Discover My Son Sanctuary: Top Experiences in Da Nang City’s UNESCO Treasure

My Son Sanctuary, nestled in a lush valley in Da Nang City’s Duy Xuyen Ward, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the ancient Champa Kingdom’s spiritual and architectural prowess. Located 45 km from Hoi An Ancient Town and 69 km from Da Nang’s bustling center, this sacred site, built between the 4th and 14th centuries, draws over 500,000 visitors annually with its enigmatic red-brick temples dedicated to Hindu deities, primarily Shiva. Despite war damage and time’s toll, My Son’s intricate carvings and serene jungle setting offer a profound glimpse into Southeast Asia’s cultural heritage. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to immerse you in My Son’s mystique, bookable via links throughout this guide. Embark on a journey through history—reserve your tour now

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our My Son tours feature low-impact transport like electric shuttles and bicycles, guided by local experts who share Champa history. We support Duy Phu’s community and align with Da Nang City’s “Heritage Preservation” initiative to protect My Son’s legacy. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless exploration. Discover My Son responsibly with our curated tours—book via the links on this page!

My Son Sanctuary, located in Duy Phu Commune, Duy Xuyen Ward, spans a 2-km-wide valley surrounded by mountains, housing over 70 temple-towers, with 71 standing monuments across eight groups. Built by the Champa Kingdom from the 4th to 14th centuries, these fired-brick structures, crafted without mortar, showcase sophisticated engineering and intricate sandstone bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology. Recognized by UNESCO in 1999 for its cultural and architectural significance, My Son was the religious and political heart of Champapura, founded in 192 CE. Despite damage from the Vietnam War, ongoing restoration by Indian, Italian, and German teams preserves its grandeur. Open daily from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM, My Son offers a serene escape into Vietnam’s ancient past, complemented by cultural performances and sustainable tourism initiatives.

Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, making My Son Sanctuary part of Duy Xuyen Ward under Da Nang City’s administration. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but My Son’s UNESCO status and tourism appeal remain intact. Da Nang City aims to position My Son as a “Global Heritage Destination,” enhancing sustainable tourism with improved access roads and eco-conscious infrastructure.

1. Explore the Temple-Towers

Wander through My Son’s eight monument groups (A–H), featuring red-brick towers with intricate carvings of Shiva, Vishnu, and Krishna. Highlights include Group B’s restored temples and Group A’s iconic A1 tower, once the grandest before war damage.

• Cost: Entrance fee $6/adult (150,000 VND), includes electric shuttle (2 km) and Champa Museum access; $4 (100,000 VND) for Vietnamese visitors.

• Highlights: “A window into Champa’s soul” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Hire a local guide ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND) for historical context; visit early to avoid heat. Included in our My Son Discovery Tour ($80–$100).

2. Witness Apsara Dance Performances

Experience traditional Champa Apsara dances, showcasing graceful movements and vibrant costumes, performed at 9:30 AM or 2:30 PM near the main complex. These sacred dances honor Hindu deities.

• Cost: Included in entrance fee; tips $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) appreciated.

• Highlights: “A cultural masterpiece” (Vietnam Tourism).

• Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early for front-row seats; no flash photography. Included in our My Son Cultural Tour ($85–$105).

3. Visit the My Son Museum

Located 2 km northwest of the sanctuary, this museum offers artifacts, sculptures, and insights into Cham architecture, complementing your temple visit.

• Cost: Included in entrance fee.

• Highlights: “Essential for context” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Spend 30 minutes here before or after the temples; scan QR codes for digital exhibits. Included in our My Son Heritage Tour ($80–$100).

4. Photograph the Jungle Setting

Capture My Son’s temples against lush greenery and Mhadravata Mountain, especially during sunrise when golden light enhances the red-brick ruins.

• Cost: Free with entrance fee; professional photography permits $20 (500,000 VND).

• Highlights: “A photographer’s paradise” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Use a tripod for low-light shots; avoid climbing ruins for photos. Included in our My Son Sunrise Photo Tour ($90–$110).

5. Join a Boat Return via Thu Bon River

Return from My Son to Hoi An by boat along the Thu Bon River, passing serene villages and Thanh Ha Pottery Village for a cultural stop.

• Cost: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) with tour packages.

• Highlights: “A scenic finale” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Book a sunset cruise; bring mosquito repellent. Included in our My Son River Adventure Tour ($85–$105).

• Entrance Fee: $6/adult (150,000 VND); $4 (100,000 VND) for Vietnamese visitors; free for children under 15. Includes shuttle and museum. Scooter parking $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Tours: Guided tours $25–$45 (625,000–1,125,000 VND); private tours $80–$130 (2,000,000–3,250,000 VND); sunrise tours $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND). Rainy season discounts (10–15%) apply September–January.

• Transport:

  • From Hoi An (45 km, ~1 hour): Motorbike rental $6–$10/day (150,000–250,000 VND) + $4 fuel; taxi/Grab $15–$25 round-trip (375,000–625,000 VND); bus #06 from Da Nang via Hoi An $0.30–$1.20 (8,000–30,000 VND).

