MY SON

Discover Mỹ Sơn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam surrounded by verdant woods. Here, you can explore ornate temples and towers that remind you of the Cham civilisation's magnificent architectural legacy. Moreover, you can also get an insight into Vietnam's diverse cultural fabric, spanning from the 4th to the 14th century, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and an enriching inclusion in Vietnam trip packages.

Tucked away in the peaceful forests close to Hoi An is Mỹ Sơn, an enchanting network of historic temples that carries hints of the Champa civilisation. Encircled by magnificent red-brick towers that bear witness to centuries of history and culture, you are taken back in time as you set out on this spiritual trip. Here

What stuns is the artistry: heated bricks painstakingly put together without mortar and enduring throughout time. You can explore the Mỹ Sơn Museum outside of the temples to get a taste of Mỹ Sơn's rich past. 

As you explore, be mesmerised by the Cham festivals and performances, which are choreographed to honour the legacy of this ancient civilisation. Savour every moment of this all-encompassing experience as you feast on traditional Cham food and pose for photos dressed in traditional costumes.

Highlights

• Explore Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary, an ancient complex that offers insights into the architectural, cultural, and historical significance of the Champa civilisation.
• Take a sunrise tour to experience the spiritual splendour of Mỹ Sơn, tucked away in a peaceful jungle environment, and providing an enthralling trip through time.
• Admire the tower temples embellished with exquisite sandstone bas-reliefs representing the magnificence of Mount Meru and the engineering prowess of the Cham people.
• Experience Cham festivals and performances designed to pay tribute to the rich history of the Champa civilisation.
• Enhance your awareness of Southeast Asia's architectural marvels, by visiting the My Son Museum to learn more about the relics before touring the sanctuary.

How To Reach

Nestled in Thánh địa Mỹ Sơn, Duy Xuyên District, Quảng Nam, Vietnam, Mỹ Sơn awaits your exploration. Here's how you can reach this historical marvel:

1. By Bus: Catch a bus heading towards Duy Xuyên District and disembark at the Mỹ Sơn bus stop, conveniently located near the sanctuary. Mỹ Sơn is just a short walk of 10-15 minutes away from the bus stop, making it an accessible option for travellers.

2. By Car/taxi: If you're driving, Mỹ Sơn is approximately 40 kilometres from Quảng Nam city centre. Take Highway 14 H towards Duy Xuyên District and follow the signs leading to Mỹ Sơn. The journey typically takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. Moreover, Booking a taxi offers you a comfortable and direct route to Mỹ Sơn. Inform the driver of your destination in Duy Xuyên District, and they will take you straight to the entrance of the sanctuary.

Best Time To Visit

Mỹ Sơn can be visited throughout the year, offering its historical wonders to travellers regardless of the season. 

1. Best Day of the Week: Weekdays, excluding weekends, are the ideal times to explore Mỹ Sơn, as they are less crowded. Avoiding weekends ensures a quieter atmosphere, allowing for a more immersive experience amidst the ancient ruins and lush surroundings.

2. Best Time of the Day: For optimal exploration, you can plan your visit to Mỹ Sơn in the afternoon, around 2 PM. This timing allows you to avoid the crowds from morning tours. It also provides a serene ambience to appreciate the historical significance and architectural beauty of the site. Alternatively, you can arrive early in the morning, at around 6 AM, before the influx of tourists from Hoi An for sunrise tours.

Other Essential Information

1. Plan your visit to Mỹ Sơn for the afternoon, around 2 p.m., to avoid the crowds from morning tours. 

2. Alternatively, arrive early in the morning to beat tourists coming from Hoi An for sunrise tours.

3. Enter the museum after purchasing tickets. These provide insightful posters on Mỹ Sơn's history, especially helpful if exploring without a guide as there are no English signs at the temples.

4. After the museum, take the free electric shuttle behind the bridge as it's a 10-minute ride through the lush jungle, saving energy and dropping you near the ruins.

5. Look for guides near the shuttle drop-off; a guided tour costs about 100,000 VND (INR 328 approx).

6. Note that refreshment stalls near the ruins may be closed in the afternoon.

7. Stick to marked paths and avoid venturing into forested areas due to ongoing demining efforts.

8. Opt for a car rental or hire from Hoi An for a comfortable journey to Mỹ Sơn.