Along with making improvements to the local infrastructure, officials in Ha Tay are also making changes to fee structures in preparation for the event.
Visitors formerly paid VND35, 000 ($2.2) for a tour package that included a return boat ticket and entry to the Huong Pagoda. Out of that total package price, VND22, 500 ($1.4) went toward the entry fee with the remaining VND12, 500 (roughly $1) going to boat operators.
This year, the entrance fee will still be VND22,500 ($1.4) but the price of a return boat ticket will increase to VND20,000 ($1.25) . Both fees will be applied equally to local Vietnamese and foreign visitors.
“The pricing of boat tickets in the past did not accurately reflect the boat operator’s costs. The fare has been increased to remedy that situation, increase the quality of service and protect the operators from fluctuations in ticket sales”, explained the Head of the Huong Son Relic’s Management Board.
The boat ticket will be increased from this year, the head noted.
More than VND10 million ($625) has also been invested into infrastructure upgrades in the area, including the enlargement of roads to eliminate traffic jams, dredging of the Yen Spring, planting of trees along roadsides, and building new rest-room facilities.
This year, the People’s Committee of the province has delegated the My Duc District to organize the Festival. “My Duc district is now ready for the festival”, said Le Van Sang, Standing Deputy Chairman of the People’s Committee of My Duc District and Head of the Festival’s Board.
The Huong Pagoda Festival usually takes place on the sixth day of the lunar New Year in My Duc district and lasts for three months.
Last year, more than 130,000 pilgrims took part in the festival.
The Perfume Pagoda, located in Ha Tay province more than 65 kilometers from Hanoi, is a popular tourist destination for both foreigners and Vietnamese.
(Liberated Saigon)
Vietnamese
