Huong Pagoda Travel Guide 2025: Ultimate A-Z Tips & Itinerary

When it comes to spiritual tourism in Vietnam, Huong Pagoda (Perfume Pagoda) is one of the most famous and sacred destinations, especially during the spring festival season. Located about an hour’s drive from Hanoi, this stunning complex of temples, pagodas, and caves offers visitors a unique blend of breathtaking natural landscapes, cultural experiences, and local cuisine.

If you’re planning a Huong Pagoda trip in 2025, check out this complete travel guide to make the most of your journey!

Introduction to Huong Pagoda

Huong Pagoda (Perfume Pagoda) is a must-visit destination for those looking to combine spiritual pilgrimage with breathtaking natural scenery. This sacred complex attracts both Buddhist devotees and travelers who want to experience Vietnam’s unique cultural and religious heritage.

Where is Huong Pagoda?

Huong Pagoda is not a single temple but a complex of pagodas, temples, and shrines nestled in the Huong Son (Perfume Mountain) range in My Duc District, Hanoi. The site holds historical and spiritual significance and was once visited by President Ho Chi Minh, who emphasized:

“Huong Pagoda is a beautiful place; we must cherish and preserve it for future generations to appreciate and love their homeland even more.”

Over the centuries, Huong Pagoda has become one of Vietnam’s most important spiritual and cultural sites, home to several significant temples, including:

• Huong Tich Cave – Known as “The First-Ranked Grotto Under the Southern Sky”

• Thien Tru Pagoda – The main pagoda with stunning ancient architecture

• Trinh Temple – The first stop where pilgrims present offerings before continuing their journey

• Giai Oan Pagoda – A sacred site linked to local legends

Huong Pagoda is located on the right bank of the Day River, in Huong Son Commune, My Duc District, about 62 km southwest of Hanoi. It takes approximately one hour by car to reach this renowned pilgrimage site.

History of Huong Pagoda

Huong Pagoda (Perfume Pagoda) dates back to the 15th century, with its main structures built in the late 17th century. However, during the war against the French colonialists, many parts of the pagoda were destroyed. In 1989, the restoration of Huong Pagoda was led by Venerable Thich Vien Thanh, under the guidance of Venerable Thich Thanh Chan. The reconstruction of Thien Tru Pagoda began and was completed in 1991, followed by the construction of Nam Thien Mon Gate and other significant structures, creating the magnificent architectural complex seen today.

Who is Worshipped at Huong Pagoda?

Since Huong Pagoda is a vast complex of temples and shrines, different deities and figures are worshipped at various locations within the site:

• Trinh Temple (Den Trinh): Located on Ngu Nhac Mountain, this temple honors General Quan Tu Ma Hung Lang, who served under the 6th Hung King and defended the land against invaders.

• Huong Tich Cave (Dong Huong Tich): This is the most sacred site of the complex, where Princess Dieu Thien, believed to be an incarnation of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva (Guan Yin), attained enlightenment. A greenstone statue of Guan Yin, carved in 1793, is enshrined here.

• Cua Vong and Van Song Temples: Dedicated to Chua Rung (Lady of the Forest), also known as Thuong Ngan Van Huong Princess Le Mai Thanh Mau, a revered deity in Vietnamese spiritual beliefs.

• Thien Tru Pagoda: Also called Chua Tro or Chua Ngoai, this is a major Buddhist monastery where monks study and preserve Buddhist scriptures.

• Other important structures include Dai Bac Pagoda, Quan Shrine, Chua Ca, and Giai Oan Pagoda, as well as numerous natural caves and shrines dedicated to Ngũ Hổ (Five Tiger Guardians) and other folk beliefs.

The Huong Pagoda complex is not only a place of worship but also an architectural and cultural treasure, attracting pilgrims and visitors worldwide.

Architecture of Huong Pagoda

Huong Pagoda (Perfume Pagoda) is a vast cultural and religious complex in Vietnam, consisting of numerous temples, shrines, communal houses, and caves scattered throughout the Yen Stream Valley. Each temple within Huong Tich Mountain boasts its own unique architectural style. The complex is divided into four main areas:

• Huong – Thien Area: Home to eight significant sites, including Huong Tich Cave, Thien Tru Pagoda, Trinh Temple, Giai Oan Pagoda, Cua Vong Temple, Tien Son Pagoda, Hinh Bong Pagoda, and Dai Binh Cave.

• Thanh Huong Area: Features Thanh Huong Pagoda and Huong Dai Cave.

• Long Van Area: Includes Long Van Pagoda, Long Van Cave, Cay Khe Cave, and Thanh Hoa Cave.

• Tuyet Son Area: Houses Bao Dai Pagoda, Ngoc Long Cave, Ngu Tri Pagoda (Fish Pagoda), and Trinh Phu Yen Temple.

