Tucked away in the picturesque Duong Xuan Thuong Village, just 8km from the vibrant city of Hue, lies the magnificent Tu Duc Tomb. Recognized as one of the most captivating architectural marvels from the Nguyen Dynasty, this royal palace and tomb showcases the grandeur and beauty of Vietnam’s historical past. A visit to Tu Duc Tomb is an essential part of any journey to Hue City.
Location & History
Constructed between 1864 and 1867, Tu Duc Tomb stands as a testament to the remarkable artistic and engineering skills of its time. The tomb, also known as Khiem Lang, derived its new name due to the rebellion of workers during its construction. Despite the challenges faced, the monument was completed while King Tu Duc was still in power. The design of the tomb eloquently reflects the king’s profound knowledge and romantic personality.
What To See
A stroll through Tu Duc Tomb presents a mesmerizing scene reminiscent of a scenic park adorned with lakes, hills, and pavilions nestled among lush frangipani trees and pine groves. Enclosed within a sturdy octagonal wall, the tomb encompasses several notable sites. The temple area within the tomb includes Luu Khiem Lake, Tinh Khiem Island, Xung Khiem Pavilion, and Hoa Khiem Temple, which pays homage to the King and the Queen. Hoa Khiem Temple also serves as a small museum, displaying artifacts from the King’s life, such as a mirror used by his concubines, a lock gifted by the French, and the funerary tablets of the emperor and empress. As the tomb was also a sanctuary for the king, it houses a royal theater named Minh Khiem Duong. Adorned with carvings of stars, clouds, a crescent moon, and the sky, the theater embodies Tu Duc’s poetic soul. While performances are no longer held in the theater, visitors can enjoy them at Xung Khiem Ta, located near Luu Khiem Lake.
The remaining part of the tomb is the burial area, consisting of the Honour Courtyard, the Stele Pavilion, and the sepulcher. The Stele Pavilion is renowned as the largest in Vietnam, where King Tu Duc personally inscribed details of his life.
A visit to Tu Duc Tomb transports tourists back in time, allowing them to immerse themselves in a vast scenic park where historical monuments blend harmoniously with nature.
How To Get There
Tu Duc Tomb is easily accessible by motorbike, car, or even bicycle. Visitors often include this site in their tour from Khai Dinh Tomb and Tu Hieu Pagoda. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes as exploring this tomb involves a considerable amount of walking.
Useful Information
- Location: Thuy Xuan Commune, Hue
- Best for: Family, couple, solo
- Entrance fee: 55,000 VND
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Distance to city center: 3.2km (2.0 mi)
To learn more about the enchanting Rừng Cúc Phương, visit their official website here. Embark on a mesmerizing journey through time and immerse yourself in the rich history of Tu Duc Tomb.
