Duong Lam Ancient Village

Duong Lam Ancient Village takes you on a unique journey through ancient culture and traditions of Vietnam. Tourists can admire the mossy houses with brilliant architecture dating back 400 years, and even engage in some conversation with the locals. The village is like a living museum situated in a mountainous area where tourists can get an authentic experience of Vietnamese culture.

Duong Lam Ancient Village is a getaway into the quintessential Vietnamese past. An amazing hideaway spot for people who love exploring and experiencing Vietnam and its culture, the village has garnered attention due to its preservation and celebration of the traditional lifestyle and archetypal architecture. It is a treasure-house of traditional residences, temples, pagodas, lotus ponds, wooden gates, rice fields, communal halls and hidden alleyways. It's easy to get lost in the magical aura of Duong Lam, only to be rediscovered as one makes their way to the Mia Pagoda. The beautiful pagoda, with 287 statues, has the largest collection of Buddha statues in Vietnam. Certainly, Duong Lam fits the bill for any avid explorer!

Duong Lam Ancient Village History

Duong Lam, a Vietnamese National Monument, is located on the northern side of the Red River delta. It is made up of 9 constituent hamlets. The village settlements are about 1200 years old, and 21 important sites have been recognized here, 10 of these which have been recognised by national and regional authorities. Duong Lam was the birthplace of Phung Hung and Ngo Quyen (of the Ngo dynasty). Both rulers led wars against Chinese kings and won national freedom.

Duong Lam Ancient Village Tours

One can take private full day tours from Hanoi to visit Duong Lam. Most itineraries include a visit to the prominent sites of the village and lunch with a local host. Instead of the latter, visitors may book lunches elsewhere in the village. This meal would approximately cost 5,000 - 20,000 Vietnamese dong. Other options include arriving at the village on your own and partaking in either a walking or cycling tour.
Types of Tours:
1. Half-Day Tour To Duong Lam Ancient Village
2. Full Day Sustainable Tour To Culture Village Of 54 Vietnamese Ethnic Minority Groups
3. Homestay EcoTour To Duong Lam Village And Ba Vi National Park (2 Days)
4. Full Day Sustainable Tour To Duong Lam Ancient Village
5. Food Tour At Duong Lam Ancient Village
6. Harvesting Day Tour At Duong Lam Ancient Village In The North Of Vietnam

Things to See at Duong Lam Ancient Village

Attractions at Duong Lam include Mong Phu and Dong Sang Village Gates, Mong Phu and Dong Sang Villages, Giang Van Minh Church, Duong Lam Ancient Well, Phung Hung temple, Temple and Ngo Quyen tomb, Mia Pagoda, 5 restored communal houses, houses of Mr. Huyen, Mr. Hung and Ms. Lan (wife of the mandarin and teacher). The village gates follow the traditional architecture. Houses have courtyards and are constructed of laterite bricks. However, the most peculiar characteristic of the village is the fish bone structure of the roads. Certainly, hard to find elsewhere!

How to Reach Duong Lam Ancient Village

Duong Lam Ancient Village is located in the Son Tay Commune, 40 kms from Hanoi city centre. It takes 2 hours by bus from the Old Quarter. Bus lines operating are 71 (from My Dinh Station), 70 (from Kim Ma station) and 77 (from Ha Dong Station). For those driving or hiring a private service, the journey lasts about an hour and a half, via Highway QL 32.

Tips for Visiting Duong Lam Ancient Village

• When at Duong Lam, one must try the traditional rice wine and soybean sauce! Also relish the traditional delicacies such as 'che lam' and 'banh khao'.
• Don't forget to carry water during your visit.
• The best time to visit Duong Lam Ancient Village is February, during the festival of Tet.
• If travelling during the summers, carry umbrellas and plan your itinerary in the early morning or late afternoon.
• If you're trying to avoid crowds and traffic, plan your trip during the weekdays.
• Be decked in appropriate clothes and footwear for your walk around the village and don't forget your sunglasses, hat and sunscreen!

Duong Lam Ancient Village was awarded UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2014. Significant recognitions on national and international platforms has led to the restoration and preservation of this age-old village! Perfect for families and individuals alike, Duong Lam awaits your exploration!