Minh Mang Tomb (Mausoleum of Minh Mang)

Historic Building in Hue

Hue Vietnam Tomb-of-Emperor-Minh-Mang
CC BY-SA 3.0 / CEphoto, Uwe Aranas

Minh Mang Tomb (Mausoleum of Minh Mang) is one of the most significant royal burial sites of the Nguyen Dynasty, located in the outskirts of Hue, Vietnam. Built for Emperor Minh Mang, who reigned from 1820 to 1841, the tomb is renowned for its harmonious architecture, intricate design, and beautiful natural setting, reflecting the emperor’s strong appreciation for Confucian principles and Vietnamese traditions.

History and Architecture

Construction of the Minh Mang Tomb began in 1840 and was completed in 1843, after the emperor’s death. The site was chosen for its scenic landscape, surrounded by hills and rivers, which aligns with the principles of Feng Shui. The tomb complex features a symmetrical layout, comprising numerous structures including pavilions, temples, and courtyards that are meticulously arranged along a central axis.

The Tomb is situated on the west bank of the Perfume River and is celebrated for its stunning architecture and serene forest surroundings. Access to the Honour Courtyard is through three gates on the eastern side of the wall, with three granite staircases leading to the square Stele Pavilion (Dinh Vuong). Sung An Temple, dedicated to Minh Mang and his empress, can be reached by ascending three terraces and passing through the reconstructed Hien Duc Gate.

On the opposite side of the temple, three stone bridges cross Ho Trung Minh (Lake of Impeccable Clarity). The central bridge was reserved exclusively for the emperor. Toa Minh Lau (Pavilion of Light) is situated atop three stacked terraces that symbolize the ‘three powers’: heaven, earth, and water. To the left is the Fresh Air Pavilion, while to the right lies the Angling Pavilion.

From a stone bridge that spans the crescent-shaped Ho Tan Nguyet (Lake of the New Moon), a grand staircase with dragon banisters ascends to Minh Mang’s sepulchre. The gate to the tomb is opened only once a year on the anniversary of the emperor’s death.

Visiting the Tomb

Today, Minh Mang Tomb is a popular tourist attraction and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site designated for the Complex of Hue Monuments. Visitors can explore the expansive grounds, enjoy the picturesque landscape, and learn about the history of the Nguyen Dynasty through the various structures and monuments present at the site. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes Minh Mang Tomb a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hue.

The tomb is in An Bang village, 12km from Hue.

Combined Tickets for Complex of Hue Monuments

If you plan to explore other attractions within the Complex of Hue Monuments, it is advisable for visitors to purchase combo tickets for convenience and savings. These tickets are valid for two days. The ticket that includes access to three sites (the Imperial City, Minh Mang Tomb, and Tu Duc Tomb) costs 420,000 VND for adults and 80,000 VND for children. For access to four sites (the Imperial City, Minh Mang Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb, and Khai Dinh Tomb), the ticket price is 530,000 VND for adults and 100,000 VND for children. Each ticket features a QR code, so be sure to take a photo of it; this way, if it gets lost, you can still use it to enter the paid attractions.

The Minh Mang Tomb (Mausoleum of Minh Mang) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hue!

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Visiting Minh Mang Tomb (Mausoleum of Minh Mang)

Hours:

7:30 am to 5 pm


Price:

150,000 VND Adults (Combined Tickets 420,000 VND)

Address: Hiếu Lăng - lăng mộ Minh Mạng Đế, Hương Thọ, Hương Trà District, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

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