The My Son temple complex (UNESCO)

Just over an hour’s drive from Hoi An lies the temple complex of My Son, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll be picked up from your hotel by your guide and driven through the lush countryside towards the historic temple grounds, which for several centuries served as the religious and political centre of the Champa Kingdom. From here, the Cham kings ruled large parts of central Vietnam as well as areas in what are today Laos and Cambodia.

The temples were built between the 4th and 13th centuries and are dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Surrounded by green mountains and dense jungle, the ruins stand as a testament to a civilisation that was once among the most influential in Southeast Asia. My Son is often referred to as Vietnam’s answer to Angkor Wat – albeit on a smaller scale.

The area was heavily bombed during the Vietnam War, and many temples were destroyed. Scattered across the site, you can still see traces of the American bombings and several old bomb craters, forming a striking contrast to the centuries-old temple remains. Still, the atmosphere here is truly special as you wander among the ancient brick ruins, embraced by jungle and the sound of birdsong.

To this day, it remains something of a mystery how the Cham people built the temples so that the brickwork could withstand the humid climate for centuries. Several of the temples have since been restored, but the difference between the original structures and later restorations is easy to see. My Son is undoubtedly one of Vietnam’s most fascinating historical sites.

After the visit, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in Hoi An.

Duration: Approx. 4 hours

This excursion is open to TourCompass’ own guests only.

We recommend that you book the excursion when booking the tour.