Gyeongju Tumuli Park
Explore ancient royal tombs of the Silla Dynasty, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering a glimpse into Korea's rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Gyeongju Tumuli Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient royal tombs of the Silla Dynasty, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering a glimpse into Korea's rich history.
"Fabulous Worth a journey Theae tombs are very impressive."
🚶♀️ Amble the Free Grounds
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park's expansive grounds for free, soaking in the historical atmosphere.
💰 Pay for the Tomb Interior
A small fee unlocks the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, revealing an excavated tomb and its treasures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Daereungwon Tomb Complex
Central area of the park
Explore ancient royal tombs, including the famous Cheonmachong, offering a glimpse into Silla Dynasty burial practices.
Cheomseongdae Observatory
Adjacent to Tumuli Park
Marvel at the oldest astronomical observatory in East Asia, a testament to Silla's scientific advancements.
Illuminated Tombs at Night
Throughout the park
Experience the magical ambiance as the grassy mounds are beautifully illuminated after dark, creating a unique atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Understand the Park's Layout
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Amble the Free Grounds
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park's expansive grounds for free, soaking in the historical atmosphere.
💰 Pay for the Tomb Interior
A small fee unlocks the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, revealing an excavated tomb and its treasures.
🌅 Aim for Sunset Views
The park is beautiful at sunset, especially with the tombs illuminated.
🚲 Bike Around the Area
Consider renting a bike to explore the park and surrounding historical sites efficiently.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Amble the Free Grounds
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park's expansive grounds for free, soaking in the historical atmosphere.
💰 Pay for the Tomb Interior
A small fee unlocks the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, revealing an excavated tomb and its treasures.
🌅 Aim for Sunset Views
The park is beautiful at sunset, especially with the tombs illuminated.
🚲 Bike Around the Area
Consider renting a bike to explore the park and surrounding historical sites efficiently.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Season
Visit in early April for stunning cherry blossoms amidst the ancient tombs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Gyeongju Tumuli Park to be a fascinating and impressive historical site, particularly the Daereungwon Tomb Complex with its excavated tomb and artifacts. The illuminated tombs at night are a highlight, creating a magical atmosphere. While some find the free grounds sufficient, others recommend paying the small fee for the interior experience.
"Fabulous Worth a journey Theae tombs are very impressive We enjoyed exploring the area and viewing many tombs We enjoyed the tombs at night when they are very beautifully illuminated Most stunning was the museum where you visit a tumb and enjoy the burial chamber and their burial gifts Must see Enjoy"
Wim de rooij
"We had a pleasant walk in the complex to visit the tombs and learn more interesting historical stories of Silla Kingdom and the Kings. Admission was free, the vibe was really nice even it was raining heavily when we were there."
Lê Quang Kiệt
"What you see is what you get and what you will see are some large, grassy mounds (one containing a small museum). Beautifully maintained, it’s worth an amble but, honestly, thirty minutes is more than enough. Telletubby fans might get more of a kick out of it."
Steve Shields
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station to Singyeongju Station, which takes about 2-2.5 hours. From Singyeongju Station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to reach Tumuli Park. Many travelers opt for a day trip from Seoul using this method.
Yes, Gyeongju Tumuli Park is well-served by local buses. Several bus routes stop near the park, making it convenient to reach from other parts of the city. You can also consider renting a bike to explore the area.
Many visitors find that renting a bicycle is an excellent way to explore Gyeongju, including Tumuli Park and nearby attractions like Cheomseongdae. Taxis and local buses are also readily available.
Absolutely! Gyeongju is a popular day trip destination from cities like Busan and Seoul. Taking the KTX train is highly recommended for a convenient day trip experience.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near Gyeongju Tumuli Park, which can be convenient if you are traveling by car. However, public transport is often recommended due to potential traffic and parking availability issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The expansive grounds of Gyeongju Tumuli Park are free to enter and explore. However, to access the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, which includes the excavated Cheonmachong tomb and its artifacts, there is a small admission fee.
The admission fee for the Daereungwon Tomb Complex is quite affordable, typically a few thousand Korean Won. This fee grants you access to the interior of the excavated tomb and the museum exhibits.
