West Lake, also known as Ho Tay, is Hanoi’s largest natural lake. It might also be considered a well-known spot in the capital city of Vietnam. Any itinerary to Hanoi ought to include a visit to the West Lake. With its perfect fusion of a depressing lake, gloomy historical neighborhoods, exhilarating activities, and delicious food, the lake has become a popular destination for tourists on Indochina tours. If you’re still not sure what to see and do at Westlake Hanoi, make sure to read this guide all the way through.
The Origin & Size of Hanoi West Lake
The West Lake, which spans 500 hectares and has a beach length of 17 kilometers, is the largest in the capital city of Vietnam. It is situated in the northwest of the city. It was formerly a section of the Red River, which is nearby. Its current placement is a result of frequent erosion and floods.
The West Lake was also known as Xac Cao Pond, Kim Nguu Lake, and Mu Suong Lake. Each of them had a legend attached to it about how the fabled West Lake came to be.
In addition to Vietnamese historical buildings, the West Lake waterfront in Hanoi is home to a large number of Western-style hotels, eateries, and cafes. Many songs, tales, and poetry about Hanoi have referenced the lake because of its allure and historical significance.
Best Things to Do & See in Hanoi West Lake
Try SUP boating in Hanoi West Lake
In addition to taking in West Lake’s picturesque surroundings, tourists should experience Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding, a Hawaiian-inspired water sport.
Although SUP boarding is easier for beginners, it is similar to canoeing and kayaking. On the paddleboard, participants can engage in group activities while standing, sitting, or kneeling. To protect your safety, you are fitted with a life jacket before you paddle.
Check-in Hanoi West Lake’s Flower Valley
Located next to Dam Tri Lotus Pond on Nhat Chieu Street, West Lake Flower Valley has gained popularity as a tourist destination for both foreign and local tourists in Hanoi.
This “flower heaven” offers stunning views over enormous flower fields. On weekends, it’s usually packed. Here are grown a variety of seasonal flowers, such as daisies, violets, sunflowers, chrysanthemums, and Catharanthus roses. When hundreds of flowers are in bloom, late fall to early spring (September to March) is when Ho Tay Flower Valley is most picturesque. Children’s admission to Flower Valley is 80,000 VND, while adult admission costs 120,000 VND.
Walking & Cycling around West Lake in Hanoi
With this relaxing activity, you may explore hidden treasures, take in breathtaking views of the lake, and enjoy the local way of life and food. Some of the best things to do in West Lake are to relax in the beauty of nature, enjoy a cool breeze, and take in the local way of life.
Stroll around Trinh Cong Son Street
The West Lake is roughly 500 meters distant from Trinh Cong Son Walking Street. It is named after a well-known Vietnamese composer. Stretching 900 meters from Alley 431 on Au Co Street to Alley 612 on Lac Long Quan Street, this is Hanoi’s second pedestrian street. Every weekday from 5 p.m. on Friday until 11 p.m. on Sunday, it is open.
There are sixty kiosks modeled after the historic homes of Hoi An and Hanoi along the route. In addition to a wide variety of street meals such as steamed rice, snail noodles, and shrimp cakes, visitors may purchase handicrafts and mementos here.
In addition, Trinh Cong Son’s songs, puppet displays, and traditional Vietnamese music are presented on a large outdoor stage.
Sip a cup of coffee at West Lake in Hanoi
The greatest method to experience local life is to stroll about the lake; yet, many visitors might think that enjoying a cup of coffee while admiring the view is even more appealing.
It is simple to locate coffee cafes with beautiful designs along the West Lake. This location is special because many of these coffee shops have a rooftop space where you can enjoy a clearer view of the lake. Choose a café with a view from among the hundreds of options available here; they can accommodate any kind of budget.
Visit the lotus pond in Hanoi West Lake
A captivating sea of vivid petals appears in certain parts of Hanoi’s West Lake during the blooming lotus flower season in June. There are four large ponds in the lake; one is near the Water Park on the West Lake, while the other three are located on the Northern side. Among the top activities in West Lake is taking pictures of lotus blooms.
This area is home to the well-known lotus variety known as Bach Diep, or 100 petals. The lotus blossoms exhibit a vibrant pink hue, a rich aroma, and a sizable, succulent anther. Their powerful and enduring fragrance renders them a premium component in the creation of Vietnamese lotus tea.
Experience thrilling games at Hanoi West Lake’s Water Park
This bustling and fascinating water park in Hanoi, which occupies a piece of West Lake, draws inspiration from the stunning Greek city of Santorini.
When visiting this park, guests can experience a variety of thrilling slides, such as those designed for solo riders, pairs of riders, and daring souls with mats at a height of 14.5 meters. The wave pool offers powerful waves up to 1.2 meters high and a depth of 3 meters, making it an excellent place to play.
Hanoi West Lake Nearby Attractions
- Tran Quoc Pagoda
- Tay Ho Temple
- Kim Lien Pagoda
- Tao Sach Pagoda
- Quan Thanh Temple
Best Time to Visit West Lake in Hanoi
There are four seasons in Hanoi: summer, fall, winter, and spring. Hanoi and West Lake both have distinct coats that change with the seasons. It may be peaceful in the winter, colorful in the summer, fresh in the spring, and romantic in the fall. As a result, you can visit the lake year-round. You can visit this location in the early morning to take in the clean air and breathtaking view of the dawn, or in the evening to take in the enchanting nighttime environment.
It would be a huge waste to visit Hanoi without making time to visit the West Lake. Its breathtaking natural beauty and profound cultural significance will undoubtedly astound everyone. With any luck, this article’s contents will make your trip to West Lake more enjoyable and easy.
