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My Son Sanctuary In Hoi An: Is It Worth Visiting?

Come discover the incredible history, a short drive away from Hoi An, at My Son Sanctuary Vietnam.

I will let you know all there is about visiting such as booking a My Son tour, how to get there by yourself, entry fees, opening hours, and most importantly, is it really worth the early wake-up for the sunrise tour!?

Located in a rainforest-like setting, the amazing complex of the My Son Sanctuary is certainly a highlight when visiting Hoi An in Vietnam. Get ready to be transported from the busy Vietnam city life to a Jurassic park setting rich in history.

The grounds are a UNESCO world heritage site and it is marketed as the Angkor Wat of Vietnam. Though, having been to both it is certainly not as impressive as Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

This is largely due to the volatile history in the area which destroyed many of the temples. Nonetheless, it is certainly the most amazing religious site I visited in Vietnam and was a highlight of exploring Hoi An.

There are certainly some things worth knowing prior to venturing out to My Son Sanctuary, including how you are actually going to get there, if you are going to do a My Son tour, entrance fees, opening hours, what to expect, and if it is even worth visiting!

Exploring My Son Sanctuary In Hoi An, Vietnam

🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Vietnam: Baolau & 12.Go Asia

Need A Quick Answer?

If you perhaps don’t have time to read this entire guide on Mỹ Sơn Sanctuary, no worries, here are the top tips:

🔎 Easiest & Best Way to See My Son Sanctuary: I recommend booking a Small Group Tour of My Son Sanctuary Including a Lunch and a Boat Trip with Hoi An Food Tours. Book now with Viator . If you are not a group tour person, you can also book a shuttle service from Hoi An or Da Nang to My Son for just $9.00 where you will be free to explore by yourself.

🏠 Where to Stay in Hoi An: Top hostel choices for backpackers in Hoi An include Mad Monkey Hoi An (dorms start from $8.00) and Backhome Hostel Bar (dorms start from $6.50)

🍜 For Foodies: Take a Hoi An cooking class with a market tour and a basket boat trip. Book now with GetYourGuide .

🚗 Easiest & Best Way to Reach Hoi An From Da Nang: I recommend booking a private or shared shuttle transfer with Hoi An Express. Book now with GetYourGuide . Read my guide for more options.

Is My Son Sanctuary Worth It

No doubt My Son Sanctuary is a popular attraction here in Central Vietnam. However is it actually worth visiting? Especially if you have already seen numerous other temples throughout Southeast Asia.

Well, I think so! Especially if you are already in Hoi An or Da Nang it is an easy half-day trip where you can experience the following…

Historical Significance: My Son Sanctuary stands as an important remnant of the ancient Champa Kingdom. It served as a religious and cultural center for centuries and now offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s past.

Architectural Marvels: The temples at My Son Sanctuary showcase incredible craftsmanship. Despite facing destruction during multiple conflicts, many structures still stand tall today. They proudly display exquisite carvings, patterns, and unique styles influenced by both Indian and Southeast Asian cultures.

Natural Beauty: Surrounded by forests and scenic landscapes, you will be immersed in nature while exploring centuries-old ruins. It’s a peaceful experience that you don’t often come across in Vietnam.

How To Get From Hoi An To My Son

Approximately an hour’s drive outside of the busy tourist city of Hoi An is My Son Ruins. Located within the village of Duy Phu the complex stretches out two kilometers within a valley and is surrounded by mountain ranges.

There are basically three options to get to My Son from Hoi An.

• organized tour

Riding A Motorbike To My Son Sanctuary

This option is basically up to your discretion based on your driving skills. Obviously, this is the cheapest option, even after paying for fuel and parking. Though, depending on your skillset it might not be the safest option.

The roads within Hoi An may be okay to drive. However, venture out onto rural roads and be prepared for massive trucks, potholes, and questionable driving techniques.

Before deciding whether or not to ride a motorbike to My Son I recommend checking out Nomadasaurus post in which he drove with directions, as well as PsychoTravellers video on her not-so-pleasant experience riding there.

Book A Shared Shuttle From Hoi An Or Da Nang To My Son Sanctuary

Another option you have is to take a shared shuttle bus from Da Nang or Hoi An to My Son Sanctuary.

This shuttle bus is equipped with modern amenities and conveniences, including comfortable seats and free WiFi, to ensure a relaxing journey. The shuttle bus departs from Da Nang and Hoi An, and takes you to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site of My Son Sanctuary.

This is a great option for those who want their transport taken care of but also want to explore at their own pace without a guide. With it costing just $9.00 per person this is a super affordable option.

The schedule for the shuttle bus from Da Nang to My Son Sanctuary is:

• 7:15-7:30: Pick up at meeting points in Da Nang and head to Hoi An City to join a group.
• 8:15: Depart to My Son sanctuary.
• 9:15: Arrive at My Son Sanctuary.
• 12:00 PM: Meet the driver at My Son Ticket Booth and transfer to Hoi An.
• 1:00 PM-1:30 PM: Drop off in Hoi An and Da Nang

You will have 2 and a half hours to experience the site, where you can avoid the large tour groups. Tickets for the shuttle bus to My Son can be booked on Get Your Guide .

Hiring A Taxi To Visit My Son

Hiring a private taxi is definitely the most expensive option, especially as you will have to pay the driver to wait around while you explore the complex.

Though, if you have it in the budget this is probably the best option as it will give you the freedom to stay as long or as short as you wish.

Just with all taxis in Vietnam and Asia, make sure to agree on a price with the driver beforehand.

If you are not too worried about money, then why not take a private My Son tour from Da Nang or Hoi An instead? You will still have transport, and a lot of freedom, but also a knowledgeable guide who can explain the incredible history.

If you think this could be a good choice for you why not check out this tour run by TC Travel Hoi An . From just $50.00 per person, you will have an excellent tour guide, and plenty of time to experience this place.

You can book this tour on Viator .

Booking A My Son Tour

Booking a My Son Sanctuary tour is probably the most popular option and is surprisingly affordable. Though, you will have the restraint of being with a large group. Ultimately, restricting the amount of time you can explore.

When I visited I decided to do it with a My Son tour from Hoi An I booked through the hostel I was staying at for my Hoi An itinerary .

As it was a sunrise tour I certainly would not have wanted to drive there myself, especially in the dark. Also, my budget certainly did not stretch far enough to afford a taxi.

In all honesty, if you are a bit of a history buff I recommend taking a reputable tour as the guide will have a lot of knowledge, as ours did.

You can still walk around staring at the amazing structure. Though, when you gain important information about relevant attributes you certainly gain a wider understanding and a greater appreciation for the complex.

BOOK YOUR TOUR:

Map Of My Son Sanctuary Vietnam

Now if you are perhaps exploring My Son Sanctuary by yourself rather than on a guided tour here is a little map you can use to navigate around between the temples:

My Son Sanctuary Entrance Fee

To get your My Son Sanctuary ticket you must pay an entry fee of $6.20 / 150,000 VND, so it is a little on the pricey side.

