My Son Sanctuary General Info
My Son is always on the list of tourists who travel to Da Nang, Hoi An or even stay in Hue City. To help you have a wonderful visit to this ancient spiritual site, Vietnam Student Exchange Travel will give you some useful information and dress code info about My Son Sanctuary.
My Son Sanctuary, located in Duy Phu Commune, Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam province, near both Hoi An and Da Nang in Central Vietnam, is a perfect destination for a day trip with or without tour guides. This ancient site, deeply rooted in history, was constructed between the 4th and 14th centuries as a center of Hindu worship for the Champa Kingdom.
Over the centuries, My Son fell into obscurity and was partially destroyed during wartime, only to be rediscovered and restored as a cultural and spiritual landmark. In 1999, My Son Sanctuary was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further solidifying its significance as a must-visit destination.
My Son Sanctuary Opening Hours & Entrance Fees
My Son Holy Land is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and entry costs 150,000 VND per person (roughly 7 USD). This fee includes access to the sanctuary, My Son museum, and 2-way electric car rides to the temple ruins, making it excellent value for the experience and knowledge you’ll gain.
At My Son Sanctuary, one of the highlights of your visit is the chance to enjoy a mesmerizing Apsara dance performance. Held at the My Son Sanctuary Theater, these performances showcase the traditional Cham culture through elegant movements, colorful costumes, and enchanting music.
The Apsara dance, inspired by Hindu mythology, represents celestial beings and is a symbolic expression of Cham’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The dancers wear intricately designed outfits and ornaments, embodying the grace and beauty of the ancient Champa civilization.
My Son Sanctuary Vietnam Dress Code
As a religious site, visitors are expected to adhere to a polite dress code. While the rules aren’t strictly enforced, wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is highly recommended. Avoid attire like bathing suits, short shorts, or tank tops, as these may be considered disrespectful. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for staying comfortable while being respectful, especially in Vietnam’s warm climate.
If you prefer to dress in skin-bearing clothes during your journey, consider bringing a scarf or shawl to cover up before entering the site. The locals and site staff appreciate this effort, reflecting your respect for the culture and the sanctity of the location.
What to See and Do
Start your visit at the My Son Sanctuary Museum, located near the entrance. This museum offers valuable insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the Champa ruins. The museum visit is included in your ticket, so it’s a great way to familiarize yourself with the site before heading to the temples.
From the museum, hop on an electric car to reach the ruins. These cars save you a lengthy walk in the heat and are also part of the entrance fee. The temple complexes are grouped and labeled from A to H, with clusters B, C, and D showcasing some of the best-preserved structures. You’re free to explore the site in any order, allowing you to discover its beauty at your own pace. Some visitors start with the more deteriorated ruins to appreciate the better-preserved temples even more.
Highly recommended services to this sacred site
- Hue to My Son Sanctuary private car– from 94 USD/ Sedan Car.
- Hoi An to My Son private car– from 43 USD/ Sedan car.
- Da Nang to My Son Sanctuary by car– from 54 USD/ Sedan car.
- My Son Sunrise Tour- from/ pax.
- My Son Sunset Tour- from/ pax
Tips for Your Visit
To make the most of your trip, visit early in the morning. This helps you avoid the crowds but also spares you from the midday heat and you can capture fabulous photos without photo bombs. Morning visits also align well with the dress code, as cooler temperatures make covering up more comfortable.
Plan ahead by bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay hydrated and protected from the sun. If you’re not joining a guided tour, the museum provides context that will enhance your understanding of the ruins’ significance.
Final Thoughts
A visit to My Son Sanctuary is an unforgettable experience. Its historical and spiritual atmosphere, coupled with the breathtaking scenery, makes it a highlight of any trip to Vietnam. Don’t miss this extraordinary destination, your journey to this sacred site will surely be a cherished memory.