My Son is a beautiful and historic destination located in the Quang Nam province of Vietnam. It is best known for its ancient Hindu temples, which were built between the 4th and 14th centuries and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hidden in a verdant valley 40 kilometers southwest of Hoi An, My Son served as the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom for nearly a millennium. This sacred sanctuary was where Champa kings came to worship their gods and where many monarchs were laid to rest.

The temples were built between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Champa Kingdom, which ruled over central and southern Vietnam during this time period. The Champa Kingdom was heavily influenced by Indian culture and religion, and the temples at My Son were constructed in the style of Hindu temples found in India. The temples are made of red brick and decorated with intricate carvings and bas-reliefs depicting Hindu gods and legends. What makes My Son's construction particularly remarkable is that the bricks were held together without any mortar, using a technique that remains a mystery to modern architects. The temple complex at My Son was an important religious and cultural center for the Champa Kingdom and played a significant role in the spread of Hinduism in Vietnam. It was also an important center for trade and diplomacy, as it was located along major trade routes.

Visitors to My Son can explore the ruins of these ancient temples, which are surrounded by lush green forests, making it a peaceful and serene place to visit. The sanctuary is divided into several groups of monuments (labeled A through H), each with distinct architectural features. Group B and C are the most impressive, containing the main tower dedicated to Shiva and the best-preserved structures. Group D features a fascinating meditation hall, while Group G showcases excellent examples of Cham stone carving. The temple complex is easily accessible from the nearby city of Hoi An, making it a popular day trip destination. While visiting My Son, be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the ancient temples and their surroundings. Many towers still display beautiful linga and yoni symbols, representing the Hindu god Shiva and the creative forces of the universe. Visitors should also wear appropriate clothing out of respect, as the temple complex is considered a sacred site.

My Son offers more than just architectural ruins—it's a window into the sophisticated Champa civilization that once dominated central Vietnam. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy traditional Cham dance performances that showcase the artistic heritage of this ancient culture. The on-site museum displays artifacts recovered from the temples, including sculptures of Hindu deities, decorative architectural elements, and inscribed stelae that help decode Champa history. The Champa people were master artisans, and their legacy lives on through these remarkable stone carvings and architectural innovations.

• Arrive early (6-8 AM) to beat crowds and heat • Wear modest clothing out of respect—cover shoulders and knees • Bring sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water • Comfortable walking shoes are essential (uneven terrain) • Electric carts available for those with mobility issues • Hire a knowledgeable guide to understand the temple symbolism • Allow 2-3 hours to properly explore the sanctuary • Photography is allowed but be respectful of sacred spaces • Traditional Cham performances usually at 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM

Over the centuries, the temple complex at My Son has suffered damage from various wars and natural disasters, including extensive bombing during the Vietnam War, but many of the temples have been restored and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the temple complex is a popular tourist destination and a testament to the rich history and culture of Vietnam. Most visitors come from Hoi An (40km, about 1 hour by motorbike or car). You can rent a motorbike, join a guided tour, or hire a private car. The scenic route passes through rural countryside and offers glimpses of traditional Vietnamese village life.

Overall, My Son is a unique and fascinating destination that should not be missed on any trip to Vietnam. This remarkable sanctuary stands as testimony to the artistic genius and spiritual devotion of the Champa civilization. Walking among these ancient towers, surrounded by jungle and mountains, you can almost feel the presence of the priests and kings who once worshipped here. My Son is not just an archaeological site—it's a sacred place that continues to inspire wonder and reverence more than a thousand years after its creation.