My Son Sanctuary

Historic Site in Da Nang

My Son Sanctuary
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Sznyr

My Son Sanctuary, located about 40 kilometers from Da Nang, is one of Vietnam’s most treasured historical and cultural sites. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an ancient complex of Hindu temples built by the Champa Kingdom between the 4th and 13th centuries. Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by dense jungle and mist-covered mountains, My Son was once the spiritual and cultural center for the Cham people, who dedicated the temples to Hindu deities, particularly Shiva. Walking through the sanctuary feels like stepping back in time, as you explore the impressive red-brick towers and intricate stone carvings that have survived centuries of history.

Despite the ravages of time and damage during the Vietnam War, My Son retains a haunting beauty, with much of its architecture still intact. The temples reflect a variety of architectural styles, showcasing the influence of Indian Hinduism on Southeast Asia. Elaborate reliefs and sculptures adorn the temple walls, featuring images of gods, mythical creatures, and detailed iconography that offer insight into the Cham civilization’s artistry and beliefs. Visitors can explore these temples and see the different restoration efforts that have been made over the years to preserve this historic site. Guided tours are available and highly recommended, as they provide context and fascinating historical details about the rise and fall of the Champa Kingdom.

How to get to My Son Sanctuary

Day Tours to My Son Sanctuary

A day trip to My Son Sanctuary is one of the most popular excursions for visitors in Hoi An, and you’ll find plenty of local agencies and drivers eager to arrange it. Booking a guided tour in advance can make your experience smoother, avoiding last-minute offers from drivers and agents. A popular choice, this guided tour (£18, starting at 6:30 am) lets you arrive early at My Son Sanctuary. Visiting early is highly recommended to beat both the crowds and the midday heat, giving you the chance to explore the site’s history and architecture with peace and comfort. Plus, a knowledgeable local guide adds depth to the experience, bringing the rich history of My Son to life in an engaging way.

This early tour often includes morning noodles and coffee at a local spot, along with hotel pick-up and drop-off. With small groups, it’s a personalized way to explore My Son while ensuring you get the most out of your visit. If you’re interested in booking this tour, you’ll benefit from a curated experience and gain an “already booked” reply to any additional offers.

Shared Shuttle Bus from Hoi An and Da Nang to My Son

For those who prefer exploring independently, a shared shuttle is an affordable, flexible option to reach My Son Sanctuary without the need to rent a private vehicle or scooter. These shuttles operate daily from both Hoi An and Da Nang, with tickets booked in advance to secure a spot. The shuttle from Hoi An departs at 8:00 am and arrives at My Son around 9:15 am, with a return trip leaving at noon. A similar schedule runs from Da Nang, departing at 8:00 am and returning by 1:30 pm, allowing for a relaxed morning visit.

This shared option is ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those who want the convenience of set transportation times. Remember to check schedules, as they may vary slightly depending on the season or holidays.

Private Car or Taxi to My Son Sanctuary

If you prefer a more flexible schedule, traveling with kids, or want to combine other sightseeing spots, a private car or taxi to My Son Sanctuary offers the best freedom. Although pricier (around 750,000 VND or $30 USD), this option provides a private driver who can adjust to your pace and even make stops at other attractions like the Marble Mountains, Da Nang, or even Hue. Private cars are easily arranged through hotels or local Grab drivers, and it’s wise to negotiate the fare in advance to avoid surprises.

At the site, you can also choose to hire a private guide (approximately 500,000 VND) to delve deeper into My Son’s history and significance. This option gives you the freedom to explore at your own rhythm and enjoy a tailored experience of My Son Sanctuary and beyond.

The My Son Sanctuary appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Da Nang!

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Visiting My Son Sanctuary

Hours:

6am – 5pm


Price:

150 000 VND ($ 6.7 USD)

Address: My Son Sanctuary, Duy Phú, Duy Xuyên District, Quảng Nam, Vietnam
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