Top 11 Most Popular Tourist Spots in Sóc Sơn District, Hanoi

Non Nuoc Pagoda (officially known as Soc Thien Vuong Zen Temple) is located within the Soc Son Temple complex, standing over 110 meters above sea level. The pagoda is positioned at the center of a crescent-shaped mountain range, resembling a figure seated on a throne, with sweeping views of a clear, serene lake and the prosperous villages of Ve Linh commune in Sóc Sơn district, Hanoi.

This stunning temple, alongside the Vietnam Buddhist Academy, is a grand architectural feat that was recently completed. It has rapidly become a key spiritual site, attracting more and more visitors seeking peace and reflection.

With a history dating back centuries, the temple’s records show that its first abbot was Zen Master Ngo Chan Luu (933–1011), a member of the Vo Ngon Thong Zen school. In 971, he was honored with the title Khuong Viet Dai Su by King Dinh Tien Hoang. During the later years of the Ly dynasty, two other prominent Zen masters, Zen Master Truong Nguyen (1110–1165) and Zen Master Nguyen Hoc (?–1181), also served as abbots of the pagoda.

The pagoda sits in the midst of a crescent-shaped mountain range, offering magnificent views of the surrounding areas. The original structure fell into disrepair, but in 2000, Monk Thich Thanh Quyet spearheaded a restoration project, including the casting of the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam at the time.

Address: Phu Linh, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Dong Quan Lake is a large, scenic lake located in Quang Tien commune, Sóc Sơn district, Hanoi. About 35km from the center of Hanoi, it offers fresh air and crystal-clear waters. Dong Quan Lake is the largest lake in Sóc Sơn, surrounded by charming paths perfect for cycling or relaxing by the shore while enjoying a cup of tea and watching the sunset. In the evening, you can stop by the lake to witness the stunning golden hues of the sunset. If you're considering an overnight stay, there are nearby eco-tourism areas where you can set up camp at affordable rates, provided you bring your own equipment.

Set amidst lush hills and large waters, Dong Quan Lake features a breathtaking natural landscape ideal for outdoor activities and family recreation. The location is perfect for enjoying nature, with opportunities for fishing, hiking through the woods, and exploring the surroundings.

If you venture deeper into the area, you'll find yourself exploring the famous mountains of Sóc Sơn, with popular attractions such as the Huong Tram Eco-Tourism Area, Nui village, Viet Phu Thanh Chuong, the Giong Temple, and Non Nuoc Pagoda.

Address: Dong Quan Lake, Quang Tien, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Located about 30 km north of Hanoi, Huong Tram Eco-Tourism Area in Sóc Sơn is an ideal spot for weekend getaways. From the eco-tourism area, it takes just a 5-minute walk to visit the famous Soc Temple, a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage site. Surrounded by nature's beauty, with Dong Quan Lake in front and the majestic Soc Mountains behind, Huong Tram is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Visitors to Huong Tram Eco-Tourism Area can immerse themselves in the fresh air of nature while enjoying local delicacies unique to the mountainous region. The area is divided into spacious sections that can accommodate large groups, making it perfect for company events, birthday parties, or family reunions.

The thoughtful and harmonious layout of the area allows guests to easily find a perfect spot to relax. With hundreds of traditional mountain dishes prepared by skilled chefs using fresh ingredients, even the most discerning diners will be satisfied.

Address: Khu E, Dong Quan Lake, Quang Tien, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Ham Lon Mountain is located in Sóc Sơn district, Hanoi, and is often referred to as the 'roof of the capital' with an elevation of 462 meters. Known for its beautiful natural scenery, pleasant climate, and diverse terrain, it has become a popular weekend destination for locals. The area is especially favored by young adventurers, who come here for mountain climbing and camping.

Surrounding the mountain are many stunning landscapes for visitors to explore. The hike to the summit is challenging, but the reward is the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the peak.

