Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the most historical attractions in Hanoi, knowing for the final resting place and holding the embalmed remains of President Ho Chi Minh, the most iconic and national hero of Vietnam. It is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the most iconic and popular leader of Vietnam, known to his people as ‘Uncle Ho’. His body is preserved here in a glass case at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in central Hanoi (albeit against his wishes). For visitors, a trip to Uncle Ho’s final resting place can be an extraordinary experience as it is not just an average attraction; it’s a part of a unique history.

Started in 1973, the construction of the mausoleum was modeled on Lenin's mausoleum in Russia and was first open to the public in 1975. The granite building meant a great deal for many locals as it ensures that their beloved leader ‘lives on forever’. Security is tight and visitors should dress with respect (no shorts, sleeveless shirts and miniskirts) and everyone has to deposit their bags and cameras before getting in. Visitors are not allowed to stop and hold the constant queue up as the place is constantly busy. Uncle Ho’s remains are sent yearly to Russia for maintenance therefore the mausoleum is closed usually from October onwards. It’s best to recheck with your hotel tour desk before visiting. Admission is free but donations are accepted.

Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 07:30 - 10:30, Saturday & Sunday 07:30 - 11:00

Location: 8 Hung Vuong, Dien Bien, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is located in Ba Dinh district, nearby Temple of Literature, West Lake, Hanoi Flag Tower, Imperial Citadel of Thang Long.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was built in two years from 1973 to 1975. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum takes some inspiration from Lenin's in Moscow. The Mausoleum, which was made of marble and granite, features a three-stored structure. In the second store places the famous President’s body, lying as if he were sleeping in the simple clothes worn when he was alive. Above the portico of the mausoleum, the words "Chu tich Ho Chi Minh" (President Ho Chi Minh) can be clearly seen chiseled into the pediment, which is supported by twenty stout granite-covered pillars. The materials that constitute the building, from exterior granite to interior wood, were contributed by people from all over the country. Even the garden that surrounded the Mausoleum has a collection of plants and bonsais donated from all regions in Vietnam. In front of the mausoleum is the 79 cycad trees, symbolizing Uncle Ho’s 79 springs of life.

Besides, Ba Dinh Quare in front of the Mausoleum is a place where President Ho declared the independence of Vietnam on September 2, 1945. The square has 240 patches of grass divided by intersecting concrete pathways; visitors are heavily discouraged from walking on the grass.

Moreover, you can continue to discovery Ho Chi Minh Complex by visiting the nearby Ho Chi Minh Museum, which contains an account of the man's life as told in allegory and his personal effects, and the Presidential Palace, on which grounds Ho Chi Minh lived after taking power (he never really moved in, contenting himself with living in the former electrician's quarters, then in a custom-built stilt house from the 1950s till his death).