However, it is unlike any other temple you will see in Vietnam and is well worth the money. Included in this fee is the admission to the temple complex itself as well as a museum.

Opening Hours Of My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary is open from 6.30 am to 5.30 pm daily , including during Tet and other holidays.

If you decide to book the sunrise My Son tour you will arrive just in time for opening, so it is a very early start considering it is approximately an hour’s drive from Da Nang or Hoi An.

When To Visit My Son Sanctuary From Hoi An

The best time to visit My Son Sanctuary is during the dry season, which runs from January to the end of September. During this period, visitors can expect clear skies and many sunny hours, making it ideal for sightseeing and photography.

Rains rarely occur, and temperatures are always high, reaching their peak from April to July.

Personally, I visited during the month of March and the weather was a bit overcast in Hoi An. However this provided some great relief for the midday sun, and we didn’t actually get any rain.

Best Time Of Day To Visit

The temperatures can get quite hot in Central Vietnam, so the best time of day to explore the My Son complex is certainly early morning or late afternoon.

When I went on the sunrise tour there were only a couple of large groups there, so if you are going solo you will have moments where you have certain temples to yourself.

Though many tours leave at around 10.30 am from Hoi An expect crazy crowds around those times as this truly is a must-see attraction.

What To Wear To My Son Sanctuary?

I was honestly not sure what to wear when I was visiting My Son.

Coming from Thailand where I was used to covering up when visiting religious and important buildings, I thought it would be necessary to cover up the shoulders and knees. However, this proved irrelevant as people were wearing shorts and singlets with no worries.

This was not a one-off experience as well, if you search My Son Sanctuary on Instagram you can find people wearing everything from crop tops to mini shorts and tiny dresses.

So, you do not have to be like me, covered completely up, though in the mornings it can be chilly so does pay to bring something warm, an important note when deciding what to wear in Vietnam.

My Experience At My Son Sanctuary Vietnam

I booked my tour to My Son through my hostel in Hoi An. My partner and I did the sunrise tour which cost us $11.00 / 250,000 VND. Generally, it is cheaper to book once you arrive rather than online, though it can be a bit hit and miss whether you end up on a good tour.

This price included a basic breakfast, a sunrise group tour to My Son, transport and a boat ride back. It did not include the entrance fee. In all honesty, I would take the bus back next time instead of the boat.

That morning we were picked up early and dropped at a building where we had jam sandwiches. Then we drove the hour towards My Son in the pitch black morning. On arrival, the sun had begun to rise.

We jumped on a buggy which took us five or so minutes to the beginning of the complex from the entrance.

We walked a few minutes along the pathway, joined by multiple dogs to the first complex. It reminded me of the pagodas in Bagan, Myanmar , though the landscape was completely different.

There were no dry desert-like surrounds. Instead, rivers were flowing and the lush greenery was covered in morning mist.

However, not all the temples are intact, thanks to the bombings that went on in the Vietnamese War. Crumbles of bricks are stacked up and cordoned off.

It is easy to tell which temples have been restored thanks to the difference in bricks used. Hopefully, over time the the colors will lessen and they will become worn, matching in with the original materials.

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to My Son Temples. Though, next time I would not do a sunrise tour, just because I am not my best self before 6 am.

In all honesty, I was either having to rush in front of the group or lag way behind to get a decent photo. I will say that taking a tour did mean not having to organize anything.

Highlights Of My Son Sanctuary Hoi An

No doubt My Son Sanctuary is a pretty epic half-day trip from Hoi An. However, there are certainly some aspects that make it stand out.

The Temples

Tower Group A: This group of temples is the most well-preserved and is located in the center of the sanctuary. It consists of four towers, each dedicated to a different deity. The towers are decorated with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The tallest tower in this group is 24 meters high and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Tower Group B: This group of temples is located to the east of Tower Group A and consists of five towers. The towers in this group are smaller than those in Group A and are dedicated to the god Shiva. They are decorated with carvings of animals and humans, as well as depictions of Hindu gods and goddesses.

Tower Group C: This group of temples is located to the west of Tower Group A and consists of three towers. The towers in this group are the oldest and are dedicated to the god Krishna.

Tower Group D: This group of temples is located to the south of Tower Group A and consists of four towers. The towers in this group are dedicated to the god Vishnu.

Visit The Museum At My Son Sanctuary

Before making your way to the temples, it is recommended to visit the museum located 100 meters behind the ticket booth on the right-hand side of the road.

The museum provides historical, archaeological, and religious information about My Son and the Cham civilization.

It has a permanent and thematic exhibition that showcases carvings of Hindu gods and displays two US missile casings, the first found on the premises in 1988 and the second just in 2007!

Visit My Son Sanctuary Lake

Now when you are walking around My Son Da Nang you will notice a small stream flowing through the site. Now these actually lead to a small lake.

This is a secluded part of the valley where minimal tourists venture to.

The lake is 3 kilometers long and is perfect for kayaking. You will find places around My Son that hire out these kayaks.

Just be aware that if you are on a group tour you won’t have the opportunity to visit the lake.

Cultural Dance Show

There is a traditional dance show every day at 9:30 am and 10:30 am for the tour groups that come here in the morning.

It is held at the stage before you reach the first group of ruins, opposite the souvenir shop.

During the show, visitors can enjoy the captivating Apsara dance , performed by skilled artists in sync with the rhythms of Ginang drums, Baranung drums, and Saranai trumpets.

The History Of My Son Sanctuary In Hoi An

My Son Sanctuary is the most significant Cham site within Vietnam, and one of the most important in South East Asia as well. The temples were built between the 4th and 14th century AD by the King Bhadravarman.

They were constructed out of fired brick, sandstone bas-reliefs, and stone pillars. The purpose of building the complex known as My Son was to worship the Hindu God Shiva.

During the time that My Son was occupied, it was used for religious ceremonies by the kings of Champa. As well as this, it was also used as a burial place for those considered Cham royalty and national heroes.

In 1885, French architect, archaeologist, and historian, Henri Parmentier and his colleagues began work on the site. During this excavating and documentation period, they discovered 72 monuments within a two-kilometer-wide valley.

My Son Sanctuary And The War In Vietnam

During the Vietnam War, the My Son Sanctuary was severely damaged. This was particularly so by the United States, which relentlessly bombed these monuments as it was a former Viet Cong base.

Within a week the majority of My Son had been destroyed.

Even today, you can see the massive craters in the ground from bombs. As a result, only 17 of the original 71 structures remain.

Where To Stay In Hoi An

Now you know all about My Son Sanctuary Vietnam it’s time to get into planning your stay. More specifically where to stay.

Luckily enough you will be spoilt for choice in Hoi An! Whether you are looking for an affordable hostel, or something a bit more luxe, no doubt you will find the ideal stay here.

These are some of my favorite spots in Hoi An:

Other Things To Do In Hoi An

Now visiting My Son Hoi An will certainly tick one thing off your list, however, there are plenty of other things to do here as well:

Hoi An Old Town: One of the highlights is exploring the Hoi An Old Town which is considered one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam. It is another UNESCO World Heritage Site like My Son, so you know walking through Hoi An Old Town you will be in awe.

