We drive out of Hanoi for about 70 kms to the Perfume Pagoda, the most spectacular pagodas in all of Vietnam which is located on the limestone rocks of Huong Son Mountain. Unlike other temples in Vietnam, the only way to reach this sanctuary is floating along a narrow but extremely poetic stream by rowing boats.

Upon arrival, we will take a boat ride through the beautiful landscape along the Yen River. Our first stop today is Den Trinh (The Shrine for First Presentation) where Vietnamese burn the first incense to inform the local deities about their presence and pray for a good trip and good luck for the year ahead. Further down along the river, we arrive at the foot of Huong Tich Mountain (Mountain of the Fragrant Traces). From here the uphill trip takes an hour climbing on the ancient flat and sometime slippery stones, which have been here thousand years ago. Before reach to the summit of Huong Tich Mountain, we visit the Thien Tru Pagoda (Pagoda leading to the Heaven), built in the 17th century and dedicated to the goddess Quan Am. Then continue trek to the Perfume Pagoda on the top. The main pagoda is set in a huge grotto containing a highly decorative shrine. Each stalactite and stalagmite inside, which is soaked by undercurrent, is combined with a legend about its miracle and good luck. Most of them became small shrines by now. Remember that the stone grotto is huge and very cool, so stop for a while at the entrance to dry your sweat before coming in. Enjoy break for a picnic lunch before climb down mountain to the Wharf. Then the boat will take us back to our bus for drive back to Hanoi.

Good walking shoes and long dress are highly recommended.
Children under 2 participate for free
Children aged 2-12 get 50% off of adult price