Soc Temple Complex: A spiritual land with a history of more than a millennium
Not far from the center of the capital, the Soc Temple relic complex is a destination imbued with history and beliefs. Founded in the Early Le Dynasty in 980, it has gone through 1,046 years of ups and downs along with the nation’s history. The relic was recognized by the state as a National Monument in 1962, and recognized as a Special National Monument at the end of 2014. The quiet highlight in the center of the complex is Non Nuoc Pagoda, also known as Soc Thien Vuong Thien Tu. Located at an altitude of 110m and leaning against a winding mountain range shaped like a throne, the pagoda fully preserves the ancient architecture passed down from the Early Le Dynasty. Separated from the hustle and bustle, visitors coming here will immediately feel relaxation, fully immersed in the pure and solemn space.
Besides the quiet Buddhist space, the Soc Temple complex also makes a strong impression with the grandeur of the Saint Giong Monument perched on top of Chong rock. Vividly portraying the image of a majestic young hero, holding a cluster of bamboo and ivory, riding an iron horse with hooves pointing straight to the sky, the statue is an eternal symbol of the nation’s strength and desire for peace. As a key cultural project to celebrate the 1,000th anniversary of Thang Long – Hanoi (2010), the monument not only has unique artistic value but is also a great pride of the people of the Capital.
Conquering the “Roof of the Capital” Ham Lon: Experience traveling in harmony with nature
Located on the majestic Doc Ton mountain range (in Kim Anh commune), Ham Lon mountain is only about 40km from the center of Hanoi along the North Thang Long – Noi Bai highway. Possessing an altitude of 462m above sea level, this mountain has long been favored by travelers with the title “roof of the Capital”. Not just a simple geographical coordinate, Ham Lon scores absolutely points thanks to its undulating hilly terrain, diverse vegetation and micro-regional climate that always maintains rare clarity and coolness. Under the canopy of forest leaves, visitors can completely get rid of the stuffiness of the bustling metropolis. The vast terrain, interspersed with vast pine forests, turns this place into the perfect space for weekend picnics or exciting team-building activities.
If Ham Lon peak is a song of conquest, then the peaceful Ham Lon lake at the foot of the mountain is a dreamy, quiet note. This charming mountain and water painting fully displays the beauty of the two transition moments of heaven and earth: dawn and dusk. At that time, the lake surface was as calm as a giant mirror, reflecting the clouds and sky and reflecting the entire breathtaking mountain scenery. Along the lake, there are many spacious, flat lands – great places for tourists to set up tents to camp overnight. In the midst of a wild and peaceful space, there is nothing more enjoyable than the feeling of gathering with family and friends, enjoying a small party. It is these moments of relaxing into nature and the cold dew of the mountains and forests that will bring a truly healing experience to the holiday season.
Dong Do Lake – “Miniature Da Lat”
Entirely hidden in the valley of Minh Tri commune, Dong Do lake appears like a jade, surrounded by endless mountains and endless green pine forests. Ít ai biết rằng, hồ nước mỹ lệ này trước đây chỉ là một con suối nhỏ hiền hòa. It was not until 2000 that the Dong Do dam project began construction, creating a large water surface area of hundreds of hectares. Although initially carrying the mission of serving agricultural irrigation, the charming, wild and charming beauty of the mountains and water has awakened the great eco-tourism potential of this land.
Thanks to the advantage of the valley terrain, Dong Do possesses a cool, clear microclimate all year round. The lake water always remains clear and calm, dotted along both banks with countless gentle, spacious lawns. The perfect harmony between the calm water surface, the whispering pine trees and the cold weather has made many tourists not hesitate to compare this place as a “miniature Da Lat” right next to Hanoi. In just a short time, camping/glamping at Dong Do Lake has quickly become an attractive trend. All ages, from groups of young people to families looking for a space to bond, can find fun here. Amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, an escape from the city to the forest, Dong Do will definitely be the perfect place to end a holiday.
