Khai Dinh Tomb: A Complete Guide to Hue’s Most Ornate Imperial Mausoleum
Standing majestically on Chau Chu Mountain, Khai Dinh Tomb represents the of architectural in Vietnamese imperial history.
What Makes Khai Dinh Tomb Unique Among Hue’s Royal Tombs?
Unlike the sprawling complexes of Tu Duc Tomb or the harmonious gardens of Minh Mang Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb breaks every traditional rule. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Architectural Style: Blends Vietnamese, European, and Buddhist elements
- Construction Materials: Uses concrete instead of traditional wood
- Size: Smallest imperial tomb but most elaborate in decoration
- Timeline: Took 11 years to complete (1920-1931)
Location
- Location: Chau Chu Mountain, about 10 km away from Hue City, Vietnam
- Opening hours: 7:30 am to 5:00 pm
- Entrance fee: $6/person
The Controversial Emperor Behind the Tomb
Emperor Khai Dinh (1885-1925) ruled for only nine years, yet his tomb tells a complex story.
“Khai Dinh increased taxes by 30% to fund his tomb’s construction, making him one of Vietnam’s most controversial emperors.” – Historical Records
Quick Facts About Emperor Khai Dinh:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Reign Period | 1916-1925 |
| Birth Name | Nguyen Phuc Buu Dao |
| Known For | French collaboration, lavish lifestyle |
| Tomb Cost | Equivalent to 25% of national budget |
ArchitectureKhai Dinh Tomb
Tam Quan Gate
Tam Quan Gate stands out with its majestic and massive architecture, which is the entrance to visit Khai Dinh Tomb Hue, you will have to climb the first 37 steps to reach it. The pillars at the Tam Quan Gate area are built in the Hindu style, demonstrating the unique cultural and architectural exchange between Vietnam and India.
Thien Dinh Palace
Thien Dinh Palace is the main structure of the tomb and located at the highest position, built extremely elaborately and spiritually. This is a place with a unique design with 5 consecutive parts, including the two sides of Ta, Huu Truc Dien, Khai Thanh Dien, and in the middle is Buu Tan. Behind the church is Huyen Cung (King’s Tomb), inside is the sacrificial room, where the throne of King Khai Dinh is located.
Khai Thanh Hall
Khai Thanh Hall is a prominent feature in the Khai Dinh Tomb, forming an indispensable part of Thien Dinh Palace. Entering Khai Thanh Hall, you will be fascinated by its splendid splendor and detailed interior. The hall is decorated with murals on four sides, each depicting a different season. In addition, the unique ceiling painting is also a unique masterpiece, representing the only remaining ceiling painting painted with feet in Vietnam.
Nghi Mon and Bai Dinh Yard
From the Tam Quan Gate, you continue up 29 steps to reach the Nghi Mon and Bai Dinh courtyard, where you will be overwhelmed by the sight of statues of courtiers and soldiers arranged in four symmetrical rows, all carved with extremely sophisticated motifs
The bronze statue of King Khai Dinh
Khai Dinh Hue Tomb is considered a unique tomb, following its own design style, inside there are two bronze statues of the King Khai Dinh.
The two statues inside Khai Dinh Tomb include one sitting on the throne in Khai Thanh Palace: The statue on the throne in Khai Thanh Palace was cast by two French people in 1920, and a Hue artisan made the gold data.
The standing statue is a warrior, from Quang Nam, cast in Hue, the symbol was originally placed in An Dinh Palace, until 1975 it was moved to Thien Dinh Palace.
4. Best Time To Visit Khai Dinh Royal Tomb
The ideal time to travel to Hue and explore the Khai Dinh Tomb is from January to February. During this time, the weather in Hue is very pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and taking photos. This ensures a more enjoyable and comfortable trip with many diverse experience opportunities.
In particular, the Khai Dinh Tomb can be open for tourists to visit for free during Hue festivals and the New Year holidays. If you happen to be in Hue on these occasions, remember to include this attraction in your exploration itinerary for an additional dimension of exploring Hue.
Book Hue Royal Tombs Tour 1 day to visit Khai Dinh Tomb.
5. How to Get to Khai Dinh Tomb?
Located 10km from the center of Hue City, Khai Dinh Tomb differs in access from Minh Mang and Tu Duc Tombs, convenient transportation options to Khai Dinh Tomb include taxis and Hue Private Car.
