West Lake is an iconic destination of the Hanoi capital, drawing an influx of Indian tourists every year. The lake stands out with a perfect combination of poetic beauty, nearby historic relics, amazing street activities, and unforgettable Vietnamese food.
In this article, we provide a complete guide to exploring Hanoi West Lake, including the best time and how to get to the lake, its exciting activities, and valuable tips for Indian visitors.
Location
West Lake is located in the northwest of Hanoi, in Tay Ho district, about 11km from the center of the Hanoi capital. With a unique geographical location, the lake is surrounded by Thanh Nien – Thuy Khue – U Co – Nghi Tam – Lac Long Quan routes.
Why Is Hanoi West Lake A Must-visited Site in Hanoi?
Hanoi West Lake is the largest natural lake in the capital, with a shore length of 17 kilometers and 500 hectares in area. Amidst the bustling Hanoi, the lake stands out with clear, calm waters and a vast, peaceful vibe.
Citizens of all ages frequently come to the lake area to exercise and relax. The lake offers captivating activities like swan boat rides and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), making it a cherished and iconic landmark of the capital.
Surrounding the lake are numerous historical relics, including unique pagodas with diverse Buddhist architecture. Indian tourists often enjoy combining a leisurely stroll with visits to these nearby pagodas.
Moreover, there are countless restaurants, cafes, and food stalls around the lake. All specialties and seafood are served in these places. Locals and tourists can savor food and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake.
With its stunning scenery and captivating activities, Hanoi West Lake attracts thousands of international tourists every month, especially Indian tourists.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit West Lake is in the fall (from August to November) and spring (from March to April). In this period, the weather in Hanoi is the most enjoyable, with a chilly wind, warm sunshine, and blooming flowers.
The best time of the day to visit the lake is in the late afternoon and evening. It will get a lot cooler if you are here during the hot summer. Around this time, many locals will go to the lake to socialize, walk around, or work out. Therefore, Indian visitors can take advantage of experiencing local life and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere at the lake. In addition, West Lake is one of the best places to see the sunset in Hanoi.
How To Get There
Hanoi West Lake is about 11 kilometers from the city center. Depending on your location, there are several transportation options:
- By Foot: If you’re staying in the Old Quarter, the lake is a 2-mile walk away.
- By Bicycle or Motorbike: Most hotels offer bike or motorbike rentals, ideal for exploring the expansive lake and nearby attractions. Indian tourists are advised to go with a local guide for a safe and enjoyable trip.
- By Bus: Numerous bus routes, such as numbers 13, 33, 50, and 70, pass through or stop near West Lake. Buses run every 15-20 minutes.
- By Taxi: The most convenient option, with both traditional taxis and ride-hailing services available.
>> Read more: Top 8 Lakes in Hanoi That You Should Not Miss
Top Things To Do
Ride Swan Boat
Riding a duck paddle boat or swan boat on Hanoi West Lake is a must-try activity for Indian tourists. It’s the perfect way to soak in the lake’s charming beauty and peaceful atmosphere, especially at sunset. Families and couples particularly enjoy swan pedal boats as a way to strengthen their bonds. Autumn is the most beautiful season to experience this delightful activity.
Take SUP Ride
Another exciting water activity on Hanoi West Lake is stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). For Indian tourists, floating on a SUP amidst the serene lake set against the backdrop of a bustling city is an unforgettable experience.
The best time to enjoy SUP on West Lake is in the late afternoon when the weather is pleasant and the sunset is at its most beautiful. Many shops along the lake offer SUP rentals for 200,000 VND per half day on weekdays and 250,000 VND per half day on weekends.
Enjoy Coffee
Along Hanoi West Lake, there are countless cafes with unique styles. Indian tourists can explore garden cafes with exquisite designs or coffee shops with rooftop areas offering stunning lake views.
Sipping coffee while enjoying the fresh air of West Lake is an amazing experience. Some notable cafes to consider are Maison de Tet Décor, LeMarz Coffee Roastery, C’est Bon Cafe, and 6 Degrees.
Cycle Around
Exploring every corner of Hanoi West Lake by bicycle is an extremely enriching experience that Indian tourists should not miss. The best times to cycle around the lake are early morning and late afternoon. At this time, the weather is usually very cool and pleasant, suitable for cycling to exercise while enjoying the beautiful sunset or sunrise.
There are many bike rental services in West Lake, Hanoi. The average price is around 40,000 to 50,0000 VND per 3 hours.
Take photos at West Lake Flower Valley
West Lake Flower Valley is located along the southern shore of West Lake in Hanoi, near the Nhat Tan Bridge. This floral paradise boasts vibrant blooms, picturesque landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere. This is the perfect spot for relaxation and photography. Whether you are a nature lover or simply looking for a peaceful escape, West Lake Flower Valley offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Hanoi.
Play at West Lake’s Water Park
West Lake Water Park is a famous amusement park in Hanoi. Locals and tourists can have an amazing time playing a variety of exciting water sports in the hot summer.
If you want to see West Lake from above, you can go on the Ferris wheel, which is on the edge of the lake and is part of the Ho Tay Water Park.
Visit some religious sites
Located near Hanoi West Lake are culturally significant landmarks, including pagodas and temples. Here are some of the most outstanding places to visit:
- Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, built in the 6th Century. Tran Quoc pagoda is regarded as a cultural symbol of Vietnamese Buddhism, with ancient architecture and unique details.
- Tay Ho Temple is regarded as one of the most sacred temples in Hanoi. Both the locals and visitors come here to light incense and pray for good luck and peace.
- Quan Thanh Temple is situated on the corner of Quan Thanh Street and Thanh Nien Street, facing the West Lake. Built in the Ly Dynasty, it is one of the four temples constructed in Hanoi to protect the city from evil spirits.
- Kim Lien Pagoda is considered one of the ten most ancient architectural monuments in Vietnam.
Admire Sunset at South Korea Wharf
At West Lake Hanoi, there’s a small, one-kilometer-long embankment known to locals as the “South Korea Wharf”. With its romantic scenery reminiscent of South Korean drama, this spot is an ideal dating destination for young couples.
Additionally, a lotus pond is another delightful surprise in the area. In summer, the pink and white lotuses bloom fully, creating a beautiful sight accompanied by a sweet aroma.
Try Local Food
Enjoy street foods – one of the unmissable things to do in Hanoi West Lake. Here are some famous dishes you can try:
- Shrimp cake
- Vermicelli and Shellfish Soup
- Chicken noodle
- Grilled meat
- Coconut Ice Cream
Attractions Nearby
Nearby West Lake are renowned attractions which Indian tourists shouldn’t miss:
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is renowned for honoring President Ho Chi Minh, the father of the Vietnamese people who guided the country to freedom and unity.
- Temple of Literature is the Imperial Academy, regarded as Vietnam’s first university.
- Saint Joseph’s Cathedral is a symbolic church in Hanoi with a Gothic architectural style.
- One Pillar Pagoda is situated in the center of a lotus pond, boasting distinctive design and historical values.
- Hanoi Opera House is a masterpiece of great historical and cultural significance in Vietnam
- Hoan Kiem Lake embodies the ancient gentle beauty of Hanoi
- Hanoi Old Quarter is known as a hub for arts and crafts with “36 Old Streets” reflecting local artisan customs and history.
Useful Tips When Visiting Hanoi West Lake
Following are some useful advice to have the safest and most enjoyable trip at Hanoi West Lake:
- Keep an eye on children and wear life jackets when playing SUPs and duck rides.
- Prioritize wearing comfortable clothes for easy movement. However, if you intend to visit temples and pagodas, remember to wear discreet, polite clothing.
- Bring some cash to enjoy the street foods along the lake.
- Cycle around the lake for the best experience in West Lake.
- Be aware of your belongings and watch out for pickpockets as well as thieves.
- Go with a local guide for the safest and most enjoyable trip.
Conclusion
West Lake is a must-visit attraction in Hanoi for Indian tourists. Discover the beauty of Hanoi West Lake as well as other attractions with our Vietnam tours. Experience the serene landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural insights that only Vietnamtour.in can offer. Book now for an unforgettable adventure tailored just for you!
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