My Son Sanctuary Exploration: Discover the Ancient Champa Kingdom in Vietnam

The My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Duy Xuyen District of Quang Nam Province in Vietnam. It was the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom for most of its existence, dating back to the 4th to 13th centuries CE. The site is home to a series of impressive tower temples that illustrate the unique culture that existed on the coast of Vietnam during this time, which was heavily influenced by Hinduism from India. The tower temples, constructed in fired brick with stone pillars and decorated with sandstone bas-reliefs, represent the greatness and purity of Mount Meru, the mythical sacred mountain home of Hindu gods. The My Son Sanctuary is a testament to the Cham people’s engineering skills and their religious and political thought, and offers a glimpse into the spiritual and political life of South-East Asia during this important period in history.

Itinerary

• Join a guided tour or hire a local guide to learn about the history, architecture, and significance of the Champa Kingdom.
• Explore the various temple ruins and structures, which showcase the unique blend of Hindu and Champa architectural styles.
• Marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures that depict deities, celestial beings, and scenes from Hindu mythology.
• Take in the tranquil atmosphere and the natural beauty of the surrounding forested hills.

• Option 1: Visit a local pottery village such as Thanh Ha Pottery Village near Hoi An to witness the traditional pottery-making techniques.
• Option 2: Visit a silk village like Ma Chau Silk Village near Hoi An to learn about silk production and witness the intricate process of weaving.
• Option 3: Explore a traditional village like Tra Que Vegetable Village near Hoi An, known for its organic farming practices, and participate in activities like vegetable picking or cooking classes.