
Phu Tay Ho Hanoi
A serene temple complex on Hanoi's West Lake, dedicated to the Mother Goddess, offering spiritual solace and picturesque views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Phu Tay Ho Hanoi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene temple complex on Hanoi's West Lake, dedicated to the Mother Goddess, offering spiritual solace and picturesque views.
"A beautiful and spiritual escape on the shores of West Lake, perfect for photos and quiet contemplation."

🎯 Best Grab Drop-off Point
Get dropped off at Lotte Mall Tay Ho for easy access to the lake, lotus ponds, and the temple.
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
Capture the autumn vibes and temple architecture. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Main Temple Complex
Central area of Phu Tay Ho
Explore the ornate architecture and serene courtyards dedicated to the Mother Goddess. A spiritual heart of Hanoi.

Lotus Ponds
Surrounding Phu Tay Ho
Vibrant lotus blooms in season, offering picturesque spots for photos and peaceful strolls. A photographer's dream.

West Lake Views
Shoreline of Phu Tay Ho
Enjoy panoramic vistas of Hanoi's largest lake, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset. Perfect for a tranquil moment.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Phu Tay Ho
Getting to Phu Tay Ho
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Grab Drop-off Point
Get dropped off at Lotte Mall Tay Ho for easy access to the lake, lotus ponds, and the temple.
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
Capture the autumn vibes and temple architecture. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the temple grounds and lake.
☕ Nearby Cafes
Explore the many cafes along West Lake for a coffee break with a view.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Grab Drop-off Point
Get dropped off at Lotte Mall Tay Ho for easy access to the lake, lotus ponds, and the temple.
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
Capture the autumn vibes and temple architecture. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the temple grounds and lake.
☕ Nearby Cafes
Explore the many cafes along West Lake for a coffee break with a view.
🌸 Seasonal Blooms
Visit during lotus season for stunning floral displays and photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Phu Tay Ho for its spiritual ambiance, beautiful lakeside setting, and picturesque lotus ponds, especially during blooming season. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking tranquility and cultural insight. Some find it can get very crowded during festivals and on specific lunar dates.
"One of the few temples we had the chance to visit during our stay in Hanoi, Vietnam. The place was serene and peaceful during our visit with a nice view of the lake.
Interesting architecture as well. Since we stayed near the place it was so packed during the first lunar day which was nice to see how the locals practice their faith. It was not that intense like my country, but it was packed with people and offerings."
Maui Fernando
"Beautiful place, very calm and peaceful, I wish I had been able to understand a bit more about the history of this place. The signs weren’t in English, but I guess that’s also part of the experience of visiting a new place. I still really enjoyed it ✨"
Laddy Herrera
"Very peaceful and silent place. Good view of the lake, a lot of Buddha and spirits status and greeny and silent vibe. Good place to enjoy the silent and peaceful vibe."
Pyae Phyo Naing
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a Grab car or motorbike, which is a popular and convenient option. Many suggest getting dropped off near Lotte Mall Tay Ho to easily access the lake and temple area.
Alternatively, local buses are available and offer a more budget-friendly experience, though they may take longer.Yes, Grab services are widely available in Hanoi, including for trips to Phu Tay Ho. It's generally easy to book a ride through the app.
After visiting Phu Tay Ho, consider exploring the surrounding West Lake area. Renting a bicycle or simply walking along the lake path offers a great way to see more.
Yes, there are usually parking areas available for motorbikes and cars, though they can get busy during peak times.
Phu Tay Ho is located on the shores of West Lake. You can walk along the lake to explore nearby cafes and smaller temples, but major attractions might require further transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Phu Tay Ho is a temple complex and generally free to enter. Donations are welcome to support its upkeep.
The temple is typically open daily from early morning until late evening. It's advisable to check for any specific holiday hours.
The temple is most crowded on the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month, as well as during major Vietnamese festivals. Weekdays outside of these times are much quieter.
As a place of worship, it's respectful to dress modestly. Avoid revealing clothing. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always good to be mindful and respectful, especially in prayer areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The ornate temple architecture, the serene lotus ponds (especially in season), and the panoramic views of West Lake are prime spots.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, while late afternoons provide a beautiful golden hour glow.
Many visitors capture the temple's intricate details, the reflections in the water, and the expansive lake views. The lotus ponds are a major draw for photographers.
Tripods are generally permitted, but it's always wise to be considerate of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide landscapes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive lake views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Phu Tay Ho itself is primarily a spiritual site, there are often small vendors selling snacks and drinks nearby. For full meals, you'll find many options around West Lake.
The Dang Thai Mai street, near alley 12, offers many international dining options. For authentic Vietnamese food, Chao Ban is highly recommended for its delicious pork ribs.
Yes, many restaurants in the Tay Ho area, particularly on Dang Thai Mai street, cater to international tastes and often have vegetarian options.
Besides the highly-rated Chao Ban for Vietnamese cuisine, explore local eateries for dishes like 'bun cha' or 'pho'.
Absolutely! The West Lake area is famous for its numerous cafes, many offering beautiful lake views. It's a great place to relax after visiting the temple.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Phu Tay Ho
Beyond its primary dedication, Phu Tay Ho also honors other deities, reflecting the syncretic nature of Vietnamese folk religion. Visitors often come to pray for good health, success in business, and family well-being. The temple's location on the picturesque West Lake adds to its allure, creating a serene backdrop for spiritual contemplation. Experiencing the rituals and observing the devotion of the local people offers a profound insight into Vietnamese culture and beliefs.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography at Phu Tay Ho
The surrounding lotus ponds are a major draw, especially when in bloom. These vibrant pink and white flowers against the lush green foliage make for stunning compositions. Early morning or late afternoon light, often referred to as the 'golden hour,' casts a warm glow over the scene, enhancing the colors and textures. Don't miss the panoramic views of West Lake; capturing the vastness of the water, especially at sunrise or sunset, can be incredibly rewarding. Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive scenery.
Exploring the Tay Ho District
The district is also a culinary hotspot. Streets like Dang Thai Mai are lined with diverse international restaurants, offering everything from Italian to Middle Eastern cuisine. For authentic Vietnamese flavors, local recommendations include Chao Ban for its exceptional pork ribs. The abundance of cafes makes it an ideal spot to unwind with a Vietnamese coffee or a refreshing fruit smoothie while enjoying the lakeside ambiance.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit