Duong Lam ancient village
Located around 50 kilometres from Hanoi, Duong Lam is a community of Son Tay and the birthplace of two Vietnamese kings: Phung Hung (761-802) and Ngo Quyen (896-944).
Duong Lam is also recognised as the first ancient village and is unique because of its laterite construction. With a history spanning 1200 years, and with many of the houses built in the 17th century — some 400 years ago. If Hanoi's Old Quarter and Hoi An's Ancient Town represent urban life, Duong Lam is a museum representative of rural and agricultural lifestyle.
Today, Duong Lam still retains many of the basic characteristics of a typical Vietnamese village from the port to courtyards, trees, temples, water well, rice fields and the fish-bone shape of the road. It truly is a step back in time: right to the origins of culture and traditions in Vietnam.
Visitors to Duong Lam can walk among the living history of the village and immerse themselves in the unique architectural features of the ancient houses, visit the temples of the two kings and interact with locals. The village should be on the "must see list" for every visitor to northern Vietnam.
OTHER DESTINATION

Thay Pagoda
The Thay Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located at the foot of Sai Son Mountain, around 30 kilometres south-west of Hanoi. The pagoda, which is also known as Thien Phuc Tu pagoda, was built in 11th century during the reign of King Ly Nhan Tong. The site is a drawcard for pilgrams — and also to a lesser extent tourists — because of its history, culture and beautiful landscape.
READ MORE
Tay Phuong Pagoda
The Tay Phuong Pagoda — aslo known as Sung Phuc Pagoda — was built in the 7th century, and has undergone several reconstructions since that time. The pagoda is at the top of a climb of 240 steps, but worth it for the view, peaceful surrounds and shade from centuries old trees.
READ MORE
Che Lam in Thach Xa Commune
The Tay Phuong Pagoda is not only famous for its stunning design and Arhat statues, but also for che lam made by the Thach Xa community. Even though there are many villages across Vietnam, Thach Xa is the most well known for Che Lam — a delicious kind of sweet porridge that was originally used to worship ancestors during Tet.
READ MORE