Overview
Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong) is a vast complex of Buddhist temples, shrines, and Buddhist ruins in Ha Tay province, about 60 km from Hanoi. The valley has many temples and Buddhist shrines. The most famous one is the Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong) together with the Buddhist shrine in the Huong Tich Cave.
It is a sacred site for Buddhism and a popular pilgrimage destination. The site is also known for its natural beauty and historical significance, dating back to the 17th century.
Location
Address
Huong Son, My Duc, Hanoi
Neighborhood: Huong Son
Coordinates
21.033200, 105.806200
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
February-April
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • spring flowers
- • lush greenery
summer
hot and humid
- • extended daylight
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • autumn colors
- • cooler temperatures
winter
cooler, occasional rain
- • decorations for Tết
- • cooler temperatures
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead for festivals
- Bring ID
- Check weather and festival dates
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (some hiking involved)
- • hydrate
- • protect from sun
- • be cautious on steep paths
Medical facilities: basic first aid available, nearest hospital 30 min away
Payment Information
Accepted
cash (VND), cards (limited)
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
modest, respectful clothing (shoulders and knees covered), comfortable shoes for hiking, sturdy walking shoes, shorts, sleeveless tops, revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 2-3 weeks (especially for festivals)
- • official website or reputable tour agencies
- • 48 hours
- • available for guided tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Perfume Pagoda Guide
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Festival dates
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Main temple area
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Noi Bai International Airport
Distance: 55 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 60 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Spiritual significance, natural beauty, historical importance
Historical Significance: Dating back to the 17th century, it's a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The site has witnessed many important historical events and cultural developments.
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for locals, join them for a peaceful experience
- Best food at local stalls near the entrance
- Visit during festivals for a unique cultural experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try local street food
- • ask for guide with good English
- • visit nearby villages for cultural insights
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Vietnamese, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Huong Tich Cave
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Use natural light from the cave entrance
Result: Dramatic lighting and cave details
Perfume River
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Capture boats and reflections
Result: Serene river scenes
Yen Vi Stream
Best Time: Late afternoon
Tips: Use the stream as a leading line
Result: Beautiful natural landscapes
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Van Phuc Silk Village
Distance: 25 km
Walking: not walkable
Type: Cultural
Tay Phuong Pagoda
Distance: 15 km
Walking: not walkable
Type: Religious
Ba Vi National Park
Distance: 30 km
Walking: not walkable
Type: Nature
Reviews
Based on 500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit during festivals for a unique experience"
- "Hire a local guide for insights"
- "Wear comfortable shoes for hiking"
- "Bring water and snacks"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
34
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
500
Adult Entry
50,000 VND