Thien Mu Pagoda
The Basics
The Thien Mu Pagoda is most often visited as part of a half- or full-day tour of Hue, departing from Hoi An or Da Nang, or from the city of Hue itself. Most tours combine the pagoda with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Citadel (Da Noi) and the Forbidden Purple City, while others include a Vietnamese cooking class or a sunset boat ride on the Perfume River. Exploring with a guide will enhance your experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
Thien Mu Pagoda is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors.
The pagoda is part of a monastery, so remain quiet and dress modestly.
Wear plenty of insect repellent, as the riverside location attracts mosquitoes.
How to Get There
Located on the road that runs parallel to the Perfume River, the Thien Mu Pagoda is easily reachable by taxi, scooter, or bicycle. Skip the expense of booking multiple taxis or hiring a car by opting for a guided tour that includes round-trip transport.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The best time to explore the monastery is during the early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures have cooled and are more conducive to walking. Head to the pagoda in the evening to combine it with a sunset cruise on a traditional dragon boat.
The Rage of Thich Quang Duc
Few visitors would think to make a connection between the Thien Mu Pagoda and the rock bandRage Against the Machine; however, the band used an image of Thich Quang Duc, the Buddhist monk who set himself alight in his car in condemnation of communism, to inspire the cover of an album.
- Nine Dynastic Urns
- Bao Quoc Pagoda (Chua Bao Quoc)
- Thai Hoa Palace
- Noon Gate (Cua Ngo Mon)
- Ho Chi Minh Museum
- Flag Tower (Ky Dai)
- Tinh Tam Lake (Ho Tinh Tam)
- Royal Antiquities Museum
- Bach Ma National Park (Vuon Quoc gia Bach Ma)
- Forbidden Purple City (Tu Cam Thanh)
- Perfume River (Song Huong River)
- Dong Ba Market (Cho Dong Ba)
- Cat Tuong Quan Zen House
- Tomb of Tu Duc (Lang Tu Duc)
- Khai Dinh Tomb