Night Market: Located within the Hoi An Old Town is the Night Market where you can find any Vietnamese souvenir your heart requires. It is held every night from 5 pm to 11 pm and can’t be missed!

Thanh Ha Pottery Village: Thanh Ha Pottery Village is an integral place in Vietnamese history. The skilled craftsmen who lived here even contributed pieces to the Imperial City of Hue! It is pretty cool walking around admiring their skills and hard work.

Beach Day: This coastal town is lucky enough to be close to some amazing beaches. The most popular beach is definitely An Bang where you can enjoy a dip in the ocean.

Tra Que Vegetable Village: Sometimes you just need to get out of the city and a visit to Tra Que Vegetable Village is the perfect way to do this! It is a short distance away from the old town where you can learn about unique horticultural techniques.

FAQs About My Son Vietnam

Is my son vietnam worth visiting.

No doubt My Son Vietnam is worth visiting if you are in Da Nang or Hoi An. It is a historically significant site where you can appreciate the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, one thing to note is it’s not as impressive as Angkor Wat in Cambodia due to the volatile history that destroyed many of the temples. 

What is the significance of the My Son Sanctuary?

My Son Sanctuary is a collection of tower temples that were built between the 4th and 13th centuries CE by the Champa Kingdom. They present a picture of spiritual and political life in an important phase of the history of Southeast Asia. The monuments of the My Son sanctuary are the most important constructions of the My Son civilization.

How long to spend at My Son Sanctuary?

Depending if you are on a tour or not will affect how long you spend at My Son Sanctuary. However, most visitors seem to spend between three to four hours exploring the impressive site.

Is My Son older than Angkor Wat?

Yes, My Son is older than Angkor Wat. My Son Sanctuary dates back to the 4th to 13th centuries CE, whilst Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century.

How much does it cost to go to my son in Vietnam?

A visit to My Son Vietnam can be quite an affordable day trip from Hoi An or Da Nang. If traveling on a tour you will find prices starting around $30.00. However, if you wait to book until you arrive in the city, you will find it cheaper again.

Who built my son sanctuary?

My Son Sanctuary was built in the 4th century by  King Bhadravarman  and completed in the late 13th and early 14th centuries under the reign of King Jaya Simhavarman III. They were built in the heart of the Cham people’s homeland, which is now in Vietnam.

Who discovered My Son in Vietnam?

In 1898 French scholar,  M. C. Paris originally found the ruins, but not without the help of the local farmers. The French then embarked on a restoration project, realizing the significance of the site, and comparing it to places like Angkor in Cambodia, Borobudur in Indonesia, and Ayutthaya in Thailand.

Should You Visit My Son: Wrap-Up

I think everyone should visit My Son if they are in Hoi An or Da Nang.

It is a great way to spend half a day learning about the Champa people and Hinduism. The My Son Cham Ruins provides a glimpse into the history of the area, and are well worth a visit.

Though, you should think about what is the best way to get to My Son and explore it. Whether that is going solo or taking a tour.

Depending on your travel style and your true intentions in visiting this amazing site will result in what is the best for you.

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

Want more Vietnam Inspiration? Check out….

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

5 thoughts on “ My Son Sanctuary In Hoi An: Is It Worth Visiting? ”

hi. I have been following your writings from hanoi to hue.. then this hoi an.. how did you transfer from hue to hoi an? thanks!

Hey Ainess! I have this post on hue to da nang https://www.backpackerswanderlust.com/hue-to-da-nang/ and this one from hoi an to da nang https://www.backpackerswanderlust.com/da-nang-to-hoi-an Hopefully you find it helpful

Ahh! I can’t believe I missed this when I visited Hoi An. I love temples (and adore Angkor) so I’m sure this would’ve been right up my alley. Guess I’ll have to go back lol

I love following your Vietnam adventures SO much! Your photos capture SO much beauty and really make me feel at peace with the world. My Son is somewhere I’ve never heard of but I will be bookmarking for the future.

We decided against visiting My Son on our trip to Hoi An since we were only staying 5 days and already had a very full schedule. Had we had an extra day on our itinerary, I totally would have visited, though.

There are private car tours you can take to My Son as well that cost around the same price as a taxi, but include a guide who will take you around My Son at your own pace. Certainly pricier than a group tour, but would definitely solve the problem of feeling rushed or having to lag behind a big group to get decent photos. (I’ve done that before, too. Def not my cup of tea!)

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Taking a tour to My Son

The ancient My Son Sanctuary ruins near Hoi An tell us a lot about the ancient Champa people who use to live here.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: June 20, 2023

The temples of My Son have faced many challenges over the years, but there is still lots to see at this World Heritage Site.

One of the best ways to visit the ruins from nearby tourist towns is to take a tour to My Son.

A brief history of My Son

• The story of how My Son was rediscovered
• Some tips for visiting My Son

The My Son temples in Vietnam survived centuries of time, they survived territorial wars, and they survived years of neglect. What finally destroyed the grandest of them all was American bombs.

Thankfully not everything was lost.

The temples that were built here from as early as the 4th century by the Champa culture, dedicated to Indian Hindu gods like Shiva, are still in good condition (or, at least, have been restored to that state). Visiting My Son, surrounded by lush scenery, makes for an excellent day trip from Hoi An.

I’ll talk more about this soon, but it’s best to visit My Son on a tour. I would recommend this one from Hoi An , or this one from Da Nang .

The name ‘My Son’ means ‘beautiful mountain’ and it’s easy to see how it got its name, with the complex set in moist green jungle beneath a cluster of impressive peaks.

But it’s the temples, full of history, carved with the faces of its creators, that are the highlights.

What is the My Son Sanctuary?

The My Son Sanctuary, also just called My Son, is a collection of Hindu temples near Hoi An in Vietnam. They were built by the Champa people between the 4th and 14th centuries.

Why is My Son a World Heritage Site?

My Son has been protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is the best remaining monuments from the Champa people. This unique culture brought Indian religious values and worshipped Krishna, Vishnu, and particularly Shiva.

Is it worth visiting My Son?

Visiting My Son is an excellent way to explore the fascinating culture that developed in this part of Vietnam until the 14th century. The temples are in good condition and it’s a site that you won’t find anywhere else in the country.

The plants dominate everything these days. Not just with the views of the surrounding landscapes, but even with the green shoots growing out of cracks of every original

Not that there would have been many cracks back when the temples were first built. The Champa people devised an ingenious construction method that is hard to replicate today.

Learning more about this, and about the people who lived here, is one of the reasons a tour to My Son is so fascinating.

The My Son temple complex was built between the 4th century and the 14th century. It was the central worshipping centre for the Champa people who had five kingdoms in the surrounding areas.

The Champa had come from Java in Indonesia and brought with them their Hindu religion. My Son was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

They built the walls with soft bricks that had been baked at a low temperature. When they were placed on top of each other, they moulded together.

When the final shape was complete, the whole building was set on fire to harden the bricks and lock them into place. No need for mortar, yet no gaps.

