Hoa Lu Temples of the Dinh & Le Dynasties, Ninh Binh

Two of the last remaining structures from the 10th-century capital, Hoa Lu Temples of the Dinh & Le Dynasties invite you to uncover this ancient era of Vietnamese history. Home to the country’s first two imperial dynasties, the temples were built in honor of the Dinh and Early Le families. Built some 600 hundred years after the demise of the citadel, the restored grounds feature paths that wander in the shadow of looming limestone mountains, then lead up 200 steps to the temples’ entrances. Located 300 m (984.2 ft) apart, each temple hosts its own altar in memory of the Le and Dinh emperors, housed in typical 17th-century Vietnamese wooden architecture. Consider hiring a guide to take you around the site, as you won't find signage in English. To find out how to plan a trip to Ninh Binh, use our trip itinerary maker.