Minh Mang Tomb is a heritage site and a must-visit destination when exploring the ancient capital of Hue. With its grand architecture and historical significance from the Nguyen dynasty, it continues to be an ideal stop for both domestic and international tourists. Discover more about this famous destination through the article below by HueTransferService.com.
Introduction to Minh Mang Tomb
Minh Mang Tomb, also known as Hieu Tomb, is one of the seven royal tombs built during the Nguyen dynasty. It is located on Cam Khe Mountain, Huong Tho Commune, Huong Tra Town, Thua Thien Hue Province.
The tomb is surrounded by mountains, rivers, lakes, and lush green landscapes. Covering an area of 18 hectares, it comprises up to 40 symmetrical structures.
The layout is organized along three main axes, with Tran Dao Road as the central axis. The entire tomb complex is designed to resemble a person resting, with their head on the mountain and their feet stretched out towards the river junction.
The unique design and impressive architecture make Minh Mang Tomb as beautiful as a picturesque painting, leaving many in awe and admiration. The serene and tranquil atmosphere also provides visitors with a sense of peace and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit Minh Mang Tomb
To have a complete experience at Minh Mang Tomb, it’s important to choose the right time to visit, as the weather in the ancient capital can be quite unpredictable.
According to travel tips from HueTransferService.com, the best times to visit Hue are in the spring from January to February or during the dry season from May to September. These periods are less rainy and have dry weather, which is convenient for activities and visiting Minh Mang Tomb.
Transportation and Directions to Minh Mang Tomb
Minh Mang Tomb is precisely located on Cam Khe Mountain, Huong Tho Commune, Huong Tra Town, Thua Thien Hue Province. Being less than 20 kilometers from the city center, visitors can choose one of the following two routes to reach the tomb:
- Route 1: From the city center, follow National Highway 49 along the Perfume River to Tuan Bridge. From there, continue straight for a short distance to reach the tomb.
- Route 2: Travel by dragon boat upstream along the Perfume River to the tomb.
For transportation to Minh Mang Tomb, you can rent a motorbike in Hue for 120,000 – 200,000 VND. Alternatively, taxis and private tour cars are also excellent options.
HueTransferService.com recommends their Hue City By Motorbike Tour service for exploring Minh Mang Tomb, offered by DanangMotorbikeAdventure.com, which has 100% 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor. If you’re traveling with friends or family and need a private and comfortable trip, the private car service in Hue from HueTransferService.com is ideal. If you’re in Da Nang or Hoi An, you can also book a day trip from Da Nang to Hue with our private car service, or a one-way trip from Da Nang to Hue by private car.
Ticket Prices and Opening Hours of Minh Mang Tomb
As a paid tourist attraction, visitors need to purchase entrance tickets at the gate to visit Minh Mang Tomb. The ticket prices are categorized into three levels:
- Adult ticket: 100,000 VND per visit
- Senior ticket: 50,000 VND per visit
- Child ticket: 20,000 VND per visit
Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM every day of the week.
Architecture of Minh Mang Tomb
Minh Mang Tomb is built on a mountain peak, symbolizing the steadfastness of the nation. Not only does it possess a harmonious beauty with nature, but Minh Mang Tomb also holds profound ideological value. In terms of feng shui, the shape of the tomb resembles a human body with its head resting on Kim Phung Mountain. The feet are oriented towards the confluence of the rivers in front. The Trừng Minh Lake is divided into two parts, like the king’s arms gently relaxing.
The tomb is a grand architectural complex consisting of about 40 large and small structures, including palaces, castles, and pavilions, arranged symmetrically along a vertical axis from the Đại Hồng Môn (at the outermost point) to the base of the La Thành wall behind the king’s tomb. The structures are distributed along three major parallel axes, with the Thần Đạo Road serving as the central axis.
Dai Hong Mon
Dai Hong Mon is the main gate and primary entrance to Minh Mang Tomb. Constructed from brick, it features three passageways and 24 roof tiles. Historical records state that Đại Hồng Môn was only opened once to bring King Minh Mang’s coffin into the tomb; since then, it has remained sealed.
Bai Dinh
Bái Đình is a large courtyard paved with Bat Trang tiles. On either side of the courtyard are rows of stone statues of civil and military officials, as well as horses and elephants. At the center stands the “Thánh Đức Thần Công” stele, which records the contributions made by King Minh Mang to the country.
The Floor of Minh Lau
The floor of Minh Lau is a square building situated on Tam Dai Son Hill. It was constructed as a resting place for the king after official ceremonies. The building features an Eastern architectural style that is both ancient and vibrant, exuding a poetic and serene ambiance.
The Royal Tomb Area
The Royal Tomb Area includes two smaller palaces, Hieu Duc Mon and Sung An. This area is dedicated to the worship of King Minh Mang and Queen Ta Thien Nhan, housing their tablets. The site is distinguished by its 17 stone steps, lush green surroundings, and beautiful lotus ponds.
Tan Nguyet Lake
True to its name, Tan Nguyet Lake (New Moon Lake) is designed in the shape of a crescent moon, encircling the sun symbol of the Bửu Thành. The lake is surrounded by large trees and a clear blue sky, creating a tranquil and pleasant landscape.
Buu Thanh (Tomb Enclosure)
Located in the middle of Tan Nguyet Lake, which is shaped like a crescent moon, Buu Thanh is accessed via the Thong Minh Chinh Truc Bridge. The king’s resting place is situated at the center of Khai Trach Son Hill and is enclosed by a circular Buu Thanh wall.
Dining and Accommodation Services at Minh Mang Tomb
As a popular tourist destination, visitors to Minh Mang Tomb can easily book hotel rooms and find “delicious – nutritious – affordable” dining spots. There are various accommodation options available, including homestays, 4-5 star hotels, and luxury resorts.
What to Buy as Souvenirs
- Sesame Candy (Kẹo Mè Xửng): A famous and delicious treat of the ancient capital. With various types such as thick, thin, black sesame, and white sesame, you can choose the perfect gift for your family and friends.
- Hue Fish Sauce (Mắm Huế): Hue fish sauce is diverse and flavorful with a distinctive taste loved by many. You can buy bottled fish sauce, fermented shrimp paste, or fermented anchovy paste as gifts. However, remember to pack them carefully to avoid any spills!
- Souvenirs: Poem conical hats, embroidered paintings, lacquer paintings, ao dai,… are meaningful gifts from Hue for your mothers and sisters.
Some Notes When Visiting Minh Mang Tomb
Minh Mang Tomb is a sacred and solemn destination. Therefore, when visiting, you need to pay special attention to:
- Dress modestly and respectfully.
- Maintain order, avoid making noise, and do not play or create disturbances.
- Follow the tour regulations.
- Be conscious of protecting the structures, do not touch artifacts, do not climb or break flowers and branches.
- Keep the area clean and be mindful of preserving the landscape and environment.
Here is a comprehensive guide to visiting Minh Mang Tomb in Hue. We hope the information provided by HueTransferService.com helps enhance your experience in Hue. Wishing you and your family a wonderful and enjoyable trip!
