My Son Sanctuary – The Mysterious Champa Heritage in Quang Nam

May 22, 2025
1:44 pm
No Comments

My Son Sanctuary, also known as the Holy Land of My Son, is one of Vietnam’s most remarkable cultural symbols. With over 70 ancient temple towers, it preserves the magnificent legacy of the former Champa Kingdom. Join Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery in discovering this historic architectural wonder and savoring the unique cuisine of Quang Nam.

Table of Contents

Introduction to My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary is not merely a sightseeing destination it is a journey back to the cultural and historical essence of an ancient civilization. Nestled in a lush green valley and surrounded by majestic mountains, this complex of temple towers offers a deeply moving experience of Cham religious beliefs and artistic heritage.

Unique architecture and historical value

My Son Sanctuary is one of Vietnam’s oldest architectural masterpieces, preserving the cultural essence of the Champa Kingdom from the 4th to the 13th century. The temples here were primarily built with red bricks an iconic Cham material that reflects both creativity and engineering excellence far ahead of its time.

What makes these structures truly remarkable is that the bricks were stacked without any binding mortar, yet they have remained resilient for centuries. Despite the effects of war and time, many of the temples at My Son have retained their original character, with only minor cracks as subtle evidence of their ancient construction’s strength.

Among the most notable structures is Tower E1, built in the 8th century, which features a combination of brick and wood and is topped with a kalasa (sacred water vessel), symbolizing Mount Meru in Hindu mythology. Tower A1, dedicated to the god Shiva, stands as a masterpiece of intricate carvings and ancient Sanskrit inscriptions, telling stories of faith and power during the height of the Champa Kingdom.

In 1999, My Son Sanctuary was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site for its exceptional value in cultural exchange and its authentic reflection of the historical evolution of Champa civilization. This recognition marked a new chapter for My Son, driving forward conservation efforts and opening its doors to travelers from around the world.

Unique architecture and historical significance

Visiting and discovery experiences

One of the most memorable experiences at My Son Sanctuary is enjoying traditional Cham dance performances. The graceful Apsara dances, accompanied by distinctive ethnic music, transport you back to the glorious era of the Champa Kingdom.

These performances are usually held on an open air stage within the sanctuary grounds, creating a vibrant artistic atmosphere amid ancient temples. It’s not only a chance to relax but also a meaningful way to gain deeper insight into Cham culture and spiritual beliefs.

Additionally, the on site museum at My Son is a must visit stop. It showcases many valuable artifacts excavated from the site, including stone sculptures, ceramics, and everyday tools used by the ancient Cham people.

After exploring the museum, visitors can stroll along peaceful walking trails, take in the serene natural landscape, and enjoy the fresh mountain air that surrounds the sacred valley.

Where is My Son Sanctuary located?

My Son Sanctuary is located in Duy Phu Commune, Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam Province, approximately 40 kilometers west of Hoi An and about 70 kilometers southwest of Da Nang. Nestled in a narrow valley surrounded by majestic mountains, My Son offers not only historical value but also captivating natural beauty.

From Hoi An, you can reach My Son Sanctuary by taking Tran Hung Dao Street, crossing Cam Kim Bridge, then continuing on Hung Vuong Street to Provincial Road 610. The journey takes around one hour by car or motorbike.

If you’re coming from Da Nang, follow National Highway 1A, then turn onto Route 604 and continue onto Route 610. Road signs along the way will guide you easily to the sanctuary without fear of getting lost.

Upon arrival, you’ll stop at the main entrance to purchase your ticket. From there, an electric shuttle will take you approximately 2 kilometers to the main temple area. From the drop off point, you can explore the ancient towers on foot, scattered throughout the expansive grounds of the My Son Sanctuary.

How much is the entrance fee to My Son Sanctuary?

The current ticket price for visiting My Son Sanctuary is 150,000 VND for international visitors and 100,000 VND for Vietnamese tourists. The ticket includes entrance to the site, electric shuttle service from the main gate to the temple complex, and access to traditional Cham dance performances. Children under 1 meter in height can enter for free, making it convenient for families with young kids.

You can purchase tickets directly at the onsite ticket counter or book in advance through reputable travel agencies and websites. During the peak season (from February to August), booking your tickets in advance is recommended to save time and avoid long queues.

To gain deeper insights into the history and architecture of My Son Sanctuary, you can hire an on-site tour guide for around 200,000 to 300,000 VND per small group. Guides offer detailed explanations, answer your questions, and enrich your overall experience with historical and cultural context.

