Explore My Son Sanctuary: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam

Overview of My Son Sanctuary

For more than 400 years, My Son Sanctuary was mostly forgotten. It was rediscovered in 1898 by the French, who later conducted in-depth studies of the site.

Who would’ve known My Son would be a major heritage celebrated until now.

History

The earliest appearance of My Son Sanctuary dates back to the 4th century AD. Construction began under the reign of King Bhadravarman of the Champa Kingdom, who ruled from 380 until 413, and periodically continued until the 13th century under subsequent kings. The location of My Son Sanctuary was strategically chosen in a lush valley surrounded by mountains, which was associated with the divine.

The earliest appearance of My Son Sanctuary dates back to the 4th century. Source: Flickr

My Son Sanctuary was a significant religious and ritual site dedicated to Shiva, also known as Mahadeva – one of the supreme deities in Hinduism, along with Vishnu and Brahma. It also served as the burial place of kings and religious leaders.

The original temples built by Bhadravarman were primarily constructed from wood, such as timber logs. Tragically, the complex was destroyed by a massive fire in 535. It took several centuries for the sanctuary to evolve into the form we see today.

My Son Sanctuary was a significant religious and ritual site dedicated to Shiva. Source: Flickr

In the 15th century, the Champa Kingdom abandoned My Son Sanctuary after losing their northernmost territory to the Viet. The most recent notable Cham artifact at My Son Sanctuary is a pillar inscription from a king, dated to the year 1243.

My Son’s Architecture

The architecture of My Son Sanctuary showcases the Champa Kingdom’s sophisticated design and engineering. The complex originally comprised 71 temples and towers, arranged in 8 clusters with a diameter of about 2 kilometers. Yet, only about 20 remain intact, having survived natural disasters and war-related destruction.

The structures vary in size and design, with the main temples used for worship and auxiliary buildings serving as repositories for ceremonial objects. Notable features of My Son Sanctuary include the central temple tower, reaching 25 meters in height, and the nearby Museum of Cham Sculpture, which displays various Cham artifacts.

My Son Sanctuary showcases the Champa Kingdom’s sophisticated design and engineering. Source: UNESCO

The structures, made primarily of red bricks and sandstone, are adorned with intricate carvings of deities, mythical creatures, and floral patterns.

A major mystery lies in the construction technique: the bricks were laid without visible mortar, and their bond remains strong after centuries. This craftsmanship, combined with the site’s strategic placement, has allowed the complex to endure time.

Intricate stone carvings of Apsara dancers. Source: UNESCO

One hypothesis suggests that a special tree resin was used as a glue to bind the bricks together. Another proposes that a sticky mortar made from the same clay as the bricks was used. Regarding the decorative carvings, they could have been made directly onto the finished bricks instead of being made first before the bricks were fired.

To this day, how it was done remains not fully understood.

Conservation

Conservation of My Son Sanctuary began in the early 20th century after, as mentioned earlier, it was rediscovered by the French. However, the site suffered significant damage during World War II (1939-1945), the First Indochina War (1946-1954), and especially the Vietnam War (1955-1975), when heavy bombing destroyed many structures.

It was claimed that the majority of the structures in My Son Sanctuary were destroyed by US bombing within only a single week during the Vietnam War.

Despite this, restoration efforts have been, once again, ongoing since 1975, after Vietnam had earned their glorious victory in the war. Vietnamese and international teams have collaborated to preserve the remaining temples and towers, using modern techniques while absolutely respecting the site’s historical authenticity.

Conservation of My Son Sanctuary began in the early 20th century. Source: Flickr

Conservation work for My Son Sanctuary includes clearing vegetation, stabilizing structures, protecting artifacts, and mitigating risks from flooding and humidity.

However, challenges persist, including unexploded ordnance in surrounding areas, which limits archaeological exploration. That said, these initiatives made by the local authority highlight the commitment to preserving My Son’s heritage for future generations while addressing the complex challenges posed by both nature and history.

Recognition

My Son Sanctuary has received significant recognition for its cultural and historical value. In 1999, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, acknowledging its status as an exceptional example of Champa civilization and Hindu architecture and art.

UNESCO granted My Son Sanctuary this recognition based on the following criteria:

• Criterion (ii): The My Son Sanctuary is an exceptional example of cultural interchange, with an indigenous society adapting to external cultural influences, notably the Hindu art and architecture of the Indian sub-continent.
• Criterion (iii): The Champa Kingdom was an important phenomenon in the political and cultural history of Southeast Asia, illustrated by the ruins of My Son.

A stone slab featuring historical inscriptions written in Sanskrit and Cham languages. Source: UNESCO

The site is now being celebrated for its rich history, architectural ingenuity, and spiritual significance. Thanks to its major recognition, My Son Sanctuary has also become a renowned tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world.

Best time to visit My Son Sanctuary

Since My Son Sanctuary is located in Quang Nam Province, the ideal period of time for a visit to the site depends on the weather conditions of the region.

Like any other province in Vietnam, Quang Nam has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons. The wet season (from August to December) is cool and overcast. Meanwhile, the dry season (from January to July) is hot and occasionally cloudy. Over the year, the temperature typically ranges from 19°C to 35°C. The hottest month of the year in Quang Nam is June, while the coldest month is January.

