Do Temple (Den Do)

The Basics

In front of the temple is a half-moon shaped lake, with a floating two-story pavilion used to host water puppet shows and Quan Ho folk performances. Enter the inner courtyard through the Five Dragon Gate, taking note of the Bat Trang tiles on the ground. The main hall is used to worship the eight Ly kings, while two side halls are dedicated to high-ranking civil officers and generals from the Ly Dynasty. The final, female ruler of the dynasty is worshipped at Rong (Dragon) Temple, about 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) west of Do Temple.

Things to Know Before You Go

• This is an active place of worship, so visitors should be respectful of worshippers.

• Visitors must wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and the knees.

• It’s free to enter the temple but donations are accepted.

• The temple is not wheelchair friendly, as there are a number of steps throughout the grounds.

How to Get There

Do Temple is located in Dinh Bang Village, 9 miles (15 kilometers) from Hanoi. It’s easiest to take a taxi here from Hanoi. You can also it by taking bus 10 or 54 from Long Bien bus station in Hanoi.

When to Get There

Do Temple doesn’t usually get too crowded, so it can be a good alternative when other attractions are busy. The temple will be at its most festive during its Temple Festival, which takes place from the 14th to the 16th of the third lunar month, and which attracts thousands of pilgrims and other visitors.

Nearby Attractions

Nearby attractions include Rong Temple; Dinh Bang Communal House, one of the largest communal houses in Vietnam; Dong Ho Painting Village, famous for its folk paintings; and Phu Lang Pottery Village, where pottery is still made using traditional methods.