January
17.3°C ~ 63°F
10 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
Hanoi
Tran Quoc Pagoda
Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist pagoda, on a small peninsula in West Lake, with a tall red brick stupa.
- Time needed
- From 30 minutes
- Entry fee
- Free
- Best months
- Oct – Dec
- Best time
- Late afternoon, for sunset on the lake
Overview
Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi and has a history of about 1,500 years. It sits on a small island joined to the shore of West Lake by a short causeway, so you get lake views from the temple grounds.
The most noticeable feature is the 11-storey red brick stupa, with a small Buddha at each level. In the garden there is a Bodhi tree that was a gift from India in 1959. Come in the late afternoon for the light on the water, then take a walk or a coffee along the lake.
Highlights
- See the 11-storey red brick stupa
- Find the Bodhi tree given by India in 1959
- Walk the Thanh Nien causeway between two lakes
- Enjoy sunset views over West Lake
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Daily, about 8:00 – 16:00 Longer hours on the 1st and 15th of each lunar month |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | Free (donations welcome) |
| Time needed | 30 – 60 minutes |
| Best time of day | Late afternoon, for sunset on the lake |
| Good for | Couples, photographers, travellers who like quiet places |
| Accessibility | Flat grounds with a few steps at the stupa and the main hall |
| Facilities | Toilets, a small shop, cafes along Thanh Nien street |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Hanoi by month.
February
18.3°C ~ 65°F
9 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
March
21.7°C ~ 71°F
12 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
April
24.8°C ~ 77°F
12 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
May
27.7°C ~ 82°F
18 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
June
29.6°C ~ 85°F
19 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
July
29.1°C ~ 84°F
20 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
August
28.4°C ~ 83°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
September
27.4°C ~ 81°F
21 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
October
24.8°C ~ 77°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
November
22.1°C ~ 72°F
9 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
December
17.9°C ~ 64°F
7 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
How to get there
From Hanoi centre
Tran Quoc Pagoda is about 5 km north of Hoan Kiem Lake. A taxi or Grab from the Old Quarter takes 15 to 20 minutes. The road along Thanh Nien causeway is a pleasant ride or walk.
Tips before you go
- Dress modestly and speak quietly
- Remove your shoes where there is a sign
- Combine it with a coffee or a bike ride around West Lake
- Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds
Location
46 Thanh Nien, Yen Phu, Tay Ho, Hanoi
About 5 km north of Hoan Kiem Lake
More attractions in Hanoi
FAQs
Is Tran Quoc Pagoda free?
Yes, entry is free. Donations are welcome.
What is the best time to go?
Late afternoon, when the light on West Lake is soft and the grounds are quiet.
How long do I need?
About 30 to 60 minutes. Add extra time if you plan to walk or cycle around the lake.