Local specialty cuisine

This region is famous for its rich Central Vietnamese flavors dishes that are both rustic and refined. Below are some must try local delicacies:

Cao Lau: A signature dish of Hoi An, featuring thick, chewy noodles, slices of pork, fresh herbs, and a flavorful broth. Cao Lau is not only delicious but also a cultural symbol, reflecting the fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese culinary influences.
Mi Quang: A traditional noodle dish with turmeric-infused broth, white rice noodles, and a variety of toppings such as shrimp, pork, boiled eggs, and fresh herbs. It’s often served with crispy rice crackers for added texture and flavor.
Banh Xeo: Crispy golden pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, typically enjoyed with sweet and sour fish sauce. It’s a perfect light snack after a walk around the temple grounds.
Chicken Rice: A simple yet flavorful dish made with rice cooked in chicken broth, shredded chicken, herbs, and a side of ginger fish sauce.

You’ll find small local eateries near My Son Sanctuary serving these regional dishes. If you return to Hoi An after your visit, don’t miss popular spots like Cao Lau Ba Be or Mi Quang Ong Hai to enjoy authentic flavors. Local cuisine is not just a treat for your taste buds it’s an essential part of the cultural journey through Quang Nam.

Travel tips for visiting My Son Sanctuary

A fulfilling trip to My Son Sanctuary depends not only on the beauty of the site itself, but also on how well you prepare from timing and transportation to accommodation choices. This section will provide practical tips to help make your journey to the sacred sanctuary smoother, more convenient, and truly memorable.

How to get there

To reach My Son Sanctuary, you can choose from several transportation options depending on your preferences and budget. Below are detailed suggestions:

Taxi: This is the most convenient option, especially for families or groups of friends. A one way taxi fare from Hoi An to My Son costs around 400,000 VND, and from Da Nang, about 600,000 VND. Be sure to agree on the price in advance or ask the driver to use the meter to avoid overcharging.
Motorbike: If you enjoy the freedom of exploring and want to take in the scenery along the way, renting a motorbike is a great choice. Rental prices in Hoi An or Da Nang range from 100,000 to 150,000 VND per day. The roads to My Son are relatively flat, but make sure to wear a helmet and check the bike carefully before setting off.
Guided tours: Many travel agencies in Hoi An and Da Nang offer all-inclusive tours to My Son Sanctuary. These typically include round trip transportation, entrance tickets, and a guide. Tour prices usually range from 300,000 to 1,000,000 VND per person, depending on the services included, such as meals or stops at additional attractions.
Bus: From Da Nang, you can take bus route number 06 to get to My Son for about 30,000 VND. However, the schedule is not very flexible, so this option is better suited for travelers with more time who are looking for a budget friendly alternative.

Best time to visit

The ideal time to visit My Son Sanctuary is from February to August, when Quang Nam enters the dry season. During this period, there is little rainfall and the temperature ranges from 25°C to 32°C, making it perfect for outdoor exploration.

For the best experience, consider visiting early in the morning (from 6:30 AM when the site opens) or late in the afternoon. This allows you to avoid the intense midday heat and enjoy a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere with fewer tourists.

The rainy season, from September to January, can make the paths slippery and certain areas of the sanctuary more difficult to access. However, if you enjoy the lush, green scenery of the mountains and forests, the rainy season brings its own unique charm to My Son. Be sure to bring an umbrella or a raincoat if you plan to visit during this time.

Additionally, if you have the opportunity, consider visiting My Son Sanctuary during the Katê Festival, which usually takes place in October (the 7th month of the Cham calendar). This is the most important traditional celebration of the Cham people, featuring vibrant rituals, dance performances, and distinctive music. It offers a unique cultural experience unlike anywhere else.

Hotel Royal Hội An Gallery an ideal place to stay when visiting My Son Sanctuary

When planning your trip to explore My Son Sanctuary, Hoi An is an ideal base thanks to its close proximity and wide range of tourism services. Among the many hotels in the area, Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery stands out as a perfect choice for travelers looking to combine relaxation with cultural exploration.

Located in the heart of Hoi An, near the Thu Bon River and the ancient town, Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery offers a luxurious yet culturally rich atmosphere. The guestrooms are elegantly designed, blending modern comforts with classic Vietnamese architectural elements.

With its prime location, high-quality services, and exceptional comfort, Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery is not just a place to stay it serves as a perfect getaway to fully experience the charm of Hoi An and the cultural wonders of My Son Sanctuary.