50 miles west of Hanoi, Duong Lam Ancient Village offers a fascinating peek into Vietnamese culture. Peace, centuries-old houses, and rural Vietnamese charm define this community. A “living museum” of Vietnamese culture, Duong Lam is a national treasure. Anyone interested in Vietnam history should go.
Historical Significance
History-rich Duong Lam is over 1,200 years old. Phung Hung and Ngo Quyen reportedly were born there. Early village buildings, temples, and pagodas composed of laterite, a red soil, show its age. In Duong Lam, visitors can hear history and see Vietnamese workmanship.
Hi Mia Pagoda
A highlight of Duong Lam is 15th-century Buddhist Mia Pagoda. The pagoda is known for its 287 metal, wood, and clay figures of various sizes. Although these statues are amazing, the Buddha with 1,000 eyes and arms is the most impressive. It shows Vietnamese artistry. Travellers visit Mia Pagoda for its tranquillity and spiritual significance.
Temple of Mong Phu
Mong Phu Temple is another Duong Lam landmark. Vietnamese religious architecture is seen in the temple. Honoring the village’s guardian god. A tiled roof, wide courtyard, and carved wood pillars are its characteristics. Villagers worship and congregate at the temple. Duong Lam has a strong community and tradition.
Vintage Homes
Duong Lam features many well-maintained centuries-old homes. These laterite and wood dwellings demonstrate northern Vietnamese rural construction. Local families live in these homes, which have traditional living rooms, family altars, and old furnishings. Using historical Vietnamese building methods smartly keeps buildings cool in summer and warm in winter.
Walk or Bike
Duong Lam is best seen by walking or bicycling. Visitors can stroll or bike gently through the village’s tiny, winding roads to appreciate the scenery and stop by historical attractions. Popular and eco-friendly way to explore town: bike rentals.
Food Nearby
No vacation to Duong Lam is complete without local food. Town specialties include steamed glutinous rice, peanut candy, and ginger-sugar che lam. Lots of local families teach cooking workshops so people can eat authentic Vietnamese food. Discovering Duong Lam culture through cooking is tasty.
Taxi Advice
Duong Lam Ancient Village is easily accessible by taxi from Noi Bai Airport with taxi Nội Bài transport service. Transit takes 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic. The average price is 600,000–800,000 VND, or 25–35 USD. Only choose trustworthy cab services or travel agencies for a safe and comfortable ride.
What to Do
Vo Van Kiet Road leads southwest to Hanoi from Noi Bai Airport. Take Thang Long Highway to Son Tay. Signs point travellers to Son Tay Town near Duong Lam Village. The scenic trip through lush fields and little towns reveals Vietnam’s landscape.
Meeting Locals
Talking to locals is a highlight of Duong Lam. The community is friendly and discusses family history and rituals. You can learn about rural Vietnam by farming or making crafts with locals. Tea with locals deepens and intimates the journey.
Conclusion
Duong Lam Ancient Village offers a glimpse into rural Vietnam in the past. Duong Lam is lovely and historic. Visitors go to Mia Pagoda, Mong Phu Temple, and lovely traditional homes. Follow these tips for smoother Noi Bai Airport travel. Talking to locals personalizes travel. Walking through Duong Lam’s historic passageways, eating local food, and partaking in village events capture Vietnam’s soul.