While Ham Lon Mountain used to be a remote and untouched place, today it is a favorite spot for trekkers. It is particularly popular among young people who enjoy long-distance mountain hikes. The peak of Ham Lon Mountain features Baou Lake and a hill covered in Sim flowers. You can take two different paths to the summit: either follow the trail or climb directly along the stream. Baou Lake, located at the foot of Mount Baou, is an ideal place for camping and enjoying a campfire, and visitors can even swim in the lake. The Sim flower hill, blooming with purple flowers during the season, adds a magical touch to the mountain, and the sweet taste of the Sim fruit can be savored.

Address: Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Keo Ca Lake is located right off Provincial Road 35, at the base of Ham Lon Mountain, just 1 km from Ham Lon Lake. With its pine and cypress hills, grassy fields, and crystal-clear waters, it feels like a miniature Europe or the 'Da Lat' of Hanoi, offering a cool and peaceful atmosphere that attracts visitors to one of Sóc Sơn's most beloved tourist spots.

There are several routes from Hanoi to Sóc Sơn, with the distance varying depending on the starting point and the chosen route, but overall it's just over 30 km, no matter which path you choose. Therefore, you can travel by a variety of transportation options such as buses or motorbikes, depending on your preferences.

At Keo Ca Lake, visitors can enjoy various activities such as fishing at low cost, camping, and team-building events combined with mountain climbing to conquer the 'roof' of Hanoi. With its picturesque scenery, cool waters, pine forests, and lush green meadows, you don't need to go far to unwind. So, pack your bags and go this weekend!

Address: Hiền Ninh, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Hoa Son Lake is a relatively large lake located at the foot of Ham Lon Mountain. Since it has yet to be developed for tourism, this lake retains a pristine and natural charm. Its untouched beauty is precisely what makes it a special destination.

For those looking for a change of scenery, this is the perfect place to visit, where there is no pressure from the locals. You can enjoy fishing here, where you might catch plenty of fish. This is an ideal spot for those who wish to escape to a peaceful place and conquer the summit of Ham Lon, the 'roof' of old Hanoi.

Many visitors come here to explore and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The most popular activity is fishing, and because the lake is natural, the fish here have a unique, sweet flavor that farmed fish can't match. Spend your weekend unwinding in this serene environment. This is also a perfect spot for camping if you love to be surrounded by fresh air. Hoa Son Lake is just 40 km from the city center, making it an easy getaway for the weekend.

Address: Nam Sơn, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Double Mountain is the name of a poem that has touched the hearts of millions across generations. It tells the story of a tragic love between a young couple, one of whom is lost during the French Resistance. Few people know that in the poem Double Mountain by Vu Cao, the setting, characters, and events are all based on real history... These two legendary mountains are located near the town of Sóc Sơn, just outside of Hanoi. The Double Mountains are situated in Phù Linh commune, Sóc Sơn district, Hanoi.

From the base of the mountains, you can still spot the old bunkers, watchtowers, and sturdy trenches left behind by the French soldiers. The remnants of a bloody past remain visible, even though they no longer pose any danger. The road leading to the village was once the “path between the two mountain slopes, where the two peaks gave the mountain its name.”

This poetic mountain, the love story full of sorrow and devotion, is a legend that transcends time. It is a reminder that ordinary lives, marked by tragedy and love, can become legendary tales for generations to come.

Address: Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Đức Hậu Pagoda is located in Đức Hậu village, Đức Hòa commune, Sóc Sơn district, on the outskirts of Hanoi. The site is about 40 km from central Hanoi. To get there, head towards Sóc Sơn town, take a right turn past the Double Mountains, and continue for another 1 km to reach the pagoda.

Đức Hậu Pagoda is designed in the shape of the chữ đinh (a character-like structure), with a front hall featuring a small roof and a high platform, as well as a main temple. The pagoda has a brick courtyard and a single-gate entrance. There is also a smaller shrine, a mother's temple with five rooms, built using traditional architectural techniques. The pagoda was recognized as a national architectural and artistic heritage site by the Ministry of Culture and Information on March 10, 1994.

It belongs to the Đức Hậu Temple and Pagoda complex, which consists of a pagoda and a temple located side by side. While the exact date of establishment is unclear, experts suggest that the pagoda was likely constructed during the Late Lê Dynasty (late 17th to early 18th century), based on its architectural style and decorative details.

Address: Đức Hòa, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Đồng Đò Lake in Sóc Sơn is a renowned travel destination in Hanoi, attracting visitors with its untouched beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This peaceful location is perfect for nature lovers seeking to enjoy fresh air and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Located in Minh Tân village, Minh Trí commune, Sóc Sơn district, Hanoi, Đồng Đò Lake is about 45 km from the city center. From the lake, you can also visit Đại Lải Lake, just 7 km away, or head to a nearby golf course about 2 km from the lake. The lake stretches deep into the valley, surrounded by majestic mountains and vast forests of pine trees, creating a breathtaking and serene environment that enchants visitors.

The area is known for its pure air and peaceful mountainous surroundings. Here, you can leave behind the noise and pollution of the capital and immerse yourself in nature’s untouched beauty. A weekend getaway to Đồng Đò Lake is the perfect way to recharge and start the upcoming week with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Address: Minh Trí, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Việt Phủ Thành Chương is a must-visit destination for those who are passionate about exploring culture, situated in Sóc Sơn, Hanoi. Located at Keo Ca Lake, Hiền Ninh Commune, Sóc Sơn District, it's just 40 km from Hanoi's center, making it an easily accessible spot. Visitors can choose from various transportation options like cars, motorbikes, or buses.

Famous for its architectural complex, Việt Phủ Thành Chương preserves a wealth of historical value, encompassing 30 structures reflecting Vietnam's rich heritage from the past centuries. As you wander around the expansive grounds, you’ll feel as if the history of Vietnam comes to life around you.

Việt Phủ Thành Chương has been featured in renowned international publications such as The New York Times and Herald Tribune. It’s essentially a private museum created by the famous artist Thành Chương, showcasing the essence of Vietnam’s culture, architecture, and art within an 8,000 square meter space.

Here, visitors can admire the rural beauty of northern Vietnam from centuries ago. The blend of ancient and modern architecture, coupled with thousands of cultural artifacts from the Đinh, Lý, Trần, and Lê dynasties, makes Việt Phủ an attractive cultural site close to the city.

Inside the complex, apart from the historical architectural structures, there is a restaurant offering a variety of Vietnamese dishes like nem, bún riêu, bánh đa, bánh đúc… Visitors can also shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs. In the Long Đình theatre, you can enjoy a water puppet performance performed by skilled artisans.

Address: Hiền Ninh, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

The Sóc Sơn Gióng Temple Complex is located in the Vệ Linh mountain range – also known as Sóc Mountain, in Vệ Linh village, Phù Linh commune, Sóc Sơn district, Hanoi. It's approximately 34 km from downtown Hanoi. The origins of the complex trace back to a small shrine dedicated to the legendary hero, Đổng Thiên Vương, and a Non Nước Pagoda built during the reign of King Đinh Tiên Hoàng.

During the struggle against the Song Dynasty, King Lê Đại Hành and his generals came here to pray for the blessing of Saint Gióng. Following a great victory, the king returned to offer thanks and ordered the carving of a statue of the saint, which led to the construction of a majestic temple, later named Phù Đổng Thiên Vương Temple. This site was recognized as a National Historical Relic in 1962.

The temple honors Saint Gióng, one of Vietnam's Four Immortals in folk belief. On the peak of Sóc Sơn, there is a large footprint of the mythical hero, as well as traces of his iron-hoofed horse, marking the spot where he shed his armor and ascended to the heavens. These mystical traces remain visible to this day, and the temple has been rebuilt several times while maintaining its spiritual significance. Surrounding the temple are several other mountains, including Độc Tôn, Đại Thính, Hòn Ngọc, and Thanh Lãm, with a stream known as Suối Xe passing by.

Every year, on the 6th day of the first lunar month, the Gióng Temple hosts a grand festival where pilgrims from all over gather to offer incense and honor the legendary hero.

Address: Phù Linh, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi