Introduction

King Tu Duc's Tomb also called Khiem Lang, is considered the most stunning and representative mausoleum of the Nguyen Dynasty's tomb architecture. 

One of the most Nguyen Dynasty's architectures 

This architectural masterpiece is considered one of the most beautiful constructive of the Nguyen Dynasty in Hue Ancient Capital. This is also the resting place of King Tu Duc.

Let's explore with Asia King Travel this memorable and dreamy tourist destination in Hue, Vietnam.

History of Tu Duc Tomb

Tu Duc Tomb was built in 1864. In a  few decades, this location served as the resting place for King Tu Duc - the Nguyen Dynasty's 4th emperor.

During Nguyen Dynasty, he was the king with the longest reign. Before changing the name to Khiem Lang, the tomb's original name was Van Nien Co (Thousand-years mansion). The name was chosen because the king desired a resting place to endure for eternity. 

 Tu Duc Tomb from previous centuries

 Tu Duc Tomb from previous centuries

However, the construction process was quite expensive, which led to the builders rebelling. Once the rebellion was put down, the king realized his mistake and decided to rename it Khiem Lang (Humble Mausoleum). 

Tu Duc Tomb was recognized as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 1993.

Location of Tu Duc Tomb

The tomb is situated on the right side of the appealing Canh Vong Hill, Thuy Xuan Ward, Hue City. The sightseeing relic area is located approximately 6 kilometers away from the city center.

Tu Duc Tomb is situated on picturesque Vong Canh hill 

Tu Duc Tomb is situated on picturesque Vong Canh hill 

You have the option to travel there by motorbike or car, and the journey typically takes around 10 - 15 minutes.

How to get there

If you want to visit Tu Duc Tomb, you can book plane tickets to Hue and arrive at Phu Bai Airport.

If you're a tourist coming from nearby cities, you can travel by using private transportation like taxis and buses. To get to Tu Duc Tomb you can start by following Bui Thi Xuan Street from Hue station. Then, just turn onto Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street and continue until you reach the mausoleum.

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Best time to visit Tu Duc Tomb

To visit Tu Duc Tomb, the best time to go would be from January to February. During that time, the weather in Hue transitions into spring, bringing fresh and cool air.

Avoid travel to Hue from September to November, as when the city is most susceptible to storms. Traveling during this time could lead to various difficulties and inconveniences.

Spring weather in Hue is delightful 

Spring weather in Hue is delightful 

If you're a tourist, we recommend visiting the mausoleums in the morning or early afternoon. This way, you can enjoy the beautiful sunny weather and capture some amazing pictures at Tu Duc Tomb.

Discover Tu Duc Tomb

Tu Duc Tomb Overview

Tu Duc Tomb is a beautiful structural complex covering an area of approximately 12 hectares. It consists of nearly 50 different architectural structures, both large and small. 

Thing makes this place special is that all the structures have the word “Khiem" (Humble) in their names. For example, there's the Vu Khiem gate, Khiem Cung Mon, Chi Khiem Duong, and Hoa Khiem palace,...

Overview of Tu Duc Tomb 

Overview of Tu Duc Tomb 

The tomb is split into two main sections: the shrine and the mausoleum areas. These two areas have been organized in a parallel arrangement.

Khiem Cung Mon

This structure is like a gazebo with two floors. It serves as a place for the king to rest whenever he visits the tomb. Hoa Khiem Palace is in the middle, with Phap Khiem Vu and Le Khiem Vu on either side. King Tu Duc used to work in the central area during his lifetime.

After his death, this location transformed into a sacred space dedicated to honoring the king and queen of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Luong Khiem Palace

The place is situated behind Hoa Khiem Palace, specifically inside Khiem Cung Mon. The place where the king rests and relaxes. Later, people used it to worship Queen Tu Du, the mother of King Tu Duc.

Luong Khiem Palace with ancient architecture

Luong Khiem Palace with ancient architecture

Tinh Khiem island

This area was built for the king to travel, admire the scenery, read books, and write poetry. Furthermore, there are also Xung Khiem Ta va Du Khiem Ta in the island vicinity. These places are frequently visited by kings as well.

Minh Khiem Theater

Built on the left side of Luong Khiem Palace, it is where the king enjoys music and relaxation. This theater is also known as one of the oldest theaters in Vietnam. It's also a place that has a lot of cultural significance from the Nguyen Dynasty.

Minh Khiem Theater - one of the oldest theaters in Vietnam

Minh Khiem Theater - one of the oldest theaters in Vietnam

Price ticket and time to visit 

Tu Duc Tomb is open to visitors in the morning from 8:30 am - 11:30 am and in the afternoon from 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm. You can visit all days of the week.

Price ticket to visit: 

  • VND 150,000 for adults
  • VND 30,000 for children from 7 - 12 years
  • Free for children under 7 years

Conclusion

Tu Duc Tomb is known as one of Vietnam’s most stunning architectural tombs. The landscape here is both grand and peaceful, it also has a romantic and poetic atmosphere.

If you're interested in visiting this long-standing historical site, please feel free to contact Asia King Travel and we will arrange a trip for you.

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