Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
A monument of profound national reverence.
π₯ Highly Recommended
4.5 β (19K)
Introduction
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (LΔng Chủ tα»ch Hα» ChΓ Minh) is the final resting place of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh. Located in the center of Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, the site where Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence in 1945, this monumental granite structure is one of the country's most significant cultural and political landmarks. It serves as a destination for both Vietnamese citizens and international visitors to pay their respects.
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The Mausoleum Interior
The central highlight is the solemn chamber where the preserved body of President Ho Chi Minh rests in a glass case. Visitors file through in a quiet, respectful procession, observing a moment of national history under the watch of military honour guards. The experience is brief but profound.
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The Changing of the Guard Ceremony
A highly precise and formal military ritual that takes place daily in front of the mausoleum. Witnessing the goose-stepping soldiers in their crisp white uniforms perform the flag-raising (6:00 AM) or flag-lowering (9:00 PM) ceremony is a memorable part of the experience.
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Ba Dinh Square
The expansive public square fronting the mausoleum is a significant landmark in its own right. It was here that President Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam's independence. The open space provides the best vantage point for observing the mausoleum's grand architecture and the surrounding government buildings.
Getting there
From Hanoi's Old Quarter to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (approx. 2-3 km):
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π Taxi: 10-15 mins | 50,000 - 80,000 VND ~ $2 - $3 USD
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π Ride-Hailing App (Grab): 10-15 mins | 40,000 - 70,000 VND ~ $1.6 - $2.75 USD
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π Public Bus: 20-25 mins | 7,000 - 9,000 VND ~ $0.3 USD. Key routes: Bus 09 goes directly to the vicinity of the complex.
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π΅ Motorbike: 5-10 mins
Parking for motorbikes can be found at designated lots on Ong Ich Khiem Street. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the most direct options for visitors.
Hours & Admission
π Opening hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday - Thursday: 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM (summer) or 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM (winter)
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday - Sunday: 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM (summer) or 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM (winter)
- Notes: Summer season is April to October; winter is November to March. Extended hours on weekends and public holidays. Closed annually for maintenance, typically September to November (exact dates announced by management). No afternoon visits.
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π« Ticket prices
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Interior: Free.
- Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House / Presidential Palace Complex (Foreigners): 40,000 VND ~ $1.6 USD.
- Ho Chi Minh Museum (Foreigners): 40,000 VND ~ $1.6 USD.
- One Pillar Pagoda (Foreigners): 25,000 VND - $1 USD
- Vietnamese Citizens: Free to access.
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πΆ Best time to visit
- Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before opening time, especially on weekends, to join the queue. The cooler months from November to April offer a more comfortable waiting experience. To see the flag-raising ceremony, be at Ba Dinh Square by 6:00 AM.
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β Recommended duration:
- The viewing inside the Mausoleum is very brief (under 5 minutes), but with queuing, security checks, and walking, budget at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the Mausoleum visit alone. A visit to the entire complex can take 3-4 hours.
Tips from locals
Local tips
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π A strict dress code is non-negotiable and rigorously enforced. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Do not wear shorts, sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or short skirts. You will be denied entry if you are not dressed appropriately.
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π€« Absolute silence and respectful conduct are required inside. You must walk in a single-file line, and you are not permitted to talk, put your hands in your pockets, or point. The guards will direct you if needed.
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πΈ No photography or videography is allowed inside the mausoleum. All cameras, phones, and large bags must be checked in at the security checkpoint before you enter the queue. You can collect them after your visit.
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π‘ The Mausoleum closes for a period of annual maintenance every year, usually from June to August. If your trip falls during this time, you will only be able to view the exterior from Ba Dinh Square. Always check the dates online if visiting during the summer months.
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Be aware
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πΆββοΈ The biggest issue is the queue, which can be extremely long, especially on holidays and weekends, with wait times exceeding an hour in the sun. There is often little shade, so bring water (you'll have to finish it or leave it before entering) and be prepared to stand.
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π« The rules are enforced with zero tolerance. Guards are stationed throughout the process to ensure solemnity. Any deviation from the dress code or behavioral rules will result in you being removed from the line, regardless of how long you have waited.
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β οΈ The Mausoleum can close without prior notice for special events or state visits. It's always a good idea to have a backup plan or check with your hotel for any known closures on the day you plan to visit.
FAQs
What is the dress code for the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum?
A strict dress code requires knees and shoulders to be covered. No shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless/tank tops are allowed.
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Is photography allowed inside the Mausoleum?
No. All cameras and phones are forbidden inside. You must deposit them at a security checkpoint before entering.
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How much does it cost to enter the Mausoleum?
Entry is free of charge for all visitors, both Vietnamese and foreign.
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What are the exact opening hours?
The Mausoleum is typically open in the mornings from Tuesday to Sunday, but closes on Mondays and Fridays. Hours vary by season, so it is essential to check the latest schedule before going.
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Why is the Mausoleum closed for two months every year?
It closes annually (usually October-December) for maintenance and preservation work on President Ho Chi Minh's embalmed body, a procedure historically assisted by Russian experts.
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Can I bring a bag or backpack inside?
No, all bags larger than a small wallet must be checked at the complimentary depository before you join the queue.
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How long does the visit take?
While the time spent inside viewing is only a few minutes, the entire process including queuing, security, and walking can take 1.5 to 2 hours.
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What is the Changing of the Guard ceremony?
It's a formal ceremony where soldiers perform a synchronized march to raise the flag at 6:00 AM and lower it at 9:00 PM in Ba Dinh Square. It is free to watch.
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Is it appropriate to bring children?
While children are allowed, the atmosphere is extremely solemn and requires silence and stillness. It may not be suitable for very young children who have trouble staying quiet.
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Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
No, tickets are not required as entry is free. You simply join the public queue at the designated entrance.
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