Hanoi: Tram Gian Pagoda or Perfume Pagoda & Boat Ride & Cave

Explore ancient Tram Gian Pagoda on a guided tour from Hanoi. Discover its unique architecture, learn about its history, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Or Visit Perfume Pagoda & Boat Ride & Cave.

 

Itinerary

2 pickup location options:
Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi

Car (1 hour)

Tram Gian Pagoda
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour (2 hours)

Car (1 hour)

2 drop-off locations:
Hanoi
Hoàn Kiếm

Highlights

Discover the ancient Tram Gian Pagoda, dating back to the Ly Dynasty
Visit one of Vietnam’s most remarkable pagodas, nestled on the rocky mountainside
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views from its hilltop location
Explore the sacred Perfume Pagoda, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty
Enjoy a scenic boat ride along Yen Stream, encircled by limestone mountains

Full description

Private Tour: Tram Gian Pagoda

Visit Tram Gian Pagoda, also known as Quang Nghiem Pagoda or Tien Lu Pagoda, one of the “Four Great Scenic Spots of the Doai Region.” Dating back to the Ly Dynasty, this ancient pagoda sits atop a hill approximately 50 meters high.

Explore this nationally recognized historical monument, admired for its outstanding artistic value and spiritual significance. It has long been a popular destination for both local worshippers and international visitors seeking peace and cultural discovery.

Discover the pagoda’s distinctive architecture, beautifully set amid a picturesque hillside landscape. The complex consists of 104 rooms, arranged into three main architectural sections, which is believed to be the origin of the name “Tram Gian” (One Hundred Compartments).

Learn about the fascinating legend of Saint Boi, closely associated with the pagoda. According to legend, during the Tran Dynasty, a woman in Boi Khe Village dreamed of Buddha before giving birth to a son. After becoming an orphan at a young age, he entered Dai Bi Pagoda as a monk, where he devoted himself to Buddhist studies and was believed to possess extraordinary spiritual powers.

Later, after being appointed by the Tran King to serve in the royal capital, he requested permission to return to his village to build a new pagoda. At the age of 95, he peacefully passed away while seated on a wooden platform. One hundred days later, when his disciples opened the platform, a fragrant aroma filled the surrounding area. In honor of this miracle, the villagers and his followers built a tower to worship Saint Boi.

Admire the pagoda’s impressive stone staircase, flanked by two magnificent ancient stone dragons and shaded by rows of lush green trees. At the entrance, visitors are welcomed by four grand pillars and two traditional guard pavilions.


Option: Hanoi – Perfume Pagoda with Boat Ride and Cave

Itinerary

07:45 – Hotel pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter and departure for the Perfume Pagoda.

09:30 – Short 15-minute rest stop.

10:15 – Arrive at the Perfume Pagoda. Walk or take an electric vehicle to Yen Wharf, then board a traditional rowing boat to cruise along Yen Stream while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

11:00 – Hike approximately 2.5 km to Huong Tich Cave, or choose the optional round-trip cable car. Explore the cave while your guide explains its cultural and spiritual significance.

12:00 – Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

14:00 – Visit Thien Tru Pagoda, relax, or join a Buddhist prayer ceremony. Built during the 18th century under the Le Thanh Tong Dynasty, its name, meaning “Heaven Kitchen,” was inspired by the surrounding rock formations that resemble chefs working in a kitchen.

15:30 – Return to Yen Wharf and travel back to Hanoi by bus.

18:55 – Arrive back in Hanoi and transfer to your hotel in the Old Quarter.

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Includes

Visit to Tram Gian Pagoda
Explore its unique architecture
Learn about the legend of Saint Boi
Hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi Old Quarter
Round-trip transportation
Electric vehicle transfer
Traditional rowing boat trip at Perfume Pagoda
Professional local tour guide
Entrance fees
Bottled water
Visit to Perfume Pagoda
Boat ride on Yen Stream
Visit to Thien Tru Pagoda
Visit to Huong Tich Cave, considered one of Vietnam’s most beautiful caves

Not included

Optional cable car at Perfume Pagoda (VND 260,000 / approximately USD 10, available for purchase onsite; not required if hiking)
Personal expenses
Optional tips
Lunar New Year surcharge (VND 250,000 per person)

Not suitable for

People with mobility impairments

Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes
Camera
Sunscreen

Not allowed

Smoking

Know before you go

Visitors may have the opportunity to participate in traditional festivals and local cultural activities, depending on the season.