Unique Architecture of Huong Pagoda

The Huong Pagoda structures are distinctive as they are built along mountain cliffs and within natural caves, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscapes.

• Thien Tru Pagoda, once praised as a magnificent palace known as “Biệt chiếm nhất Nam thiên” (the most splendid place in the South), was severely damaged during wartime. Today, remnants of its past grandeur include the Garden of Towers, featuring Vien Cong Tower, a 17th-century terracotta masterpiece, and the Thien Thuy Tower.

• Huong Tich Cave (Chua Trong – Inner Pagoda) is the heart of the pilgrimage site, dedicated to Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva (Guan Yin). The entrance to the cave is marked by a large stone gate inscribed with the Chinese characters “Hương Tích Động Môn” (Huong Tich Cave Gate).

• Visitors must descend 120 stone steps to enter the cave, where they will see an ancient inscription on the cliff reading “Nam Thien De Nhat Dong” (The Most Beautiful Cave in the South).

The architecture of Huong Pagoda not only showcases Vietnam’s Buddhist heritage but also harmonizes with nature, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere that captivates both pilgrims and travelers alike.

How to Get to Huong Pagoda

Huong Pagoda is located approximately 55 km southwest of Hanoi. Thanks to well-developed transportation infrastructure, travelers have multiple options to reach this sacred site.

Private Car from Hanoi to Huong Pagoda (Recommended)

For a comfortable, hassle-free journey, booking a private car with a driver is the best option. ExplorePrivateCar.com offers door-to-door service, allowing you to travel at your own pace without the inconvenience of navigating public transport.

Why choose a private car?

• Direct pick-up and drop-off at your hotel

• Flexible schedule with no waiting time

• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers

• Affordable and transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Book your private car from Hanoi to Huong Pagoda.

Travel time is about one hour depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi

For small groups or families with elderly members or children, taxis offer a convenient option. Most taxis in Hanoi are air-conditioned and provide direct transport to Huong Pagoda.

Popular taxi companies in Hanoi:

• Xanh SM: 1900 2088

• Taxi CP: 024.38.26.26.26

• Taxi Viet Thanh: 024.35.63.6666

• Taxi Thanh Nga: 024.38.215.215

• Taxi Thang Long: 024.39.71.71.71

• Taxi Hanoi Tourist: 024.38.56.56.56

Estimated cost is between VND 600,000 – 800,000 ($25 – $35) one way.

Public Bus

For budget travelers, taking a public bus is the cheapest option, but it requires multiple transfers and waiting time.

Bus routes from Hanoi to Huong Pagoda:

• Bus 211: From Yen Nghia Bus Station to Te Tieu

• Bus 78: From My Dinh Bus Station to Te Tieu

• Bus 75: From Yen Nghia Bus Station to Te Tieu

Travel time by bus is around two hours due to multiple stops. Buses can be crowded, especially during festival seasons. Keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing.

Motorbike

For those who love the freedom of the open road, renting a motorbike is an exciting way to reach Huong Pagoda. The route takes you through scenic countryside roads and offers a chance to experience local life along the way.

Suggested route: Nguyen Trai → Thanh Xuan → Ha Dong → Ba La Junction → Van Dinh → Huong Pagoda

Tips for a safe motorbike trip:

• Wear a helmet and follow traffic laws

• Bring water and snacks for the journey

• Wear sunglasses, a jacket, and long pants for sun protection

• Refuel before departure and check your motorbike’s condition

• Carry necessary documents such as passport, driver’s license, and motorbike insurance

Best Time to Visit Huong Pagoda

Huong Pagoda enjoys a mild and pleasant climate all year round, making it a great destination any time of the year. However, the best time to visit depends on your preference for cultural experiences or natural scenery.

Spring (January – March, Lunar Calendar)

Spring is the peak season at Huong Pagoda due to the Huong Pagoda Festival, which starts on the 6th day of the Lunar New Year. During this time, thousands of pilgrims and visitors come here to worship, enjoy boat rides, and watch traditional performances such as cheo (Vietnamese opera) and hat van (ritual singing).

If you visit in March, you’ll also witness the stunning red silk cotton trees (Bombax ceiba) in full bloom along the Yen Stream, creating a breathtaking landscape for photography.

Autumn – Early Winter (September – December)

For those who prefer a peaceful atmosphere, visiting Huong Pagoda between September and December is ideal. This period offers a serene, cool climate and a chance to admire lotus ponds and water lilies in full bloom, adding to the pagoda’s tranquil beauty.

Huong Pagoda Entrance Fees & Service Prices (2025 Update)

Before planning your visit to Huong Pagoda, here’s a breakdown of the ticket prices for entrance, boat rides, and the cable car system.

