The Perfume Pagoda is one of the highlights of the Hanoi area and one of the most important religious sites in Buddhist Vietnam. Every spring, after the Vietnamese New Year, thousands of Vietnamese pilgrims come here to pray for all the health and prosperity they need to get them through the year.  The pagoda itself is situated in a huge cave built into limestone cliffs and can only be reached by boat as there are no roads. You glide along scenic waterways and walk up steep mountain paths, visiting the pagodas and temples built in this area over the centuries.

Departing Hanoi we have a two hour drive through the picturesque countryside and back roads to the village of Duc for some refreshments before boarding our boats for a 1.5 hour ride along the scenic Yen river, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. After this we walk to the Thien Tru Pagoda (Heaven’s Kitchen) and the Perfume Cave and Pagoda - an hours walk in total. On our way back we visit Giai Oan and Tuyet Son Pagodas. Lunch will be at one of the little food stalls near Thien Tru Pagoda. After lunch the boat will take us back to our bus for the drive back to Hanoi.  We arrive in Hanoi around 18.30.

For a private tour please enquire for cost

Trip Cost Includes:
• All transportation and transfers
• Picnic lunch
• English speaking guide
• Admission fees and permits where applicable
• Drinking water during the trip

Trip Cost Does Not Include:
• Pre & Post trip accommodation in Hanoi
• Travel insurance
• Food & drink not mentioned in the itinerary
• Personal expenses
• Tips and Gratuities

Joining instructions
You will be collected from your hotel in Hanoi and dropped back there at the end of the day. Pick up time will be advised on confirmation of booking

Transport
Air-conditioned vehicle

What to take
We suggest a small, lightweight daypack for cameras and drinking water, etc.

Fitness Requirements
There are no specific fitness requirements for this trip, although please note that the Vietnamese climate is probably hotter and more humid than you would otherwise be used to.

"Minh has been an excellent guide - he is very forthcoming with providing information of the places, able to anticipate questions and very responsible. We have enjoyed having him as our guide in these 5 days."

Leong Wai Sin, Singapore