The god Shiva was the bringer of the wishes of the Champa people and the thing they wished for most was fertility. The Champa wanted to grow their population because of the basic idea that there was strength in numbers.

Remember, these were people who were essentially immigrants with no historical connection to the land. If they were going to defend their kingdoms and also expand them, they needed the people to do that.

And protection was a real issue for the Champa. They faced threats from the Khmer Empire in Cambodia, other ethnic groups in Vietnam, and even from the Chinese.

In the end, though, it was the Viet people who gained control of this region in the 11th century and forced the Champa to move south, closer to Nha Trang, although their leaders managed to maintain the temple complex for a couple more centuries.

After that, though, the temples were lost. My Son was overtaken by the jungle, and the natural world swallowed the remains of the culture that had thrived for almost a millennium.

How My Son was rediscovered

After being lost, My Son was finally rediscovered by the French in 1898. They embarked on a restoration project, realising the significance of the site, comparing it to places like Angkor in Cambodia, Borobudur in Indonesia and Ayutthaya in Thailand.

And this brings us to August 1969 when much of this restoration work was undone.

In just one week, American B52s carpet bombed the site during an intense period of fighting during the Vietnam War. The section of My Son with the largest temples – the most impressive and most holy – was turned into a pile of rubble.

It’s tragic – but war is tragic, isn’t it?

And, luckily for future tourists (like myself) and for the cultural legacy of mankind, some sections survived and can still be visited today.

Tips for visiting My Son

Most people use the nearby city of Hoi An as the base for visiting the temple complex of My Son, and it’s just about an hour’s drive away. It’s also possible to go to My Son from Da Nang as a day trip.

In Hoi An, you will find that a lot of the hotels will offer My Son tours – with the budget ones as low as $10 per person.

However, the entrance ticket is not included and is currently 150,000 dong (US$6.40). Plus, the cheaper the tour, the larger the group will be. If you really want to learn about the site, you’re better going for a smaller group tour.

There are three basic areas to My Son that you can see. The first is a relatively complete temple complex with about a dozen buildings. These are formed different stages in the ceremonies to worship Shiva and are aligned with the movements of the sun.

Even today, they are impressive and you can still see the ornate carvings in the bricks of various Hindu gods and symbols.

The second area you can see is the site where the bombs destroyed a temple complex. This is not particularly spectacular because nothing has been done to terror the structures. Grass has grown over much of it and it’s hard to get a sense of what stood there for so many centuries.

The final area is made up of two adjacent places where restoration had either taken place or is still taking place. It’s clear to see the difference in the colour, the texture and the age of the bricks of these temples.

The shapes of the buildings have been honoured but the materials are obviously not authentic. Still, it’s being done with care and respect and the rebuilding of My Son should be applauded, in my opinion.

Tours to My Son

Public transport for any independent travel to My Son is a bit tricky, with the exception of this daily shuttle bus designed for tourists.

But unless you have your own car or motorbike, I think the easiest and most affordable way to see My Son is with one of the tours that local operators will offer.

You will probably find your hotel will have options once you arrive, but you may like to guarantee a spot in advance, and know what kind of company you’re going with.

So, if you would like to arrange a tour to visit the My Son ruins from Hoi An, I would recommend one of the following:

There are also tours to My Son from Da Nang, which may be more convenient for you. There this tour that focuses on the ruins , or there is this full-day tour that also includes time in Hoi An.

To help plan your visit to My Son, I’ve got a bit more information that may be useful.

If you have your own bike or car, you may find that it’s better to go that way. Although a guide will still give you a much richer understanding of the heritage of My Son.

Where is My Son?

The My Son Sanctuary is about 50 kilometres inland from Hoi An. You can see it on a map here .

How do you get to My Son?

If you want to head to My Son independently, the easiest option is to rent a motorbike for the day. Unfortunately there isn’t really any reliable public transport from Hoi An or Da Nang, which is why taking one of the tours is often the best option. There is, however, this shuttle bus once a day that will take you there (and back) from Hoi An or Da Nang without having to do the guided tour.

When is My Son open?

My Son is open every day from 0600 – 1700. It’s always much busier with tours in the morning so you might want to consider going in the afternoon if you’re travelling independently.

How much does it cost to visit My Son?

The entrance fee for My Son is 150,000 VND (US$6.40) for foreigners. For Vietnamese, it costs 100,000 VND ($4.30).

Are there tours to My Son?

Yes, there are tours to My Son, and I would recommend taking one of them. Not only does it make the travel logistics much easier, but you’ll get a lot more information about what you’re seeing from a local guide. If you’re heading from Hoi An to My Son, then this is one of the best small-group tours . If you’re coming from Da Nang, you might like to consider this tour that also includes Hoi An .

It is really sad to see the damage that has been done to this ancient site by modern warfare – but, I guess, it all tells the tale of history in its own way.

Human history is full of great creation and great destruction. Sadly, they often go hand in hand.

My Son is a perfect example of both and, if you can put aside the disappointment at the latter, is an excellent testament to both. More so the former, though. Thankfully.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION NEAR MY SON

Hoi An is the best place to base yourself to visit the temple complex of My Son, which is easy to do as a half-day tour.

There are lots of cheap hostels in town but  The Destination Hostel  has great location and atmosphere.

There are also lots of budget hotels but one of the nicest is  Hoi An Heritage Homestay .

For lovely relaxed villas, you should try  Cozy Hoian Boutique Villas .

And for the best in town, you need to check out  Hotel Royal Hoi An MGallery .

This site is on the UNESCO World Heritage List ! I'm on a mission to visit as many World Heritage Sites as I can. Only about 800 more to go... eek!

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• The best things to do in Hanoi
• How to choose a Ha Long Bay tour
• What to do in Ho Chi Minh City
• Things to see in Hoi An
• A tour to the My Son ruins
• Visiting the Imperial City of Hue
• The enormous caves of Phong Nha
• All the World Heritage Sites in Vietnam

6 thoughts on “Taking a tour to My Son”

Impressive. Wish I went!

Amazing! The images makes to travel there instantly! Thank you!

Such a shame that there is inadequate security and a lack of professional management of the site. I saw tourists (Chinese) hacking chunks of brick off the ruins for souveniers and lots of graffiti, some in Vietnamese. The guards were either asleep of scamming tourists for entry fees. If this continues the wonderful site will be lost to future generations of Vietnamese.

Oh, what a shame! I didn’t see any of that myself but it’s so awful to hear that people would do something like that. I hope they’re going to improve the security as well if that’s how tourists are going to behave. I love being able to get up close to archaeological sites and see things properly – but I guess this is why that’s harder and harder to do these days.

Visiting My Son you will understand about an old period of Champas, people still said that this place is the similar as ” The Angkor Wat of Vietnam”, because its architecture is very similar with the Angkor Wat’s architecture.

Yes, it is similar in terms of the architectural styles, but I don’t think visitors should expect anything even close to the scale of Angkor Wat. The temples at My Son are much smaller and the overall site is tiny in comparison to Angkor.

