Amid the sacred atmosphere commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025), what could be more meaningful than a journey back to the roots of the nation? During this grand celebration, let your journey to Cổ Loa-where you can literally touch history-be a heartfelt tribute to your ancestors, a moment of reflection amidst the sacred spirit of mountains and rivers, and a way to nurture pride in your national heritage.
* Morning:
To reach Cổ Loa Fortress, visitors can travel by motorbike, car, or public bus (routes 46, 43, 15, 17, and 59).
Upon arrival at the main gate, with a ticket price of 30,000 VND for adults and 15,000 VND for students, you can explore:
- Temple of King An Dương Vương (Đền Thượng): Known as the heart of Cổ Loa Fortress, this is where the king who established Cổ Loa and founded the Âu Lạc State is venerated.
- Ngọc Well Relic Site (Giếng Ngọc): According to the legendary story of Mỵ Châu and Trọng Thủy, this lake was where the young couple often took boat rides. Locals believe the water can polish pearls—adding a mystical charm to Cổ Loa’s stories.
- Cổ Loa Fortress: Comprising the Inner, Middle, and Outer walls, Cổ Loa’s spiral design demonstrates the ancient Vietnamese’s advanced military engineering, architecture, and strategic vision.
- Cổ Loa Relic Site Exhibition House: Preserving hundreds of precious artifacts such as bronze arrowheads, drums, and casting molds, this exhibition vividly reconstructs the life of Cổ Loa inhabitants over 2,000 years ago.
- Bảo Sơn Pagoda: Nestled within the fortress, the pagoda is not only a place of local religious practice but also a tranquil stop for visitors seeking peace amidst their exploration.
* Noon, Enjoy local specialties such as Cổ Loa clam porridge (cháo trai Cổ Loa), Mạch Tràng noodle soup (Bún Mạch Tràng), or Bỏng Chủ.
* Afternoon, Continue exploring the outer layers of the fortress, relax in the serene surroundings, take photos, and visit a nearby café before returning to Hanoi.
Visiting Cổ Loa Fortress is not only a physical journey but also a voyage through time, allowing you to touch a piece of the nation’s memory. Let every step here become a bridge between the past and the present, awakening pride in the national heritage among the younger generations.
