My Son Sanctuary is one of the most amazing historical sites in Vietnam, but visiting it takes a bit of planning. When I first heard the name, I thought it was just a small, quiet spot; but I was totally wrong! It’s a large, fascinating complex with so much to see. In this part, Huracars will share some simple tips and my own experience to help you plan your trip smoothly and enjoy it to the fullest.
What Is My Son Sanctuary and Why It’s Important
Located just 40 kilometers southwest of Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary is a cluster of over 70 ancient temples built between the 4th and 13th centuries by the Champa Kingdom. These temples were dedicated mainly to the Hindu god Shiva, who was worshipped here under the local name Bhadreshvara.
For centuries, this valley was the spiritual and political heart of the Cham civilization, a thriving kingdom that once ruled much of Central Vietnam. Because of its deep historical and cultural significance, UNESCO recognized My Son as a World Heritage Site in 1999.
The combination of Hindu mythology, Cham architecture, and Vietnamese landscape makes My Son an extraordinary place to explore.
The History of My Son Sanctuary
The story of My Son begins in the 4th century, when the Champa kings built the first temples to honor Shiva. Over the next 900 years, new rulers added more towers, each one grander than the last. These structures were not just temples, they were also royal burial sites and ceremonial centers for coronations and rituals.
The Champa Kingdom flourished through trade and cultural exchange, absorbing artistic influences from India and later the Khmer Empire. Sadly, the site suffered heavy damage during the Vietnam War, when U.S. airstrikes destroyed several temples. Even now, you can still see bomb craters scattered among the ruins — a haunting reminder of modern history layered atop the ancient.
Location and How to Get to My Son Sanctuary
You’ll find My Son nestled deep in a forested valley in Duy Phu commune, Quang Nam Province. It’s about 40 km from Hoi An, or roughly 60 km from Da Nang; making it an easy half-day trip from either city. You can visit My Son Sanctuary from Da Nang or Hoi An by car for more convenience.
There are several ways to reach it:
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Private Car: This is my favorite option. It’s convenient, comfortable, and you can stop along the way for photos or local coffee. A private car from Hoi An to My Son takes about 1 hour. If you stay in Hue and have plan to Hoi An and visit My Son, book a private car with us to explore this holly land.
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Motorbike: For those who love the open road, rent a motorbike and follow the scenic countryside route. The ride is peaceful and offers glimpses of rural life — rice paddies, buffalos, and mountains.
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Guided Tour: Many Hoi An tours include My Son as a morning or afternoon excursion. If you prefer not to drive, this is the easiest way. I once joined a small sunrise tour, and watching the first light hit the ancient bricks was magical.
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Shuttle Bus: Budget-friendly and convenient, but less flexible.
For more travel ideas in the area, check out this comprehensive guide to Hoi An — it’s full of practical tips and personal stories.
What to See Inside My Son Sanctuary
Walking through My Son Sanctuary feels like flipping through a living history book. The temples are divided into groups, making it easier to explore and understand how the architecture changed over time.
Main Clusters: Groups B, C, and D
These groups show the golden age of Cham architecture from the 10th to 12th centuries. They’re the best-preserved and most impressive parts of the sanctuary — you should spend most of your time here.
- Group B5: Once used as a storehouse, this temple still stands strong. I love its detailed sandstone carvings, which show the incredible skill of Cham builders.
- Structure C1: One of the tallest and most photographed towers. Its carvings are beautifully detailed and worth a close look.
Restoration Area: Group A
This section carries a more emotional story. It was heavily damaged during the 1969 bombing but is now being restored by Indian experts.
- A1 Temple: Once the tallest tower (about 28 meters), it now stands in ruins. Even so, it reminds visitors how magnificent the Champa temples once were.
Smaller and Quieter Areas: Groups E, F, and G
These clusters are older and less crowded. They give a glimpse of how the jungle slowly reclaimed the temples over time. If you enjoy peaceful walks and hidden corners, this area is a lovely way to end your visit.
Architecture and Construction Techniques
What makes this Sanctuary truly special is its unique brick architecture. Unlike the stone temples of Angkor Wat or Borobudur, the Cham builders used fired red bricks; so precisely fitted that no mortar was needed.
To this day, researchers still debate how they bonded the bricks so perfectly. Some believe natural resins or special glues were used. Others say the secret lies in the way they fired the bricks before construction.
The temples feature:
- Red brick towers with curved roofs symbolizing mountains.
- Sandstone sculptures of gods and mythical creatures.
- Decorative reliefs showing battles and rituals.
Despite centuries of erosion and war, the craftsmanship still shines through. It’s a masterpiece of both art and engineering.
Visiting Information
If you’re planning your visit, here are the basics you’ll need to know:
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Entrance Fee: 150,000 VND for adults, 30,000 VND for children (under 5 enter free)
- Average Visit Duration: 2–3 hours
Check out our post to learn about the top things to do in My Son.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
Here are some personal tips to make your trip smooth and memorable:
Before You Go
- Check the weather: Avoid heavy rain seasons (October–December).
- Book your ticket early if visiting during public holidays.
- Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll walk on uneven paths.
During Your Visit
- Dress appropriately: Cover shoulders and knees out of respect.
- Bring a bottle of water and sunscreen. It gets hot, especially around noon.
- Wear a hat or bring an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun.
- Go early morning: You’ll enjoy peace, cool air, and soft golden light.
- Respect the site: Don’t climb on temple walls or touch carvings.
- Hire a local guide: They tell amazing stories about the kings, gods, and meanings behind the carvings.
Best Time to Visit My Son Sanctuary
The best time to visit My Son is during the dry season, from February to April. The weather is warm, sunny, and less humid — perfect for walking around the ancient ruins. If you visit in the early morning (6–9 am) or late afternoon (3–5 pm), you can avoid the crowds and the strong heat.
During the rainy season (October to January), the air is cooler, but sudden showers are common. It’s still possible to visit, but be sure to check the weather forecast before you go. To make your trip easier, book a private car from Da Nang airport to Hoi An, which can stop at My Son along the way – a convenient and comfortable option for travelers.
Comparing My Son Sanctuary to Other Ancient Sites
Many travelers compare My Son Sanctuary to Angkor Wat in Cambodia — but they’re very different. While Angkor impresses with its size, My Son charms with intimacy. It’s smaller, quieter, and easier to explore in just a few hours.
If you’re into history, you might also visit Tra Kieu or Indrapura, two other ancient Cham sites nearby. But My Son remains the heart of Cham culture – the one you shouldn’t miss.
Cultural Significance and Modern Value
The Cham people were master builders, sailors, and traders. Today, their descendants still live in Central and Southern Vietnam, preserving their language, music, and traditions. Visiting My Son is not just about seeing ruins — it’s about connecting with a living culture.
As tourism grows, preservation becomes more vital. UNESCO and local authorities continue to restore damaged temples and improve access. I felt proud knowing that visiting responsibly contributes to these efforts.
Why My Son Sanctuary Should Be on Your Vietnam Trip
For me, My Son is more than just a destination – it’s a journey through time. You walk among ancient ruins built by a once-powerful kingdom, surrounded by nature and silence.
It’s smaller and quieter than other famous sites like Angkor Wat, but that’s exactly what makes it special. You can take your time, breathe, and really connect with the past.
Whether you love history, photography, or simply want to see something unique, My Son is a must-visit stop in Central Vietnam.