In terms of rain, the chance of wet days in Quang Nam varies dramatically in a year. In the wet season, there is a 34% chance of a day being a wet day. The month with the most wet days in Quang Nam is October, with an average of 18 days and an average rainfall of 17.5 inches. The month with the least rain is February at 0.5 inches.

According to the tourism score by Weather Spark, the best time to visit Quang Nam to explore My Son Sanctuary is from late December to late March.

How to get to My Son Sanctuary

To reach My Son Sanctuary, travelers can first arrive in Da Nang via air, train, or bus. Da Nang International Airport connects major domestic cities and international destinations, while trains and buses offer convenient options for travelers from nearby provinces.

From Da Nang, My Son is about 40 kilometers away, and the journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Visitors can travel by car, motorbike, or join guided tours. Private cars or taxis are comfortable options, costing about 600,000 to 800,000 VND for a round trip. Motorbikes offer flexibility and adventure but require navigation skills.

From Da Nang International Airport, My Son Sanctuary is about 40 kilometers away.

Alternatively, many half-day My Son Sanctuary tours from Da Nang and Hoi An Vietnam include transportation, often with hotel pickup and dropoff. Tours from Hoi An are generally less expensive due to the closer distance, while Da Nang pickups may cost additional fee. Joining a tour gives visitors peace of mind and ensures a seamless visit.

What to do in My Son Sanctuary

A visit to My Son Sanctuary takes people on a captivating journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s what you can expect during your visit:

1. Explore ancient temples and towers

Purchase a ticket at the entrance gate and board a shuttle bus that takes you to the main site. The sanctuary spans a 2-kilometer area, and the structures are scattered throughout, so prepare for a leisurely walk lasting about an hour or more.

Designated trails and paths guide you through the lush surroundings, ensuring you don’t miss any of the incredible architectural highlights. Following these paths is essential to preserve the ancient ruins and to experience the site in its entirety.

The sanctuary spans a 2-kilometer area and the structures are scattered throughout. Source: Flickr

As you explore, you’ll encounter magnificent towers, temples, and artifacts with their own unique design and purpose. There are bilingual information boards that provide insights about most major items, allowing you to learn more about the site.

2. Learn about Cham culture and history

My Son Sanctuary isn’t just a collection of temples; it’s a window into the rich history of the Champa Kingdom. Informational boards, museum exhibits, and local guides can answer whatever questions you have about the site.

The temples were primarily dedicated to Hindu deities, including Shiva, reflecting the Champa Kingdom’s deep connection to Indian culture. You’ll learn about the Cham people’s architectural techniques, spiritual practices, and daily life.

The temples reflect the Champa Kingdom’s deep connection to Indian culture. Source: Flickr

Understanding the history and purpose behind these structures adds depth to your visit, turning a leisurely walk into a meaningful cultural experience.

3. Attend traditional Cham performances

A highlight of the visit to My Son is the opportunity to give your eyes and ears to traditional Cham performances, typically held near the entrance area or within the sanctuary itself.

Local dancers performing the Apsara. Source: Flickr

These performances feature traditional music, dance, and vibrant costumes. The Apsara dance, inspired by ancient Hindu mythology, is a common performance in My Son Sanctuary and is particularly enchanting.

Performances can be held within the sanctuary itself. Source: Flickr

These shows usually last 15 to 20 minutes and are included in your ticket, making them a great start to immerse yourself in the cultural legacy of the site.

4. Photography

An ordinary visitor to My Son Sanctuary can turn into a photography enthusiast.

A mostly intact temple tower makes a great photography backdrop. Source: Flickr

The site set against a backdrop of lush greenery and rugged hills provide opportunities for stunning shots. The intricate carvings on the temples, the vibrant hues of the bricks, and the interplay of light and shadow create dramatic compositions.

Small details like this decorative carving of a mythical creature also allow for excellent snapshots. Source: UNESCO

Whether you’re capturing the grandeur of the main temples or focusing on smaller details like the decorative carvings, there are loads of great angles. Sunrise or early morning visits provide the best lighting for photography while avoiding the crowds.

5. Buy local handicrafts and souvenirs

Before leaving, don’t forget to browse the small shops and stalls near the entrance. These vendors offer an array of local handicrafts and souvenirs, including handmade textiles, pottery, and replicas of Cham sculptures. Purchasing these items not only provides a tangible memory of your visit but also supports the local community.

Tips for visiting My Son Sanctuary

Maximize your visit to My Son Sanctuary with these practical tips, ensuring a comfortable, respectful, and enriching experience.

• Arrive early or late: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The cooler temperatures and softer lighting enhance the experience and make it more pleasant for walking and photography. Arriving during these times also helps you avoid the busiest crowds.
• Wear comfortable footwear and clothes: Exploring My Son Sanctuary involves prolonged walking, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are essential. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, especially in the warmer months, to keep you cool while navigating the site’s outdoor areas.
• Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and water: The tropical environment of My Son can attract insects, so bring insect repellent to stay comfortable. Sunscreen is a must to protect against the strong sun, and carrying water ensures you stay hydrated while exploring the expansive site.
• Respect the site: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son Sanctuary holds cultural and historical significance. Avoid touching or climbing the structures, and follow the marked paths to preserve the area. Dispose of trash responsibly and avoid making noise
• Take a guided tour: An English-speaking guided tour enhances your visit by providing in-depth knowledge. Your guide can share fascinating stories and insights that may not be apparent on your own, making the experience more enriching and memorable.

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