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• See & Do

My Son Sanctuary Tours

• May 29, 2020

The My Son Sanctuary became a designated UNESCO world heritage site in 1999. Today it continues to draw tourists from around the globe. With the rising tourist numbers a wide variety of tours to My Son have come into play within the past ten years. 

Located just over an hour west of Hoi An amongst jungle mountains; My Son was built as a Hindu temple of worship by the Champa people during the 4th Century. Predating its ancient cousin Angkor Wat the site offers historical richness unique to the Champa people who first settled this region.   While not as extensive as Angkor Wat in Cambodia, My Son boasts its own charm and glorious history.  It is the first inhabited site of Indian Hindu civilization in Southeast Asia

For the best experience of My Son, Hidden recommends taking a tour. The local tour guides are the experts on the history of My Son and happily draw you into the mystery of the sanctuary. Tour guides also streamline the process of entry keeping you from baking in the sun or being lost in the dark!

With the abundance of tours comes the headache of scouring the possibilities.  My Son tours are targeted around sunrise and sunset – each with their own pros and cons.  We’ve weighed these up and curated a list of the best options for you so that you can get on with your exploration.  For our complete guide to visiting the My Son Sanctuary click here .

Sunrise Tours of My Son – Pro’s and Con’s

Wondering if the sunrise tour is worth the effort? The sunrise tour option (despite the crack of dawn start), is a fantastic way of seeing the My Son Sanctuary slowly reveal itself with the first rays of the day. Most tours start with a pick up in Hoi An around 5:30 a.m., arriving at My Son at opening 6:30 a.m. Sunrise provides optimal opportunity for magnificent photographs without the crowds. This of course is weather dependent, so on a dreary or cloudy day the sunrise may not be as stunning or visible. 

Hidden Hint: Sunrise viewing is weather dependent so remember to check the weather forecast!

Many claim there is a spiritual feel at sunrise, described as transporting you back a millennium to the time of the Champa people. Additionally, the temperatures are much more bearable at this time, with the tour concluding before the heat of the day. My Son starts filling up quickly so an early start is worth it to experience the majestic temples while avoiding the larger crowds. 

Sunset Tour of My Son  – Pro’s and Con’s

For those not keen on a dawn wake up call, a sunset tour may be more appealing. Sunset tours still provide the opportunity for stunning photographs. The canvas of the sky at this time is painted behind the ruins. Similar to the sunrise tour the number of other tourists and traffic has reduced. Due to the fact that many tour buses are on their way back to Hoi An. Therefore this allows the experience to be more intimate and relaxed. Additionally, as the sun starts to set the temperatures go down as well. This makes for a much more appealing option than traversing the ruins during the heat of the day. 

Hidden Hint: My Son closes at 5:30 p.m. so check on sunset times prior to avoid missing out!

However, this option may not be suitable for those who enjoy a leisurely experience. My Son Sanctuary closes at 5:30 p.m. So It is advisable to check on sunset times prior, for the sun may set later, eliminating this option at certain times of the year. Keep in mind a sunset tour will also include a dark ride back to Hoi An.  So depending on your method of travel and comfortability this may not be an ideal time to visit My Son. Conversely, some sunset tours offer a relaxing boat ride back down the Thu Bon River to Hoi An which is an idyllic way to conclude the experience. 

Why Take a Tour to My Son 

With the large array of tour options to My Son, there are many options for everyone. Although a self-guided experience is always an option it just won’t come close to giving you the same experience. Tours provide you with an in-depth look at the rich history and culture of the Cham Kingdom from an English speaking and very knowledgeable guide.  You have the opportunity to mingle with other tourists and share travel stories. As well as having the stress of navigating yourself around alleviated. 

There are a multitude of tour options from Hoi An to My Son. For adventurous types take a cycling tour through the countryside or a rugged family-friendly jeep ride to the ruins. Perhaps a private tour followed by a romantic boat ride down the Thu Bon River. And if you’re a solo traveller on a budget, we have shared options for you too. In this article, Hidden breaks down the most popular tours to My Son to ensure your experience is tailored to suit your needs.

My Son Cycling Tour

Tour: Grasshopper Adventures ½ day cycling tour to My Son Duration: 6.5 hours; 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Price: 1,600,000 VND (69 USD) Included: Entry ticket, English speaking guide, bicycle, bottled water, snacks, lunch, drinks shuttle van back to hotel.  Booking : Grasshopper Adventures Cycling Tour to My Son    Email: [email protected]

Grasshopper Adventures

Imagine experiencing Hoi An and the lush countryside of Vietnam by bicycle? Grasshopper Adventures offers an unforgettable opportunity for all skill levels to ride 25 kilometres through the countryside to the My Son Sanctuary. 

The tour starts at Grasshopper Adventures location in central Hoi An at 7:30 a.m. The ride begins along the historic riverfront before the town comes alive. After crossing the river, get a taste of day to Vietnamese life, passing through villages, rice fields, and family farms. The journey ventures down flat, rural paths open only to bicycles and motorbikes. Enjoying a quick stop for a snack of fruit and coffee or tea before entering the sanctuary. You’ll spend a couple of hours led by an expert guide around the ruins learning the rich history of the Cham Kingdom. After exploring the ruins there is a van waiting to take you back to Hoi An. Midway back to Hoi An, there’s a stop for a lunch of traditional Vietnamese noodles. You arrive back at your hotel around 2 p.m. 

Heaven and Earth

Heaven and Earth offers another cycling tour around My Son Sanctuary that is much more extensive. This tour starts with a mini bus ride, stopping near the ruins. The focus for this tour is primarily experiencing Vietnamese culture and the countryside by bicycle. The option to go to My Son is offered for an additional 184,000VND (8 USD) for entry, but it is not guided. It is a full day of adventure from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., pedalling a total of 54 kilometres. It costs 1,370,000 VND (59 USD) per person and includes a special Vietnamese lunch. 

My Son Jeep Tour

Tour: Local Buddy My Son Jeep Tours to My Son Duration of tour : 5 hours; Starting at 5:30 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 1 p.m. daily Price: 2 adults 1,840,000 VND (80 USD) per person. 3-4 adults 1,750,000 VND (76 USD) per person. 5-7 adults 1,655,000 VND (72 USD) per person. 8-10 adults 1,565,000 VND (68 USD) per person. Kids ages 7-12 1,290,000 VND (56 USD). Kids 6 and under are free.  Booking: Local Buddy My Son Tour Info and Booking   Email: : [email protected]

Local Buddy Tours

A jeep tour to My Son is a great way for the whole family to tap into their adventurous side, yet still relax into the experience. With Local Buddy Tours you experience a very intimate journey through the back roads to My Son in a retro army jeep!  Enjoy panoramic views from the open topped jeeps while en route. The personal and small nature of these tours is great, stopping off whenever a photo opportunity strikes. All the while learning about the fascinating history of My Son and the local culture from knowledgeable English speaking local guides. 

