My Son Sanctuary
Viet Nam ·
Description
Between the 4th and 13th centuries, the Cham kingdom built more than 70 Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva in a secluded valley surrounded by mountains. The brick towers were assembled without mortar using a still-mysterious Cham technique. American carpet bombing in 1969 destroyed the finest groups, but ruins of about 20 temples still stand among tangled vegetation.
Why It's a World Heritage Site
UNESCO recognized My Son as an outstanding example of cultural interchange, with an indigenous society drawing on Indian influences to develop a unique Hindu religious architecture.
UNESCO Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
Day trip from Hoi An (1 hour) or Da Nang. Many tour operators offer half-day excursions.
Arrive at opening (6am) to avoid heat and crowds; dry season February-April is ideal.
Yes, English-speaking guides are available at the entrance or as part of tours.
Absolutely, many visitors do My Son in the morning and return to Hoi An for lunch.
Yes, cleared areas are well marked. Do not wander off paths — some unexploded ordnance remains in the valley.