My Son Sanctuary – The Sacred Land of the Chams
The My Son Sanctuary (Thanh dia My Son) is a mesmerizing complex of Hindu temple ruins nestled in a lush green valley, now a key historical attraction of the expanded Da Nang metropolitan area. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son offers visitors a profound look into the artistry and spiritual life of the Champa Kingdom, which flourished in Central Vietnam for over nine centuries (4th to 13th centuries). It is an essential half-day trip for anyone staying in Da Nang or Hoi An.
I. History and Cultural Significance
The Champa Kingdom: My Son was the political and religious center of the Champa Kingdom, which was heavily influenced by Indian Hinduism. The temples were primarily dedicated to the worship of the god Shiva, known locally as Bhadreshvara.
Unique Architecture: Over 70 temples were originally built here, mainly using red brick. The Cham builders mastered a unique, still-mysterious construction technique where the bricks were carved before being fired and joined without visible mortar, showcasing advanced ancient engineering.
War Damage and Preservation: The site endured heavy bombing during the Vietnam War (with the Viet Cong using the area as a base). Restoration efforts, often in partnership with international bodies, are continuously underway to preserve the remaining 20 structures, which represent the finest examples of Cham architecture.
II. Visitor Information & Practical Details
To ensure a smooth visit, here are the essential details, including costs and opening times for the Da Nang to My Son journey:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location (Address) | Duy Phu Commune, Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam (Approximately 1.5 hours from Da Nang and 1 hour from Hoi An). |
| Opening Hours | 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily). |
| Entrance Fee (International Visitors) | 150,000 VND (Includes the entrance fee and a mandatory 2km electric shuttle ride to the main site). |
| Entrance Fee (Children) | Children aged 5-15: 30,000 VND (for the transfer service). Under 5: Free entry. |
| Audio Guide | An audio guide app (Di tich My Son) is available for an additional fee (70,000 VND), highly recommended for a deeper understanding. |
| Contact/Hotline | +84 235 3731 309 (Hotline for the Management Board) |
III. Must-Do Activities and Tips
Watch the Cham Dance Performances: Don’t miss the traditional Apsara dance performances. These cultural shows are typically held daily at fixed times (e.g., 9:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM, and afternoons) in the performance hall near the main entrance/shuttle drop-off point.
Visit the Museum: Before heading to the ruins, stop at the on-site museum for essential historical context, maps, and displays of recovered artifacts.
Getting There from Da Nang: The site is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours drive from Da Nang City Center. Options include:
Guided Tours: The most hassle-free option, often including hotel pickup.
Private Car/Taxi: Offers flexibility for early morning or late afternoon visits.
Bus: Local bus Route #06 runs from Da Nang to My Son (check schedule for latest details).
Best Time for Photos: Sunrise offers the most dramatic and atmospheric lighting for photography.
What to Wear: Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water as the paths are exposed to the sun. Modest clothing is recommended out of respect for the holy site.