Each jeep can support up to four people. There are multiple jeeps available for groups exceeding four and up to ten people, making this experience great for couples or large groups. If waking up at dawn is not your cup of tea they offer multiple tour start times daily; 5:30 a.m., 7:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. The tour includes convenient pick up and drop off at your hotel, price of admission to My Son, a personal guide and a delicious traditional Vietnamese lunch of Hoi An noodles. 

Premium Travel Jeep Tour

A very similar tour is available through Premium Travel Tour . The main difference being that this tour has just one start time at 8:30 a.m. This is a great option for couples or groups of two, as the US Army Jeeps used can hold no more than two people including a guide, three without a guide. Vietnam Jeep Tour concludes the tour with lunch served during a lovely boat ride down the Thu Bon River back to Hoi An’s Old Town. The cost is also slightly less; 1,700,000 VND (75 USD) including cost of admission to My Son, lunch, tour and guide.

My Son Shuttle Bus Tour Options

Tour: The Sinh Tourist Shuttle Bus to My Son Duration: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.; 6 hours Price: 170,000 VND (7.50 USD) + cost of entry 150,000 VND (6.50 USD) Booking: In person at the   Hoi An Location or Book Here   Email: [email protected]

Sinh Tourist

Solo travellers or those on a budget may feel more compelled to tour My Son as part of a group. A great value shuttle bus option is provided by The Sinh Tourist . 

Check ahead of time to see if hotel pick up is available in your location. Otherwise meet at the Sinh Tourist location in central Hoi An (address listed below) at 7:45 a.m. The bus makes several stops along the way so be prepared for a slightly longer journey. 

Hidden Hint: Shuttle bus tours save money but keep in mind these groups can be rather large, with up to 45 people per group.

Before arriving to the My Son, the guide issues your entry ticket for 150,000 VND (6.50 USD). You arrive at My Son around 10 a.m. Consider purchasing a cool beverage or snack before being led by an experienced guide through the temples. The local English speaking guide is very knowledgable and utilises a microphone, making him clearly audible despite the group size. Enjoy the sanctuary while learning the history of the Cham people for two hours before boarding the bus back to Hoi An at 12:45 p.m.  Arriving back at The Sinh Tourist in central Hoi An at 2 p.m. 

Return by Boat

The Sinh Tourist also offers the option to return with the group to Hoi An by boat at 2:30 p.m. for an additional 70,000 VND (3 USD). This is offered by the guide on the bus ride to My Son.

For those desiring a sunrise tour, The Sinh Tourist has you covered as well. Departing from central Hoi An at 5:30 a.m. and returning at 11:30 a.m. The cost is slightly more than the day tour at 260,000 VND (11 USD). For additional information on the sunrise option click here . 

Hidden highly recommends purchasing tickets directly at the Sinh Tourist location in central Hoi An. Not only will it save you money on the processing fee, you are issued a hard copy of your ticket immediately. If tickets are purchased online and you happen to be eligible for hotel pick up, you are still be responsible for obtaining a hard copy of your ticket before departure!

Hidden Hint: The Sinh Tourist also offers a competitively priced private car for up to three people for 700,000 VND (30 USD). Departing at 7:30 a.m. from select hotels or office in Hoi An. Arriving back in Hoi An at 11:30 a.m. Tour guide and price of admission not included.  

Bus and Boat Tours

Tour: My Son Sanctuary Get Up And Go Vietnam  to My Son Duration: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.; 6 hours Price: Adult 850,000 (39 USD), Kids ages 4-9 650,000 VND (28 USD), Kids under 4 are free Includes: Transportation, entrance fee, bottled water, English speaking tour guide, lunch, boat ride Booking: Get Up And Go Vietnam  Email: [email protected]

Get Up And Go Vietnam

Interested in a luxurious boat ride back to Hoi An after visiting My Son Sanctuary? Venus Travel offers both a group and private tour which includes a boat ride down the historic Thu Bon River. TheGet Up And Go Tour departs from your hotel between 7:45 a.m. – 8:15 a.m. On arrival, you are led to a traditional Champa performance at 9:30 a.m. You spend two hours exploring My Son with an experienced English speaking guide. After visiting the sanctuary you board a van and drive to the home of a local family who host a rice paper making workshop. From there you are taken to enjoy a wonderful lunch at another local home. The tour concludes with a relaxing boat ride down the Thu Bon River to Hoi An. Transport awaits to take you back to your hotel. 

My Son Motorbike Tour

Tour: Local Buddy My Son Motorbike Tour Duration : 5 hours; Starting at 5:30 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 1 p.m. daily Price: 2 adults 1,495,000 VND (65 USD) per person. 3-4 adults 1,400,000 VND (61 USD) per person. 5-7 adults 1,335,000 VND (58 USD) per person. 8-10 adults or teens 13-15 years old 1,265,000 VND (55 USD) per person. Kids ages 7-12 1,035,000 VND (45 USD). Kids 6 and under are free and ride with adult Booking: Local Buddy My Son Tour Info and Booking Email : [email protected]

For those wanting to crank up the adventure a notch, a rugged motorbike tour to My Son Sanctuary could be perfect for you. Regardless of experience level Local Buddy Tours offers an unforgettable experience making the journey to My Son just as exciting as the destination. This highly rated company provides safe and comfortable motorbikes. All guests ride pillion (sitting behind) an experienced driver. Freeing you up to enjoy the scenery and not worrying about navigating or driving .  Local Buddy creates an intimate experience with impromptu excursions along back roads.  YOu have a great opportunity to glimpse local residents in their day to day life. With opportunities to stop for photographs whenever the desire hits. Learn about the Vietnamese culture and the history of My Son with knowledgeable, English speaking local guides. 

Local Buddy offers multiple tour start times daily; 5:30 a.m., 7:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. The tour includes the My Son entry ticket, convenient pick up and drop off at your hotel, water, a personal guide and a delicious traditional Vietnamese lunch of Hoi An noodles. The trip concludes with a beautiful ride down a country highway along the Thu Bon River at sunset.

Hidden Hint: Local Buddy Tours offers 10% discount for early birds and for booking multiple tours.

Indochina Motorbike Tour

A similar tour is available through Indochina Motorbike Tour . More experienced drivers are given the opportunity to drive yourself on either a motorbike or semi-automatic scooter. They offer tandem rides as well for the less experienced rider. Tours begin between 8:30 a.m – 8:45 a.m. arriving back in Hoi An before 4:30 p.m. Prices start at 2,000,000 VND (90 USD). To book directly or for more information click here . 

If neither of these motorbike options sound appealing and are feeling more inclined to travel without a tour check out Hoi An Bike Rental for rentals and routes to My Son.

Hidden Hint: Wear appropriate footwear. Comfy, light clothes in summer that cover shoulders and knees. Wear warmer clothes and  bring a rain coat for winter/spring days.

Sunrise Tours to the Sanctuary

Sunrise tours of My Son are often the most desirable. Local Buddy Tours offer a jeep tour suitable for the whole family. Departing at 5:30 a.m. and ranging from 1,565,000 VND (68 USD) to 1,840,000 VND (80 USD) per person depending on group size. Local Buddy offers the same sunrise tour to My Son on motorbikes for a little extra adrenaline rush to start your day. Prices range from 1,265,000 VND (55 USD) to 1,495,000 VND (65 USD) per person depending on group size. Kids six years and under are free for both tours! 

