Duong Lam Ancient Village
A living museum of laterite and time.
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Introduction
Duong Lam Ancient Village (Làng cổ Đường Lâm), located in Hanoi's Son Tay district, is a protected rural community recognized as Vietnam's first national-level historical and cultural village relic. It preserves the distinct architecture and lifestyle of an old northern Vietnamese village, with hundreds of traditional houses built from laterite and mud. The village is also known as the "land of two kings", being the birthplace of national heroes Phung Hung (761-802) and Ngo Quyen (897-944).
Mong Phu Village Gate
This is the main and most well-preserved of the village's original gates. Built in a traditional arch style next to a centuries-old banyan tree, it serves as the primary entrance to the hamlet and a classic example of northern Vietnamese rural architecture.
Mong Phu Communal House
Constructed in 1684, this communal house is a masterpiece of traditional Vietnamese woodwork and architecture. It was built in the shape of the Chinese character "công" (工) and served as the center for village meetings, religious rites, and community events.
Ancient Houses
The village contains around 956 traditional houses, many of which are open to visitors. These homes are characterized by their moss-covered laterite brick walls, wooden frames, and central courtyards. Some families offer tea and local snacks, providing a glimpse into their multi-generational way of life.
Temples of King Phung Hung and King Ngo Quyen
These two temples are dedicated to the national heroes born in Duong Lam. They are quiet, reverent sites where locals and visitors alike can pay respect and learn about the village's royal history. The temples are located about a kilometer from each other.
Getting there
From Hanoi's Old Quarter to Duong Lam Ancient Village (approx. 50 km):
🚗 Taxi: 70-90 mins | 600,000 - 800,000 VND ~ $24 - $31 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 70-90 mins | 500,000 - 700,000 VND ~ $20 - $27 USD. Booking a round trip with a waiting driver is advisable.
🚌 Public Bus: 90-120 mins | 9,000 VND ~ $0.35 USD. Key routes: Take bus No. 92 from Nhon bus station to Son Tay bus station, then a short taxi or motorbike taxi ride (approx. 3 km) to the village.
🛵 Motorbike: 70-90 mins. This is a popular option for independent travelers, offering the most flexibility. The route is straightforward via National Highway 32.
⚠️ A private car or motorbike offers the most convenience for a day trip. If taking the bus, be prepared for a longer journey time. The roads are generally in good condition.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
The village itself is always accessible, but the ticket office operates daily.
- Monday - Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Notes: It's best to visit within these hours to ensure access to the main communal house and temples.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Adults: 20,000 VND ~ $0.80 USD
- Children: 10,000 VND ~ $0.40 USD
- Notes: Tickets are purchased at the main entrance gate. The fee contributes to the preservation of the village's heritage sites.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the weekend crowds from Hanoi. The harvest seasons in May and September offer picturesque scenes of golden rice fields surrounding the village, creating excellent photo opportunities.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Plan for 3 to 4 hours to comfortably explore the village by bicycle, including time to enter an ancient house and visit the main temples.
Tips from locals
Local tips
🚲 Renting a bicycle is the best way to navigate the village's narrow lanes and see the surrounding rice paddies. Rentals are available right after the ticket gate for about 50,000 VND (~$2 USD) for a few hours.
🏠 Be respectful when visiting ancient houses. These are private homes, not just tourist sites. Always ask for permission before entering or taking photographs of the residents, and consider buying a small local product like "chè lam" or "tương" to support the family.
🗓️ For a deeper experience, combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Va Temple and Mia Pagoda. These sites are historically linked to the region and add context to the village's cultural significance.
💡 Try to arrange a home-cooked lunch with a local family. Several of the ancient houses offer this experience if booked in advance through a tour operator or by asking at the ticket counter. It’s an authentic way to taste local cuisine and interact with residents.
Be aware
⚠️ While many families are welcoming, be aware that you are in a living community. Avoid being loud, wandering into private areas uninvited, or disrupting the daily life of the villagers.
🛍️ Some homeowners and vendors can be persistent in offering souvenirs or local products. A polite "không, cảm ơn" (no, thank you) is usually sufficient if you are not interested.
FAQs
How much is the entrance fee for Duong Lam Ancient Village?
The entrance fee is 20,000 VND for adults and 10,000 VND for children.
What is the best way to get to Duong Lam from Hanoi?
The most flexible ways are by motorbike or by hiring a private car/taxi. The public bus is the most affordable option but takes significantly longer.
Can I visit Duong Lam as a day trip from Hanoi?
Yes, it is an ideal destination for a half-day or full-day trip from Hanoi, located about 50 km away.
What are the main things to see in the village?
The key sights are the Mong Phu village gate, the communal house, ancient laterite-walled houses, and the temples dedicated to King Phung Hung and King Ngo Quyen.
Is it better to walk or rent a bicycle?
Renting a bicycle is highly recommended. The village area is extensive, and a bike allows you to cover more ground and see the surrounding countryside easily.
Are there places to eat in the village?
Yes, there are several small, family-run eateries. Some of the ancient houses also offer pre-booked traditional lunches for visitors.
What local products can I buy?
The most famous local specialties are "tương" (fermented soybean paste) and "chè lam" (a sticky, sweet cake made with ginger and peanuts).
Is Duong Lam Ancient Village a UNESCO site?
No, it is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it was the first ancient village in Vietnam to be recognized as a National Cultural and Historical Relic.
What should I wear when visiting Duong Lam?
Wear comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to enter the temples and pagodas, it is respectful to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Are there homestays available in the village?
Yes, several ancient houses have been converted to offer basic homestay experiences for those wishing to stay overnight.
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