My Son Sanctuary
Sacred grounds of the ancient Champa Kingdom

The ancient ruins of My Son Sanctuary tell an extraordinary tale of Vietnam’s past. This remarkable collection of Hindu temples, constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries, represents one of Southeast Asia’s most significant archaeological discoveries.

The temple complex earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1999, recognising its importance to Vietnamese history and global cultural heritage.

Historical significance

The Champa Kingdom established My Son Sanctuary as their religious and cultural centre. These ancient ruins showcase the sophisticated architectural capabilities of the Cham people, who ruled central Vietnam for over 1,000 years.

The temple complex served as the spiritual heart of the kingdom, where Cham rulers conducted ceremonies and made offerings to Hindu deities.

Architectural marvel

The Hindu temples at My Son Sanctuary demonstrate remarkable craftsmanship. Sanskrit inscriptions adorn many structures, providing insights into the religious practices and architectural techniques of the era.

Each building group features unique characteristics of Cham architecture, with influences from Indian and other Southeast Asian styles.

Cultural heritage

The religious architecture at My Son Sanctuary reflects the profound spiritual beliefs of the Champa Kingdom.

The temples primarily honour Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The archaeological site contains evidence of sophisticated engineering methods, including the use of red bricks joined without mortar – a technique that has puzzled researchers for generations.

My Son Sanctuary continues to draw international attention.

Despite significant damage during conflicts, conservation efforts have helped preserve these ancient ruins for future generations.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site status has brought increased resources for preservation while highlighting the need to protect this cultural heritage.

Planning a visit

The temple complex opens daily from early morning until late afternoon. Morning visits often provide the most comfortable conditions for exploring the Hindu temples. Local guides share detailed information about the Champa Kingdom and Vietnamese history, enhancing the experience of this remarkable site.

My Son Sanctuary lies 40 kilometres southwest of Hoi An and 150 kilometres south of Hue. From Hoi An, the journey takes approximately one hour by car, while the trip from Hue requires about three hours of travel time. Transport options include private cars, organized tours, and motorbikes for more adventurous explorers.

Guided tours offer insights into the construction methods used in the religious architecture.

The archaeological site includes an informative museum displaying artefacts and explaining the historical significance of various temple features. Sanskrit inscriptions throughout the complex provide glimpses into the past, though many remain untranslated.