Private tours are another option for a more personalised and tranquil sunrise tour of My Son. Golden Rooster offers pick up times starting at 5:30 a.m. from 690,000 VND (30 USD) per person for a group of five and up to 2,325,000 VND (100 USD) for a solo journey. 

Additionally, The Sinh Tourist offers a budget-friendly sunrise group tour option. Catch a bus from central Hoi An at 5:30 a.m. and return at 11:30 a.m. for only 260,000 VND (11 USD). 

Hidden’s Thoughts

Even if you’re short on time, with quick half day trips, the My Son Sanctuary is an essential cultural experience when visiting Hoi An. So all that’s needed now is for you to choose the best tour for you or your travel companions from the options Hidden’s provided above.

Grasshopper Adventures is the obvious choice for cyclists wanting to soak up the scenery and get in a good workout. While motorbike enthusiasts can set out along back roads at sunrise with Local Buddy Tours. Jeep Tours offered by Local Buddy are a fantastic option for young families seeking a thrill. With children aged six and under being free it certainly makes it one of the most family-friendly tours available. 

For those on a tight budget and still desiring an informative experience The Sinh Tourist has you covered. Last but not least, Golden Rooster gives you a taste of luxury with a small group or personalised private tour option.

Whichever tour you take, whether you go for sunrise or sunset, My Son Sanctuary is both a memorable and worthwhile experience not to be missed.

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My Son Sanctuary Half-Day Tour from Hoi An

• Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Enjoy the archaeological site of My Son with beautiful tower-temples surrounded by a valley and high mountain ranges
• Learn about the history of the Champa culture that settled in Central Vietnam between the 3rd and 14th centuries
• Transfer by car from the hotel in Hoi An

Start 8:00 am (or 14:00 for afternoon departure): A local guide and vehicle will pick you up at the hotel and drive for 1.5 hours to My Son Sanctuary. There you’ll pay a visit to a cluster of partially ruined Hindu temples of the former Champa Kingdom and learn about the Champa people, their culture, architecture, and how skillful they were to build such incredible temples. There you will be entertained by a show of traditional Cham dancing before being driven back to Hoi An where the trip will end.

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My Son Holy Land: Cham Ruins in Vietnam – Day Trip from Hoi An

Posted on May 12, 2022 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on September 25, 2023

My Son Sanctuary and Holy Land in Central Vietnam, not far from Da Nang and Hoi An, is a must-see if you are interested in architecture and ancient civilization. It’s an easy day trip from Hoi An, you can either book a tour or rent a bike and go by yourself.

Mỹ Sơn was considered a holy land by the Cham civilization and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a magical place where time seems to have stopped, with orange-brick edifices surrounded by green fields.

Most of it has been destroyed during the war with the Americans, but some ruins remain. A couple of buildings are still in good shape, the carvings are really well-preserved, and some of the sculptures are quite impressive. It’s a good opportunity to learn more about Hinduism rituals and the history of the Champa kingdom and its people.

Travel tip  – Before any international trip, make sure to   get travel insurance  and check  visa requirements.

Related – Everything you need to know before a trip to Vietnam + Vietnam Bucket List

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

The Cham Kingdom

The Champa kingdom was located in south and central Vietnam and lasted from the 2 nd century to the 15 th century until the Viet conquered it in 1471. The Cham were traders, fishermen, and farmers. The art and way of life were strongly influenced by Indian culture. A system of casts was implemented and the king, though to be a reincarnation of Shiva, was all-powerful.

Some of the Cham converted to Islam during the 17 th century, making it one of the only Muslim ethnic group in Vietnam (most of them remained Hindu).

Since the dissolution of the Kingdom 500 years ago, they had been persecuted and forced to give up their customs. In Cambodia, they have been targeted by the Khmers Rouges during the purge, and in Vietnam, they have been pressured into the assimilation of Vietnamese culture.

Things are better today, the Cham are now mostly located in Phan Thiet and in Phan Rang, some also are found in Cambodia. Overall, they preserved a strong cultural identity through holidays and rituals. They still live in traditional bamboo houses, usually in very basic conditions. The caste system is still implemented, and they have a strong sense of one’s duty and place within their society. They still mostly live from farming, education is highly prized though.

Traditional music and dances are also an essential part of community life. In My Son, you may have the opportunity to watch a traditional dance show (every day at 9:30 am, 10:30 am, and 2:30 pm).

History of My Son Sanctuary and Holy Land

Build in the 4 th century by the Cham Emperor Bhadravarman in Central Vietnam, My Son Sanctuary (pronounced me son) used to be a holy land surrounded by jungle and sacred mountains. The first My Son temple was made of wood, as all the Cham building at the time. It got destroyed by fire two centuries later and was replaced by a red-brick temple. After this, each king would restore and add temples during their reign to commemorate victories or conquest, making it grow along the centuries. It also served as a burial place for several kings.

This holy land quickly became a religious and political center of influence over the whole kingdom, until it became the capital of the Champa Kingdom. Chose for its strategical and protected position, it’s one of the principal remains of the Cham civilization, and the inscriptions found there helped get a better understanding of Champa history.

Most of the My Son temples were dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva, who is believed to have founded the Champa kingdom. As the Cham became Buddhist during the 9 th century,  Buddhist influence is noticeable over some of the carvings and sculptures. The 10 th century shows a regain of Hinduism faith and marks an intensive expansion period for My Son.

Unfortunately, wars with the neighboring countries in the 11 th century destroyed a good part of the site. It was restored to some extent, some temples were added, and rich presents were offered by the kings. No information is available after the 13 th century, no documentation regarding offerings or construction work was found.

My Son Ruins – Archaeological Site

Rediscovered and restored in the 19th century, the My Son ruins had been divided into 8 groups scattered along the way.

Because My Son Sanctuary has been build through 9 centuries, different types of architecture are noticeable as the evolution of Cham art evolved over the years. All the buildings are made of red brick, typical of the Cham construction style, and Indian influence is present.

Each group had a main temple and was surrounded by smaller structures. Each temple had a different purpose and was dedicated to a different god. The main door of the main temples faces East (towards the gods), next to it is often a room dedicated to welcome the pilgrims, receive their offering, and perform the ritual dances.

The carvings represent mostly animals, plants, and magical beings. Each has a signification for the Hindus, for example, elephants are a symbol of longevity and the lotus flower of beauty, prosperity, and fertility. The carvings in Hindu and Buddhist temples also usually tend to depict a traditional story.

The sculptures represent gods and spirits/supernatural beings. Some of the tools used for the ceremonies are being kept around the site or inside some of the temples.

Even if most of it is in ruin, you will still get a good sense of what it looked like at its peak. Restauration work is still going on.

How to get to My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam

There is no public bus to the site. The closest bus stop is CH Phan Kim, about 9 km away from the entrance. From there you can get a minivan to the park for about  150,000VND (divided between the passengers). Make sure to get the driver’s cellphone number so he can come pick you up when you’re done.

