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Dec 25, 2023 / 07:12

Gorgeous blooming of water lilies on the outskirts of Hanoi

Early Winter is the most scenic time of the year for sightseeing at the water lily stream on the outskirts of Hanoi.

Magnificent purple water lilies are flowering along Yen Stream, which leads to the Huong Son Scenic Area in the southwest of the capital. People in Hanoi don't seem to mind traveling 60 km from downtown Hanoi to visit Yen Stream just to see the flowers in bloom. 

Riding the Yen River is the only way to contemplate the sights. Photo: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times

Sitting on a wooden boat and watching the scenery is well worth the trip of 60 km.

Vibrant purple water lilies color the whole of the stream in pink, covering the entire surface of the Yen stream and adorning the landscape.

 

Water lilies often bloom at dawn, rising 10-20 centimeters above the water. After 9 am, their petals slowly close.

Visitors must get up early to come to Yen Stream between 6 and 9 am to see the water lilies in full bloom and admire the most beautiful moment of the flowers.

By spending around VND100,000 (US$4.3) to VND300,000 ($13), visitors can rent a boat with a driver to explore the beautiful scenery of the Canary River and the water lilies.

The vibrant flowers and charming local women in Ao dai [the traditional Vietnamese long dress] highlight the beauty of the natural landscape of Huong Son Scenic Area.

In contrast to the busy atmosphere of Spring and Summer, the scenic area is tranquil with the breathtaking beauty of pink and purple water lilies in winter.