Perfume Pagoda

Perfume Pagoda

Considered among the three most iconic pagodas in Vietnam, the Perfume Pagoda is located 75 kilometers south of Hanoi in the Hatay Province.

It’s one of the largest temple complexes in Vietnam. It’s a pilgrimage destination so you’ll find activities year-round. If you find yourself traveling to the Perfume Pagoda, make sure to bring hiking shoes. The temple is comprised of pagodas and Buddhist shrines that are intricately built into the limestone cliffs of Perfume Mountain, Huong Tich. It’s not your typical temple visit. The centerpiece of the Pagoda is the Perfume Temple. It’s located inside of Huong Tich Cave.

Travel tips for the Perfume Pagoda
Because it’s a pilgrimage destination in Vietnam, you’ll find it busy year round. In particular, you’ll find more visitors during the Lunar New Year so avoid traveling in late January to late February if you can help it. You can take a cable car up to the main sites or walk up. Because of the size of the complex and the two hour drive from Hanoi, be prepared to spend an entire day here. Depends on the size of your group. A bus for one or two travelers is more economical and efficient, but if you’re a larger group a private car to the area is well worth the extra cost. Be prepared to budget four to five hours round trip from Hanoi. You can also take a cab to My Duc, where you can catch a boat to the site.

Location: Hương Sơn, Mỹ Đức, Hanoi
Price: admission is included in most tour guides ($20-$30)
Hours: varies