Driving there

You can easily rent a motorbike for the day and drive to Mỹ Sơn from Hoi An or Da Nang. The road is pretty nice, with many paddy fields and mountains in the background.

You can also hire a driver for the day or take a cab, from Hoi An it’s a pretty affordable option if you don’t want to drive yourself and prefer avoiding group tours.

You can easily get to Mỹ Sơn from Hoi An by bike, the road is around 34 km. Just follow the pedestrian route on Google Maps.

My Son Tours

Another option is to book a tour from Hoi An or Da Nang that will include transportation and a guide and maybe lunch. Most tours are half-day tour that leave in the morning and come back around 2pm.

Here are few recommended tours to My Son Sanctuary:

• Half-Day Tour From Hoi An – Including hotel pick-up and drop-off in Hoi An, transportation, water, entrance fee, and an English-speaking guide
• My Son Sanctuary small group tour at 6 am   – Including hotel pick-up and drop-off in Hoi An, light breakfast, transportation, water, and an English-speaking guide (entrance fee not included).
• My Son Sanctuary from Hoi An with Thu Bon River Cruise – add a cruise down the river with a stop at a traditional village and lunch.
• My Son Sanctuary Luxury Trip – Including a tour to My Son, a cooking class, lunch, and a boat ride – transfer from Danang available.

Useful things to know

Try to avoid the warmest hour, the ruins are in the middle of the jungle, and it’s super humid. If you go on your own, try going later in the afternoon as to avoid the morning crowds as well.

The ruins are particularly spectacular at sunrise but it’s also when there’s the more people

My Son entrance fee is 150k dongs for foreigners, the place is open from 6 am to 5 pm every day.

If you come by your own means, you still have the opportunity to hire a guide at the entrance. If you chose the tour with an agency, the guide would be included.

Make sure to bring water, snacks, repellent, and sunscreen. You will find a few shops within the complex where you can buy snacks and drinks.

Other destinations in Vietnam to add to your itinerary:

• Ha Giang Province

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My Son Sanctuary and Hoi An Ancient Town Tour

My Son Sanctuary and Golden Bridge Tour

This half-day experience focuses on the My Son Sanctuary, a Unesco world heritage site. It played the role as a Hindu holy land of the entire Champa Kingdom for 900 years. Although abandoned for centuries, it’s still the best group of monuments the now-disappeared state ever made. There were around 70 temples in its golden age but now only 20 standing. All are placed in the Valley of Legend, featuring a stream flowing through and surrounded by wooded hills. Secrets behind how the Chams constructed them are undiscovered yet. International and Vietnamese conservationists have given efforts to save the survivals.

• Visit a Unesco world heritage site with an expert guide.
• Learn about the history and culture of a fallen kingdom which ruled the Central coast from 2 nd  to mid-19 th centuries.
• Featured performances of Cham artisans wearing traditional costumes.
• Immerse in a well-preserved environment with forests, streams and singing birds along the paths.

Travelers have 3 different times to depart: sunrise, morning and afternoon (or sunset).

What's Included

• Air-conditioning car
• Licenced and experienced driver
• Knowledgeable English-speaking guide
• 1 bottle of water per person
• Roundtrip transfer with hotel pick up and drop off in Da Nang center, other areas with an extra fee
• Entrance fee and Cham show ticket
• Personal expenses (shopping, phone top up, restroom at somewhere, …)
• Tipping and gratuities
• Travel insurance

Departure & Return

The guide will be in the hotel reception at 8 am or 2 pm . Then, the driver rides to My Son Sanctuary by the closest road. Travelers can request to drop off at any place in the centre of Da Nang and Hoi An when the tour ends. A small fee of transfer is charged if travelers stay in Son Tra peninsula or South Hoi An.  

Additional Info

• This experience is run with 2 travelers minimum but private one is still available. Chat with us via whatsapp number +84968009827 for the best price.
• Confirmation may be received at time of booking.
• If traveling with kids, an announcement in advance is necessary.
• Free for childrens under 5 years old and 50% off for childrens from 5 to 10 years old, full fee for older ages.
• A small extra fee will be surcharged to pick up in the Son Tra peninsula (Da Nang) and South Hoi An area (Hoi An)
• Most travelers can participate, LGBT-friendly
• No wheelchair accessible.
• This experience requires good weather. In case it’s canceled, an annoucement will be made in advance.
• Set-menu lunch or dinner is available if requested, with an additional fee.

How to Book & Pay

Frequently asked questions.

Dress code is regulated in My Son Sanctuary but not strictly checked. Like any religious places across the country, travelers need to ensure that not too much skin are shown. Covering the airmpits, navel and knees is a must. 

In the dry season (from February to August), visitors should bring sun cream, sunglasses, lightweight and cool fabric clothings. In the rest of the year, known as the wet season, rain coats/umbrellas, waterproof shoes, and more layers are necessary to prepare once hitting the road. 

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• Photo Gallery

My Son Sanctuary Early Morning Private Tour

• Destination: Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary

 MY SON  EARLY DAILY TOUR WITH SMALL GROUP FROM HOI AN  . Welcome To Our Trip !   TOUR PROGRAM : Tour Duration :  5 hours Price : 60 USD Per Pax ( Minimum 2 pax ) Highlights: See the amazing tower and temple complex bathed in the light of the rising sun.  Watch the buildings […]

 MY SON  EARLY DAILY TOUR WITH SMALL GROUP FROM HOI AN  .

Welcome To Our Trip !

TOUR PROGRAM :

Tour Duration  :  5 hours

Price : 60 USD Per Pax ( Minimum 2 pax )

Highlights:

See the amazing tower and temple complex bathed in the light of the rising sun.  Watch the buildings change colour with the change in the strength of the sun rays.

Our Early My Son Sanctuary Tour will help you to avoid the crowds, the sun and the noise from others , and is the perfect time to enjoy the tranquillity and spirituality of the site , which will be evident in your great photos.

TOUR ITINERARY:

5:00 Am – 5:45 Am. Pick up at your hotel in Hoi An

6h45 : Arrive to My Son at the time the gate open for tourists to visit , accessing the site via the provided electric cars and taking a short work from the drop-off point to the sites

6:45 Am – 8:45 Am : You will enjoy  visit the various different areas that make up the temple and tower complex . Our knowledgeable guide will provide  you with a deep understanding of the extensive history of the site and its spiritual context and This will be the time to take that amazing sunrise picture . Let your guide point out the excellent spots for taking photos .

8:45 Am – 10:00 Am : you  leave  My Son for Hoi An 

 INCLUDING :

• Air conditioned  minivan
• Pick up and drop off your hotel
• Experienced driver
• Licenced fluent English-speaking guide
• Bottled mineral water , breakfast with noodles .
• Entrance fees in My Son ( 6,5 USD )

EXCLUDING :

                All other services not mentioned in the above program

• Fully charged cameras
• Proper shoes

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My son tour, tripadvisor, best choice.

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