The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the final resting place for Communist leader Ho Chi Minh. Located within Ba Dinh Square, the imposing mausoleum structure with its large columns and Vietnamese architectural elements maintains the leader’s body in a climate controlled state. A military honour guard stands nearby in the central hall and around the embalmed corpse.
Built in 1975, the building and square with its tomb of Lenin inspiration came from the time of Soviet dominance and the appearance reflects this stark, heavy handed style however the site is fascinating to view in that light. Nearby gardens offer a natural looking refuge and feature an inviting green space. The mausoleum is usually closed in October and November when it is said that maintenance is done on Ho Chi Minh’s body for preservation reasons. The square is still open and the mausoleum can be viewed from the outside during times of closure. When visiting the mausoleum site, guards enforce a strict dress code and there are various rules of conduct to obey. Hats of course must be removed and shorts, mini skirts and sandals are not allowed as more modest clothing is required. Photography is also not allowed.
Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum is located about 2 kilometres northwest of Hoan Kiem Lake and the Hanoi CBD. The mausoleum and Ba Dinh Square are adjacent to the Botanical Gardens. The nearest bus stop is Đối diện Tượng Đài Bắc Sơn located on Hoang Dieu and is served by buses 22, 33, 45 and 50.
