HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM

Visit Hanoi and witness the solemn grandeur of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Built from materials across Vietnam, it houses Ho Chi Minh's embalmed body in a glass sarcophagus, defying his wish for a simple cremation. Closed annually from 4 September to 4 November, it's a tribute to Vietnam's revered leader, echoing the monumental legacies of Lenin, Stalin, and Mao.

Witness Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum's commanding grandeur that draws your attention as soon as you enter Ba Dinh Square. The ultimate burial place of Vietnam's revered leader, Ho Chi Minh, also known as Uncle Ho, is located in this poignant grey granite structure. As you get closer, the air is filled with respect, which is made greater by the strict guards who keep watch over the mausoleum making it a significant attraction for visitors exploring Vietnam tour packages.

Inside, the quiet calm is maintained while you wait in line to see Uncle Ho's immaculately kept body, housed in a glass case evoking the Russian tomb of Lenin. His body rests here, preserved for future generations, even though he wanted to be cremated.

The polished grey, red, and black stone inside the mausoleum gives off a sense of seriousness and respect. When you walk inside, you have a short time to pay your respects before continuing your tour of the building.

Ho Chi Minh's stilt house, which stands next to his tomb, is a reminder of how humble he was and how simple his life was. Carefully tended gardens surround the area, giving a calm touch to the otherwise mournful mood.

Highlights

• Explore the solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where Vietnam's renowned leader lies buried after declaring independence on September 2, 1945.
• Behold the gravely vigilant guard surrounding Uncle Ho's preserved body, a grey granite building reminiscent of Lenin's Russian mausoleum.
• Observe the immaculately preserved remains of 'Uncle Ho' displayed in a glass case, paying homage to his wishes even though he preferred cremation.
• Discover Ho Chi Minh's houses, automobiles, temple, and museum as you delve into his lasting legacy, expanding your exploration beyond the mausoleum.
• Take a stroll around the verdant Palace Grounds, which are home to 240 green squares and a plethora of colourful plants that provide peace amidst the busy streets.

How To Reach

To reach Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum located at 02 Hung Vuong Street, Dien Bien Ward, Ba Dinh District, there are various transportation options available.

1. By Car/taxi: If you're travelling by car, you can use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to guide you to the Mausoleum. From Hanoi city centre, the distance is approximately 5 km and it will take you around 15-20 minutes to reach the destination by car.

2. By bus: To reach Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum by bus, you can board bus numbers 45, 09, 33, 22, and 50. These buses provide convenient access from different parts of Hanoi to the Ba Dinh District. The duration of the bus journey may vary depending on your starting point, but typically it takes around 20-30 minutes from the city centre.

Best Time To Visit

You can visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum throughout the year, but it's essential to note that the opening and closing times can vary depending on the season.

1. Best season: You can visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum during the cooler months between November and April. During this period, the temperatures are milder, ranging from around 15°C to 25°C, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. 

2. Best Day of the Week: The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed to visitors in the afternoon and on Mondays and Fridays. Therefore, you can visit on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings as these days allow you to avoid the closure times and experience the Mausoleum during its operational hours. Saturdays and Sundays tend to be crowded, hence you can avoid the weekends.

3. Best Time of the Day: You can visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum from 06:00 AM to 09:30 AM. Although the Mausoleum itself does not open at 06:00 AM, arriving early allows you to witness the raising of the Vietnamese flag, which is a significant tradition known as "Chao Co." This cultural experience adds depth to your visit and provides a unique insight into Vietnamese customs. Additionally, visiting in the morning allows you to beat the crowds and explore the Mausoleum at a more leisurely pace.

Other Essential Information

1. Respectful attire is mandatory hence do not wear shorts, sleeveless shirts, or hats.

2. Do not indulge in photography since it is strictly prohibited inside the Mausoleum

3. Maintain silence and solemnity throughout the visit.

4. Bags, cameras, and other personal belongings are not allowed inside thus put them in the storage facilities nearby.

5. Try not to touch the walls or make noise as these things are strictly prohibited.

6. Prepare to undergo security checks before entering the Mausoleum.

7. Be prepared for long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.

8. No smoking, eating, or drinking is allowed inside the Mausoleum premises.

9. Keep in mind that the Mausoleum may close unexpectedly for maintenance or other reasons, so it's advisable to check the schedule beforehand.

10. Always walk in line and follow the instructions of the guards and staff members at all times.