West Lake, Hanoi

Name: West Lake
Address: Hanoi, Vietnam

#14 among attractions in Hanoi

Natural attraction, Nature, Lake

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Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam, West Lake (Hồ Tây) stands as a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city life. This expansive freshwater lake, the largest in the Vietnamese capital, spans approximately 500 hectares and offers a serene escape for both locals and tourists alike.

With a history that dates back thousands of years, West Lake is not only a natural wonder but also a cultural landmark. It is surrounded by elegant gardens, ancient temples, and a variety of high-end residential areas, restaurants, and hotels. The lake has long been a source of inspiration for Vietnamese poets and writers, and it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of the Hanoian people.

Visitors to West Lake can enjoy a range of leisure activities. A popular option is to rent a bicycle or a scooter and take a leisurely ride around the lake's perimeter, which stretches about 17 kilometers. This path offers stunning views and a chance to observe local life as it unfolds around the water's edge. For those looking to relax, numerous cafes and tea houses provide picturesque settings to enjoy a drink while taking in the lake's tranquil beauty.

West Lake is also home to several significant religious sites, including the Tran Quoc Pagoda, which is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, and the Quan Thanh Temple, dedicated to a revered Taoist god. These sites offer a glimpse into the spiritual and historical aspects of Vietnamese culture.

The lake's environment is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Jogging, fishing, and even paddle boating are common activities that can be enjoyed in the serene setting of West Lake. As the sun sets, the area becomes a popular spot for couples and families to gather, enjoy street food, and watch the sky change colors over the calm waters.

West Lake's charm is not limited to daylight hours. At night, the area transforms with lights reflecting off the water's surface, creating a magical atmosphere. The lakefront buzzes with activity as locals and visitors alike partake in the vibrant nightlife, ranging from quiet lakeside dining to more lively music and entertainment options.

Local name: Hồ Tây Area: 2.05 mi²Elevation: 26 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 21°3'18"N, 105°49'19"E

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Hanoi Vietnam

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Day trips

West Lake – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Presidential Palace, Đền Quán Thánh, Chùa Trấn Quốc, Ba Đình Square.

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French Colonial mansion from the 1900s
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1.3 miSE
11th-century temple with a large statue
Đền Quán Thánh, Hanoi
33 min walk • Đền Quán Thánh, an ancient temple in Hanoi, Vietnam, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and spiritual heritage. This revered site, located near the tranquil waters of Truc Bach Lake, is dedicated to Tran Vu, a principal Taoist god, who is believed...
1.1 miSE
Ancient Buddhist temple in peaceful digs
Chùa Trấn Quốc, Hanoi
28 min walk • Chùa Trấn Quốc, nestled on a small peninsula on the eastern shore of Hanoi's West Lake, is the oldest Buddhist temple in the city, boasting a history that dates back over 1,500 years. This revered site, characterized by its striking architecture and tranquil...
1.5 miSE
Historic square with Ho Chi Minh's tomb
Ba Đình Square, Hanoi
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1.2 miE
21°3'21"N • 105°50'28"E
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1.7 miSE
Imperial citadel from the 11th century
Hanoi Citadel, Hanoi
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1.3 miSE
Lake with a Vietnam War monument
Trúc Bạch Lake, Hanoi
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1.3 miN
21°4'23"N • 105°49'1"E
Công viên Nước Hồ Tây, Hanoi
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1.3 miSE
Park
Presidential Palace Historical Site, Hanoi
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1.3 miNW
Neighbourhood
Tây Hồ District, Hanoi
33 min walk • Tây Hồ is an urban district located on the north side of central Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. The district wraps around the West Lake, one of the largest natural lakes of Vietnam. The district currently has 8 wards, covering a total area of 24.39 square kilometers.
0.7 miE
Temple
Kim Liên Pagoda, Hanoi
20 min walk • The Kim Liên Pagoda ot Kim Liên Temple is a Buddhist temple in Hanoi. The pagoda is built on a strip of silt land by West Lake, then in Nghi Tàm village, today in Quảng An village, Tây Hồ district.