  • From Da Nang (69 km, ~1.5–2 hours): Taxi/Grab $25–$40 round-trip (625,000–1,000,000 VND); private car $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND); shuttle bus $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Dining: Local restaurants near My Son $2–$7 (50,000–175,000 VND); Hoi An lunch $3–$15 (75,000–375,000 VND); drinks $0.50–$4 (12,500–100,000 VND).

• Accommodation (Hoi An): Hostels $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND); homestays $15–$50/night (375,000–1,250,000 VND); hotels $70–$200/night (1,750,000–5,000,000 VND); resorts $180–$450/night (4,500,000–11,250,000 VND).

• Total Daily Cost: $25–$150 (budget: $25–$50; mid-range: $50–$100; luxury: $100–$150).

• Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Hoi An Ward (Vietcombank, Agribank). Book tours for eco-transfers to minimize environmental impact.

From Hoi An (45 km, ~1 hour)

• Motorbike: $6–$10/day (150,000–250,000 VND) + $2 fuel; follow Hung Vuong Street to Route 537. Check weather; suitable for experienced riders.

• Taxi/Grab: $8–$12 one-way (200,000–300,000 VND).

• Shuttle Bus: $5–$8 round-trip (125,000–200,000 VND); book via hotels or agencies.

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($55–$100) include eco-transfers.

From Da Nang (69 km, ~1.5–2 hours)

• Bus #06: $0.30–$1.20 (8,000–30,000 VND); every 30 minutes (5:30 AM–5:00 PM) from Da Nang to My Son via Hoi An.

• Taxi/Grab: $15–$20 one-way (375,000–500,000 VND).

• Private Car: $25–$40 one-way (625,000–1,000,000 VND); ideal for groups or Marble Mountains stops.

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($80–$130) include transfers.

On-Site

• Electric Shuttle: Included in ticket; 2 km from entrance to temple complex.

• Walking: 200–500 m between monument groups; paths are uneven, so wear sturdy shoes.

Route Tip: Start from Hoi An for shorter travel; use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Roads are well-maintained but narrow in parts.

• Dry Season (February–August): Mild to warm (18–38°C or 64.4–100.4°F), low rainfall (25–120 mm). Ideal for temple exploration and photography. February–April (18–28°C) is coolest; book 2–3 weeks ahead for March–April festivals. May–August is hotter but great for early morning visits.

• Rainy Season (September–January): Cooler (19–29°C or 66.2–84.2°F), heavy rain (150–500 mm, peaking October–November). Flooding risks exist; indoor museum visits and covered performance areas are ideal. Budget-friendly with 10–20% discounts.

• Tip: Sunrise tours (5:00–6:00 AM) in February–April offer cool weather and golden light; avoid midday heat (11:00 AM–2:00 PM) in summer.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Klook (+84 938 987 654). Confirm hours (6:30 AM–5:30 PM).

• Dress Code: Modest clothing (covered shoulders, knees) as it’s a sacred site; sturdy shoes for uneven paths; hat for sun protection.

• Pack Smart: Reusable water bottle (avoid single-use plastics), sunscreen, mosquito repellent, camera (no flash in museum), cash (VND) for small purchases.

• Budget Wisely: Expect $25–$150/day; carry VND; ATMs sparse near My Son. Confirm prices to avoid overcharges.

• Stay Safe: Watch for uneven terrain; stay hydrated; avoid touching relics. Check weather for flood risks in October–November.

• Sustainability: Use eco-friendly transport; support local guides; leave no trace to preserve the site. Our tours promote community-based tourism.

• Cultural Respect: Maintain silence in sacred areas; don’t climb ruins; tip guides/performers ($1–$2). Ask permission before photographing dancers.

• Navigation: Allow 2–3 hours for temples, museum, and performances. Follow the circular footpath; electric shuttles ease access.

Our sustainable tours immerse you in My Son’s heritage, tailored for eco-conscious travelers:

• My Son Sunrise Tour ($80–$100/person): Early morning temple visit, Apsara dance, museum tour. Includes eco-transfers and breakfast.

• My Son Cultural Tour ($85–$105/person): Temples, Apsara performance, Thu Bon River boat return, Thanh Ha Pottery Village stop. Includes transfers and lunch.

• My Son Heritage Tour ($80–$100/person): In-depth temple exploration, museum, local guide. Includes transfers and snacks.

• My Son River Adventure Tour ($85–$105/person): Temples, river cruise, Hoi An Ancient Town visit. Includes transfers, lunch, and Hoi An ticket ($6).

• My Son Explorer ($300–$500/person, 3–4 days): My Son, Hoi An, Cham Islands, homestays ($15–$50/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page

My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Da Nang City’s Duy Xuyen Ward, captivates with its ancient Champa temples, intricate carvings, and vibrant cultural performances. From exploring red-brick towers to witnessing Apsara dances, these experiences offer a profound connection to Vietnam’s rich history. Despite challenges like war damage and flooding risks, ongoing conservation ensures My Son’s legacy endures. Legend Travel Group’s Da Nang Tours guide you through this sacred site, ensuring a sustainable Da Nang Travel experience that supports local communities and eco-conscious practices. Don’t miss the chance to explore My Son’s timeless allure—browse our featured tours and book your adventure today!
Ready to uncover My Son Sanctuary’s ancient wonders? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s cultural heritage!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.