Entrance Ticket

• 80,000 VND per person (Includes access to 21 historical and religious sites within the Huong Pagoda complex).

Boat Ticket Prices (Round-trip per person)

• Main Route: Den Trinh – Thien Tru Pagoda – Huong Tich Cave → 50,000 VND

• Other Routes: Tuyet Son – Long Van → 35,000 VND

Cable Car Ticket Prices

• Round-trip:

  • Adults: 180,000 VND

  • Children: 120,000 VND

• One-way:

  • Adults: 120,000 VND

  • Children: 90,000 VND

Free Admission & Discounts

• Free entrance for:

  • Veterans with special disabilities

  • Children under 1.1m tall and under 10 years old

• Special Free Admission Days:

  • November 23 (Vietnam Heritage Day)

  • *Lunar New Year (Dec 30 – Jan 2, Lunar Calendar)

  • April 15 (Buddha’s Birthday Celebration)

Huong Pagoda 1-Day Itinerary: Must-Visit Attractions

If you’re planning a one-day trip to Huong Pagoda, this itinerary covers the most iconic temples and caves in the complex.

Yen Stream (Ben Duc) – Trinh Temple – Thien Tru Pagoda – Huong Tich Cave – Giai Oan Pagoda

This classic route takes you through the most famous religious sites in Huong Son.

Ben Duc (Yen Stream): The first stop on your journey. From here, you’ll take a scenic boat ride along the Yen Stream, surrounded by peaceful mountains and water.

Trinh Temple: The first temple you visit after disembarking. It is a tradition for visitors to offer prayers here before entering the main pagoda complex, as a way to show respect to the guardian deities.

Thien Tru Pagoda: Known as the most beautiful and spacious pagoda in Huong Son. From the boat dock, you can either hike for 40 minutes or take a cable car to reach this temple.

Huong Tich Cave: Dubbed the “Most Beautiful Cave in Vietnam”, this is the highlight of your journey. You can choose to trek up the mountain or take the cable car. Standing at 390 meters above sea level, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding limestone mountains.

Giai Oan Pagoda: Located 2.5 km from Huong Tich Cave on Long Tuyen Mountain, this pagoda is famous for its sacred Quan The Am (Avalokitesvara) statue. Don’t miss the mystical ancient well, believed to have purifying powers.

Additional Attractions (If time allows):

• Hinh Bong Pagoda

• Dai Binh Cave

• Tien Son Pagoda

• Tran Song Temple

Ben Duc – Trinh Temple – Long Van Pagoda – Long Van Cave – Sung Sam Cave

This route takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Huong Pagoda, offering a mix of spiritual sites and natural wonders.

Ben Duc (Yen Stream): Start your journey with a boat ride along the scenic Yen Stream. As you glide through the water, you’ll see lush green rice fields and towering limestone mountains.

Trinh Temple: Your first stop after disembarking. Here, visitors pay their respects before continuing deeper into the sacred complex.

Long Van Pagoda: From Trinh Temple, take a boat to the left-hand route towards Long Van Pagoda. This serene pagoda is surrounded by a winding stream and vast rice fields, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting.

Long Van Cave: Just beyond the pagoda, you’ll find Long Van Cave, a deep cavern with a shimmering Buddha altar illuminated by natural sunlight filtering through the rocks.

Sung Sam Cave: The final stop on your journey. This cave is famous for its unique rock formations, naturally sculpted into fascinating shapes over centuries.

Travel Tips for Visiting Huong Pagoda

• Bring necessary documents: If you plan to rent a motorbike or drive, make sure to have your passport and international driver’s license.

• Dress appropriately: Wear modest and respectful attire when visiting temples and religious sites.

• Respect the environment: Do not litter, pick flowers, or damage the natural surroundings.

• Prepare for the weather: If visiting during the rainy season, bring an umbrella and a raincoat.

• Be mindful of your belongings: Pickpocketing can happen, especially during festival season (January–March). Keep your valuables secure.

• Wear comfortable shoes: The pagoda complex involves a lot of walking and hiking, so wear good walking shoes.

• Bargain when shopping: If buying souvenirs or local specialties, don’t hesitate to negotiate prices. Also, check expiration dates before purchasing food items.

• Bring your own offerings: If you plan to make offerings at the pagoda, consider buying them in advance to avoid inflated prices near the temple.

Conclusion

This guide provides all the essential information for your trip to Huong Pagoda. Choose the best time to visit based on your schedule and personal preferences.

For a comfortable and hassle-free journey, consider booking a private car from Hanoi to Huong Pagoda with an English-speaking driver at ExplorePrivateCar.com.

We hope this guide helps you plan a memorable and smooth trip. Have a fantastic visit to Huong Pagoda!