Tucked away in the verdant hills near Da Nang and Hoi An, the mystical My Son Sanctuary beckons travelers seeking a glimpse into Vietnam’s ancient past. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, once the spiritual and political capital of the Champa civilization, now stands as a testament to their architectural prowess and rich cultural heritage. Set out on a half-day journey to uncover the secrets of this captivating destination, where the past and present intertwine in a mesmerizing display.

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Key Points

This 6-hour tour from Da Nang or Hoi An allows you to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of My Son Sanctuary, known for its ancient Champa temple architecture.
The tour includes a guided exploration of the temple ruins, a traditional Champa performance, and a hands-on experience making Vietnamese rice paper with locals.
A local lunch or dinner featuring classic Vietnamese cuisine is provided as part of the tour package.
The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Japanese, with an experienced English-speaking guide included.
While the tour is generally well-received, some travelers have suggested better value tours may be available, and the desire for more in-depth insights from the guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a 6-hour experience that explores the UNESCO World Heritage Site of My Son Sanctuary. Priced from $43.47 per person, it provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Participants can reserve their spot without upfront payment. The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Japanese. A private group option is also available.

Travelers can expect to learn about the ancient Champa civilization, watch a traditional dance performance, and participate in making Vietnamese rice paper.

Lunch or dinner featuring local cuisine is included in the tour.

Looking for more options in Hoi An? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Experience Highlights

As visitors explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of My Son Sanctuary, they’ll discover the ancient temple architecture of the Champa civilization, dating from the 4th to 14th centuries.

They’ll learn about the historical significance of the ruins while witnessing a traditional Champa performance, such as the Aspara Dance.

Visitors can also participate in making traditional Vietnamese rice paper with locals.

Get hands-on with making traditional Vietnamese rice paper alongside local artisans at the My Son Sanctuary.

The tour culminates with a local dinner featuring classic Vietnamese dishes, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.

Itinerary

The tour departs from either Da Nang or Hoi An, allowing visitors to enjoy scenic views of the nearby beaches along the journey.

Upon arrival at My Son Sanctuary, travelers will ride an electric car to reach the sightseeing area. A guided tour will provide insights into the historical and cultural significance of the ancient Champa temples.

Afterward, guests can witness a traditional Champa performance.

The experience concludes with a visit to a local family to learn the art of making rice paper and savor a delicious Vietnamese dinner before returning to the hotel.

Inclusions

The tour package includes a pick-up and drop-off service, with an additional surcharge for those departing from Da Nang.

An experienced English-speaking guide leads the tour, with surcharges for other language requests.

Visitors can participate in a rice paper making experience and enjoy a local lunch or dinner featuring traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

Bottled water (one per person) is provided.

While tips and personal expenses are optional, the tour doesn’t include them in the base price.

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Customer Feedback

Reviews for the tour of My Son Sanctuary from Da Nang/Hoi An have been mixed.

While it’s rated 3.7/5 on average, some travelers feel it doesn’t offer great value for money. Some suggest better value tours are available.

The tour has a 3.7/5 rating on average, but some travelers feel it lacks value for money, suggesting better options are available.

The tour covers the key highlights – exploring the historic temple ruins, watching a traditional performance, and learning about rice paper making.

However, some feel the experience could be improved, with more in-depth insights from the guide or a longer time spent at the sanctuary.

There's plenty more to explore in Hoi An

Visiting My Son Sanctuary

What makes My Son Sanctuary so captivating? This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the architectural wonders of the ancient Champa civilization.

Explore the ruined temples, dating back to the 4th-14th centuries, and marvel at their intricate design. The guided tour provides historical context, helping visitors appreciate the cultural significance of these structures.

Beyond the temples, the experience includes a traditional Champa dance performance and the chance to learn the art of Vietnamese rice paper making.

Enjoy the rich heritage of this fascinating destination, located just a day trip away from Da Nang and Hoi An.

Exploring Champa Civilization

Dating back to the 4th-14th centuries, the Champa civilization left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Vietnam.

Visitors to My Son Sanctuary will uncover the architectural marvels of this ancient kingdom, which flourished for over a millennium.

Key highlights include:

Intricate brick and stone temples adorned with symbolic carvings and bas-reliefs
Insights into the sophisticated engineering and astronomical alignments of the structures
The captivating Champa Aspara dance, a cultural performance evoking the spirituality of this bygone era

Exploring the remnants of this enigmatic civilization provides a window into Vietnam’s rich history and the enduring legacy of the Champa people.

Engaging With Local Culture

Beyond simply exploring the ancient ruins, how does this tour allow visitors to engage with the local culture?

The tour includes a visit to a local family home where travelers can participate in making traditional Vietnamese rice paper. This hands-on experience provides an opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their cultural heritage.

Plus, the tour concludes with a local dinner featuring traditional dishes, further immersing visitors in the culinary traditions of the region.

These engaging cultural activities complement the historical exploration, offering a well-rounded experience for travelers to connect with the Champa civilization’s enduring legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Restroom Facilities Available at the Sanctuary?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available at the My Son Sanctuary. Visitors can use these facilities during their tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site to explore the ancient Champa temple architecture.

Can I Bring My Own Lunch and Snacks to the Tour?

Yes, visitors can bring their own lunch and snacks on the tour. The tour includes a local dinner, but allowing personal provisions provides more flexibility and convenience during the day’s activities at the My Son Sanctuary.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity in the Itinerary?

The itinerary allocates around 2 hours for exploring the My Son Sanctuary, 1 hour for the traditional Champa performance, and 1-2 hours for the rice paper making and local dinner experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration is fixed at 6 hours, but there’s no option to extend it. Travelers can explore the My Son Sanctuary, participate in cultural activities, and enjoy a local dinner within the provided timeframe.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Local Crafts During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can purchase souvenirs and local crafts during the tour. The itinerary includes a visit to a local family where participants can learn rice paper making and buy traditional Vietnamese handicrafts.

The Sum Up

Discover the captivating history and culture of Vietnam’s Champa civilization on this half-day tour from Da Nang or Hoi An. Explore the UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary, witness a traditional Champa performance, and participate in a hands-on rice paper making workshop. Enjoy the rich heritage of this enchanting destination while enjoying a delicious local meal.