Yen Tu mountain from Hanoi: pilgrimage, cable car and prices (2026)
Yen Tu is the sacred mountain of Vietnamese Buddhism, in Quang Ninh province: in the 13th century King Tran Nhan Tong left the throne here to found the Truc Lam Zen sect. You climb by pilgrim paths or take the cable car to Hoa Yen pagoda (about 534 m), then walk on to Dong pagoda near the summit (about 1,068 m). From Hanoi a day trip takes about 10 hours; the cable car costs about 200,000 VND one way and 280,000 VND return per line, 350,000 VND for both lines return (operator's rates, undated).
Highlights
The mountain landscape
Pine and sacred-tree forests, frequent mist; the day-long walk up is a real pilgrimage.
Hue Quang stupa garden
Funerary towers of monks near Dong pagoda; one of the most photographed spots.
Dong ("Bronze") pagoda
At the top, it is the pilgrims' goal; the last part is on foot along a steep path.
The Yen Tu festival
In spring it draws very large crowds of pilgrims; expect crowds and busy schedules.
Practical info
Tips
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), it is an active place of worship. Walking shoes, a windbreaker, cash for entry fees and the cable car. A private return driver is listed from about 49 USD per person (10 h 45, no guide, reseller listing); a guided tour with entry fees, cable car and vegetarian lunch is around 210-225 USD private per listings seen in October 2026. With the cable car and a 6:30 start you see the essentials in a day. For nearby Ha Long Bay, see the day cruise; another pilgrimage: the Perfume Pagoda.
How to get there
From Hanoi, about 2 h 30 to 3 h by road to Uong Bi, Quang Ninh; an organised tour or private driver is simplest. The cable car starts at the foot of the mountain.
Opening hours
Nearby
See on the map →
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