Gyeongju Tumuli Park is generally open from morning until evening. The Daereungwon Tomb Complex has specific operating hours, which are usually until around 9 PM or 10 PM, especially when illuminated at night. It's best to check the official website for the most current hours.
Tickets for the Daereungwon Tomb Complex are typically purchased on-site at the ticket booth located near the entrance. Online booking is generally not required or available for this attraction.
While the main grounds are accessible, the most prominent feature at night is the illumination of the burial mounds within the Daereungwon area, creating a magical spectacle.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, you can explore the excavated Cheonmachong tomb, which showcases the burial chamber and over 11,000 artifacts discovered there, including the famous 'Heavenly Horse' painting.
You can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. A quick walk around the free grounds might take 30 minutes, while exploring the Daereungwon Tomb Complex and nearby Cheomseongdae could take 1-2 hours.
While official guided tours might not be readily advertised, you can learn a lot from the information provided within the Daereungwon Tomb Complex. Many visitors also find local guides or self-guided exploration with a good map sufficient.
Yes, children can enjoy the open spaces and the unique sight of the large grassy mounds. The excavated tomb offers an educational experience about history and ancient artifacts.
The grassy mounds themselves offer great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset. The illuminated tombs at night provide a dramatic backdrop. Cheomseongdae Observatory is also a popular spot for photography.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow on the grassy mounds. Nighttime illumination also provides unique photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and cultural sites to preserve the environment and visitor experience. It's advisable to check local regulations or signage at the park before attempting to fly a drone.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, is useful for capturing both wide shots of the mounds and details within the tomb. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light photography during the evening illumination.
Photography rules inside the excavated tomb may vary. Generally, flash photography is prohibited to protect the artifacts. It's best to observe any posted signs or ask staff for clarification.
The open grassy areas offer panoramic views of the mounds. For a different perspective, consider the area around Cheomseongdae Observatory, especially during the day or when illuminated at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting bicycles to make exploring the park and nearby attractions like Cheomseongdae more fun for everyone. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities within the park itself might be limited. The illuminated tombs at night can also be a magical experience for younger visitors, though it might be past their bedtime.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Solo travelers can easily navigate the park and surrounding attractions using public transport or by renting a bike. The opportunity to explore at your own pace, without the need to coordinate with others, makes it ideal for a reflective journey through Korea's ancient past.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to capture the Cheomseongdae Observatory, particularly with the mounds in the background. Consider bringing a versatile lens to capture both wide vistas and intricate details within the excavated tomb. The park's historical significance combined with its aesthetic appeal makes it a rewarding location for capturing memorable images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Silla Dynasty and its Tombs
+1The construction of these tombs reflects the power and wealth of the Silla rulers. The sheer scale of the mounds indicates a highly organized society capable of mobilizing significant labor. Inside, the tombs were often elaborate, containing sarcophagi, burial goods like pottery, gold ornaments, weapons, and even the remains of sacrificed horses, as seen in the tomb's artifacts. The preservation of these tombs, some for over a millennium, is remarkable and offers a unique window into the past.
Visiting Tumuli Park is like stepping back in time. The Daereungwon Tomb Complex allows visitors to enter an excavated tomb, providing a tangible connection to the past. You can see the construction of the tomb and the artifacts that were buried with the deceased, offering a profound understanding of Silla's burial customs and beliefs. The park's serene atmosphere, dotted with these ancient monuments, encourages contemplation and appreciation for Korea's rich historical heritage.
Experiencing Gyeongju's Ancient Capital Charm
Beyond the immediate vicinity of the park, Gyeongju offers a wealth of historical sites. Visitors can explore Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, UNESCO World Heritage sites that exemplify Silla Buddhist art and architecture. The Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond (formerly Anapji Pond) offers a picturesque setting, especially when illuminated at night, reflecting the grandeur of the royal palace. The Hwangnidan-gil area provides a more modern, yet traditional, experience with charming cafes and shops housed in renovated hanok (traditional Korean houses).
+2Many travelers recommend combining a visit to Tumuli Park with these other key attractions to fully appreciate Gyeongju's historical significance. The city's layout makes it relatively easy to navigate between these sites, whether by public transport, taxi, or bicycle. Experiencing Gyeongju is not just about seeing historical monuments; it's about immersing yourself in the atmosphere of Korea's ancient capital and understanding its enduring legacy.
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