My Son Sanctuary Tourism: Journey to discover the Cham Pa cultural heritage

1. Introduction to My Son Sanctuary - Quang Nam

My Son Sanctuary was built in the 4th century, is a unique ancient architectural work (Photo source: Collected)

My Son Sanctuary, a World Cultural Heritage site famous for its unique Cham architectural complex in Quang Nam (now Da Nang City). It was discovered in 1885 and recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage in 1995.

Nestled in a lush green valley in Duy Phu commune, Duy Xuyen district, Quang Nam province (old), now the new Da Nang city, My Son Sanctuary is an ancient temple complex that once played an important role in the religious and political life of the ancient Champa kingdom. About 70km from the center of Da Nang city and about 40km from Tam Ky city, this place is a living testament to a brilliant civilization that existed from the 4th to the 13th century.

The entire relic site includes more than 70 temples and towers built mainly of baked bricks, bonded with a unique technique never seen anywhere else, creating a sustainability that almost defies time. The architecture here not only demonstrates the talent of the ancient Cham people but also bears the mark of Hindu culture, creating special artistic, historical and architectural values.

The highlight of visiting My Son Sanctuary is admiring the exquisite sculptures, sacred Hindu statues and ancient inscriptions bearing many messages about the cultural exchange of Southeast Asia. This is not only an attractive tourist destination but also a journey to discover the profound cultural values of Central Vietnam.

2. Directions to My Son Sanctuary

From Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary is located about 42km from Hoi An ancient town. To get here, you can follow Hung Vuong street, then turn onto National Highway 1A and continue straight. This route is quite convenient, especially ideal for tourists who love to travel by motorbike.
From Da Nang: My Son Sanctuary is about 42 km from Da Nang City. To get here, you can take a bus, car, or motorbike to the West.

3. What is special about My Son Sanctuary?

If you are planning to visit My Son Sanctuary, prepare for a journey to discover the brilliant imprints of the ancient Champa civilization. This is a large and unique Cham tower complex, located in the middle of the majestic valley of Quang Nam, recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage.

Mysterious and unique architecture of My Son Sanctuary (image source: collected)

3.1. Tower Cluster A

Tower Group A is the most prominent center in the complex, with Tower A1 reaching 24m high, once considered a masterpiece of Cham temple construction art. Despite being damaged by war, the beauty of the patterns and unique structure of the tower is still quite intact. Next to it are Towers A2, A3, A4 - each tower has a distinct architectural style.

3.2. Tower groups B, C, D

Located to the East, these tower clusters are a living testament to the development of Cham sculpture. Of these, tower B1 is the best preserved, while tower C1 impresses with its unique square shape, reflecting the meticulous construction techniques of the ancient Cham people.

3.3. Areas E, F, G

Strolling through the tower areas in the West and South, visitors will feel the transformation of Cham architectural style through each historical period. This is an ideal destination for those who love ancient architecture and archaeology.

3.4. Cham Cultural Museum

Located right on the site, the museum displays hundreds of valuable artifacts excavated in My Son and surrounding areas. This is an ideal place to gain a deeper understanding of Champa history through sculptures, statues and ancient household tools.

3.5. Cham art performance area

Don’t miss the traditional Cham dance and folk music performances held regularly on weekends and festivals. The graceful dances, colorful costumes and sounds from traditional instruments will take you back to the colorful Cham cultural space.

4. Experiences when visiting My Son Sanctuary

Visiting My Son Sanctuary, you will experience an exciting journey of discovery, immerse yourself in the sacred space and admire unique Cham architectural masterpieces.

Kate Festival - a unique traditional festival of the Cham people (Photo source: Collected)

4.1. Immerse yourself in the ancient Cham Pa cultural space

When choosing to travel to My Son Sanctuary, you will enter a mysterious world of the ancient Champa civilization, which preserves more than 70 ancient temple towers dating from the 4th to 13th centuries. Each tower is a living testament to the sophisticated Cham architectural art with elaborate carvings, sacred statues and valuable ancient steles. This is not only an attractive destination for tourists who love to explore the heritage of the Central region, but also an ideal place to learn more about the ancient Cham culture and the historical imprints still imprinted in each brick and each mysterious relief.

4.2. Discover the ancient Champa civilization

Traveling to My Son Sanctuary is not only a journey to admire the unique ancient Cham architecture but also an opportunity for you to learn more about a civilization that was once brilliant in history. Through the documents, artifacts and images introduced at the tourist information center, visitors will better understand the formation, prosperity and decline of the ancient Champa kingdom. In addition, you can also explore the unique features in the beliefs, sculptures and architectural styles of the Cham people, contributing to explaining why this place is recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage.

4.3. Immerse yourself in the unique Cham culture

When traveling to My Son Sanctuary, visitors not only admire the ancient architectural complex but also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in cultural activities rich in identity. One of the memorable highlights is the Cham Pa art performances with the soft and graceful Apsara dance. Artists in traditional costumes perform enchanting movements to the music of Paranung drums and Saranai trumpets, creating a mysterious and attractive atmosphere.

Near the holy land is the home of the Cham community with long-standing traditional craft villages such as brocade weaving village and Bau Truc pottery village. This is an opportunity for you to learn about cultural life, handicrafts and choose to buy handmade souvenirs bearing the cultural imprint of the Central region.

If you come to My Son in the 7th lunar month, don’t miss the Kate festival – one of the biggest festivals of the Cham people. The festival is not only an occasion to commemorate ancestors and gods but also an opportunity for you to experience the traditional festival atmosphere with activities such as processions, folk dances, worship rituals and many unique folk games.

4.4. Take a leisurely walk in pristine nature

Traveling to My Son Sanctuary is a journey to discover a cultural space hidden in the heart of a lush green valley, surrounded by majestic mountains and vast forests. Visitors can leisurely stroll on trails covered with dry leaves, enjoy the fresh air and listen to the birds chirping in the quiet space. This is an ideal experience for those who love nature and want to find a peaceful place after busy days.

My Son Sanctuary is a precious cultural treasure, preserving the architectural and artistic quintessence of the ancient Cham people. Take the time to explore every corner of this sanctuary for a complete and meaningful visit.

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/du-lich-thanh-dia-my-son-v17676.aspx