statues
Throughout the complex
Discover solemn stone statues that add to the timeless beauty and historical ambiance of the site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity: Timing is Key
Respectful Exploration: Dress and Conduct
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Rent a Bike!
Essential for exploring the vast grounds and ponds. Only 10k VND! +1
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets very hot, especially in summer. Bring plenty of water.
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything.
🙏 Dress Respectfully
It's a sacred site, so cover shoulders and knees.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bike!
Essential for exploring the vast grounds and ponds. Only 10k VND! +1
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets very hot, especially in summer. Bring plenty of water.
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything.
🙏 Dress Respectfully
It's a sacred site, so cover shoulders and knees.
🌿 Avoid Littering
Help keep this beautiful, peaceful place clean.
📸 Capture the Vibe
Beautiful, serene, and often empty – perfect for photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Gia Long Tomb for its immense size, scenic beauty, and profound sense of peace. Many highlight the value of renting a bike to explore the expansive grounds and discover hidden gems. While some note the heat, the lack of crowds and the serene atmosphere are frequently cited as major draws, making it a worthwhile and tranquil historical experience.
"Was so shocked at how enormous the place was. So scenic, peaceful and beautiful.
Highly recommend renting a bike if the weather is mild-cool. If it’s sunny then it’s best to get tickets to ride the buggy because there will be a LOT of walking otherwise.
It’s a sacred place so please dress accordingly, and do not litter."
Dave Hoang
"Worth a visit. Place is large and serene. Get the bicycles to ride around the place. Electric vehicle only bring you to the tomb and not around. While the bicycle you can travel and stop anywhere and after the tomb you can cycle around the ponds. Quite a nice pond. We were here in July it was so hot we were just too hot to ride the bikes ourselves."
Angie Fong
"very beautiful and no people which makes it even more beautiful. when you arrive at the ticket office you can rent a bike for 10k VND. i didn’t know so i walked but if i had to go back i would suggest taking the bike so you can stroll around the lake with more ease. i suggest doing the full loop around the lake since there’s a lot of hidden gems and beautiful landscapes to see. and best of all: NO PEOPLEEEE."
Matteo Biondi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gia Long Tomb is located about 16 km from Hue city center. You can hire a taxi, Grab car, or rent a motorbike. Many visitors opt for a motorbike tour to explore multiple tombs in one day.
Yes, it's generally well-signposted, especially if you're using GPS. The journey itself is scenic, passing through rural landscapes.
Public bus options are limited and may require transfers, making private transport or motorbike rental more convenient for reaching Gia Long Tomb efficiently.
Renting a bicycle is highly recommended for exploring the expansive grounds and ponds. Electric buggies are available but primarily take you to the main tomb, not around the entire area. +1
The grounds are vast and uneven in places. While some areas might be accessible, navigating the entire complex, especially with a bike, might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are typically very affordable, often around 100,000 VND. It's advisable to check the latest prices upon arrival.
Gia Long Tomb is generally open daily from early morning until late afternoon, typically around 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
No, advance booking is usually not required. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit.
Discounts may be available for children, students, or seniors, but it's best to inquire at the ticket office for current offers.
The entrance ticket grants access to the tomb complex and its grounds. Bike rentals are usually a separate, small fee.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the outdoor areas of Gia Long Tomb. However, it's always respectful to check for any specific restrictions inside mausoleums or sacred areas.
The serene ponds, the stone statues, and the lush greenery offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The lack of crowds often makes it ideal for capturing atmospheric shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and cultural sites in Vietnam. It's best to assume drones are not allowed to avoid any issues.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful golden hour light, while early mornings provide a peaceful, less crowded experience for photography.
While dedicated photography tours might be rare, many general Hue city tours can be customized to include ample time for photography at Gia Long Tomb.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Gia Long Tomb is known for its serene, peaceful, and somewhat wild atmosphere. It's a quiet spot, often with very few other tourists. +1
To fully explore the grounds, especially if you rent a bike, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to walk, you might need more time.
Basic restroom facilities are usually available near the ticket office. Cafes or extensive dining options are generally not found within the tomb complex itself.
Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are essential. Given it's a sacred site, modest attire covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
Children might enjoy the open spaces and the novelty of biking around. However, the historical significance and quiet atmosphere might be less engaging for very young children.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as amenities within the tomb complex are limited. The peaceful atmosphere is a great way to introduce children to historical sites in a relaxed setting, away from the crowds of more popular attractions.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with other nearby attractions using a rented motorbike or bicycle to maximize your travel budget. The serene and less-crowded nature of Gia Long Tomb means you get a high-quality experience without the premium price tag often associated with popular tourist spots.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Golden hour light in the late afternoon can create magical scenes, while the soft morning light offers a serene ambiance. The natural, slightly wild setting provides a unique backdrop that differs from the more manicured imperial sites. Remember to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site while seeking out your perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Story of Gia Long and His Tomb
This decision set a precedent for later imperial burials, making his tomb a significant marker in Vietnamese history. The tomb's architecture, though less ornate than some later imperial mausoleums, reflects a blend of Vietnamese and French influences, characteristic of the early 19th century. The location itself was chosen by Gia Long, emphasizing his connection to nature and a desire for a peaceful resting place. The tomb complex is spread across a large area, incorporating natural landscapes like hills, lakes, and forests. This integration of nature with the man-made structures creates a tranquil and contemplative atmosphere, which is a key part of its appeal today.
Despite Emperor Gia Long's historical importance, his tomb is often less visited than others in Hue. This relative quietude, however, is precisely what many visitors cherish. It allows for a more personal and immersive experience, where one can truly appreciate the solemn beauty and historical weight of the site without the usual tourist crowds.
Navigating Gia Long Tomb: Bikes, Buggies, and Beyond
While electric buggies are available, they primarily serve as transport to the main mausoleum and do not cover the entire complex. If you're looking to experience the full breadth of the tomb's beauty, including the surrounding lakes and landscapes, relying solely on the buggy might be limiting.
Comfortable footwear is non-negotiable, regardless of your chosen mode of transport. The terrain can be uneven, and you'll likely be doing a fair amount of walking to appreciate the details of the tomb and its surroundings.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit