Discover Ha Nam's 16 Historical Gems: Safeguarding Vietnam's Cultural Heritage

Prepare for some truly unique and exciting discoveries among the historical sites of Ha Nam! When you visit this fascinating province, be sure not to miss exploring these captivating historical locations. They beautifully preserve a rich tapestry of distinctive cultural values and tell the compelling stories of this very special region.
Ha Nam is a land rich in cultural and historical traditions, boasting many remarkable historical sites. Each site is not merely an architectural structure but also a vivid testament to historical events, reflecting the region's development and cultural identity. In this article,63Stravelwe will explore historical sites in Ha Nam that you can visit.
Top 16 Famous Historical Sites in Ha Nam You Shouldn't Miss
Save this list of historical sites in Ha Nam below to explore and experience the heroic cultural and historical values of the nation.
Long Doi Pagoda (Doi Son)
Long Doi Pagoda (Doi Son)is one of Ha Nam's prominent spiritual destinations, located just about 50km south of Hanoi. With a history spanning over 1,000 years, the pagoda sits atop Doi Mountain, resembling a majestic dragon facing the ancient capital of Thang Long. Also known as Dien Linh Tu or Long Doi Son Pagoda, it boasts a vast area, nestled against Diep Mountain and surrounded by three rivers.

Long Doi Son – Discover the Beauty of a Nearly 1,000-Year-Old Ancient Pagoda in Ha Nam
To reach the pagoda, visitors must ascend nearly 400 stone steps, shaded by lush trees, creating a peaceful spiritual journey. The pagoda is not only a pilgrimage site but also hosts many unique cultural festivals, such as the Tich Dien Doi Son Festival, which has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Doi Son Pagoda's architecture is impressive, featuring structures like the main hall, Tam Quan gate, and a human chess board. Passing through the Tam Quan gate, you'll find the Sung Thien Dien Linh stele, which records King Ly Nhan Tong's contributions to the pagoda's construction. The sacred space of the pagoda is further adorned by the Tam Bao hall, dedicated to Buddhas and important historical figures.
Ba Danh Pagoda
Entrance fee: 30,000 VND per person
Ba Danh Pagoda, also known as Bao Son Tu, has long been the symbol of the proverb 'as deserted as Ba Danh Pagoda,' piquing the curiosity of many. This pagoda was built in the 7th century in Ha Nam and underwent a major renovation during the Le Thanh Tong dynasty, giving it its present grand appearance.
The pagoda worships Lady Man Nuong, a deity believed to bring favorable weather and bountiful harvests, along with many Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, reflecting the Mahayana tradition. Additionally, the pagoda houses statues related to Taoism, creating a diverse religious landscape.

Ba Danh Pagoda – Ha Nam's Most Beautiful Ancient Architecture
Beyond its religious significance, Ba Danh Pagoda played a crucial role in revolutionary history, serving as a guerrilla base from 1946 to 1950. In 2004, the pagoda was recognized as a National Historical Site and was upgraded in 2007, becoming an attractive destination for tourists.
The pagoda spans an area of 10 hectares, featuring an impressive five-tiered Tam Quan gate and a three-compartment, two-story architectural style. Its spacious grounds, lush greenery, and the gentle Day River create a peaceful atmosphere for all who come to admire the scenery.
Cay Thi Pagoda
Cay Thi Pagoda, a precious gem in the heart of Ha Nam, has embraced a splendid beauty since 2020. Located in Che Trinh village, Thanh Tam commune, Thanh Liem district, this pagoda is not only a spiritual destination but also an ideal retreat to find peace amidst the hustle and bustle of life.
Just about 60km from Hanoi, you can easily reach Cay Thi Pagoda in just a 2-hour drive. Here, besides admiring its unique architectural beauty, you'll also have the opportunity to explore many other attractive tourist spots like Tam Chuc Pagoda, Ba Kien's House, and savor the famous braised fish dish.

Cay Thi Pagoda – A Sacred Ancient Pagoda with a Peaceful Atmosphere
The pagoda is open free of charge all day, and especially in the early morning, you'll have the chance to witness monks practicing meditation, offering a profound spiritual experience. The name Cay Thi Pagoda comes from the centuries-old persimmon tree next to it, reminiscent of the beauty of Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda.
The pagoda's architecture is a delicate blend of Japanese and Vietnamese styles, nestled amidst tranquil natural surroundings, next to the tomb of Minister Truong Cong Giai and the Martyrs' Temple of Nui Chua. The pagoda is surrounded by Japanese grass and pine trees, with a white gravel courtyard, creating a picturesque setting that helps you forget daily worries.
Cay Thi Pagoda is not only a spiritual destination but also an ideal place to rejuvenate your soul. Come and experience the wonderful tranquility here! Every detail at the pagoda is meticulously cared for, from the blue stone pathways to the exquisite bonsai trees, offering visitors a sense of serenity and contemplation.
Lung Xuyen Communal House
Lung Xuyen Communal House, also known as Dinh Gao, is located in Lung Xuyen village, Yen Bac commune, Duy Tien district, Ha Nam province. Situated on high ground at the village entrance, near an inter-commune road, the communal house faces south, with lush green rice fields stretching before it, creating an airy and open space.
The communal house is built in the 'Dinh' architectural style, featuring a five-compartment front hall and a three-compartment sanctuary, with a traditional tiled roof. The intricate carvings here are exquisite, depicting themes such as 'dragon coiling around water,' pine and deer, and 'dragon giving birth to offspring,' all rich in cultural value.
In 1927, the communal house hosted the meeting to establish the first branch of the Vietnamese Revolutionary Youth League in Ha Nam province. By November 1929, the Indochinese Communist Party branch was also founded here.
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The memorial house for Comrade Nguyen Huu Tien, built on the site of his former home, now serves as a place of remembrance and welcomes visitors. Lung Xuyen Communal House, along with the memorial house, is not only a historical site but also a spiritual destination, contributing to educating younger generations about revolutionary traditions and serving as a meaningful tourist attraction for Duy Tien district and Ha Nam province.
Tran Thuong Temple
Tran Thuong Temple (also known as Tran Temple) is dedicated to Saint Tran Hung Dao, located on the land he once used as a food storage depot during the second resistance war against the Yuan-Mongol invaders. The temple stands on the banks of the Red River, amidst a peaceful setting with a jade well marking Tran Hung Dao's resting place.
With its pristine beauty, Tran Thuong Temple is a source of national pride, famous for the folk saying 'Nhan Dao fish, Tran Thuong rice'. This area was once the center of six waterways, connecting the Red River to the East Sea, and served as a crucial food storage location.

Tran Thuong Temple – A Sacred Temple Over Seven Centuries Old in Ha Nam
According to Dai Viet Su Ky Toan Thu (Complete Annals of Dai Viet), upon his death, Tran Hung Dao instructed his descendants to cremate and bury him secretly. Today, the temple not only worships him but also preserves many valuable artifacts, showcasing significant artistic and historical value.
Tran Thuong Temple boasts architecture as beautiful as a maiden by the river, with a 'human figure bowing to a phoenix' shape. From the Nghi Mon gate, visitors will walk past ancient trees on a beautifully paved stone path. The main temple comprises sections such as Co Lau, Tien Te, Trung Dien, and Hau Cung, forming an impressive complex with several wells.
The Ho Khau well, 6.39m wide and 2.9m deep, connects the Tien Te and Trung Dien, creating a mystical space for worship activities. The Hau Cung (sanctuary) is only open on holidays, while the Mother Goddess temple is separate, adding to the solemnity of this historical site. Tran Thuong Temple is not only a place of worship but also an important cultural destination for Duy Tien district and Ha Nam province.
>> See more:The Top 10 Most Ancient Historical Sites in Thai Binh
Lang Dau Communal House
Lang Dau Communal House, also known as My Doi Communal House, is located in Dau village, An My commune, Binh Luc district, Ha Nam province. It is dedicated to three village tutelary spirits: A Dao, Nguyen Que, and Nguyen Phuong – three sisters from the era of King Le Thai To, renowned for their feats in fighting invaders and saving the country. Additionally, the communal house also worships Bui Cong Bang and Bui Cong Minh, two Le dynasty scholars who dedicated themselves to helping the poor by acquiring and distributing land.
The communal house's architecture follows the 'Dinh' character shape, comprising a three-compartment front hall and a three-compartment sanctuary, exuding traditional and refined beauty. It also preserves many valuable artifacts such as altars, statues, and 19th-century bronze incense burners, testifying to its cultural and artistic significance.
Notably, My Doi Communal House is not only a historical site but also a significant revolutionary landmark. In 1930, the Communist Party branch of My Tho commune was established here, marking a turning point in local history. The communal house was recognized as a national historical and cultural relic by the State in 1998, affirming its place in the community's consciousness.
Lanh Giang Temple
Lanh Giang Temple, affectionately known as Lanh Temple, is a renowned spiritual destination with a rich history, dedicated to the three Phạm family deities from the 18th Hung King era, Quan Lon De Tam, along with Princess Tien Dung and Chu Dong Tu. These three revered figures were outstanding generals who made significant contributions to defeating the Thuc invaders and protecting the country, and were also children of Bat Hai Long Vuong (Dragon King of the Eight Seas) and Lady Quy. They not only assisted King Hung in resisting the Thuc Phan invaders but also aided Princess Tien Dung and her husband throughout their lives.
After the country achieved peace, these revered figures continued to dedicate themselves to developing production, bringing prosperity to the people. According to legend, Quan De Tam sacrificed himself in a fierce battle, and his body was divided, with one part drifting to Yen Lac village, where locals built Lanh Giang Temple to commemorate his contributions. Lanh Giang Temple is not only a magnificent and sacred architectural work but also preserves many valuable ancient artifacts used for worship, showcasing high artistic value. On November 5, 1996, the temple was recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Site by the Ministry of Culture and Information, affirming its status as an important cultural destination.

Lanh Giang Temple – Where Spiritual Legends Are Preserved
Lanh Giang Temple's architecture stands out with three main buildings, comprising 14 large and small compartments built in the 'Cong' character shape, creating a spacious area within its 3,000m² grounds. Although there are no hills or mountains, the area around the temple is enveloped by the lush green scenery of longan trees, lotus ponds, and a waterfront, evoking the strong image of a land blessed with spiritual energy and outstanding people.
Guest houses flank both sides of the temple, creating a harmonious symmetry with the surrounding landscape. The Trung Duong hall particularly draws attention with its two-tiered, eight-curved roof architecture.
The exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artisans is evident in every intricate carving on the columns and doors, featuring the four sacred creatures: Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, and Phoenix, which are both solemn and ancient yet full of vitality. The temple's entrance faces the Nhi Ha River (Red River), offering expansive views of vast green rice fields to the west, creating a peaceful scene amidst the evening mist.
To the north of the temple is the shrine dedicated to Princess Ngoc Hoa, Tien Dung's younger sister, while to the south, it borders Nha Xa village and the temple dedicated to Tran Khanh Du. Although there are no documents confirming the exact construction date, the Chinese characters carved on the roof of the second building indicate that the temple was last renovated in 1944, during the 18th year of Emperor Bao Dai's reign.
Within the Lanh Giang Temple complex, there is also Cua Song Temple (also known as Co Temple), located about 50m to the east. This is a massive architectural work with a multi-tiered, curved roof and a facade facing the Red River, offering a poetic landscape amidst the charming waters.
Not far to the west, beyond the dike, lies King Le Temple, dedicated to Emperor Le Thai To Cao Hoang De. This temple was established to commemorate King Le's incognito visits to inspect local officials during the enforcement of court laws. To this day, King Le Temple preserves many unique relics such as the King's garden, the 'xoi' mound adorned with dragons bowing and phoenixes dancing, and other areas that bear witness to the wise king's travels.
Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda
Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda, also known as Dung Pagoda or Phi Lai Dia Tang Pagoda, boasts a history of over 1,000 years. Situated on a small hill in Ninh Trung village, the pagoda stands out with its 'Left Green Dragon, Right White Tiger' landscape and numerous valuable artifacts bearing the distinct mark of Vietnamese Buddhism.
The pagoda was once chosen by King Tran Nghe Tong as a place of retreat and visited by King Tu Duc to pray for offspring. After many historical ups and downs, in 2015, the pagoda was renovated and renamed by Venerable Thich Minh Quang to its current designation.

Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda – A Peaceful and Meditative Sanctuary in Ha Nam
The pagoda's spacious grounds blend harmoniously with nature, featuring a lotus pond, gardens, and tranquil meditation areas. A special highlight is the 12 circles on the white gravel ground, symbolizing the 12 links of dependent origination and conveying a gentle message about human life.
The pagoda's architecture harmoniously integrates with nature, notably the Tam Bao hall with its majestic statue of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, the area dedicated to 42 ancestral monks, and the Pho Dong stupa on Phi Lai peak, where 40 generations of patriarchs rest. The pagoda is also an ideal place for those who enjoy reading and seek inner peace.
Ancestral Temple of Duke Tran Nhu Lan
The temple worships National Cong Tran Nhu Lan, located in Thuong Lang village, Ngoc Lu commune, Binh Luc district, Ha Nam. It was built in 1681 by descendants of the Tran Nhu family. The five-compartment house, made of ironwood, features grand architecture, ironwood doors, and a roof ridge adorned with a spearhead shape, symbolizing the martial prowess of the revered figure.
The site also preserves various worship artifacts, royal decrees from the Later Le dynasty, and steles and genealogies over 300 years old, which are valuable for historical research. Duke Tran Nhu Lan, born in 1563 into a poor family, rose to become a hero who supported the king, helped secure the nation, and made numerous contributions to his homeland, such as repairing communal houses, pagodas, markets, building roads, and constructing bridges.
He was revered as a village tutelary spirit even during his lifetime and, after his death, continued to be worshipped at the communal house. The Ancestral House of Duke Luong Quan Cong Tran Nhu Lan was recognized as a National Historical Site in 1995.
Co Vien Communal House and Pagoda
The historical complex ofCo Vien Communal House and Pagoda, located in Hung Cong commune, Binh Luc district, near Chau River and Binh My town. Co Vien Communal House is a large-scale architectural work, built in the 'noi dinh, ngoai quoc' style and strongly reflecting the artistic style of the 17th and 18th centuries.
Architectural details such as bowing dragons, dancing phoenixes, and dragon-transformed leaf motifs all showcase the exquisite carving techniques of the Later Le dynasty. Notably, the communal house also preserves many valuable worship artifacts, such as altars and thrones from the Later Le period, all elaborately carved and lavishly gilded.

Co Vien Communal House and Pagoda Ranked as a National Historical Site
Co Vien Pagoda, formally known as 'Linh Quang Tu,' is located right next to the communal house, featuring a grand architectural complex with two main buildings and numerous shrines, embodying traditional style. According to legend, the pagoda dates back to the Ly dynasty. Beyond its role as a place of worship, Co Vien Communal House and Pagoda also served as an important revolutionary base, protecting cadres and hosting many meetings of the Ha Nam Provincial Party Committee during the resistance against the French, contributing to the struggle for national independence.
Ancestral House of Poet Nguyen Khuyen
From the street of poet Nguyen Khuyenis located in Vi Ha village, Trung Luong commune, Binh Luc district, Ha Nam, approximately 16km from the provincial center. The ancestral house complex is nestled amidst a poetic landscape with an autumn pond, bamboo alley, and Bui garden, creating a peaceful Northern Vietnamese countryside scene. It is dedicated to the poet Nguyen Khuyen – 'Tam Nguyen Yen Do' – and preserves many memorabilia such as his works, horizontal lacquered boards, and parallel couplets gifted by renowned scholars.
Nguyen Khuyen's house features distinct traditional architecture with seven compartments, an outer grand hall for ceremonies, and an inner sanctuary – a special architectural style reserved only for those deified by royal decree. The two longan trees in front of the entrance and one on the porch were planted by Nguyen Khuyen after receiving longan seeds from the royal palace, symbolizing his success in three imperial examinations.
Upon entering the main gate, visitors will encounter the 'Mon Tu Mon' couplet – a teaching on the ethics of being a student, emphasizing the importance of etiquette when visiting a teacher's home. The interior space is simple yet solemn, displaying inkstones, brushes, royal decrees, along with plaques reading 'An Tu Vinh Quy' (Royal Grant of Glorious Return) and 'Nhi Giap Tien Si' (Second-Rank Doctor) bestowed by King Tu Duc.
The ancestral house complex is built in the 'two dragons flanking the moon' style with nine steps; however, instead of placing them on the roof, Nguyen Khuyen arranged them on the ground – a gesture implying resistance against the Nguyen dynasty. It also preserves his court attire and a statue of Nguyen Khuyen leaning on a bamboo staff, symbolizing his wisdom and composed demeanor.
Nguyen Khuyen Ancestral House has been recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Site and is now a popular tourist attraction. It draws visitors not only for its historical value but also for its peaceful setting, closely associated with the poetic imagery in his works.
Phat Quang Pagoda
Phat Quang Pagoda, originally a small, nearly century-old temple located in Du Nhan village, was built to serve the worship and pilgrimage needs of local residents. Over time, the pagoda deteriorated, but thanks to Venerable Thich Thien An, it underwent renovation starting in 2015, expanding to an area of over 6,000 m². Many large architectural structures such as lecture halls, fish ponds, tea houses, ancestral halls, and the Tam Bao (Three Jewels) hall have been built, giving it the grand and stately appearance it has today.

Phat Quang Pagoda Ha Nam – A Unique New Spiritual Tourist Destination
The restoration of the pagoda is not only the dedication of Abbot Thich Thien An but also involved the contributions of numerous monks, nuns, and Buddhists both domestically and internationally. The Venerable personally wrote calligraphy, painted, and decorated every small corner of the pagoda, creating its unique artistic flair. Visitors here will be impressed by the miniature rockeries, clear blue fish ponds, elaborate bonsai, and especially the exquisitely carved calligraphic stone slabs.
The pagoda's spacious and peaceful atmosphere offers a sense of lightness, helping visitors temporarily forget life's worries. Upon visiting, guests can sit and listen to the monks preach, enjoy tea, admire flowers, and feed the fish – all deeply relaxing experiences. Furthermore, the pagoda is an ideal place for commemorative photos with its harmonious and refined natural scenery.
>> See also:Top 9+ Must-Visit Attractions in Ha Nam: The Most Popular and Exciting Destinations for Travelers
Cong Dong An Thai Communal House
STRIKE OF AN THAI COMMUNITY, located in Tien Noi commune, Duy Tien district, Ha Nam province, is an important local historical and cultural site. The communal house was built during the Later Le dynasty, featuring distinct traditional architecture with intricate carvings and a harmonious layout.
It is a place of worship for the village's tutelary spirits, deities who protect the villagers, and also honors ancestors who contributed to nation-building. Over centuries, An Thai Communal House has maintained its solemn appearance, becoming a spiritual gathering point and a venue for traditional festivals, attracting numerous tourists and locals.
Trieu Hoi Communal House
Dinh Trieu Hoi, located in Bo De commune, Binh Luc district, Ha Nam, is dedicated to two village tutelary spirits: Cao Mang Ton Than – a talented general of the Tran dynasty, and Tran Xuan Vinh – a second-rank doctor during the Le Thanh Tong reign. Legend has it that after passing the imperial examination, Tran Xuan Vinh met with an accident on the river, and the villagers built a shrine for him, later worshipping him alongside Cao Mang.

Trieu Hoi Communal House Ranked as a National Historical Site
The communal house's architecture follows the 'Tam' character shape, comprising a front hall, a second palace, and a main sanctuary, featuring distinctive characteristics of Vietnamese communal house architecture. The communal house has been renovated multiple times, featuring 'two dragons flanking the moon' motifs, ironwood door frames, and a brick-tiled floor, exuding an ancient beauty.
Trieu Hoi Communal House is not only architecturally significant but also the site of a major protest on October 20, 1930, when local farmers demonstrated against the feudal colonial regime, supporting the Nghe Tinh Soviet movement. This event left a strong mark on Ha Nam's revolutionary movement, contributing to the nationwide struggle.
Temple of Female General Le Chan
Temple to worship female general Le Chanis located in Hong Son village, Thanh Son commune, Kim Bang district, Ha Nam. The temple's main facade faces south, formerly opposite Ngan River – a branch of Day River, with Ong Tuong hill behind it. The temple's traditional festival, especially on the 13th day of the 7th lunar month, commemorating the death anniversary of Female General Le Chan, consistently attracts a large number of visitors. People from neighboring provinces come to attend, offer prayers, and participate in games such as boat racing, pontoon bridge climbing, chess, and cockfighting.
Currently, Le Chan Temple has been rebuilt into a complex comprising the main temple, Phu Bong (shadow palace), Son Trang cave, guesthouses, and auxiliary structures, spanning over 4,000m². In front of the temple stands a majestic statue of Female General Le Chan, facing her former base. The temple has become an important spiritual destination, connected to other temples dedicated to the female general in Quang Ninh and Hai Phong, with frequent cultural exchange activities during festivals.
Notably, the Hong Son village female drum team, with 35 members, helps recreate the atmosphere of battle, adding vibrancy to the festival. The Temple of Female General Le Chan not only holds historical value regarding the resistance war to protect the country but is also a remarkable spiritual tourist destination, linked to efforts to preserve culture and educate younger generations about national traditions.
Lat Son Base Historical Site
Historical Relic of Lat Son Base– where Female General Le Chan established her base and sacrificed herself during the Trung Sisters' Uprising in 40 AD, is one of our nation's important historical landmarks. The strategic location of the base, with its back against an arc-shaped mountain range and facing the Ngan and Day Rivers, helped Female General Le Chan organize defenses and resist the Eastern Han army.
Here, she led her troops in resistance through many fierce battles, especially the final one in Dong Loan valley. When her forces weakened, Female General Le Chan committed suicide to avoid falling into enemy hands.

Lat Son Base Historical Site Ranked as a National Historical Site
Today, the Lat Son region, with landmarks such as Le Chan Temple, Thanh Chan Cave, and Giat Dau Mountain, is recognized as historical sites commemorating her contributions. The temple dedicated to the Female General was built by locals on Ong Tuong hill, near where she sacrificed herself. In 2023, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism recognized this base area as a National Historical Site, marking the cultural and historical values of the Lat Son region in the nation's tradition of building and defending the country.
Above is a compilation of 16 famous historical sites in Ha Nam for everyone to reference and explore. We hope this information will be useful and help you have a truly fulfilling journey exploring these historical sites.
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Update day : 02/10/2024
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