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| A new railway tourism service linking the former imperial city of Hue with Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is scheduled to begin operation on September 1. (Photo: hanoimoi.vn) |
Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnam’s railway operator on August 17 began selling tickets for the HQ1/HQ2 train service, named “Journey to Wonders – World Heritage Sites,” connecting the former imperial capital of Hue with Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in the neighbouring province of Quang Tri.
The approximately 190-km journey takes more than four hours. The trains stop at stations linked to major tourist attractions, including the Complex of Hue Monuments (Hue station), Quang Tri Ancient Citadel (Dong Ha station), Vinh Moc Tunnels (My Trach station) and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Tho Loc station).
The train consists of eight carriages with a total capacity of more than 300 passengers, including five carriages with rotating seats, a 24-seat VIP carriage, a community carriage, and an entertainment and services carriage. Its design draws inspiration from the cultural identity, tourism assets and heritage of Hue and Quang Tri. The stations along the route will feature check-in areas, exhibition spaces and outlets selling One Commune One Product (OCOP) specialties.
Train HQ2 is scheduled to depart Hue station at 7:15 and arrive at Tho Loc station at 11:55. On the return journey, HQ1 train leaves Tho Loc Station at 13:15 and reach Hue at 17:25.
During the first week from August 29 to September 5, the railway operator will offer a 50% discount, bringing ticket prices to between 210,000 - 380,000 VND (8-14.5 USD). From September 6 to December 31, passengers will receive a 15% discount.
Passengers purchasing round-trip tickets after the launch week will receive an additional 10% discount on the return fare. Group travellers, businesses, tourism associations and policy beneficiaries will also be eligible for preferential programmes.
According to Quang Tri province's Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the railway service aims to create a comprehensive and distinctive visitor-centred tourism experience. Rather than serving solely as a means of transport, it will become an integral part of the tourism product, connecting Hue with Quang Tri’s historical, cultural and natural attractions, as well as Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
Localities expect the new service to expand tourism development opportunities, strengthen regional tourism connectivity and promote a greener and more sustainable railway tourism ecosystem across the central region./.
