New Fee Keeps Photo Crews Away from HCMC's Independence Palace

The Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh City had fewer photo crews on August 12. This made it easier for tourists to take pictures and walk around.

There were only a few people with cameras and tripods. They did not take up too much space, so tourists could easily access popular spots.

Tourists took photos at the palace on August 12, 2026.

A new fee started on August 1. It costs VND500,000 for individual photo shoots, like birthdays or graduations.

Groups of up to eight people must pay VND1.5 million for outdoor shoots or VND3 million for both indoor and outdoor areas.

Commercial productions need to make special arrangements with the palace administration.

There was a monthly package for VND10 million, but it was cancelled.

A security guard, Mai Quang Huy, said large photo crews used to block walkways and leave trash behind.

Now, there are fewer big groups, making it easier for normal visitors.

Ha Vy, a frequent visitor, said the palace felt more pleasant on August 12.

She used to see many groups taking pictures and being loud, but now it's better.

Ha Vy supports the photography fee to protect the space for regular visitors.

Rahul Sharma, a tourist from India, brought a camera and found the security guards helpful.

He took a few photos and continued his tour without disturbing others.

Nhat Bao, a wedding photographer, no longer takes clients to the palace due to the fees.

He has to adjust his pricing when changing locations.

Nhat Bao said his crew has many people and accessories, so the extra fees would double his price.

If clients want to shoot at the palace, they must pay the additional fees.

A group of Indian tourists visited the Independence Palace on August 12, 2026.

The palace had over 60,000 visitors between August 1 and 12, and sold 89 photography permits.

The management team has security guards to monitor the grounds and remind visitors to follow the new rules.

The Independence Palace is a famous historical landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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