
My Son Sanctuary
Explore the awe-inspiring ancient Hindu temple complex of the Champa Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

My Son Sanctuary
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the awe-inspiring ancient Hindu temple complex of the Champa Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
"These stones have seen what we never will, a truly timeless history."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
Bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen. The sun is intense! :umbrella: :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Temple Ruins
Throughout the sanctuary
Explore centuries-old brick and stone temples, remnants of the once-great Champa Kingdom. Each structure whispers tales of a lost civilization.
Intricate Champa Carvings
On temple walls and structures
Marvel at detailed reliefs depicting deities and daily life, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the Champa artisans.
Apsara Dance Performance
Performance stage near the entrance
Witness a captivating Apsara dance show, a traditional Cham performance that adds a cultural dimension to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Enhance Your Experience with a Guide
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
Bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen. The sun is intense! :umbrella: :sunwithface:
Consider a Guided Tour
Local guides offer invaluable historical context. Book in advance or upon arrival. :bustsinsilhouette:
Explore with the My Son App
A self-guided option with in-app purchase for QR code content. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
Bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen. The sun is intense! :umbrella: :sunwithface:
Consider a Guided Tour
Local guides offer invaluable historical context. Book in advance or upon arrival. :bustsinsilhouette:
Explore with the My Son App
A self-guided option with in-app purchase for QR code content. :iphone:
Visit During Off-Peak Hours
Arriving around 3 PM meant fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
My Son Sanctuary is widely praised for its phenomenal historical significance and well-maintained ancient ruins, offering a captivating glimpse into the Champa Kingdom. Visitors appreciate the scenic beauty, the intricate carvings, and the opportunity to learn from local guides. However, some note that the heat can be intense, and the quality of tour guides can vary.
"The place is phenomenal. I would suggest wear comfortable shoes and clothes because you have to walk a lot. The ruins make you wonder of how beautiful this place would’ve been in all its glory! There are lotus ponds adding to its scenic value. However I would appreciate if the tour guides would learn more about this place and its culture. But this trip is worth everything. Highly recommend it to anyone visiting Vietnam. The best part is they also have benches for people to sit and mini cafes for food and water. A very well thought and well maintained."
Nikita Kolhatkar
"We had a great time looking around these beautiful temples. Paths are good and there is a tram for the longest part of the walk. We arrived at 3pm which was not crowded and cooler (although still hot in July!). There were no guides available as the last one had just been booked so maybe go a little earlier if you want a tour guide"
Karen Shakespeare
"Beautiful complex of ancient ruins. Drinks and basic food available to purchase at multiple vendors around the site. Take a tour guide or do the self-guided tour via the My Son app (requires in-app purchase of $5 for the QR code content). Take sun protection and allow at least 1.5 hours. Motorbike parking at the entrance, free or 5,000 VND. Regular and free electric vehicles will transport you from the parking areas to the site."
Richard Metcalfe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
My Son Sanctuary is about 40 km from Hoi An. The most convenient ways to get there are by booking a tour, which often includes transportation, or by hiring a private car or taxi. Motorbikes are also a popular option for independent travelers. The journey typically takes around 50 minutes to an hour.
Yes, My Son Sanctuary is approximately 40-50 kilometers from Da Nang. Many tours depart from Da Nang, or you can arrange private transport. The travel time is similar to coming from Hoi An, around 50 minutes to an hour.
Upon arrival at the parking area, free electric vehicles or trams are available to take you to the main site, covering the longest part of the walk.
Yes, renting a motorbike is a viable option for reaching My Son Sanctuary, offering flexibility. Parking is available at the entrance, usually for a small fee or sometimes free.
Absolutely! Numerous tours are available from Hoi An and Da Nang, often including transportation, a guide, and sometimes even lunch. Booking through platforms like Trip Advisor or GetYourGuide is common.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but generally include entrance fees. Some tours may bundle this cost. It's advisable to check the latest pricing online or with your tour operator.
