Top 10 Famous Tourist Spots in Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

This is a familiar name, and it is one of the most beloved tourist destinations in Sóc Sơn, especially among young travelers. Ham Lon Mountain is located in Sóc Sơn District, about 40 km from the center of Hanoi. Known as the 'roof of the capital', it stands at a height of 462m. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, this area offers plenty of beautiful views for you to explore. The path to the top is somewhat challenging, but the sense of achievement when you reach the summit makes it all worthwhile.

There are two main routes to the summit. The first route is a relatively flat trail, easy to follow and free from dense foliage, taking about 2 to 2.5 hours. The second route follows a stream, offering more challenges for those who love adventure and exploration. With streams, waterfalls, moss-covered rocks, and wild bushes, this path adds a touch of thrill to your journey.

The peak of Ham Lon Mountain features Nui Bau Lake and Sim Flower Hill. Here, visitors can enjoy various activities such as camping, bonfire gatherings, swimming, and tasting delicious local food. It truly is an ideal destination for those who love adventure and exploration.

Address: Ham Son, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Price List for Services at Ham Lon:

• Motorbike parking: 15,000 VND/motorbike
• Tour guide: 250,000 - 450,000 VND
• Tent rental: 70,000 VND/tent for 2 people; 100,000 VND/tent for 4 people
• Overnight bonfire: 150,000 VND/wood bundle, 10,000 VND/kg charcoal

The next destination on your journey to explore famous tourist spots in Sóc Sơn is Viet Phu Thanh Chuong. This is an ideal cultural landmark that recreates the cultural legacy of our ancestors. Situated on a sprawling 8,000-hectare land in Sóc Sơn, Viet Phu Thanh Chuong is a massive architectural project that deeply reflects the distinct features of Vietnam’s traditional architecture.

Here, you can admire and experience the architectural beauty of the northern Vietnamese culture that has long since faded. If you have just one or two free days, this destination offers a truly unique experience. The site is vast, with each area representing the beauty of a different historical period.

From the entrance, the site evokes the charm of the ancient Tho Ha village gate. As you venture deeper, you’ll feel as though you're traveling through time, immersing yourself in various eras of Vietnam’s history. You’ll encounter thatched houses, water jars, and moss-covered stones.

In addition to its architectural beauty, Viet Phu Thanh Chuong also preserves the essence of Vietnam's spiritual culture. It features numerous sacred sites like Buddha statues, the Temple of the Great Saint, and the Mother Goddess Shrine, all nestled within the Viet Phu grounds. A visit to Viet Phu Thanh Chuong will make for a joyful and meaningful weekend trip.

Address: Hiền Ninh Commune, Sóc Sơn District, Hanoi

Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Ticket price: 150,000 VND/adult (20% discount for seniors and students, free entry for children under 1.1 meters)

With its perfect setting, where the expansive 150-hectare Dong Quan Lake lies to the front and the majestic Soc Mountain range forms a protective backdrop, Huong Tram Ecological Garden is the ultimate weekend retreat for families and loved ones. Visitors here can completely unwind and immerse themselves in nature, surrounded by a landscape so picturesque it’s often called a 'miniature Da Lat'.

From the garden, it’s only a 5-minute walk to visit Soc Temple, and just 2 km to reach Viet Phu Thanh Chuong. At Huong Tram Ecological Garden, you’ll breathe in fresh mountain air, connect with nature, and enjoy local mountain delicacies, all served by a warm, professional staff.

The culinary experience at Huong Tram Ecological Garden is a key feature, with a wide variety of dishes made from mountain specialties such as wild duck, wild goose, pheasant, quail, and other game birds. All dishes are prepared with fresh, clean ingredients, ensuring both flavor and food safety.

The stunning scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and diverse cuisine will create unforgettable memories for every visitor at Huong Tram Ecological Garden.

Address: Block E, Dong Quan Dam, Quang Tien Commune, Sóc Sơn, Hanoi

Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Phone: 0243 996 7488 - 024 39967499

Average price: 50,000 - 220,000 VND

If you’re looking for a perfect way to relax after a busy workweek, why not spend your weekend at Green Valley - Keo Ca Lake? It promises to offer you memorable experiences.

Green Valley is conveniently located right next to Provincial Road 35, at the foot of the Ham Lon mountain range, just 1 km from Ham Lon Lake. This beautiful area, with its pine forests, cypress trees, meadows, and crystal-clear lake, offers a cool and peaceful atmosphere. The lush greenery and fresh air provide the ideal setting for a relaxing weekend getaway.

Visitors to Green Valley can enjoy a range of activities including fishing at an affordable cost, camping, or participating in team-building events combined with a mountain hike to conquer Hanoi’s “old rooftop.” Each fishing hut offers a private space immersed in nature, where you can enjoy the thrill of catching your own fish and savoring dishes made from your catch.

Address: Hien Ninh Commune, Soc Son District, Hanoi

This serene destination lies at the foot of Ham Lon Mountain. Since it hasn’t yet been developed for tourism, Hoa Son Lake retains its pristine and untouched charm. It’s this very raw beauty that gives the place its unique appeal. The lake is naturally large, nestled right at the base of the mountain. The atmosphere here is refreshing, tranquil, and surrounded by abundant greenery, making it feel incredibly close to nature. Visiting this location, you’ll experience the ultimate sense of calm and peace, far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

This spot draws many visitors who are eager to explore its beauty. One of the most popular activities here is fishing. As a natural lake, the fish have a naturally sweet flavor that farmed fish simply cannot match. A visit here will provide you with the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy a peaceful weekend.

Address: Nam Son Commune, Soc Son District, Hanoi

These two legendary mountains stand right next to the town of Sóc Sơn, on the outskirts of Hanoi. A winding road crosses the Hanoi - Thai Nguyen railway and leads to these two low hills, which are actually two mounds covered by a lush green pine forest. This is Twin Mountains, located in Phù Linh commune, Sóc Sơn district, Hanoi.

The Twin Mountains are a historical landmark from the time of the resistance against French colonialism. The area is also known as the "husband and wife mountains," symbolizing a beautiful, passionate, and touching love. For a long time, the historical site of the Twin Mountains, with its dense network of French colonial forts (around 10), has become a popular tourist destination.

From the road below, one can still see the strongholds, watchtowers, and solid bunkers built by the French. These remnants of a fiery past still stand, despite no longer being capable of causing harm. The road that now leads to the village used to be the "path between the two mountain slopes, where the twin peaks gave the village its name, Twin Mountains."

Address: Phù Linh commune, Sóc Sơn district, Hanoi

Duc Hau Pagoda is located in Duc Hoa commune, Soc Son district, and is part of an ancient heritage site consisting of both Duc Hau Pagoda and Duc Hau Shrine, situated next to each other. It is one of the most visited and revered temples by tourists who come to Soc Son. Visitors to this heritage site can not only admire and capture beautiful images of the ancient architectural styles typical of East Asian design, but they can also learn about the nation's historical stories, satisfy their spiritual needs, and immerse themselves in the cultural activities and festivals that take place here.

The site is nestled in a spacious area with the geomantic configuration of "Minh Duong gathers water, with the left side as the green dragon and the right as the white tiger." Duc Hau Pagoda and Shrine form an exemplary architectural compound showcasing the distinctive style of Vietnamese temples. Inside the shrine, visitors can see intricate carvings that remain well-preserved and are rare in other heritage sites.

Notably, the main hall still retains several finely detailed carvings that tell vivid stories, with graceful lines and artistic styles from the Le and Nguyen Dynasties. Duc Hau Pagoda is a historical, cultural, architectural, and artistic heritage site with national significance.

Address: Duc Hau Commune, Soc Son, Hanoi

This is one of the most well-known tourist destinations and is often the first recommendation for anyone visiting Soc Son. The Soc Son Temple Complex is located about 40km from Hanoi, with easy access for travelers. The Giong Temple of Soc Son is not only connected to the history of Vietnam but is also linked to the legend of Saint Giong, a tale passed down through generations.

