The Sacred Valley of My Son Sanctuary

Welcome to the Sacred Valley of My Son Sanctuary

Let me take you on a journey deep into the heart of Quảng Nam Province, where a hidden treasure of ancient architecture awaits. Nestled in Duy Phú Commune, Duy Xuyên District, the My Son Sanctuary is one of Vietnam’s most important and awe-inspiring cultural heritage sites—a sacred land that once belonged to the spiritual world of the ancient Chăm civilization.

Spread across a lush green valley just 2 km wide and surrounded by towering mountains, My Son is home to more than 32 temples and towers, each one unique in design and steeped in history. These structures were not only religious centers but also royal burial sites, showcasing the spiritual depth and artistic mastery of the Chăm people.

Construction of the sanctuary began in the 4th century, during the reign of King Bhadravarman, and continued over the next thousand years, finally completed in the 13th–14th centuries under King Jaya Simhavarman III. Walking through the ruins today, you’ll see how each layer of brick and every carved stone tells a story from the Chăm dynasties’ glorious past—stories of devotion, community, and royal legacy.

One of the most astonishing features of My Son is the construction technique. Believe it or not, these bricks were fired, perfectly cut, and stacked without using any cement or mortar! And yet, the temples have survived centuries of rain, heat, and time. Even today, scientists still marvel at how these structures remain so intact—it’s truly one of the mysteries of ancient architecture.

In recognition of its profound cultural value, My Son was declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1999. Since then, it has become a must-see destination for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Vietnam’s ancient roots.

Reaching the sanctuary is easy and comfortable. From the main entrance, a gentle 1 km path leads you to the temple complex. You can either enjoy a scenic walk or ride in a quiet electric shuttle. And don’t worry about language barriers—multilingual tour guides (like myself!) are on-site to help bring the past to life with captivating stories and historical insights.

To enhance your visit, My Son has recently gone digital. Over 1,600 ancient artifacts have been scanned and preserved, and the entire site is now equipped with QR codes and audio guides in six languages: Vietnamese, English, French, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese.

With a very affordable entrance fee, this ancient valley offers a priceless experience—where nature, history, and spirituality blend into one unforgettable journey.

So, are you ready to explore the mystical world of My Son? Let’s walk together through the echoes of time.