Hoa Lu Ancient Capital - the capital of Vietnam during two dynasties
Last Update: 24th October 2020
Situated around 90 kilometers south of Hanoi, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital features many old temples and city walls built between the 10th and 11th Centuries. It is surrounded by limestone peaks.
What to expect at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
As the first capital in Vietnam, Hoa Lu Ancient Capital was originally built in 968. Serving as the capital in the Dinh Dynasty (968 - 980) and the Former Ly Dynasty (980 - 1009), it finished its commission as Lý Thái Tổ moved the capital to Hanoi in 1010. Though, the ancient capital offers tens of old buildings to explore.
Built in the 17th Century, King Dinh Temple is to worship King Dinh Tien Hoang. It demonstrates the Vietnamese style. It is decorated with fine wooden and stone carvings. It is located at the base of Ma Yen Mountain. Therefore, when you are at the top of the mountain, you’ll enjoy the panoramic views of the temple.
The nearby King Le Temple is to worship King Le Dai Hanh. Compared to the King Dinh Temple, the King Le Temple is a little smaller but has similar style. Both of the temples lie at the bottom of Ma Yen Mountain but in different directions. The mountain is a good attraction for hiking and appreciate the bird’s eye view of the entire capital. You’ll find the Chinese characters on many of the old buildings as well.
Built in the 17th Century, King Dinh Temple is to worship King Dinh Tien Hoang. It demonstrates the Vietnamese style. It is decorated with fine wooden and stone carvings. It is located at the base of Ma Yen Mountain. Therefore, when you are at the top of the mountain, you’ll enjoy the panoramic views of the temple.
The nearby King Le Temple is to worship King Le Dai Hanh. Compared to the King Dinh Temple, the King Le Temple is a little smaller but has similar style. Both of the temples lie at the bottom of Ma Yen Mountain but in different directions. The mountain is a good attraction for hiking and appreciate the bird’s eye view of the entire capital. You’ll find the Chinese characters on many of the old buildings as well.
Best time to visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
The best time to visit the capital is in the morning.
You could explore the capital around the year.
You could explore the capital around the year.
How to get to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
Unfortunately, there is no direct bus to Ho Lu Ancient Capital from Ninh Binh or Hanoi. Thus, the only option is to rent a vehicle to it.
Additional Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Travel Advice
- Opening hours:07:00 - 17:00
- As at 24th October 2020, the entrance pricing to the capital is 20,000 VND per person. For the latest pricing information, please contact us via email (info@wendyweitours.com)
- Please do not wear shorts, or skirts in the capital.
- Please keep quiet in the temple.
- There are several restaurants offering local food in the capital.
Interested in visiting Hoa Lu Ancient Capital on a Tour?
Wendy Wei Tours offers a variety of different packaged tours as well as custom tours including Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, among other attractions and destinations. To find out more, please visit our Tours page or Contact Us directly to find out more.