Gia Long Tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Gia Long, the founder of the Nguyễn Dynasty, and one of Hue’s most remarkable royal tombs. Renowned for its harmonious blend of imperial architecture and natural landscapes, the mausoleum is also a symbol of the enduring love between the Emperor and Empress Thừa Thiên Cao. Often included in a Hue Tour, it is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore Hue’s rich history and cultural heritage.
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The History of Emperor Gia Long and His Eternal Love for Empress Thừa Thiên Cao
Gia Long, whose birth name was Nguyễn Phúc Ánh, was born in 1762 and became the founding emperor of the Nguyễn Dynasty—the last feudal dynasty in Vietnamese history. He reigned from 1802 until his death in 1820. Besides his military talent, Gia Long shared a deep, loyal, and loving relationship with Empress Thừa Thiên Cao, whose birth name was Tống Thị Lan, the daughter of a high-ranking mandarin.
She was renowned for her beauty, grace, and refined demeanor. Entering the imperial palace at the age of 18, she became one of the Emperor’s consorts and remained by his side through years of political upheaval and warfare. Their love story moved many people, especially because of the Emperor’s actions after her passing.
In 1814, devastated by her death, Gia Long decided to build a joint mausoleum—an uncommon tradition—so that they could remain side by side both in life and in death.
This made Gia Long’s mausoleum a unique example of a “double burial” during the Nguyễn Dynasty, symbolizing enduring love and unwavering companionship.
Where is the Gia Long Tomb located? How can you get there?
Gia Long Tomb, also known as Thien Tho Mausoleum, is located in a peaceful mountainous area of Huong Tho, Hue, about 20 km from Hue city center. Built between 1814 and 1820, the complex includes the tomb of Emperor Gia Long and several members of the Nguyen royal family.
Surrounded by 42 hills and mountains, the mausoleum blends beautifully with the natural landscape. Dai Thien Tho Mountain stands in front of the complex, while a series of smaller mountains create a natural backdrop behind it.
How to Get There
There are two main ways to reach the mausoleum:
By road: Travel via Tuan Bridge, Minh Mang Tomb, and Huu Trach Bridge before reaching the site.
By floating bridge: Cross the local floating bridge over the Tam Trach River, a more unusual route that offers a glimpse of the surrounding countryside.
For international travelers, a private car from Hue is one of the most comfortable options. You can travel directly to the mausoleum, avoid navigating unfamiliar rural roads, and easily combine the visit with Minh Mang Tomb or other attractions along the way.
The journey is also part of the experience. As you leave central Hue, the scenery gradually changes to quiet countryside, pine forests, hills, and rivers, making the route especially enjoyable for nature lovers and photographers.
Highlights and Architectural Attractions Inside Gia Long Tomb
The entire complex is divided into three main areas:
The Tomb Area (Buu Thanh)
Bi Đinh (Stone Stele Pavilion)
Minh Thanh Temple
The Tomb Area – Buu Thanh
Located at the center of the complex, this area features two adjacent stone tombs — one for Emperor Gia Long and the other for Empress Thừa Thiên Cao — situated on Chánh Trung Hill.
The two tombs are identical in size and placed only an arm’s length apart. They are simple and undecorated, without gold leaf or elaborate carvings, symbolizing eternity through simplicity.
An interesting detail: from behind the tombs, the peak of Đại Thiên Thọ Mountain aligns perfectly between the two tomb tops — an excellent example of precise feng shui design.
Surrounding the tombs is a stone wall known as Buu Thanh, with a bronze gate that is opened only during annual ceremonies or royal commemorations.
To reach the tombs, visitors must pass seven ceremonial steps paved with Bat Trang tiles, flanked by statues of mandarins, war elephants, and war horses — standing guard over the eternal rest of the royal couple.
Bi Dinh – The Stele Pavilion
To the left of the tomb area is Bi Dinh, a traditional structure found in many Nguyen Dynasty mausoleums. This one features two-tiered tiled roofs and is surrounded by lush pine forest.
Inside is the stele titled “Thánh Đức Thần Công”, erected by Emperor Minh Mang to honor his father, Gia Long. The stele remains well-preserved, with detailed carvings that praise the late emperor’s virtues and legacy.
Minh Thanh Temple – Worship Area
To the right lies Minh Thanh Temple, located on Bach Son Hill, surrounded by a protective wall. This is the main worship hall for Emperor Gia Long and Empress Thua Thien Cao.
Visitors enter through the Nghi Mon gate, then pass the Tả Hữu Tòng Tự (Side Temples) to reach the main hall.
The temple once held personal relics such as the emperor’s helmet, saddle, and other battle gear — most of which have been lost over time.
Additional Tombs within the Complex
Besides the Thien Tho Tomb, the larger complex also contains several other royal family members’ tombs, including:
- Thien Tho Huu Tomb
- Quang Hung Tomb
- Truong Phong Tomb
- Vinh Mau Tomb
- Thoai Thanh Tomb
- Princess Tombs (Hoang Co)
A notable site within the complex is Thiên Thọ Hữu Mausoleum and Gia Thành Temple, the resting place and commemorative site of Empress Thuận Thiên Cao (Gia Long’s second wife and the mother of Emperor Minh Mạng).
In front of Thiên Thọ Hữu Mausoleum lies a beautiful lotus pond, while Gia Thành Temple — built in a style similar to Minh Thành Temple — is admired for its peaceful and harmonious setting
Tips for Visiting Gia Long Tomb
Prepare transportation carefully: The mausoleum is located about 20 km from Hue city center in a relatively remote area, so visitors should check directions and transportation in advance.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes: You will need to walk and climb several stone steps, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Bring water and sun protection: The area is spacious with limited services nearby. Bring drinking water, sunscreen, a hat, or an umbrella, especially during summer.
Visit during suitable weather: Early morning or late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
Respect the historical site: Dress modestly, keep quiet, and avoid touching or climbing on architectural structures and statues.
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Opening Hours and Entrance Fee
Winter: 7:00 – 17:00
Summer: 6:30 – 17:30
- Adults: 150,000 VND/person
- Children: Free
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