Are you a history enthusiast looking to explore the wonders of Hue, Vietnam? Look no further than the mesmerizing Gia Long Tomb. Nestled in the heart of the Huong Tho commune, Huong Tra district, this tomb will transport you back in time to a world of regal grandeur and natural beauty.
Location
Gia Long Tomb may be a bit further away from the bustling downtown area of Hue, but the journey is worth it. You can embark on a scenic boat ride along the Perfume River for approximately 18 kilometers, landing at the tomb’s wharf. This serene location offers a sense of tranquility and is perfect for immersing yourself in the history and culture of the region.
Photo Instragram by @besthuecitytour
History
Gia Long Tomb is not just the final resting place of King Gia Long. It also houses a collection of tombs for the King’s family and relatives, which were constructed between the 17th and 19th centuries. It comes as no surprise that this remarkable tomb complex has been recognized as one of UNESCO’s World Heritages.
When exploring the King and Queen tomb, you will discover the enduring legacy of three different kings. Although Gia Long Tomb is the most distant compared to other emperors’ tombs, its natural landscape is unparalleled in its beauty and magnificence. No extravagant palaces or elaborate structures dominate the surroundings; instead, the tomb complex is embraced by majestic mountains and hills.
Photo by @mollyvertravel
The simple yet elegant steles of the King and Queen stand parallel to each other, graced with coal-black roofs. These symbolic structures represent the everlasting love and loyalty shared between the royal couple during times of war and peace.
Architecture
Despite being the most secluded tomb of all the kings, Gia Long Tomb captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural landscape. Vast mountains, dense pine forests, and winding paths through meadows adorned with wildflowers surround the tomb. The complex is enclosed by 42 mountains and the grand Dai Thien Tho, the largest mountain in the area.
Photo by @catalin_chitu_22
Upon entering the tomb complex, you will encounter three main sections. In the center, you’ll find the tombs of the King and Queen, radiating a sense of dignity and serenity. Ascending to the hilltop, you’ll reach Buu Thanh, a symbolic structure representing happiness and longevity. To the right lies Minh Thanh Temple, where the King and his wife are honored. In the past, this temple displayed artifacts related to the King’s military life. On the left side, a stele pavilion showcases two parallel coal-black roof steles, symbolizing the everlasting love and loyalty of the royal couple. Sadly, only the left stele remains due to the ravages of time and war.
How To Get There
Visiting Gia Long Tomb is an adventure in itself, as it lies in a remote location even for locals. Fortunately, there are two ways to reach this hidden gem. You can embark on a boat journey along the Perfume River, starting from the downtown wharf. This unique boat trip offers you the chance to capture the awe-inspiring landscape of the Perfume River’s upstream.
Alternatively, you can travel approximately 16 kilometers by car or motorbike to Kim Ngoc Wharf (from Thieu Tri Tomb, follow the riverside road for about 3 kilometers) and take a boat from there. It’s more convenient to travel by motorbike, as the boat can carry you directly to the site. However, please note that the road conditions may not be ideal. If you choose to travel by car, you may need to walk a few kilometers, depending on where the boat drops you off.
Useful Information
- Location: Lăng Gia Long, Huế
- Best for: Family, couple, solo
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Distance to city center: 11.3 kilometers (7.0 miles)
Embark on a journey to Gia Long Tomb and delve into the rich history and natural splendor that awaits you. Don’t miss out on this enchanting destination that effortlessly blends the past with the present.
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