Do Temple
Đền Đô
Do Temple
Đền Đô
An ancient temple complex dedicated to the eight kings of the great Lý dynasty.
Bắc Ninh
Temple
Culture & History
Do Temple (Đền Đô) is the heart of Vietnamese history, erected in 1030 in honor of the founder of the Lý dynasty, Lý Công Uẩn. This sacred place became a pantheon for the eight rulers of the dynasty, who laid the foundation of Vietnam's statehood and moved the capital to Hanoi. Visiting this complex allows you to touch the origins of national identity and see architectural masterpieces that preserve the spirit of the royal era.
- Visit duration
2–3 hours
- Average budget
from $25
- Admission
Free / donation
- Best months
Oct – Apr
- Languages
Vietnamese, English
What to know
The complex is an architectural embodiment of Confucian ideology regarding balance and royal grandeur. The territory is divided into an inner sanctuary and a ceremonial square.
Key highlights:
- Ngũ Long Môn: The majestic Five-Dragon Gate, a symbol of royal power.
- Hall of the Eight Lý Kings: A ritual space featuring a unique hierarchy of royal statues.
- Thủy Đình: A picturesque water pavilion in the middle of the lake, historically used for water puppet theater.
- Ceramic Calligraphy: One of the largest and most impressive works by artisans from Bát Tràng.
Today, Đình Bảng village, where the temple is located, is a UNESCO cultural center preserving the traditions of Quan Họ folk music. Annually from March 14 to 16 (lunar calendar), a grand festival with solemn palanquin processions takes place here.
Dry season with comfortable temperatures. This is the ideal time for walking around the complex and attending the traditional spring festival in March.
On-site
- Getting there
20 km by taxi or rental car from Hanoi
- Accommodation
Hotels in Hanoi or Từ Sơn
- Getting around
Walking
- Cash
Recommended for donations and markets
- Connectivity
4G
- With children
Suitable, plenty of open space