Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh
Historic Site in Hue
The Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh is a remarkable royal burial site located in the hills outside of Hue, Vietnam. Built for the 12th emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty, Khai Dinh, who reigned from 1916 to 1925, this mausoleum is known for its unique blend of traditional Vietnamese and European architectural styles, reflecting the emperor’s vision and influences from his studies abroad. Emperor Khai Dinh was the second to last Emperor of Vietnam. His son abdicated in 1945, and the monarchy in Vietnam was abolished.
Architecture and Design
Construction of the mausoleum began in 1920 and took over 11 years to complete, finishing in 1931. Unlike many other imperial tombs, Khai Dinh’s mausoleum features a distinctively modern design, characterized by its elaborate and intricate details. The structure incorporates a combination of traditional Vietnamese elements with French and Asian influences, making it one of the most architecturally unique royal tombs in Vietnam.
The mausoleum is built on a slope and consists of several levels, with the entrance leading through a series of grand staircases, courtyards, and terraces. The main hall, where the emperor’s altar is located, showcases stunning mosaics made from colorful glass and ceramics, depicting scenes from Vietnamese mythology and history. The most notable feature is the imposing statue of Khai Dinh himself, seated on a throne and surrounded by ornate decorations.
Visiting the Mausoleum
Today, the Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh is a popular tourist destination and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the Complex of Hue Monuments. Visitors are drawn to its striking architecture, intricate artistry, and the serene landscape surrounding the site. The mausoleum serves as a poignant reminder of Vietnam’s imperial past and the legacies left behind by its rulers.
The Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hue!
This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!
Visiting Mausoleum of Emperor Khai Dinh
7 AM and 5 PM
150,000 VND Adult
Nearby Attractions
- Minh Mang Tomb (Mausoleum of Minh Mang) (2.5) km
Historic Building in Hue - Tomb of Tu Duc (4.6) km
Historic Site in Hue - Hue Ancient Tiger Arena (Hổ Quyền) (6.7) km
Historic Site in Hue - Phu Van Tower (7.5) km
Historic Building in Hue - Hien Lam Pavilion (7.7) km
Historic Building in Hue - Nine Holy Cannons of Nguyen Dynasty (7.7) km
Historic Site in Hue - Thien Mu Pagoda (7.7) km
Historic Building in Hue - Hung Mieu Temple (7.7) km
Historic Building in Hue - Hall of Supreme Harmony (Thai Hoa Palace) (7.8) km
Palace in Hue - Dien Tho Residence (7.9) km
Historic Building in Hue