The Giong Temple, situated on Soc Mountain in Ve Linh Commune, Soc Son, is a historical site that includes the following: the Presentation Temple, Non Nuoc Pagoda, Upper Temple, Mother Temple (dedicated to the mother of Saint Giong), Đại Bi Pagoda, the Chồng Stone, a stone stele house, and notably, a statue of Saint Giong made from pure bronze. This site has been officially recognized by the government as a National Historical Monument.

The most remarkable feature of this complex is the statue of Saint Giong located at the peak of the Chồng Mountain, made entirely from pure bronze, standing 11.07 meters tall and weighing 85 tons. Unveiled in 2010, this statue is part of several monumental works commemorating the 1000th anniversary of Thang Long. Visitors can either hike up the mountain via a series of steps or take a vehicle to the summit along a path built along the mountain's slope.

The Giong Festival is an annual event held at the Giong Temple of Soc Son to honor the heroic deeds of Saint Giong. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to the temple to witness the various traditional rituals, including offerings, war elephants, betel and areca, incense processions, flower arrangements, the General’s palanquin, and the palanquin of the celestial warrior.

Additionally, the festival features a range of folk games such as tug-of-war, duck-catching, clay pot smashing, Quan Ho singing, traditional volleyball, folk dancing, and traditional martial arts performances. This festival has also been recognized by UNESCO as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity,” representing a beautiful aspect of Vietnam's traditional culture.

Address: Soc Mountain area, Ve Linh Commune, Soc Son, Hanoi

Located within the historic Soc Temple complex, Non Nuoc Pagoda stands as a popular spiritual destination, drawing visitors from all across the country. The pagoda not only preserves the sacred, heroic values of the nation but also offers a tranquil atmosphere, nestled in the vast, awe-inspiring mountains and the clear, serene waters of the surrounding lakes.

Non Nuoc Pagoda is found in Phu Linh commune, Soc Son district, on the outskirts of Hanoi, standing at an elevation of 110 meters above the foot of the mountain. It follows the Northern Buddhist sect. The pagoda is positioned centrally within a crescent-shaped mountain range, resembling a figure seated on a throne, overlooking a pristine lake and the prosperous villages of Vệ Linh commune in Soc Son, Hanoi.

The pagoda is home to a 6.5-meter-tall bronze statue of the Buddha, weighing 30 tons, which is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. With the pedestal included, the statue reaches a total height of 8.4 meters. In 2003, this stunning work of art was recognized as an exceptional achievement, showcasing Vietnam's traditional bronze-casting craftsmanship.

Though it was only completed and inaugurated a few years ago, the Non Nuoc Pagoda has quickly become a beloved spiritual destination in Soc Son. If you find yourself in the area, make sure not to miss the opportunity to visit this magnificent pagoda.

Address: Phu Linh commune, Soc Son district, Hanoi

If you ever feel exhausted, stressed, or just want to escape the pollution and hustle of the city to relax in a quiet place, Dong Quan Lake is the perfect destination for you. A visit to Dong Quan Lake offers an opportunity to experience a wild and natural lifestyle, immersing yourself in nature. The air here is always cool, surrounded by forests and the clear waters of the lake.

Located just about 40 kilometers from central Hanoi, Dong Quan Lake lies within the Soc Son district. With three hills encircling a large lake, the Dong Quan eco-tourism area has retained its pristine, lush beauty. The vast grassy fields here are perfect for group games and physical activities. Bring along bicycles, camping tents, snacks, and cameras to capture the relaxing moments with friends and family.

Additionally, the diverse and rich vegetation around the hills surrounding Dong Quan Lake creates a truly natural landscape. This is a great getaway for young explorers who want to connect with the beautiful nature that lies close to Hanoi.

Address: Quang Tien commune, Soc Son district, Hanoi