My Son Sanctuary is typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the official hours before your visit, especially if you plan to arrive very early or late.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets or a tour in advance can save time, especially during peak season. This also ensures you secure a spot with a guide if desired.
Information on specific discounts for My Son Sanctuary is not widely publicized. It's worth inquiring about potential group rates or student/senior discounts if applicable when booking.
The entrance ticket typically grants access to the archaeological site. Guided tours and the My Son app content may incur additional costs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
My Son Sanctuary features ancient Champa temple ruins, intricate carvings, and a historical performance area. You can explore the various temple clusters, learn about the Champa Kingdom, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Yes, the site is designed for walking tours with well-maintained paths. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended due to the extensive grounds and uneven surfaces.
Hiring a local guide is highly recommended to understand the history and significance of the ruins. Guides can be arranged at the entrance or as part of a pre-booked tour.
The Apsara dance is a traditional Cham performance that often takes place at My Son Sanctuary. It's a cultural highlight that showcases ancient Cham artistry.
Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the sanctuary thoroughly, especially if you plan to take a guided tour or attend the Apsara dance performance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are mini cafes and vendors selling drinks and basic food items around the site. It's a good idea to bring your own water, especially during hot weather.
Dining options are limited directly at the sanctuary. Most visitors eat in Hoi An or Da Nang before or after their visit. Some tours may include lunch.
Bringing your own water and snacks is generally permitted, but it's important to be respectful of the historical site and dispose of any waste properly.
Food options at the sanctuary are typically basic. For specific dietary needs, it's best to dine in Hoi An or Da Nang where a wider variety of restaurants are available.
While dining options are limited at the sanctuary, in Hoi An, you can try local specialties like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings. Banh Mi is also a popular street food.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient temple ruins themselves offer incredible photographic opportunities. Look for unique angles among the brick structures and capture the intricate carvings. The surrounding lush greenery also provides a beautiful backdrop.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout My Son Sanctuary. However, be mindful of any specific restrictions in certain areas or during cultural performances.
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, offers the best light for photography. The soft light enhances the textures of the ruins and creates a magical atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and cultural sites to preserve their integrity and for safety reasons. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wide shots of the ruins and details of the carvings. A wide-angle lens can be great for the expansive views. Consider a polarizing filter to manage glare on stone surfaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the ruins themselves are fascinating, keep in mind that the terrain can be uneven, so strollers might be challenging. Opt for a carrier if you have very young children. The Apsara dance performance can also be a captivating experience for kids, offering a glimpse into traditional culture. Plan your visit for the cooler parts of the day to ensure everyone stays comfortable and energized.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider the self-guided option using the My Son app if you want to learn about the history without the cost of a private guide. While guides enhance the experience, the sheer visual impact of the ruins is still significant even without detailed explanations. Visiting during off-peak hours can also mean fewer crowds, potentially leading to a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History of My Son Sanctuary
The Champa people were skilled artisans and engineers, evident in the intricate carvings and the enduring construction of the temples. The site was known as the "City of Gods" and was a center for religious ceremonies and royal events. The complex comprises over 70 structures, including temples, sanctuaries, and tombs, each with its own significance. The preservation efforts at My Son aim to protect these invaluable remnants of history for future generations.
Visiting My Son Sanctuary is like stepping back in time. The atmosphere is imbued with a sense of mystery and reverence. The sheer scale of the ruins and the detailed artistry on display are awe-inspiring. It's a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual depth of the Champa Kingdom, offering a profound historical and cultural experience for visitors.
Navigating My Son Sanctuary
For those who prefer a self-guided experience, the My Son app offers an option with QR code content for a small fee, providing information as you explore. Free electric vehicles or trams are available from the parking area to the main entrance of the sanctuary, making the initial approach more accessible. The site is well-organized with clear pathways and benches for resting. Basic amenities like water and snacks are available for purchase at vendors scattered throughout the complex.
When planning your visit, consider the weather. My Son can get extremely hot, especially during midday. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the most intense heat and larger crowds. The golden hour light during these times also creates a magical ambiance for photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit